Places to see on Aitutaki Atoll

Aitutaki is among the smaller of the Cook Island’s at just 12 km in length at its widest point and roughly 15 km from north to south. An important island from a historical point of view, Aitutaki was where the London Missionary Society first established themselves. This island is also significant because a number of marae or ancient religious meeting grounds are located here. In short, there are quite a few places to see on Aitutaki.

The main town on the island is Arutanga, which lies on the western coast. A sleepy quiet settlement, here you will find the first church built in the Cook Islands. The Cook Islands Christian Church was constructed in 1828 and though its exterior is weathered, its interior is still very beautiful and well maintained. Colorful and vibrant with the use of green, yellow and red colors, the church also has some lovely stained glass windows. The highlight of seeing this church however, has to be the colorful mural painted over the altar which depicts angels proclaiming ‘Holy, Holy, Holy.’

There are a number of marae on Aitutaki also worth exploring. The Orongo Marae, the most important marae on the island is situated near the Orongo Center in Arutanga. A key feature worth pointing out about the marae on Aitutaki is that they were built with larger stones than those used on any of the other islands. Tokangarangi and Te Poaki O Rae are two equally significant marae on Aitutaki and lie just south of the town of Tautu along the island’s southern coast.

Maungapu is another place definitely worth seeing on Aitutaki. At 124 meters high it is the highest point on the island and offers some superb views of the lagoon. If you are planning on coming here don’t forget to bring your camera for some memorable pictures. Maungapu lies just east of the Paradise Cove Motel.

On Aitutaki the best beach to visit has to be the O’otu Beach with its excellent snorkeling. Located near the airstrip, on this beach you will find the popular hangout of Samade as well as the Ranginui’s Retreat and Josie’s Beach Lodge.