How to Get to Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort [2025 Guide]
🏝️ How to Get to Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort [2025 Guide]
🌍 Where is Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort?
Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort is one of the most exclusive resorts in the Cook Islands, located on its own private island (Motu Akitua) in the middle of Aitutaki’s breathtaking turquoise lagoon. The only way to get there is by combining flights, boat transfers, and short drives—but the reward is a paradise unlike any other.
✈️ Step 1: International Flight to Rarotonga
Your journey begins with an international flight to Rarotonga International Airport (RAR), the main gateway to the Cook Islands.
- Airlines flying to Rarotonga in 2025:
- Air New Zealand (from Auckland, Sydney, Los Angeles)
- Jetstar (from Auckland)
- Hawaiian Airlines (from Honolulu)
- Flight duration examples:
- Auckland → Rarotonga: ~4 hours
- Los Angeles → Rarotonga: ~10 hours (direct Air New Zealand route)
- Honolulu → Rarotonga: ~6 hours
👉 Pro Tip: Flights often arrive late at night, so you may need an overnight stay in Rarotonga before continuing to Aitutaki.

🛩️ Step 2: Domestic Flight to Aitutaki
From Rarotonga, you’ll take a short domestic flight to Aitutaki Airport (AIT).
- Airline: Air Rarotonga (the only carrier operating this route)
- Flight duration: ~50 minutes
- Frequency: Several flights daily
- Cost: Around $250–$350 USD return per person
👉 The flight itself is scenic—you’ll see the blue lagoon from above, which is an unforgettable preview of your destination.
🚤 Step 3: Transfer to Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort
Once you land at Aitutaki Airport, the resort arranges your transfer:
- A short drive (about 10 minutes) from the airport to the pier
- A 2-minute boat ride across the lagoon to reach Motu Akitua, where the resort sits
👉 Since it’s on its own private island, the only way to reach the resort is by boat.
Hotel/Resort Reservation: Plan your next trip today with top hotel offers!
📌 Summary – Travel Route in 2025
Step | Mode of Transport | Duration | Notes |
---|---|---|---|
Step 1 | International Flight to Rarotonga | 4–12 hrs | Depends on departure city |
Step 2 | Domestic Flight (Rarotonga → Aitutaki) | ~50 min | Operated by Air Rarotonga |
Step 3 | Resort Transfer (drive + boat) | ~15 min total | Organized by resort |
🌟 Travel Tips for 2025
- Book early: Air Rarotonga flights to Aitutaki sell out quickly, especially in high season (June–September).
- Stay flexible: If your international flight lands late, plan a night in Rarotonga before heading to Aitutaki.
- Pack light: Inter-island flights have strict baggage allowances (typically 20kg checked + 7kg carry-on).
- Resort transfer included: The resort usually arranges your pick-up, so confirm details when booking.
🙋 FAQs: Getting to Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort
Q1. What airport do I fly into for Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort?
👉 First, fly into Rarotonga International Airport (RAR), then take a domestic flight to Aitutaki Airport (AIT).
Q2. How long is the flight from Rarotonga to Aitutaki?
👉 The flight takes about 50 minutes with Air Rarotonga.
Q3. Does the resort provide transfers from Aitutaki Airport?
👉 Yes, the resort provides a short drive and boat transfer to its private island.
Q4. Can I get to Aitutaki by ferry instead of flying?
👉 No, there are no ferries between Rarotonga and Aitutaki—the only way is by flight.
Q5. How far is the resort from Aitutaki Airport?
👉 Just a 10-minute drive plus a 2-minute boat ride, making it quick and easy once you land.
✨ Getting to Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort in 2025 may involve multiple steps, but each one brings you closer to one of the most beautiful lagoons in the world. From the scenic domestic flight to the short boat ride, the journey is part of the adventure—and well worth it once you arrive in paradise.