Aroa Marine Reserve

It is not an exaggeration to state that you may spend half of your vacation underwater beneath the surface or cruising above the surface by boat or kayak. The largest and most populous of the islands, Rarotonga, is encircled by a lagoon bordered by coral reefs and calm waters ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving (the majority of the spots are accessible from the beach). On a clear day, visibility can reach up to 60 meters. Leave your wetsuit at home and enjoy tropical temps year-round, with water temperatures ranging from 24 to 28 degrees. These is the things about Cook Islands you should know.

The vibrant blue waters of neighboring island Aitutaki, though, will steal your breath away – it's widely referred to as the world's best lagoon. The second-most visited island, only a 50-minute flight from Rarotonga, is known for its white sand and clear waters. A day journey in a traditional vaka, or boat, is one of the greatest ways to explore Aitutaki's lagoon. And for your stay, Toplist proposes Tamanu Beach Resort Aitutaki, which offers casual luxury.