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3) Aitutaki

Where: The Cook Islands, the South Pacific.

See: Aitutaki is a tiny bit of land and a whole lot of lagoon. And, boy, what a lagoon – take all those romanticised images of South Sea island paradises and multiply it. Fringed with tiny motu (or mini-islands), palm trees and golden beaches, it's the water that really makes it – it's difficult to imagine more spectacular blues and turquoises. Even the best photos can't quite do the lagoon cruise justice, though. There are a few operators that do day trips on the water, throwing in snorkelling and lunch on one of the motu. These include Bishop Cruises (www.cookpages.com/BishopsCruises).

Do: Outside of the lagoon, there is some prime deep sea fishing territory. Head out at the right time of day, and it's possible to reel in plenty of snapper, tuna and, if you're lucky, the spectacularly ugly Maori wrasse. If they're not biting with the lines, it's possible to move nearer the reef and get the spear guns out. With one of those babies in your hands, any reputation that fishing may have for being a bit boring is quickly dispelled. Black Pearl Fishing Charters (+682 31 125) organises tailor-made days out on the water for beginner and experienced anglers alike.

Hang out: It's a tiny, out-of-the-way island, so don't expect a rollicking nightlife. However, there are a few bars, such as the Boat Club in the north, which fill up will local characters in the evening. The best bet for entertainment is to head to whichever resort is staging an Island Night. There's one on virtually every night, and these usually involve huge dance troupes performing with the backing of an almighty racke... er, a percussion and ukulele-led orchestra.

Stay: The Aitutaki Lagoon Resort (www.aitutakilagoonresort.com) is incredibly plush, and sits on its own private motu. Guests are ferried over by boat from the main island and greeted by a ‘warrior' blowing into a shell. For those with big wallets, the Overwater Bungalows are incredible – thatched roofs, all the amenities and a decking terrace right over the lagoon. Transpacific Holidays (www.transpacificholidays.co.uk) has twelve night packages available for from £1,998 per person.

More information: www.cookislands.travel