The Cook Islands are divided into two groups.  Within the southern group, the most populous, Rarotonga, is a lush volcanic island with a reef and lagoon. 

Rarotonga is the largest island and the main township of Avarua, on the north coast, is the centre for administration and shopping, and is a good place to make a base for exploring the island.  The north east coast of Rarotonga is the quietest side of the island with impressive mountain scenery, however the pebble beaches here have rough seas and are not good for swimming.

On the east coast, Muri beach is geared towards tourism and offers plenty of beach activities, restaurants and beach bars.  The uninhabited islets facing Muri can be waded to at high and low tide or explored more easily by renting a kayak. Muri Lagoon has a sandy bottom making it good for swimming but not for snorkelling.

The south coast is very quiet, with picturesque beaches where the snorkelling is generally excellent.  The west coast is dominated by Arorangi Village and the beach here is sandy and extends right along this coastline, offering swimming at high tide and reef walking at low tide. This leeward side of the island has more sunshine and stunning sunsets.

Getting around the island easy, taking just 45 minutes to go around the island by bus.  Another great way to see all the island has to offer to is hire  a bicycle, enabling you see most of the island in just one day!  

Other islands within the southern group include Aitutaki, Mangaia, Atiu and Mauke. The northern group is more scattered and includes the islands of Pakapuka, Manihiki, Penrhyn and Rakahanga.