Each of the 17 luxe villas at Nautilus Resort on the pristine Muri Lagoon is fitted with its own saltwater plunge pool – plus postcard-perfect views of crystal blue waters or tropical greenery. Post-dip, take a stand-up paddleboard for a spin then unwind with a skin-plumping marine facial at the open-air spa.

Each of Little Polynesian Resort’s bungalows are set on the sugary sands of Titikaveka Beach and feel like a private island hideaway – they include a spacious deck just steps from the shimmering lagoon and your own lush courtyard complete with an outdoor shower. And as if that wasn’t romantic enough, the poolside restaurant takes it next level, serving desserts like local vanilla bean crème brulée under the stars.

Zip around underwater on a sea scooter safari with Ariki Adventures. The two-hour tours are run in groups of 10 or fewer by experienced guides that are eco-accredited, meaning you’ll learn about marine habitat and what’s being done to protect the coral reefs for future generations.. Two of the four Sea Turtles species native to the Cook Islands are the stars of the show but keep your eyes peeled for eagle rays and harmless reef sharks.

There’s nothing quite like charging down dirt roads in your very own open-air buggy. Hop in one of Raro Buggy Tours’ twin-seater vehicles (kids over four can safely ride shotgun) and set off with your instructor, picking up speed as your confidence increases. Getting muddy is part of the fun – just make sure you bring swimwear and a towel.

The Cook Islands is a place where you can lose yourself seeking out spectacular sea life – schools of striped angelfish, convict surgeon and giant trevally. Join Captain Tama's Lagoon Cruizes to spot giant clams from the glass-bottomed boat, dive off the edge to snorkel the warm waters and feast on an island-style lunch back on a motu (small island).

Get a glimpse into the region’s past at the Highland Paradise Cook Islands Cultural Centre, a 600-year-old mountainside village site rejuvenated by descendants of the Tinomana tribe. The sunset show combines a warrior welcome, lively drumming, dancing, a mouth-watering umu feast cooked in an underground oven and plenty of 'Kia Orana' hospitality.

Mere metres from the gently lapping waves of the Avarua Harbour, Tamarind House is a gorgeous spot to spend an afternoon with an ice-cold Passionfruit Caprioska or Coconut Margarita. Inside the lovingly restored colonial property, you’ll find retro palm-print wallpaper and chic cane furnishings, but the best seats for watching the sunset are with your toes in the sand out front.

Modern Mediterranean food and the Black Rock clifftop vista is a winning combination at Antipodes. The adults-only restaurant is set across three terracotta-coloured terraces within a sprawling villa, each framed by columns, intricately tiled floors and verdant plants. Try the handmade prawn and ricotta ravioli and the Spanish custard tart served with wild plum sorbet.

Exploring a market in a foreign country can offer a captivating insight into local flavour and the Muri night markets doesn’t disappoint. Check out the stalls brimming with local crafts, order a hearty dinner of mango curry chicken kebabs and Baileys banana cream crepes from the food trucks and nab a seat at one of the bright green picnic tables for unsurpassed people-watching.

Tamanu Beach Resort opts for barefoot luxury over unabashed glitz with its 23 thatched-roof bungalows. Book the beachfront villa for unobstructed Pacific Ocean views from the comfort of your plush super king-sized bed. Then try and tear yourself away to take in the fire dancing, traditional song and tropical desserts at the Takurua island feast, held every Thursday night.

While the South Pacific isn’t short on stunning beaches, nothing quite beats the magic of visiting the near-deserted motu (small islets) that encircle the Aitutaki Lagoon. Embrace the unspoiled scene on a Vaka Cruise where you can laze aboard the 21-metre Polynesian-style canoe and get your passport stamped at the tiny One Foot Island post office.

Between July and October, thousands of humpback whales arrive in the Cook Islands to rear their calves. A Wet & Wild Water Tour in Aitutaki is your best bet for a close encounter; snorkelling excursions even let you (safely) swim alongside the magnificent creatures. Watersports are also on offer year-round: kiteboarding and tube riding are some of the most popular.