THE NITTY GRITTY:

WEATHER: The best time to visit is during summer in the United States, June through September, when it’s warm and dry. December through March, the rainy season, is hotter and more humid. Shoulder months — April, May October and November — are variable.

GETTING AROUND: You may not need to rent a car. Most activities, cafes and beaches are close enough to go by bicycle. For longer explorations, check out outfitters like Tik e-tours (www.tik-etours.com) and Storytellers Eco Cycle Tours www.storytellers.co.ck.

FLIGHTS: Air New Zealand offers the only non-stop flight from the U.S. to Rarotonga, a nine-hour flight on a new Boeing 777, with seats in economy, business and premium business (including spiffy flat-bed seats). Rates vary by season and availability but run from $854 (a recent special promotion) to $2354.

COOK ISLANDS TOURISM: At www.cookislands.travel. For dinner reservations at the Plantation House, email ilivingoyster.net.ck.

LODGING: Small hotels and family-run inns offering comfortable, affordable lodging are posted online or listed on Cook Islands tourism sites.

Rustic, thatched cottages at the two four-star Pacific Resorts, one on Rarotonga and one on Aitutaki, offer full amenities, luxuriant landscaping, a restaurant, bar and swimming pool. Some units have a kitchenette. Rates vary according to date, size, and ocean or garden views. Book early; Pacific Resorts are a favorite with frequent travelers. The Aitutaki property has additional hotel rooms in the adjacent building. At www.pacificresort.com.

Lodging at the Aitutaki Lagoon Resort, the only resort on a small motu, ranges from modest self-catering cabins to spacious and attractively furnished cottages. Ten over-water bungalows have lagoonaccess outside decks, lagoon-access steps, outdoor showers, large bathrooms with double sinks and a kitchenette corner. The main lodge has a restaurant and adjacent pool; seclusion and lagoon access are its outstanding features.

Rarotonga now has several five-star properties, some with spas. Look for Rumours Luxury Villas & Spa, Te Manava Luxury Villas & Spa and Nautilus Resort, all on Muri Beach, on Rarotonga’s southeast coast.