Aitutaki is a South Pacific paradise catering mostly to New Zealand and Austrailia. There's little commercialization that makes it quiet and localized. I've been to Aitutaki 22x since 2005, last 2023, so have the keys to local living. Rent a scooter and discover the island and local snorkeling on the northwest beach at the west end of the old runway. Stayed at Ranganui Retreat every time. Their lagoon front cabins are affordable and clean without the expensive resort charges. A week's stay includes a lagoon tour by their own Wet n Wild operation. WnW offers kite sailing, snorkeling, kayaks, fishing and whale tours. The operators are local watermen. Ranganui has a swimming pool which is great for an instant cool off. Nearby are Koru Cafe for breakfast coffee and lunch. And, The Boat Shed bar and restaurant. All at the Ootu popular beach. Ootu is located on the windward side so the cool ocean breeze is good on hotter days. There's a locally maintained free golf course if you can borrow some clubs. A truly unique experience. The difficulty with Aitutaki is getting there. Now US flights go LAX through Honolulu with airfare around $1000 rt. On Hawaiian Air plus local Air Raro flight, $300 usd/rt. Only spend a day or two on Rarotonga, it has good snorkeling, scuba and some surfing. But go stay on Aitutaki for relaxation. The day trip lagoon tour from Raro is good but overly expensive. Just stay there. There's a good reason I've been 22x.
