Best things to do on Rarotonga- The Cook Islands

A trip to Rarotonga the main Island of the Cook Islands is the perfect, affordable tropical escape. With white sandy beaches, turquoise blue lagoons surrounded by fringing coral reefs, volcanic peaks, dense jungles. Water & land based activities and incredible friendly culture make the Cook Islands like no other destination. Rarotonga is the vibrant heart of the Cook Islands with spectacular scenery every where you look.. In this blog we have included our recommendations of the best things to do on Rarotonga Island, where to stay, how to get around and tones of photos to inspire you to visit this gem of the Pacific. Once you finish reading you will understand why it gets its name ‘The secret of the Pacific’. 

Kia Orana” as the friendly Cook Islanders like to say, meaning “may you live long”. This is the unique first greeting and friendly gesture from the warm Polynesian people renown for their hospitality and warmth. 

Not only does the Cook Islands offer affordable family fun, adventure and lots of great activities. You can also be sure to balance it out with lots of relaxation, rest and romance. The only traffic you will find on Rarotonga are the chickens roaming freely around the Island If you are looking to escape the traffic, relax with friendly locals and enjoy fresh island cuisine – the Cook Islands are perfect for your next holiday.

Introducing Rarotonga- The Cook Islands

Embracing coral atolls and rugged volcanic islands, the 15 Cook Islands are scattered over 2.25 million sq km of the Pacific ocean and combined make up a land area of just 240 sq km. Each Island is unique and has its very own special features.

Rarotonga is only 32 km2 in circumference which means you can drive around the whole island in just 40 minutes! It is the most popular island of the Cook Islands and captivates about 120,000 travellers a year. Rarotonga has the most activities, restaurants, shops and accommodation. Cook Islanders have their own Maori language and each of the populated Islands a distinct dialect.

Best time to visit Rarotonga- Cook Islands?

The Cook Islands see sunshine on a year-round basis but expect more rain from November to March. These are also the hottest months of the year. The Islands do experience occasional cyclones during the wet season from December to April, so check the weather forecasts before planning your trip.

Aim to fly to Rarotonga between June and August, though you can be sure of drier weather any time from May through to November. The air temperature averages 27°C/82°F year-round.

How to get to Rarotonga- Cook Islands?

The Rarotonga International Airport (RAR) is the main airport for all international flights. Air New Zealand, Virgin Australia, Jetstar and Air Tahiti are the major airlines that fly to the Cook Islands. Direct flights are available from Los Angeles, Sydney, Auckland and Papeete (Tahiti).

You can look at more flights to Rarotonga via Skyscanner here.

Jetstar have just realised direct flights from Sydney to Rarotonga which means you can be in this tropical paradise in just a few hours. You can look at Jetstrar flights here.

Best places to eat in Rarotonga?

With its emphasis on fresh local produce, dining out in Rarotonga is not only a great way to engage in Cook Islands culture but it’s also a extremely pleasurable experience. The Islands restaurants range from high end international cruise, friendly Island style cafes and local fast food take away shops.

For the ultimate cultural experience book a seat at an Island Night which combines a traditional buffet with a cultural Cook Islands experience including drumming and dancing. We highly recommend Crown Beach Resorts Island night. The buffet was delicious and the entertainment was fantastic. Book tickets here.

If you feel like eating out at a place bit more fancy then you must book a table at the Mediterranean inspired restaurant called Antipodes. The restaurant is high on the hill and offers panoramic views of Rarotonga and the endless blue ocean. Be sure to book a table for sunset and enjoy some of their delicious food and cocktails. Click here to reserve your table.

Our favourite breakfast and coffee spots are Kai & Co, Beluga Cafe, Flying Turtle Cafe and Nautilus Resort and . The cafes serve a range of healthy meals, great brunch, smoothies an treats. Charlie’s Cafe and Bar offer great beachside dining and great vibes. If you love a variety of different cuisine foods then check out Punanga Nui Market and Muri Night Markets. Palace Takeaways offer Happy Hour Wednesday which means burgers are half price.

Best places to stay in Rarotonga?

There are various accommodation options on Rarotonga for all budgets. We stayed at different sides of the island: Muri Beach for its beaches and lagoons and Arorangi for the amazing sunset views.

Tianas Beach Bungalows on Muri Beach offered a beach view bungalow with a kitchen, dining area, and ocean-view veranda. Kayaks were available for guests. The cost was around $110 AUD per night. Book your stay here.

Castaway Resort in Arorangi had a pool, the popular Wilson’s Beach Restaurant and Bar and studio rooms with a kitchen and breakfast included. The price was $180 AUD per night. Book Castaway Resort here.

During our second visit, we opted for the affordable luxury of Edgewater Resort and Spa in Arorangi. They offer a variety of rooms, villas, a health club, pool and restaurants. When it comes to dining options there is something for everyone – The Brasserie, The Spaghetti House and Mal’s Bar. Our lagoon view room was spacious and came with a double bed, a single bed and tropical breakfast included. The room costs about $400 AUD a night.

Best way to get around Rarotonga?

There are many ways to travel around Rarotonga Island and they are by hire car, scooter, bus, walking and taxi. However the easiest way would be to hire a car straight from Rarotonga Airport. The main companies are Polynesian, Island Car & Bike, Rarotonga Rentals and Avis. If you have a current driver’s licence from your home country you can drive a car in the Cook Islands with that licence.

To hire a Scooter without a motorbike license from your home country, you need to obtain a car license and pass a written and practical skills test at the Avarua police station. This process takes approximately 2-3 hours, including waiting time. You’ll answer driving-related questions and undergo a 5-minute drive test with a police officer to demonstrate your proficiency. Successful completion grants you a Cook Islands license valid for 6 months, at a cost of $40 NZ.

The Public Bus circulates around the entire island in both clockwise and anticlockwise directions. The buses operate from 7 am to 4:30 pm, with hourly departures from town. From Monday to Saturday, the Night Bus runs every hour from 6:00 pm to 11:00 pm. On Sundays, the bus operates clockwise only, starting at 8:00 am, with the last departure at 4:00 pm. Bus tickets: One Way $5, Two rides $8, 10 rides $30 and Day Pass $16. For more information on the public bus check out the website here.

One of the least expensive and funnest way to see the Cook Islands is by bicycle. The distance around Rarotonga is only 34kms, so it doesn’t take too long to get just about anywhere. There are bicycle hiring companies around Rarotonga including Polynesian Rental Cars & Bikes and Ride Rarotonga. If you prefer an e-bike experience (100% electric) contact Tik-E Bikes.

Best things to do on Rarotonga

Explore the picturesque Muri Lagoon

Muri Beach is regarded as one of the best areas for beaches in Rarotonga. One of the most popular ways of exploring the Muri lagoon is to take a kayak and paddle around. The natural lagoon is an absolute haven, the turquoise waters make this little piece of paradise the ideal location for a wide range of water sports and family activities. Kayaking is a great way of exploring beyond the shores of Muri Beach and out to the 4 motus (islands) in the lagoon.

There are a number of resorts and home stays that supply complimentary kayaks to guests. Chat to the Beach Huts team at Pacific Resort Rarotonga who can supply the kayaks and advise on the best places to kayak to. We stayed at Tianas Beach Bungalows and were provided with 2 complimentary kayaks. Every day when the sun was out we would take the kayak out to Koromiri motu, which was straight out from our bungalow.

Hire a SUP or Kayak at KiteSUP

Stand up paddleboarding is the world’s fastest growing sport and Muri Lagoon is the perfect place to give it a go. You can hire a Stand up paddle board or kayaks from KiteSUP. This is a great way to explore the stunning Muri Lagoon at your own pace. You can hire either a SUP or kayak for $20 an hour or $30 for 2 hours.

Watch an Island Show and indulge in local cuisine

Celebrations of Cook Islands culture occur almost nightly through the week at different resorts. Attending an ‘Island night’ is a must see when on Rarotonga. You get a chance to watch energetic locals dancings, the sounds of the drums, traditional music and singing. The performers are the best on the Island. If you dread the limelight, be aware the “ura piani”, when dancers recruit tourists from the opposite sex to get up and dance. Both myself and Max were pulled up on stage.

At an Island night you will also get to try local food. Traditional dishes like the Ika Mata (raw fish in coconut cream), rakau (taro leaves in coconut cream), taro, poke (arrowroot and coconut cream) and locally caught fish are all served buffet style.

Hotels and cultural centres offer Island nights for a range of budgets. You can talk to your accomodation or check out some brochures for different options. We booked the buffet and show at The Crown Beach Resort which have the show on Thursdays. For the buffet show including a free cocktail, the price was only $55 NZ and was definitely worth it. Book your tickets here.

Visit the popular Titikaveka Beach

If you haven’t spent your days relaxing on one of the tropical beaches then you’re doing it wrong. One of the best beaches to spend a day relaxing and swimming is Titikavika Beach. When your feeling hungry visit Charlies Cafe and Bar ,enjoy a bite to eat with an ice cold bevy and listen to some live music. All with views of the beautiful ocean. It doesn’t get better than that!

Learn about Cook Island culture with the famous Tumutoa

Born and raised in Rarotonga, the famous ‘Tumutoa’ or Coconut Warrior is well known for his cultural tours. Tumutoa does a number of different cultural tours, the Discovery walking tour, Prepare Umu Kai Feast, Legends of Raemaru Mountain and Warrier Fire Dance Show with Local Stringed Music.

The ‘Umu Kai feast’ tour we were shown how to prepare the ‘Umu Kai’ or earth oven. We cooked and prepared the food, gathered the hot rocks and set up the Umu. We also were shown how to split and open a coconut to get the milk. Shaved the coconut meat to use in the Ika Mata salad. Made baskets out of palm tree leaves. Watched how Tumutoa got his name as one of the fastest coconut tree climbers and even had a go at climbing a coconut tree. We then enjoyed our Umu Kai feast while a few local boys sang and played string music. After dinner Tumutoa and the local boys put on a fire dance show.

Tumutoa is all about providing the full authentic cultural experience. This was definitely one of our favourite tours and we highly recommend this tour to learn all about Cook Island culture and enjoy local cuisine.Book a tour with Tumutoa Tours online through their Facebook here or call +682 79 521.

Do your own tiki tour around the whole Island of Rarotonga

You can drive around the whole Island of Rarotonga in around 30-40minutes. Our favourite way to explore a new destination is by car or scooter, we love the freedom it gives you. On your free days wake up early and driving around the whole Island. Check out a few different beaches and also drive through the streets in the mountains. If you do visit in wet season make sure to take a waterproof jacket with you in case you get a shower.

The main hire companies are Polynesian, Island Car & Bike, Rarotonga Rentals and Avis.

Explore the aquatic playground with Captain Tamas

Rarotonga is surrounded by fringing reefs and crystal clear lagoons. A great way to experience the aquatic playground and Muri Lagoon is a day out on Captain Tamas lagoon Cruise. The boat features a glass bottom which allows you to see and be apart of the natural aquarium.

The first stop is to a snorkel spot where you can expect to see a lot of fish, clams and Giant Travellies. Then the tour takes you to the small Island in Muri Lagoon called Moto Koromiri for a traditional Raro style lunch with fresh local fish, a variety of salads, fruit and bread. To top of this magic day there is lots of singing and entertainment from the N.S.S ( No strings attached) local string band. Max was pulled up on stage and shown different ways to wear a sarong. The whole crowd was in laughs.

Click here to book Captain Tamas BBQ lunch tour.

Have fun on Sea scooter with Arki Adventures

If you are looking for a tour that’s a little bit different than we would highly recommend Ariki Adventures Turtle Sea scooter Safari. With the help of an eco friendly, easy to use underwater scooter you are taken into the Avaavaroa Passage where you can snorkel with the turtles, tropical fish and explore beautiful corals reefs. Sea Scooters are a fast and easy way to see more of the underwater world in Rarotonga. Each sea scooter is lightweight and equipped with a three level speed control on each handle of the device which means drivers are in control of their experience. 

The Turtle Sea Scooter Safari lasts for approximately 2 hours and costs $189 pp. Book your sea scooter adventure here.

Visit the unique Black Rock Beach of Rarotonga

Black Rock beach is a unique beach located on the north west side of the Island close to the airport. Black Rock beach is historically and culturally important to the people of Rarotonga. Facing north-west and receiving all day sun, the lagoon area is a popular aqua-playground. The prominent black rocks serve as diving platforms into the rock pools below.

Visit Aitutaki on a day trip with Air Raro and Vaka Cruises

You can’t visit Rarotonga without visiting the stunning Aitutaki Island and Lagoon. If you thought Rarotonga was a slice of paradise wait until see Aitutaki! Enjoy six hours on Aitutaki’s beautiful lagoon, Island hopping, snorkelling, buffet lunch cooked onboard and much more!

The Aitutaki Day Tour is the easiest and most affordable option to experience the magic, tranquility and beauty of Aitutaki’s breathtaking lagoon. From the plane the view flying over the Island is incredible. Crystal clear water, turquoise blue ocean and views of the coral reefs that protect the natural lagoons of Aitutaki.

Air Raro offer return flights and a day trip to Autittaki and includes a tour of the world famous lagoon with Vaka Cruise’s. The Aitutaki Day Tour operates daily Mondays to Saturdays from Rarotonga, departing at 8 am and returning by 5.30 pm. Included in the tour is airport transfers, a tour of Aitutaki Island and then it’s on to the highlight of the day – The Vaka Cruise aboard the 21 metre vaka (catamaran) Titi-ai-Tonga with lunch included.

Explore Aitutaki famous Lagoon on Vaka Cruise

The Vaka Cruise is one of the best companies to experience the real beauty of Aitutaki. If you love jaw-dropping views, relaxing atmosphere, swimming in crystal blue water, snorkelling with with an array of colourful tropical fish, majestic giant trevallies and exploring on secluded Islands then your in for a real treat.

The Vaka Cruise stops at several motus (small Isands) including Akaiami and the world famous One Foot Island. There is time for snorkelling and swimming before stopping for a tasty barbecue buffet lunch, cooked right on board. Snorkel equipment and towels are also provided complimentary on board.

The Aitutaki Day tour costs NZ$ 599 per person and is worth every cent! Book online here.

Want to read more about Aitutaki? Read our Guide to Aitutaki Island here.

Take a guided Cross island hike across Rarotonga.

Muanga Tours offers an exhilarating Cross Island hike starting in Rarotonga’s Avatiu valley. Led by the knowledgeable and friendly guide, Bruce, you’ll embark on a steep climb to Te Rua Manga, also known as Needle Rock. Along the way, Bruce will provide engaging commentary about unique and rare species you’ll encounter. Don’t forget your camera as there are breathtaking views throughout the hike, including from the summit. Despite the weather not being ideal during our hike, we still had a fantastic experience. After reaching the summit, you’ll descend along a ridge, pass through Papua valley, and cross streams until you reach the stunning Papua Waterfall.

We took a refreshing dip to cool off before concluding the approximately 3-4 hour guided tour, with convenient return to our accommodation. Explore Rarotonga’s volcanic mountains and landscape with Muanga Tours and Bruce for an unforgettable adventure. The cross Island hike costs $80 pp and you can book tickets here.

Eat your way through Punanga Nui Market on every Saturday.

The most popular markets on the island is the Punanga Nui Market. Visiting the markets on a Saturday is essential when on Rarotonga. From 6am you can walk around the open air markets indulging In fresh nu (coconut water) local fruits and vegetables. You can also buy cooked food like crepes and waffles, fresh smoothy and juices, burgers, stir frys and sausage rolls. There is something for every eater!

The Punanga Nui Market is also a one stop souvenir shop. You can buy anything from island music, handmade quilts, hand painted pareu (sarongs). The local women sell hats and bags woven out of coconut fibres. Pearl farmers sell black pearls that have been harvested from the Island of Manihiki, 110 km north of Rarotonga.

Keep eating your way through Muri Night Markets.

Don’t miss the vibrant Muri Night Markets at Muri Beach in Rarotonga! Held every Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 5pm to 9pm, these markets are a food lover’s paradise. With an array of food stalls offering diverse cuisines, you’ll find something to satisfy your cravings. From fresh seafood and pizza to Thai dishes, noodles, fried delicacies, curries, pasta, healthy options, and Mexican delights, there’s a wide variety to choose from. And for those with a sweet tooth, indulge in delectable crepes, refreshing juices, smoothies, and mouthwatering ice cream.

The best part? Most meals are reasonably priced between $10-15 NZ, making it a budget-friendly dining experience. So head over to the Night markets at Muri Beach and embark on a culinary adventure you won’t forget!

In conclusion, Rarotonga is an absolute gem that will capture your heart and leave you yearning for more. Whether it’s your first visit or a recurring annual escape, this stunning destination offers the perfect paradise getaway. The Cook Islands, including Rarotonga and Aitutaki, embody the true essence of paradise. The warm and welcoming nature of the Islanders, coupled with their genuine enthusiasm for sharing their culture creates an unparalleled sense of warmth and hospitality. It’s truly one of the most heartwarming places we’ve ever had the privilege of visiting.

So pack your bags, immerse yourself in the beauty of Rarotonga and let this tropical paradise weave its magic. Discover the beauty, embrace the culture and create memories that will last a lifetime in this tropical slice of Paradise.

Thank you for reading our guide to Rarotonga, we hope you find this blog helpful and that it has inspired you to visit Rarotonga in the Cook Islands. You won’t regret it.

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