When to Visit
Below gives you information and a rating of the best time of year to visit.
January
The Cook Islands ease into the year under the embrace of the wet season. Rain showers are frequent but rarely last long, leaving behind lush greenery and warm, humid air. It’s quiet, peaceful, and ideal for those looking to relax under palm trees between dips in the turquoise lagoon. Expect steamy days and dramatic skies.
February
Still in the heart of the rainy season, February is warm and tropical. The landscape thrives, from the jungled hills of Rarotonga to the wide beaches of Aitutaki. Afternoon rains are common, but mornings can be beautifully clear. Fewer visitors mean a sense of solitude, and the sea remains wonderfully warm.
March
Rains begin to ease, especially later in the month. It’s a transitional time - less crowded, still green, and with a growing number of calm, sunny days. The water stays perfect for snorkelling and swimming, and the islands feel calm before the dry-season buzz begins. Cultural activities continue at a slower, welcoming pace.
April
A lovely time to visit. The skies brighten, humidity drops, and island life picks up. Traditional dancing, markets, and music return in full swing, especially on Rarotonga. The lagoons shimmer in the sun, and with sea turtles and colourful fish thriving in the reefs, it’s an excellent time for diving and lagoon cruises.
May
Dry season begins. Days are warm, nights are cooler, and the weather is consistently pleasant. Walking trails open up, especially in the Rarotongan interior, and the water remains crystal-clear for marine adventures. It’s also an ideal time for weddings and honeymoons, with long golden hours and picture-perfect backdrops.
June
A dreamy month for island travel. Mild temperatures, calm seas, and low humidity make for relaxing days in the water and cool evenings under the stars. Whale sightings may begin late in the month as they migrate past the islands. Markets, beach bars, and dance shows bring lively energy to the evenings.
July
One of the most popular times to visit. The islands are sunny, dry, and bustling with energy. Families, honeymooners, and adventurers fill the beaches and reef tours. It’s also prime time for whale watching, particularly off the coasts of Rarotonga and Atiu. Days average around 25°C with a refreshing breeze.
August
Peak season continues with superb weather - steady sunshine, calm seas, and clear skies. Cultural events such as Constitution Day celebrations bring colour and music to the islands. From reef snorkelling to island-hopping by catamaran, this is the Cook Islands at their liveliest and most welcoming.
September
The islands stay dry and warm, but the crowds begin to thin slightly. Days are long and balmy, and traditional craft markets are in full swing. It’s a great time for photography, especially at sunrise over the lagoons or during golden-hour hikes through the inland hills. Whale sightings are still common.
October
A shift begins as temperatures rise and the chance of rain increases slightly. Still, October is often sunny, and it remains a popular month for quiet beach escapes. It’s a good time for kayaking and paddleboarding in calm lagoon waters or visiting lesser-known islands like Mangaia for a more off-grid experience.
November
The wet season approaches, bringing warmer, more humid days and the occasional tropical downpour. The landscape grows more vibrant, and the sea remains clear and inviting. Visitor numbers taper off, making it easier to find quiet stretches of beach or unhurried tours around the islands.
December
The rainy season settles in with short, heavy bursts of rain followed by sun. The festive season brings a joyful energy, with island-style Christmas celebrations, dancing, and feasts. It’s a lush, tropical time - perfect for relaxed beach days, snorkelling trips, and watching storms roll in from a shaded verandah.
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