Best Time To Visit Cook Islands

Best Time to Visit by Season

The Cook Islands experience fairly typical tropical weather with two seasons – a dry season that runs from June to October and a wet season that begins in November and extends until April. There isn’t too much of a difference between the wet and dry season in terms of temperature. Temperatures during Cook Islands’ dry or winter season range between 75°F – 82°F, with night time readings dropping into the high 60s sometimes. Temperatures during the wet season fall in the range of 78°F – 86°F. Expect late afternoon downpours that last for a couple of hours, followed by clear blue skies during the rainy season. November to March is also hurricane season though there is a minimal chance of cyclones hitting the islands.

Aitutaki, which is situated further North from Rarotonga, experiences similar weather patterns but is 2°F – 3°F warmer.

What to Pack for Cook Islands

With some of the prettiest beaches to relax upon and plenty of water activities to take part in, swimwear is the most essential part of what you pack for the Cook Islands. For those who are planning to work on getting that perfect tan, high SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and sun hats are a must. Pack a beach bag and some pretty sarongs and cover-ups too. Casual clothing, such as skirts, dresses, shorts, and tops for women and Bermudas and shirts or t-shirts for men is recommended when heading inland.

If you plan to explore the interiors through hikes and treks, we recommend packing a pair of waterproof hiking shoes, hiking pants, and quick-dry T-shirts. If you are visiting during the wet months, getting good quality rain gear is a must though it is a good idea to pack a poncho or umbrella no matter which month you visit the islands. Evening temperatures, during winters, can get a bit chilly, so it’s a good idea to pack a shawl, a warm cardigan, or a light jacket

Find more information on the best times to visit the Cook Islands from our experts and experience a beach vacation you’ve always dreamed of. Get in touch with us for your tailor-made itinerary!