Your guide to a family-friendly holiday in the Cook Islands

When we planned our family holiday, we were searching for somewhere that felt relaxing, safe, and easy to explore with our young children – and it exceeded every expectation. 

The Cook Islands are home to arguably the prettiest beaches in the world. 

From crystal-clear lagoons and family-friendly resorts to warm island hospitality and laid-back island life, the Cook Islands quickly became one of our favourite South Pacific destinations for travelling with kids.

Travelling with a toddler and a baby, we spent our days snorkelling in calm lagoons, exploring local markets, and enjoying the slower pace that makes family holidays feel truly relaxing.  In this guide, we share our experience, so if you’re travelling with young kids, teenagers, or extended family, read on to discover what it was like for us to holiday in Paradise.

Key takeaways:  

• The Cook Islands are ideal for: families wanting a slower, more relaxed tropical holiday, with calm beaches, welcoming locals, and an easy pace.
• Why visit Rarotonga: It is a great base for families thanks to its family-friendly resorts, restaurants, markets, and calm lagoon beaches.
• Why visit Aitutaki: It is an ideal destination for lagoon adventures and relaxation.
• Length of stay: Staying 7–10 days usually allows enough time to balance sightseeing, lagoon tours, beach days, and downtime without feeling rushed.
• Best island activity for families: Lagoon cruises such as the Koka Lagoon Cruise and Vaka Cruise are standout family experiences, offering snorkelling, cultural activities, island stopovers, and plenty of space for children to enjoy safely.
• When to go: Travelling during the dry season (May to October) generally offers the best weather conditions for families, with lower humidity and less rainfall.
• Getting there: You can now book a direct flight from Brisbane to Rarotonga through Jetstar.  

Rachael and her family.

Why choose the Cook Islands for your family holiday 

As a family of four with two kids under two, we were searching for a tropical holiday offering more than just beautiful beaches, somewhere we feel safe, easy to navigate, welcoming to children, and relaxing for us parents too. 

The Cook Islands offer all of this while maintaining a slower pace of life that many families can find refreshing compared to busier tourist destinations. About a six-hour flight from Brisbane, this largely untapped destination is made up of 15 islands and has a population of just 18,000 people.  

This family‑friendly destination is well and truly one for the travel wishlist. 

Here are our top reasons why we recommend  the Cook Islands for a family holiday 

1. Provides a relaxed pace that suits families 

Unlike large tourist hubs, the Cook Islands have a laid-back atmosphere that makes travelling with children feel easier. Roads are quieter, beaches are less crowded. The locals are extremely warm and welcoming, and they love sharing their culture and home. 

They also adore children, which makes travelling with a two‑year‑old and a six‑month‑old much easier – especially for a nine‑night stay. 

2. Offers safe lagoons and calm beaches for kids 

One of the biggest advantages of the Cook Islands for families is the calm lagoon environment found around many beaches. In places like Muri Lagoon on Rarotonga and the lagoons of Aitutaki, shallow waters create ideal conditions for children to swim, paddleboard, and snorkel safely under supervision. 

Our trip began on the main island, Rarotonga, which was filled with friendly locals, waterfront restaurants and crystal‑clear waters. Days were spent visiting the beach, the pool and nearby islands. 

After six nights in Rarotonga, Aitutaki was next. This smaller atoll is famous for its lagoon and One Foot Island.

3. Easy to explore without constant packing and moving 

One thing we really appreciated as a family was how easy the Cook Islands felt to navigate with young children. Staying in one resort for several nights gave us the chance to properly settle in rather than constantly unpacking and moving between destinations. 

Rarotonga is small enough to explore comfortably in a day, while still offering plenty of beaches, restaurants, markets, and activities nearby. This made day trips and outings feel manageable with a baby and toddler, without spending hours in transit or dealing with exhausting travel days. 

Best things to do in the Cook Islands with kids 

Based on our experience travelling with a toddler and baby, these were some of the most family-friendly activities we enjoyed during our trip.

1. Explore Muri Lagoon 

Muri Lagoon quickly became one of our favourite spots in Rarotonga. The calm, shallow water made it perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and paddleboarding with young kids, while the nearby small islands added a sense of adventure without feeling overwhelming. 

2. Go on a lagoon cruise 

The Koka Lagoon Cruise is a must‑do during your stay. The tour guides will have you singing all day long while you soak up the stunning beaches and enjoy a vibrant cultural show. The buffet lunch was delicious and the snorkelling pristine—this day was a highlight for the whole family. 

The Vaka Cruise allows you to experience everything the lagoon has to offer, including snorkelling with giant trevallies, two island stopovers and a delicious barbecue lunch served onboard. The boat has plenty of space, giving kids room to move around and explore.

3. Experience local culture 

One of the things we loved most was how welcoming the local culture felt for families. Visiting markets, watching traditional dancing and drumming performances, and trying local food gave us a more meaningful connection to the islands.

4. Snorkel in calm lagoons 

The calm lagoon waters made snorkelling feel very accessible for families. We spotted colourful fish, coral gardens, and incredible marine life in shallow areas that felt safe and easy to explore.

5. Visit local markets 

The Punanga Nui Market in Rarotonga was a great family outing for local food, tropical fruit, handmade souvenirs, and live entertainment. It was also one of the best ways to experience the local atmosphere and culture in one place. 

When is the best time to visit the Cook Islands 

Dry season (May to October) is often considered the best time for a family holiday in the Cook Islands. You can usually expect:

• Lower humidity
• Pleasant temperatures 
• Less rainfall 
• Better outdoor conditions.

If you choose to travel during the wet season (November to April) expect to experience warmer weather and tropical rain showers. While holidays can still be enjoyable during this period, humidity levels are often higher and weather can be less predictable. 

Where to stay

Many resorts and holiday stays in the Cook Islands cater specifically to families. Options range from self-contained villas with kitchens to beachfront resorts with family rooms, pools, and organised activities. 

Some resorts also offer babysitting services, kids clubs, or direct beach access, making holidays easier for parents travelling with younger children.  

When you travel with young kids, here are our recommended options:  

1. Family resorts

Many resorts cater specifically to families and offer

• Family rooms
• Swimming pools 
• Kitchen facilities
• Beachfront access 
• Kids activities.

 We stayed at the Pacific Resort, Rarotonga 

The family room at Pacific Resort was right next to the pool and provided the perfect base for exploring with a young family. Right at your doorstep is a picturesque beach with complimentary kayaks and paddleboards. 

The staff are wonderful and genuinely love children, accommodating every need. Our room was perfectly set up for a family of four, with everything close by for convenience. As a bonus, the night markets—located right next door—offer an authentic culinary experience with a huge variety of meals to choose from. 

2. Beachfront bungalows 

Direct beach access can make holidays easier for families by reducing transport needs and allowing flexible swimming times throughout the day, while providing a luxurious feel. 

In Aitutaki, we stayed at Tamanu Beach 

Tamanu Beach is best described as casual luxury, offering intimate, family‑friendly bungalows. Each bungalow includes private amenities such as a deluxe outdoor shower and a private verandah. 

With only 23 bungalows in total, the resort provides personalised service and is thoughtfully divided into a family‑friendly wing and an adults‑only wing. 

3. Self-contained villas and apartments

Families travelling with younger children often prefer accommodation with kitchens and laundry facilities. 

This can help reduce food costs and make longer stays more comfortable.  

Where to eat 

There was no shortage of dinner options, all with convenient dining times for a baby and a toddler.  

Here are my honest reviews on a few of the restaurants and cafes we have tried during our stay:  

1. Tamarind House 

Dining here was one of the highlights of the entire trip. Located right on the water, the seafood platter was outstanding. 

2. Sandals Restaurant, Pacific Resort 

If you’re staying at or near the Pacific Resort in Rarotonga, this restaurant serves Pacific Rim cuisine using the freshest local ingredient – perfect for the whole family. 

3. Trader Jack’s 

Iconic in the Cook Islands, Trader Jack’s is known for its great service, food and unbeatable location in the heart of Avarua Harbour. It’s the ideal spot to unwind after a day of exploring. 

4. Tamanu Beach Resort Restaurant 

This beachfront restaurant offers stunning ocean views and a delicious menu. Breakfast is complimentary for guests, and cultural shows run periodically. Happy hour is not to be missed. 

5. Avatea Café 

A fun and quirky spot in Aitutaki, Avatea Cafe is known for its relaxed atmosphere and excellent service. The menu is full of flavour, including a colourful and creative take on the traditional seafood platter. 

Top tips for a family planning a holiday in the Cook Islands 

1. Hire a car

There’s so much to explore, and the freedom to create your own schedule is worth it. Driving conditions are similar to Australia, so it’s easy to feel confident on the roads. 

2. Stay central 

Being close to neighbouring resorts and restaurants gives you more flexibility when travelling with children. Choose accommodation that makes this easy. 

3. Make the most of amenities 

A good‑sized pool is invaluable when filling time between tours. Do your research and pick a hotel that suits your family’s needs. 

4. Absorb local knowledge 

Chatting with locals often leads to discovering hidden gems you won’t find online. 

5. Treat yourself 

Holidays are the perfect time to indulge. The Waterfall Spa offers a tranquil experience and is ideal for some well‑deserved self‑care in Rarotonga. 

6. Aitutaki is worth the visit  

Just a 50‑minute flight from Rarotonga, Aitutaki’s turquoise lagoon is unforgettable—and your camera roll will prove it. 

7. Organise travel insurance before you go 

International family travel can come with unexpected disruptions. Travel insurance may help provide cover for the unexpected. 

Questions asked about holidaying in the Cook Islands 

Is the Cook Islands safe for kids? 

Yes. The Cook Islands are considered very family-friendly thanks to their calm lagoons, relaxed atmosphere, and range of outdoor activities suitable for children. Plus the warm welcoming of locals makes this holiday destination a safe place to travel. 

Which Cook Island is best for families? 

Rarotonga is often the best choice for families due to its family-friendly resorts, calm beaches, restaurants, and activities. Aitutaki is also popular for lagoon experiences and relaxation. 

We stayed in both places and can highly recommend both for both safety and hospitality reasons.  

How many days do you need in the Cook Islands? 

Many families stay between 7–10 days to balance relaxation with sightseeing and activities.  We stayed for nine nights that allowed us to relax, unwind and see and do what we wanted in a very relaxed pace that suited our young family.  

Are the Cook Islands expensive for families? 

Costs can vary depending on accommodation style and travel season. Booking early and choosing self-contained accommodation can help families manage costs. 

How do you get to the Cook Islands? 

You can now book a direct flight from Brisbane to Rarotonga through Jetstar, making the Cook Islands an even more convenient option for families planning a South Pacific holiday. Direct flights help reduce travel time and make travelling with children much easier compared to destinations that require multiple stopovers.  

Plan your next family holiday to the Cook Islands 

For our family, spending time in the Cook Islands was more than just a tropical getaway, it was a chance to properly slow down, reconnect, and experience a style of travel that felt genuinely relaxed and welcoming for our children. From peaceful lagoon days in Aitutaki to exploring Rarotonga’s local culture, markets, and family-friendly beaches, the trip gave us unforgettable memories. 

What stood out most was how easy the islands felt for family travel. The warm hospitality, relaxed pace, and balance of adventure and downtime made the Cook Islands feel like a destination we’d happily return to again. 

If you’re thinking about planning your own family holiday to the Cook Islands, RACQ travel agents can help you find the right flights, accommodation, and island experiences to suit your family’s travel style and budget. Get in touch with RACQ Travel to start planning your South Pacific family escape. 

Story by Rachael Grohn

The writer was a guest of  Cook Islands Tourism 

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