Aitutaki Island

Aitutaki Island is a South Pacific lagoon with 15 tiny uninhabited islets (motu) and a main island of palm trees and white-sand beaches. Ships anchor offshore and passengers tender to the wharf in Arutanga, where stepping on the Visitor's Rock is an old island tradition. About 2,000 people live here, and daily life moves at a gentle pace. The lagoon cruise is the main experience, passing motu like One Foot Island, where a small post office will stamp your passport. Snorkelling reveals coral gardens and tropical fish. On land, the Cook Islands Christian Church in Arutanga is a reminder of the island's missionary past, and a hike to Maunga Pu gives wide views of the lagoon. Local food includes fresh coconut crab, grilled mahi-mahi, and sweet breadfruit. The New Zealand dollar is the currency, and cash is useful for small vendors.