If you're planning a holiday and have booked yourself into one of the many beautiful and high quality Cook Island resorts, you might be wondering what you can do with your time when visiting Rarotonga.
Of course there is nothing wrong with just sitting on a beach, a cocktail in your hand, and a good read in the other, but for those of you who would like to use the time to explore your surrounds, there is plenty to see and to do.
Being able to come back from a holiday feeling refreshed and rested means your money has been well spent and the time off a success.
Becoming refreshed often includes giving yourself the space to enjoy new things and to get your heart pumping with a little physical activity.
Whether you love land tours, the beach or the ocean there is something for you to do to keep you occupied.
If you want to enjoy your surrounds consider booking yourself into a tour.
You can either take one as part of a larger group, or hire a horse, a car, motorbikes, cycles or pretty much any form of transportation and take yourself off armed with a map, a picnic lunch, swimming togs and a little insider information from your hosts.
All the people employed at the Cook Island resorts have your best interests at heart.
They can point you in the right direction and help you find where you can go, and what you can see.
For a land tour of Rarotonga check out Coconut Tours and explore the land and bush with 4WD vehicles.
It is worth noting that you will get dirty on this tour - so don't wear your favourite outfit.
If you enjoy learning about the culture of a country then you will appreciate this tour - Te Vara Nui Cultural Village.
You will see demonstrations of carvings and hear about legends and songs of significance to the Rarotongan people.
If you love to shop you can certainly do so - keep in mind that most places are closed on a Sunday.
Markets are a fun place to pick up a few local crafts and gifts for friends, and you can soak up some of the culture as well.
Avarua is the main shopping centre in Rarotonga and you can find everything here from beautiful water pearls to the local cinema.
Of course getting into and onto the water is a huge draw card for many visitors.
Discover a lagoon, or go snorkelling to see the pretty sea life under the water.
You could also take kayaks out onto the water, or try some water sports such as jet skiing or sailing.
Fishing charters are also very popular - it is generally cheaper the larger your group size.
Check out Captain Tama's Lagoon Cruizes and enjoy the views of the lagoon from the glass bottom boat, plus snorkelling and a BBQ lunch.
The Cook Island resorts offer a wide range of fun and enjoyable activities that give you plenty of chances to shrug off any of the stress and tension you brought with you, giving you a holiday you'll refer back to with pleasure for a long time to come.