Quintessential Cook Islands

Arrive into the fabulous city of Los Angeles and be transferred to your hotel. Explore this famous city at your own pace; take a stroll along the walk of fame, visit the fantastic Universal Studios or perhaps take a visit to fame-filled and laid-back Malibu, just outside the city. 

Travel Designers recommendation: Opposite your hotel you’ll find the OUE Skyspace, an open-air observation deck with panoramic views of the city and a unique glass slide. We recommend a visit!

Catch your international flight to Rarotonga, before boarding your short connection to Aitutaki; enjoy a panoramic view over the island and make sure you've got a window seat for some spectacular photos! Arrive and be transferred to the Pacific Resort; a luxury retreat surrounded by crystal-clear waters of the Aitutaki lagoon and luscious palm trees.

Now you’ve really found paradise. With five whole days, there is plenty of time for a lagoon cruise – which includes lunch at famous One Foot Island, fabulous fresh food, and snorkelling in the clear, warm waters. Choose to unwind on the picturesque beach, indulge in a Polynesian spa treatment or head inland on a cultural tour to discover some of the ancient cultures and traditions of the Cook Islanders.

Travel Designers recommendation: For the ultimate fishing challenge, test out your angling skills on the catch of the unique and extremely fast Aitutaki Bonefish. 

Enjoy a scenic flight back to Rarotonga - Watch out for Papa Jake who serenades all arriving flights with his local songs! Transfer to the sister Pacific Resort, a boutique retreat located on 5.5 acres of stunning beach and fringed with tropical gardens.

Explore the island of Rarotonga. Spend the day relaxing on the beach, cruise around the lagoon with Captain Tama or perhaps discover more of Rarotonga with a scenic 4WD tour. Alternatively, jump on the clockwise or anti-clockwise bus to see the island with the locals. If time permits, why not head to the cultural evening show and dinner at Te Vara Nui for your last evening in the Cook Islands? 

Travel Designers recommendation: We recommend hopping off the bus at the Punanga Nui Cultural market which runs from Monday to Friday to pick up some souvenirs.

Transfer to the airport and board your flight to the harbour side city of Auckland. Discover the city’s Maori history at the Auckland Museum, cruise along the harbour on a boat tour or perhaps head out to Mount Eden and admire the 48 volcanic cones – the choice is yours!

Enjoy a full day wine tour on the pretty island of Waiheke, just off the coast of Auckland. Spend your day indulging amongst the vines at three of the islands iconic vineyards, offering sweeping views of the city and exquisite wines throughout.

Included day tours: Wine on Waiheke

Travel Designers recommendation: Head to the quirky Cassette Nine bar on Vulcan Lane for some delicious cocktails and live music.