Things to Do in Cook Islands in May
May weather, activities, events & insider tips
May Weather in Cook Islands
Is May Right for You?
Advantages
- Peak lagoon fishing season - trevally and bonito are most active in cooler May waters, with local fishing guides reporting 70% higher catch rates compared to summer months
- Shoulder season pricing saves 25-40% on accommodations and inter-island flights compared to July-August peak, with many resorts offering stay-4-pay-3 deals
- Trade winds strengthen in May, creating perfect 15-20 knot conditions for sailing and windsurfing around Aitutaki and Rarotonga's reef passages
- Traditional ei katu (flower crown) season begins with frangipani and tiare blooms at peak fragrance, coinciding with several village cultural festivals
Considerations
- Intermittent rain showers 10 days per month can disrupt snorkeling tours, with operators canceling lagoon trips when visibility drops below 15m (49 ft)
- Cooler water temperatures at 25°C (77°F) require 3mm wetsuits for extended snorkeling, adding rental costs of NZ$15-25 per day
- Some outer island flights reduce frequency due to seasonal demand, with Manihiki and Pukapuka services dropping to twice weekly
Best Activities in May
Aitutaki Lagoon Exploration
May's clearer skies provide optimal lighting for lagoon photography, while cooler air temperatures make full-day boat tours more comfortable. The lagoon's famous turquoise gradients are most vivid during May's lower humidity conditions. Motu exploration is ideal with fewer crowds and active bird life during nesting season.
Cross-Island Hiking Adventures
Cooler May temperatures make the challenging Te Rua Manga (The Needle) climb more manageable, with trail conditions optimal after April's vegetation growth. Mountain views are clearest in May's stable weather patterns. Native wildlife including kakakura birds are most active during cooler morning hours.
Traditional Island Night Cultural Shows
May marks the beginning of traditional storytelling season when village elders share legends during cooler evening temperatures. Authentic island night shows feature traditional umu (earth oven) cooking methods and seasonal ingredients like breadfruit and taro at their peak harvest.
Bone Fishing and Deep Sea Fishing
May offers prime bone fishing conditions in shallow flats around Aitutaki and Rarotonga, with fish more active in cooler water temperatures. Deep sea fishing peaks for yellowfin tuna and mahi-mahi as they follow cooler current patterns. Professional guides report best success rates during May's stable weather windows.
Snorkeling and Diving Expeditions
May's reduced rainfall creates excellent underwater visibility averaging 25-30m (82-98 ft) around major reef sites. Cooler water temperatures attract larger marine species including reef sharks and eagle rays. Nassau grouper and parrotfish populations are most active during May's optimal feeding conditions.
Kayak and Stand-up Paddleboard Tours
May's strengthened trade winds create ideal SUP conditions for intermediate paddlers, while protected lagoon areas remain calm for beginners. Mangrove exploration around Rarotonga's Avatiu Harbor shows peak bird activity during May's nesting season. Glass-like morning conditions perfect for photography.
May Events & Festivals
Te Maeva Nui Festival Preparations
Traditional dance groups begin intensive practice sessions for the July national festival, with many villages hosting preview performances and costume-making workshops. Visitors can observe authentic cultural preparation and sometimes participate in traditional craft sessions.
Gospel Day Celebrations
Village churches across all islands host special services featuring traditional hymns sung in Cook Islands Maori, followed by community feasts. This provides authentic insight into the islands' strong Christian heritage blended with Polynesian traditions.