Entertainment & Shopping on Aitutaki Atoll

Picturesque and gorgeous, Aitutaki is the perfect place to unwind with its beautiful beaches and secluded motu. Many travelers and tourists come to this island to relax and enjoy the stunning natural beauty on display here. However, countless others also come here because Aitutaki has some of the best ‘island night’ performances in the Cook Islands.

While the nightlife on Aitutaki is pretty tame and subdued, the island night performances are electrifying and exciting. As the dancers stomp their feet and move to the beat of the music, you cannot help but stay transfixed to the dancing. Island night performances usually involve a buffet dinner and a dance show. These dances are sensual yet energetic and often depict an ancient legend or story. Be careful though as often the dancers pick an unsuspecting guest from the crowd to join them!

Some of the best island night performances are held at Samade on Tuesday nights and at the Aitutaki Pearl Beach Resort on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays. The Coconut Crusher Bar also has an island night performance on Thursdays. If you are interested in catching an island night performance on Aitutaki, it is best to make reservations in advance as these shows often get sold out rather quickly.

There are also plenty of bars and restaurants in Aitutaki where you can hang out and chill with a cold beer after a long day of touring in the sun. Fletcher’s Bar & Grill is a good place to hang out at, as is the Blue Nun Café. For a good lunch or dinner visit Tauono’s which is slightly pricey but uses fresh ingredients to make the most delicious meals.

Shopping is another popular pastime on Aitutaki with excellent pandanus purses, hats, bags and mats sold here. White rito hats, rito fans, shell jewelry, drums and colorful pareu or sarongs can also be found at the many shops on the island. Aitutaki Handicrafts is a good place to buy some souvenirs as is the Orongo Center and Aintonia’s Handicrafts.