Things to Do in Cook Islands in December

December weather, activities, events & insider tips

December Weather in Cook Islands

High Temp

Low Temp

Rainfall

% Humidity

Is December Right for You?

Advantages

Peak mango season - December brings perfectly ripe mangoes and seasonal tropical fruits unavailable other times of year
Consistent trade winds keep humidity manageable at 70% compared to 85%+ in wet season, making outdoor activities comfortable
School holidays mean vibrant local energy with island festivals and family gatherings you can experience authentically
Lagoon visibility peaks at 30-40m (98-131ft) due to minimal runoff, creating ideal conditions for snorkeling and diving

Considerations

Accommodation rates increase 40-60% during December school holidays with minimum 3-7 night stays required
Daily rain showers occur 10 out of 31 days, typically 2-4pm, requiring flexible outdoor scheduling
Popular lagoon spots reach capacity by 9am as local families join tourists during summer school break

Best Activities in December

Lagoon Snorkeling and Swimming

December offers the year's clearest water with 30-40m (98-131ft) visibility in Aitutaki and Rarotonga lagoons. Morning sessions (7-10am) avoid both crowds and afternoon rain showers. Water temperature stays comfortable at 26-28°C (79-82°F).

Booking Tip: Book lagoon tours 14-21 days ahead during December peak season. Full-day tours typically cost NZ$180-250 per person. Choose morning departures to avoid afternoon weather and crowds.

Island Cultural Experiences

December school holidays activate traditional island life - families gather for earth oven cooking, weaving workshops, and storytelling. Local cultural shows run nightly instead of the usual 3x weekly schedule. Perfect timing to experience authentic Cook Islands family traditions.

Booking Tip: Cultural village experiences cost NZ$80-120 per person. Many include traditional feast and demonstrations. Book through accommodation or see current options in booking section below.

Cross-Island Hiking

December's trade winds make inland hiking comfortable despite 70% humidity. The Needle (Te Rua Manga) and other peaks offer spectacular views without the oppressive heat of wet season. Early morning starts (6-7am) avoid afternoon showers.

Booking Tip: Guided hikes cost NZ$60-90 per person for half-day adventures. Independent hiking requires good fitness for steep 500-800m (1,640-2,625ft) climbs. Always inform accommodation of hiking plans.

Outer Island Day Trips

December's stable weather patterns make island-hopping ideal with minimal flight cancellations. Atiu's caves and Mangaia's makatea (fossilized coral cliffs) are accessible without wet season flooding concerns.

Booking Tip: Inter-island flights cost NZ$200-350 return per person. Day trips to outer islands typically cost NZ$400-600 including flights, transfers, and lunch. Book minimum 2 weeks ahead during December.

Deep Sea Fishing

December marks prime marlin and tuna season with calm conditions and active fish. Trade winds create perfect 10-15 knot conditions for comfortable offshore fishing. Local boats report best catches of the year during this period.

Booking Tip: Half-day fishing charters cost NZ$600-900 for up to 4 people. Full-day trips range NZ$1,200-1,800. Book 10-14 days ahead as December is peak fishing season. Many operators offer catch preparation.

Island Cycling Tours

December's morning trade winds make the 32km (20-mile) coastal road circuit comfortable before 11am. Perfect weather for exploring local villages, markets, and coastal viewpoints without wet season mud on inland tracks.

Booking Tip: Bike rentals cost NZ$25-35 per day for quality mountain bikes. Guided tours cost NZ$80-120 per person including bike, helmet, and refreshments. Early morning tours avoid afternoon heat and possible showers.

December Events & Festivals

Throughout December

Te Maeva Nui Constitution Celebrations

December marks ongoing constitution celebration activities with traditional dancing, handicraft displays, and island feast preparations. Local families demonstrate traditional cooking methods and share seasonal foods like breadfruit and fresh coconut.

December 24-25

Christmas Island Style

Cook Islands Christmas blends Polynesian and Christian traditions with midnight church services, traditional earth oven feasts, and family gatherings. Many resorts host special Christmas Day buffets featuring local dishes alongside international cuisine.

December 31

New Year Island Celebrations

Rarotonga's New Year celebration centers around Avarua harbor with traditional drumming, fire dancing, and community feasting. Smaller islands hold family-style gatherings often welcoming respectful visitors.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Quick-dry shorts and lightweight cotton shirts - 70% humidity makes synthetic fabrics uncomfortable

Reef-safe sunscreen SPF 50+ - UV index reaches 8 and lagoon reflection intensifies exposure

Packable rain jacket or poncho - afternoon showers last 20-30 minutes but can be heavy

Water shoes or reef boots - essential for coral protection and mandatory at most lagoon tour operators

Mosquito repellent with DEET - December rains create breeding spots, especially evening/dawn

Wide-brimmed hat with chin strap - trade winds can be strong, especially on boats and exposed areas

Waterproof phone case or dry bag - crucial for lagoon activities and unexpected rain

Lightweight long sleeves for evening - provides sun protection and mosquito barrier

Good walking sandals - many areas require 1-2km (0.6-1.2 mile) walks on coral paths

Small daypack - essential for carrying water, snacks, and gear during island exploration

Insider Knowledge

Local families selling mangoes roadside in December offer fruit 3x better than resort/restaurant mangoes - look for the yellow 'Julie' variety

Afternoon rain showers cool air temperature by 3-4°C (5-7°F) making 4-6pm ideal for village walking after storms pass

December school holidays mean local kids join snorkeling spots - arrive at popular lagoon areas by 8am for quieter experience

Thursday and Friday nights feature traditional 'progressive dinner' culture - locals move between family compounds sharing food and stories