Swaying palms, powder-soft white sand beaches and turquoise seas, the Cook Islands are perfect for romantics seeking a laid-back and idyllic honeymoon escape. Located in the South Pacific, the Cook Islands comprises 15 islands in total, 2 of which have tourism infrastructure – the beautiful islands of Rarotonga and Aitutaki.

For the perfect luxury Cook Islands honeymoon, we highly recommend splitting your time between both of these paradise islands. The dramatic island of Rarotonga is lush and mountainous, encircled by perfect palm-lined beaches and a brilliant turquoise lagoon. Scattered around the island lie some charming honeymoon retreats and wonderful cafés and restaurants. Honeymooners can take their pick of stylish boutique resorts or luxurious private villas on Rarotonga, all wonderfully small and intimate (nothing is allowed to be built higher than a coconut tree in the Cook Islands). Rarotonga’s leading resorts are Little Polynesian and Crown Beach Resort, whereas for those seeking a private villa, Sea Change or Rumours will certainly not disappoint!

A short flight away, Aitutaki is the island of your honeymoon dreams, and a wonderful contrast to Rarotonga. Aitutaki’s brilliant aquamarine lagoon is studded with idyllic islets (with wonderfully imaginative names such as One Foot Island) boasting pristine white sands – a ‘must’ for honeymooners visiting Aitutaki is a cruise on the magnificent lagoon. Undoubtedly the leading resort on Aitutaki, the wonderfully chic Pacific Resort Aitutaki is the ideal choice for a honeymoon!

The Cook Islands is the perfect destination for honeymooners wishing to sample local restaurants and explore under their own steam – it is easy to get out and about, either by scooter, car or island bus. We highly recommend sampling the restaurants in the resorts as well as the wonderful local cafés and restaurants. For honeymooners looking for a South Pacific stopover, the Cook Islands is the perfect choice, with wonderful honeymoon retreats just a short drive from the airport, without the need for a long transfer.