Rarotonga

Cook Islands

Best for: Islands, Sea, Hiking, Tropical, Local Vibes, Chill

The main and most developed Cook Island — a lush, mountainous volcanic rim circled by one coastal road, with a lagoon calmer and less crowded than Aitutaki's.

Cycle or drive the 32km coast road in an afternoon, hike inland to the Cross-Island Track past the Needle rock spire, and catch the Saturday Punanga Nui Market in Avarua for island crafts and food.