Whale Watching

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Overview

Humpback whales visit the Cook Islands from July to October and come right up to the reef which in places is just 10 meters from shore. The best place to view the whales from land is where the fringing reef is closest to the shoreline - on Rarotonga this is along the west coast of Rarotonga at Black Rock and on the north coast of Rarotonga. Other great viewing areas include Atiu, Mangaia, Mauke and Mitiaro where the fringing reef comes right up to the coastline - this is where the humpback whales like to play and scratch themselves.

The Whale Outreach Organization for the Pacific region is based in Avarua on Rarotonga and a new and colorful interpretive center has been established to educate people about the whales and their habits and to monitor sightings. Visitors to the Cook Islands Whale Education Center will be introduced to the fascinating world of whales and dolphins and experience a plethora of awareness, knowledge and fun. The center offers hands on educational activities, extensive outreach presentations, videos, guest lecturers, visual displays, posters, murals and photographs thereby teaching environmental awareness, the protection of ecosystems and ultimately all life in the sea.

Whale Outreach discourages people from observing whales from tour boats and in particular those tours that encourage diving with whales.

Humpback Whale watching in the Cook Islands is another must for the activities list, also just generally taking in all the beautiful creatures of the Aitutaki Lagoon and surrounding area, there is a good chance of seeing, eagle rays, turtles, and much more.