The Aitutaki lagoon is one of the best places in the world to enjoy and practice kitesurfing. Its crystal clear warm water together with steady winds makes it an ideal kiteboarding spot for all skill levels. Sometimes to find a perfect place you need to use a boat service and travel to the nearby islands like Honeymoon Island and One Foot Island. Their sandbars are created for a safe and easy learning environment and a great place to improve one's skills. The spacious lagoons of Aitutaki Island ensure lots of space for every rider without fighting for free space.
The trade winds travel through the Cooks from May till October, and this is probably the best time to enjoy this kind of water activity. These are mainly winds ranging from 15 to 30 knots. Although you can't be 100% sure, but August and September are the most reliable with winds.
Talking about other surf sports, the Cook Islands can't be named one of the best surfing destinations. Most of the waves are short, fast, hollow, and breaking over the extremely sharp coral reef. But such conditions may be more exciting for bodyboarders. The best thing about bodyboarding here is that there is no need to fight for the wave, as you won't find crowds on any of beaches. You will also need to bring all the needed stuff with you, as it's hard to find some rentals or special shops. standup paddleboarding is also quite a popular water sport here, and a great way to explore the islands and enjoy their beauty. Some of the best surfing spots on the Cook Islands are Montutapu, Ava avarua, and Black Rock.
Practical info
When is the best time to visit Rarotonga & Cook Islands for kitesurfing and bodyboarding?
If you want to kitesurf or bodyboard, visit Rarotonga and Cook Islands between May to October. These months have trade winds that range from 15 to 30 knots, giving you a perfect kitesurfing and bodyboarding experience. August and September are the most reliable months with winds being ideal for kiteboarding. Show more
Where can I find the best kitesurfing spots in Rarotonga & Cook Islands?
The perfect place for kitesurfing in Rarotonga and Cook Islands is the Aitutaki lagoon. Here, the water is warm and clear, and the winds blow steadily, making it an ideal kitesurfing spot. Apart from Aitutaki, Honeymoon Island and One Foot Island are also excellent options for kitesurfing. You can hire boat services to access these quieter getaway spots nearby. Show more
Are kitesurfing lessons available in Rarotonga & Cook Islands?
Kitesurfing lessons are available in Rarotonga & Cook Islands. Beginners can enjoy lessons at One Foot Island, whereas advanced learners can take lessons at Aitutaki. If you take these lessons, you can get access to equipment rentals, but if you're bodyboarding, it's better to bring your own gear. Show more
What are the best bodyboarding spots on Rarotonga & Cook Islands?
Rarotonga and Cook Islands are kitesurfing destinations, but places to go bodyboarding can still be found—Montutapu, Ava avarua, and Black Rock are locations to keep in mind if you want to go bodyboarding. These spots are less crowded and offer short, hollow waves that suit all bodyboarding levels. Show more
Is it possible to rent equipment for bodyboarding or do I need to bring my own gear to Rarotonga & Cook Islands?
Equipment rentals for bodyboarding are hard to find in Rarotonga & Cook Islands. If you want to avoid any inconvenience, it's advisable to bring the necessary equipment for bodyboarding. However, if you plan to kiteboard, equipment rentals are included in lessons with some inclusive of beginner-level courses available at One Foot Island, while advanced lessons are offered at Aitutaki. Show more
