The Cook Islands

The Cook Islands are 15 tiny islands in the South Pacific Ocean. They are spread out over a huge area of the sea. The islands are known for their white sand beaches, clear water, and coral reefs. Only about 15,000 people live on the Cook Islands. They were named after a British explorer named Captain Cook.

Island Life

The Cook Islanders are Polynesian people who have lived on the islands for over a thousand years. They have their own language and special dances. Their music uses drums and ukuleles. Most people live on the main island called Rarotonga. The islands are a free country, but they work closely with New Zealand.

Under the Sea

The waters around the Cook Islands are full of colorful life. Coral reefs grow all around the islands like underwater gardens. Bright fish, sea turtles, and even sharks swim among the coral. People love to go snorkeling to see them. Some islands are atolls, which are ring-shaped islands with a lagoon in the middle.

Fun Facts

• The Cook Islands are spread over an area of ocean as big as India.
• Captain James Cook first visited the islands in 1773.
• The biggest island, Rarotonga, is only 26 miles around.

Did You Know?

The Cook Islands once put a picture of Mickey Mouse on their money, making it one of the few countries to do so.