Ootu Beach runs along the eastern peninsula of Aitutaki's main island, a long, open stretch of white sand with the lagoon right there and almost nobody on it. Unlike the motu beaches that require a boat to reach, Ootu is accessible by road — a short drive or bicycle ride from most accommodation on the main island — which makes it the practical choice for a morning swim or an afternoon with a book and nowhere to be.
The lagoon at Ootu is calm and clear, shallow enough close to shore to wade out a long way, and good for snorkelling without having to go far from the sand. There's no shade infrastructure — no beach bars or sunbed rentals — so bring everything you need. The absence of facilities is also the point: this is what Aitutaki's beaches look like when you get away from the organised tour circuit. Early mornings here, with the lagoon flat and the light still low, are worth setting an alarm for.