What to Expect at Aitutaki Lagoon Resort and Spa:
After taking a quick puddle-jumper flight from the capital Cook Island of Rarotonga, to the sleepier island of Aitutaki, you will be blissfully removed from anything that resembles urban civiliization.
After a short pontoon boat ride to the island of Akitua (and home of the island’s solo property, Aitutaki Lagoon Resort and Spa) you’ll experience a modern day version of Fantasy Island seclusion on 37 acres where billowy palms line the pristine beachfront.
Guest Rooms at Aitutaki Lagoon Resort and Spa:
Accommodations at Aitutaki Lagoon Resort and Spa consist of 37 units in various styles: Beachfront bungalows have spectacular views and private hammocks. Garden bungalows are surrounded by manicured flora. Overwater bungalows cantilever directly beyond the shoreline to offer a quick lagoon dip right from each private front deck.
Dining at Aitutaki Lagoon Resort and Spa:
There are two dining options: the Bounty Restaurant where the free continental breakfast buffet is displayed each morning and dinners are served nightly, or the more casual fare at the beachside Flying Boat Bar and Grill, offering the added perk of a picturesque panorama.
Destination Weddings at Aitutaki Lagoon Resort and Spa:
Various destination wedding packages are available. The Akitua Special includes marriage license, flowers, bottle of bubbly, dinner for two, and string band accompaniment. The One Foot Island Wedding whisks the couple away to an even more remote (yes, it’s hard to imagine!) island with the same perks and pleasures. For a little extra, you can even have a dance performance included.
What does the View from Aitutaki Lagoon Look Like? :
Your vision will blur from the trillions of sparkles reflecting off the surreal lagoon before you, boasting every hue of blue from the palest celadon, to the most brilliant turquoise. Distant tropical motus (islets) fringe the trancelike surface and are linked by a continuous strand of reef like a necklace of emerald gems. White wash crashes over the ridge of craggy coral, and the indigo abyss beyond melds with bluebird skies.
Activities at Aitutaki Lagoon Resort and Spa:
You’ll likely be so mesmerized by the stunning aquatic view that you may not feel like doing anything else. That said, there are windsurfers that’ll float above and snorkeling equipment to check out what floats below. Land lovers may also challenge their partner to a round of table tennis or volleyball. And shoppers may be lured to the nearby town of Arutanga where souvenir shops display indigenous trinkets.
What Could be Improved at Aitutaki Lagoon Resort and Spa? :
Although our overwater bungalow was whimsical, it was in need of a bit of repair when tropical rains plummeted. Our authentic pandanus walls weren’t quite strong enough to prevent the pelting raindrops from seeping through. Thanks heavens the downpours are brief!
Is Aitutaki Lagoon Resort and Spa Right for You? :
This Cook Islands property is as quintessentially South Pacific as you can get. Even with the leaky roof, it was perfectly idyllic!
Where to Find Out More about Aitutaki Lagoon Resort and Spa:
Aitutaki Lagoon Resort and Spa
PO 99 Aitutaki
Cook Islands, South Pacific
Phone: (682) 31203
Resort Website
Jane Cassie is president of the British Columbia Association of Travel Writers and a member of the Travel Media Assoc. of Canada. She and her husband, Brent, freelance for a number of publications. Jane is also co-owner and editor of Travel Writers’ Tales.
As is common in the travel industry, the writer was provided with complimentary accommodation and meals for the purpose of reviewing those services. While it has not influenced this review, About.com believes in full disclosure of all potential conflicts of interest. For more information, see our ethics policy.
