Cook islands popular tourist destination codycross

Strewn across the South Pacific like a handful of pearls tossed onto a gemstone-blue blanket, the Cook Islands are everything you'd hope to find in Polynesia.

While this tiny island nation is famous for its white sand and clear lagoons, there's more to the Cook Islands than pristine beaches (although these are great too, spread over 15 scatted islands).

From digging into local history to witnessing the spectacle of Aitutakian fire-dancing, here are the top things to do in the Cook Islands.

Discover local history at the Cook Islands Library and Museum

The first hint of the treasures in the Cook Islands Library and Museum on Rarotonga comes from the exterior of the building – adorned with a vivid mural that celebrates the traditions and history of the Cook Islands.

Inside, travelers can learn about the history and culture of these remote islands, from the first settlement by Pacific Islanders to the arrival of European explorers and the declaration of self-government in 1965.

Run by local volunteers, the museum has an interesting range of exhibits including Polynesian cook

best places to visit in cook islands

best places to go in cook islands