tips for travelling to rarotonga

17 things you need to know before going to the Cook Islands

Jan 24, 2024 • 8 min read

These top tips on things to know before you go can help you plan the perfect trip to the Cook Islands © Matteo Colombo / Getty Images

Scattered and remote in the South Pacific, the Cook Islands are a taste of tropical perfection.

At 3234km (2009 miles) from the nearest major landmass, this is a far-flung destination for most travelers. But if you make it all the way here, you'll discover that this is a straightforward place to visit. The Cook Islanders are famously welcoming and friendly, English is widely spoken, and you'll find an easygoing mix of 21st-century sophistication and traditional Polynesian values.

Framed by the wild blue expanse of the planet’s biggest ocean, these isolated isles are one of the world's great getaways. The secret to a successful trip to the Cook Islands is to do some prep ahead of time. Here are some pre-departure tips to help you plan your time in this fascinating island nation.

1. Keep an eye on the weather in the South Pacific

The Cook Islands are warm year-round, but some seasons are better for travel than others. With drier weather and lower humidity, May to October is a great time to visit . From November to April, the weather is warmer but also wetter – however, rain showers are often short and sharp, clearing after a sudden downpour to a blue sky. December to January is the cyclone season – storms can bring heavy rain and strong winds, but the islands are not severely impacted every year.

2. Check your dates ahead of South Pacific time travel

Traveling to Rarotonga from New Zealand , flights cross the international date line, arriving in the Cook Islands on the previous day. Double-check accommodation to ensure you've booked the correct dates. Similarly, traveling back from Rarotonga to New Zealand, travelers lose a day, and arrive in Auckland the day after they departed.

3. There aren't many direct flight options

Rarotonga is linked by direct flights to Auckland, Sydney, Honolulu and Tahiti, with  Air New Zealand 's service from Auckland to Rarotonga being the only daily international option.

Once you reach Rarotonga, things get easier – Air Rarotonga , the Cooks’ national airline, has regular flights from Rarotonga to the country's Pa Enua (Outer Islands), including the popular islands of Aitutaki and ‘Atiu.

4. Avoid the Australian and Kiwi school holidays

The Cook Islands, especially Rarotonga, get very busy with vacationing families during New Zealand's and Australia's school holidays, putting pressure on prices and availability for accommodations and flights. These breaks usually fall in the two weeks following Easter, the first two weeks in July, and the first few weeks in October. The dates move slightly each year, so check the timings on New Zealand's Ministry of Education website and the education websites for Australia's different states.

Cook Islanders living in New Zealand often visit family in the islands for Christmas and New Year, and also for the annual celebrations leading up to the islands’ Constitution Day on August 4. Prices for accommodations and airfares usually increase around this time too.

5. Fresh local produce makes self-catering accommodation a good choice

Rarotonga and Aitutaki both offer all-inclusive resort accommodations, but consider renting a self-contained holiday house or beachside bungalow. Having your own fully-equipped kitchen and barbecue facilities increases the options for self-catering, and it's easy to buy local fish and pick up fresh vegetables and fruit from Rarotonga's Saturday morning Punanga Nui market. There are also well-stocked supermarkets on Rarotonga, but goods imported from New Zealand and other far-flung places can be expensive. Camping is not possible on any of the Cook Islands, but there are a couple of hostels in Rarotonga for budget travelers. 

6. Get a phone SIM on arrival for cheaper net access

Free internet access is hard to find on the Cook Islands, but Vodafone Cook Islands offers wi-fi hot spots around Rarotonga and Aitutaki that can be accessed for a reasonable cost via prepaid vouchers. Vodafone also sells a Travel eSIM package incorporating 10GB of data, 30 minutes of international calling and 300 TXTs. Vouchers and Travel SIMs are both available from Vodafone's booth at Rarotonga airport.

7. Take a credit card and carry some New Zealand dollars

New Zealand dollars are the primary currency in the Cook Islands and bills can be withdrawn from ATMs on Rarotonga and Aitutaki. Most accommodations, rental car companies and tour operators accept credit cards, but cash is essential for smaller shops and at the Punanga Nui market and Muri night markets, so carry some dollars for day-to-day use.

Change is usually given in the Cook Islands’ own coins, including the quirky triangular $2 coin. These coins can't be used as legal tender back in New Zealand, but they do make excellent souvenirs of a visit to the islands. Neither tipping nor bargaining are part of Cook Islands’ culture, and prices are fixed everywhere.

8. Sunday is a day of rest in the Cooks

In the Cook Islands, Sunday is a quiet day, most often spent with family and attending church. Many shops and businesses close for some or all of the day. If you fancy attending a Cook Islands church service, visitors are warmly welcomed. Expect to be invited to join the local congregation for refreshments at the conclusion of the service.

9. Pack casual clothes 

There's no need to pack your finest threads – the dress code in the Cook Islands is casual, and shorts, a T-shirt, and sandals or flip flops will be fine for most occasions. If you're attending church on Sunday, a collared shirt, and long trousers or a skirt are the right attire for this more formal occasion.

Lightweight hiking shoes are recommended for tackling Rarotonga's Cross-Island Track, while essentials for exploring the lagoons and beaches include reef shoes – to protect from coral cuts and the occasional stonefish – and a rash vest to keep off the tropical sun. Hats and sunglasses are also strongly recommended. Bring a long-sleeved linen shirt and trousers to guard against insect bites in the evenings.

10. Dress modestly away from the water

The Cook Islanders are a famously friendly bunch, but despite the laid-back mood, the islands are quite socially conservative, and it's not appropriate to wear beachwear away from the resort pool or lagoon. A sarong is a handy addition to a packing list to wear after swimming to avoid causing offense.

11. Learn greetings in the local language

All Cook Islanders speak excellent English, but when meeting a local, the most common greeting is kia orana – “may you live a long and fulfilling life” in Cook Islands Māori. Saying meitaki (“thank you”) is also always appreciated.

12. Slip into island time

The Cook Islands definitely operate on island time. If you're catching up with someone for coffee or a meal, it's not unknown for people to drift in a little after the time you arranged to meet. If your guests have still to arrive after 15 minutes, that's no cause for concern; just relax and enjoy Rarotonga's easygoing vibe. An exception is if you're being picked up by a tour operator, or have booked an island activity at a specific time and place; you'll be expected to be on time for these appointments.

13. Lock your car doors

In general, the Cook Islands are very safe, but opportunistic theft from rental cars parked up at beaches or other tourist spots is not unknown. Don't leave valuable items such as cameras, tablets and smartphones in the car when swimming or hiking.

14. Practice scooter safety

Renting a scooter is a popular way to get around, but it's worth checking your travel insurance to confirm you're covered for any accidents. Wearing a helmet is compulsory, vehicles drive on the left, and you'll need to complete a practical riding test – basically a series of tightish turns in a police station car park – to secure a Cook Islands’ scooter license allowing you to hire a vehicle.

Driving licenses from most countries can be used to rent a car without this extra requirement. Note that island roads are not well lit, and riding a scooter after dark is not recommended due to the antics of wandering chickens and the occasional over-excited dog.

15. Check local currents before jumping in the water

Always ask a local if the water is safe before you go swimming, as some parts of Rarotonga's lagoon have strong currents, particularly near the Rutaki, Papua and Avaavaroa passages. Rarotonga is also susceptible to tsunamis following volcanic and seismic activity elsewhere in the South Pacific – if warning sirens sound, follow everyone else and evacuate to higher ground. Evacuation routes are indicated by signs all around the island.

16. Protect yourself from dengue fever

While there is no malaria on the islands, dengue fever is also transferred by mosquitoes and it's present on Rarotonga – the last big outbreak was in 2021. There's no vaccine or prophylaxis for the virus so be sure to apply insect repellent and keep your accommodations insect-proof using door and window screens. If you are unlucky enough to catch dengue, seek medical attention, as the hemorrhagic form of the illness can be serious.

17. Look after your ears

The combination of frequent swimming and a humid tropical climate can give rise to “swimmer's ear” and other infections of the outer ear canal. Always dry your ears carefully after swimming, and pack ear drops in a compact first-aid kit.

This article was first published April 2022 and updated January 2024

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Rarotonga, Cook Islands: Ultimate Travel Guide With the Best Beaches & Things To Do

In the middle of the pacific ocean.

Rarotonga, the main island of the Cook Islands, is nothing but pure bliss .

We have been to some pretty damn beautiful islands throughout our lucky lives but so far, Rarotonga wins the trophy for best tropical getaway .

And it’s not as expensive to visit the Cook Islands as you might expect. While it’s not really a budget destination, there’s no reason to break the bank here.

Getting around is easy. People are friendly. And all of the best beaches are free to visit for the public.

And did we mention how insanely eye-popping and delicious the water surrounding this little island is?

Scroll down in our travel guide to Rarotonga in the Cook Islands to get to know the best things to do in Rarotonga, the most beautiful beaches, where to eat, where to stay, how to get around the island, our best tips and much more.

Where to stay in Rarotonga:

• Luxury: Te Manava Luxury Villas & Spa or Little Polynesian Resort .
• Value for money: Moana Sands Beachfront Hotel or Muri Beach Club Hotel .
• Budget: Raina Beach Apartments .

Search for the best value accommodation in Rarotonga here .

Table of contents

Why visit Rarotonga and the Cook Islands

Rarotonga map and geography, what to do in rarotonga, areas and beaches, where to eat in rarotonga, where to stay in rarotonga, how to get around rarotonga, how to get to rarotonga, the cook islands, when to visit rarotonga and the cook islands, internet in rarotonga and the cook islands, visiting the cook islands on a budget, safety in rarotonga and the cook islands, our best tips for visiting rarotonga, what to pack for rarotonga and the cook islands.

If you want to go somewhere exotic and get away from it all and just be , Rarotonga and the Cook Islands is where to go.

Stay in a resort the whole time you’re here and you’ll have an amazing time just enjoying life.

But venturing out into the island is where the real fun happens.

Though there are some beautiful ones, Rarotonga definitely isn’t a resort island ; there are no fast-food chains, most beaches are public and there are lots of things going on for locals as well as for tourists year-round.

Also, no building can be taller than the coconut trees by a government mandate.

We’ve heard that the Cook Islands today is Hawaii 50 years ago .

You need to visit the Polynesian paradise at least once in your lifetime and if you don’t believe us, we give the 17 best reasons you should go to the Cook Islands right here .

Pristine beauty

The beauty is mostly pristine and everyone takes care of each other and the environment.

On the one road that wraps around the whole island, the speed limit is 50 km/h (going down to 30 km/h in places) making the pace of it all very leisurely. There are no speed lights and just two roundabouts…

The local culture is vibrant, so if you’re interested in the Polynesian way of life you’ll have plenty of opportunities to get up close with it.

Rarotonga is a pretty small island where you’ll quickly feel at home and ease.

But it’s also big enough to be full of treasures and surprises that are only waiting to be discovered.

A dream come true

Isn’t it amazing how some dreams do come true?

Victoria visited Fiji as a three-year-old and has ever since dreamt intensely of coming back to the South Pacific and what is arguably the definition of tropical islands.

As New Zealand, where we had been for three months, was already quite remote, adding on a trip to the Cook Islands didn’t sound too crazy .

Flights are pretty cheap and it’s less than four hours away from Auckland (about as far away as Sydney, in other words!)

Welcome to Raro

Before we knew it, we landed in Rarotonga in the Cooks.

We were greeted with ukulele music , flower necklaces and palm trees everywhere.

On the ride to our accommodation, we could glimpse the glistening waters and we knew we were in for a treat.

The water surrounding Rarotonga is really something special.

As you’re inside a lagoon , it’s pretty still and shallow. And so saturated with colour that your eyes won’t believe what they see.

We had only just arrived in Rarotonga and the lifelong dream of revisiting paradise had already come true.

Life is full of wonder.

Rarotonga is the biggest island of the Cook Islands, which consists of 15 major islands scattered over 2,200,000 km2 (850,000 sq mi) of ocean.

It is in Rarotonga that you will find the nation’s only international airport as well as the Cook Islands’ Parliament buildings.

The interior of Rarotonga is jungle-clad and mountainous.

Rarotonga is all about relaxing and having fun in the sun .

The most popular thing to do is, of course, to find a sunchair, a hammock or a good spot in the white sand to enjoy the nice weather and breathtaking views .

For an island of its size, Rarotonga packs in an impressive amount of activities , though – for both romantic couples and families.

Read on to see the best things to do in Rarotonga.

Thanks to Cook Islands Tourism for inviting us on a snorkel trip with Snorkel Cook Islands, a Discovery Walking Tour with Tumutoa and an Eco Cycle Tour with Storytellers.

Visit Aitutaki Lagoon (45-minute flight)

If you want to experience something truly special , consider adding a trip to the Aitutaki lagoon to your Rarotonga vacation.

Aitutaki’s lagoon is one of the world’s most beautiful places and it’s just a 45-minute plane ride away with Air Rarotonga.

Day tours depart several times a day and include a tour around the main island of Aitutaki and a lagoon cruise with Vaka cruises that take you to some of the most stunning islands of the lagoon (including legendary One Foot Island ) and to snorkelling hot spots where you can get up close with giant trevallies, giant clams and other tropical fish.

We stayed on the island for two nights and can easily recommend an overnight trip to Aitutaki for an even more relaxed pace of life, pristine Pacific living and unreal tropical beauty.

Vis dette opslag på Instagram BEST DAY EVER! ⁠💙 Thank you so much @airrarotonga for flying us to Aitutaki and showing us this incredible piece of paradise on Earth 🌏🙏🏼 Swimming in crystal clear waters and sailing to palm fringed beaches have been dreamy like nothing else ✨ We can’t believe how a beautiful, unspoiled place like this can still exist. Wow! Head over to our stories to see more from our lagoon cruise 🥰 ⁠ @cookislands #cookislands #lovealittleparadise 🌺 Et opslag delt af Alex & Victoria ❤️⛰️🌴 (@northabroad) den 14. Feb, 2020 kl. 12.28 PST

Snorkelling

Want to explore life underwater in Rarotonga? You should!

Rent snorkel equipment and venture out on your own or go on a tour with the pros. They will show you the best places to experience the reef and the marine life around it.

Snorkel Cook Islands

We went on a tour with Snorkel Cook Islands and had an amazing time.

They picked us up from our accommodation, drove us to a beautiful beach, provided reef-safe sunscreen (adlink) and gave us great snorkel equipment (mask and fins).

After a brief instruction, we headed out into the clear blue water and almost immediately we met a gentle turtle swimming up to breathe at the surface. Wow!

During the tour, we saw more turtles than we could count and we even saw some gorgeous eagle rays , blue starfish , a moray eel and lots of fish.

After a lot of swimming, we were served organic fresh fruits and delicious coconuts to drink.

Safety first!

Complementary underwater photos will be uploaded to their Facebook page after the snorkel tour so you can show your family and friends what you have been up to. You can check out the Instagram account for more amazing photos.

The reef snorkel tour is an eco-tour and they only bring small groups of people out.

All the guys are qualified lifeguards so even if you aren’t that comfortable in the water you will feel very safe.

A girl from our group tried snorkelling for the first time and another girl didn’t really like being in the ocean so she was able to hold onto a flotation device the whole time. They both seemed to really enjoy the tour.

All in all, we had a great day and we can truly recommend going with Snorkel Cook Islands on a snorkelling tour.

Pro tip: Make use of the reef-safe sunscreen all over your body (especially the backside and your shoulder!) even though it’s overcast. The sun is strong in the Cooks. Or better yet, wear a t-shirt or a UV-safe shirt while swimming.

Eco Cycle Tour

If you want to venture around the back roads of Rarotonga while hearing all about the culture, history and local produce, going on a cycling tour with Storytellers is the perfect way to start the day.

The guides are very knowledgeable about pretty much every aspect of Rarotonga and the Cook Islands.

Every tour is customized to fit the needs and wants of the guests.

We visited Black Rock and heard about the local legends. We stopped a few times on the back roads to try fruits that never make it western supermarkets.

We visited a small waterfall , perfect for cooling off after riding in the sun. We walked around a plantation where we tried our hands at opening a coconut and had fresh pineapple.

All with some rather nice casual bike riding in-between.

The tour ended up by the ocean where we could jump in just before lunch was served. Being vegan was no problem at all.

Maire Nui Botanical Gardens

If you can’t get enough of the tropical plant kingdom, pay the Maire Nui Botanical Gardens in Titikaveka a visit.

The rustic garden is full of lushness and it’s a tranquil place for a stroll.

It cost 5 NZD (~ 3.2 USD / 3 EUR) per person to enter in 2020.

Discovery Walking Tour

If you want to experience the life of the locals in Rarotonga and get a behind the scenes glimpse of what’s going on around the island, go on a Discovery Walking Tour with Tumutoa aka the Coconut Warrior .

During the course of just a few hours you’ll learn everything there is to know about coconuts , the local land laws, Rarotonga culture, family traditions – all while walking around the pleasant back roads and munching on whatever fresh fruits he finds for you.

While we can’t promise the same for you, we even went home with a few passion fruits, avocados and mangos.

Tumutoa is greatly charming and entertaining with lots of storytelling and will make everyone feel welcome in the Cook Islands.

We can imagine that he’s especially good with kids that are keen on learning more about the Pacific way of life.

Punanga Nui Market

Every Saturday, the whole island of Rarotonga seems to flock to the Punanga Nui Market to partake in the big event.

For the best shopping, plan to arrive early . Stalls open at around 7 am and close down around midday.

Fresh fruit and veggies are a big drawcard as is coffee, smoothies, handmade souvenirs such as ukuleles , local artworks, handicrafts and flower crowns.

Even if you don’t buy anything, visiting the Punanga Nui Market in Avarua is a fun cultural experience .

Whale watching from land

From July to October , it’s possible to spot whales (mainly humpbacks) from land in Rarotonga.

One of the best spots for doing so is at the southern “cliffside” of Black Rock which offers a great vantage point .

The west side of Rarotonga is generally the best place to go for whale sightings.

Other places to spot whales from include The Edgewater Resort, Aroa Beach, Avarua Harbour and the Game Fishing Club.

It’s also possible to go on whale watching tours by sea.

Cross Island Trek

If you read anything about the Cook Islands and Rarotonga, it’s very possible that you’ve already heard about the Cross Island Trek with Pa .

While Pa is now retired after having done the trek 5,000 times (!), his nephew Bruce carries the torch across the island to the base of the famed Needle (a nice viewpoint) and to Wigmore’s Waterfall .

Pa himself still leads the Discovery Nature Walk where you’ll come across local fruits, rainforest and a sacred meeting place.

Lagoon Cruise

The Muri Lagoon is a lovely place to spend the day.

Doing so on a lagoon cruise means you’ll get to snorkel and/or view the colourful reef through a glass-bottom boat .

Most cruises also include lunch on one of the small coral islands outside Muri (called motus) and some cultural performances or activities such as coconut husking and ukulele playing.

Fitness and gyms

If you want to come home from Rarotonga fitter than before you left, consider joining a gym.

Alex trained at Raro Muscle while we stayed in Rarotonga. A month’s membership cost $60 NZD (~ 38 USD / 35 EUR) in 2020. It’s located on the northeastern part of the island.

There’s no A/C and it’s cheap. The equipment is just about what most people need.

It’s owned by a local bodybuilder and the atmosphere is great for getting your grind on with hip hop blasting through the speakers.

There are a couple of other options for fitness centres and gyms on Rarotonga:

• Top Shape Health & Fitness Centre is located in Avarua.
• Fitness Revolution looked nice and is just opposite the airport.
• Tumuora Crossfit is in Arorangi (on the western side) near The Edgewater Resort and Spa .

The Cook Islands SPCA

The Cook Islands SPCA is a charity focused on caring for animals in Rarotonga.

They improve animal welfare and educate locals on best practices.

Being without any kind of dedicated funding, they’re always looking for donations as well as volunteers that can help walk the sheltered dogs and more.

Other activities

Practice your mini golf skills at Aumata Mini Golf or Cocoputt, get dirty in the mud in an ATV with Raro Buggy Tours, try diving or go on a local safari tour .

You can also spend some time in one (or all) of the three museums on the island, for example you can visit the Cook Islands Library & Museum to learn more about the local history and culture.

To immerse yourself more fully into the local life in Rarotonga, consider going to church on a Sunday.

Avarua is the main town of Rarotonga located just minutes from the airport and it’s where most of the island’s shopping and business is done.

It’s not of particular interest to most tourists, but if you need any kind of services it’s worth strolling around for a bit.

The Punanga Nui Market is located in Avarua.

Most tourists tend to stay near Muri in the southeastern part of Rarotonga.

The beach is great here and there are lots of small supermarkets, restaurants, scooter rental places and water activities nearby.

The lagoon is super clear and the small islands in the background make for beautiful photos.

Black Rock Beach

Black Rock Beach is located just south of the airport on the northwestern part of Rarotonga.

It’s a long stretch of beach very popular with locals and tourists alike.

As with every beach in Rarotonga and the Cook Islands, it’s stunningly beautiful. The water is warm and very clear.

The beach has gotten its name from the black rocks located in the southern part.

They form a small lagoon which is a great snorkelling spot. According to local lore , human spirits depart our world at the big rock in the water.

On the south-western part of Rarotonga, in front of the Rarotongan Beach Resort, you can find Aroa Beach.

It’s a marine reserve , so if you like snorkelling it’s a great place to see an abundance of fish. Be careful of stepping on any coral. It takes a long time for coral to regrow and we really need coral in the ocean.

The beach itself is great and not as windy as Muri Beach.

Titikaveka Beach

We stayed close to Titikaveka Beach and enjoyed it every time we had the chance.

It’s shallow and safe to swim at although there are some rocks and sea cucumbers at the bottom.

We actually didn’t snorkel at our own beach but it is supposedly one of the best snorkelling spots with lots of colourful fish.

Rarotonga has plenty of nice cafés and restaurants to keep you busy.

There is also a wide selection of supermarkets and markets if you wish to cater for yourself.

We mostly cooked for ourselves while staying in Rarotonga for about a month. Having your own kitchen helps keep costs down if you’re travelling on a budget and eating a special diet (we’re both vegans) is a lot easier this way.

Wigmore’s Superstore is a must-visit if you’re cooking healthy foods for yourself. Their organic assortment is great and there are lots of fresh veggies all week long.

Visiting the Punanga Nui Market is also a must.

Our three favourite places to eat out in Rarotonga:

• Kai & Co : The smoothie bowls at Kai & Co are super delicious. They also make a vegan burger and offer nice drinks and refreshments. Avarua
• Aqua Cafe : We had Sizzling Fajitas and a Falafel Burger poolside at Aqua Cafe. Muri
• Nautilus Restaurant : Call ahead for a special vegan dinner at Nautilus Restaurant overlooking the lagoon. Muri

Here’s a map showing all of the vegan-friendly cafés, restaurants, markets and supermarkets in Rarotonga mentioned in the article.

Click the icon in the top left corner of the map to navigate using a list.

As there is just 32 kilometres of road running around the island of Rarotonga, there really is no such thing as a bad location.

You’ll always be close to beautiful beaches , restaurants and lots of activities.

Muri on the southeastern part of the island is a popular choice for tourists. Walking around the small township is easy and the beach is lovely.

The whole southcoast has nice beaches.

The western coast is also great for swimming and snorkelling as it’s often a bit more sheltered than the south.

You’ll find several nice resorts here as well and you get to watch the sunset every night.

Search for the best value accommodation in Rarotonga here (adlink) .

Staying in your own villa

For the ultimate luxury in Rarotonga, you’ll want to stay in your own private 5-star villa .

The following options aren’t exactly cheap, but if you want the best of the best, this is it.

Shop for yourself at the markets, get your groceries delivered or hire a private chef – the choice is yours.

Most of these villas also come with a private pool . Enough said.

• Te Manava Luxury Villas & Spa .
• Sea Change Villas .
• Te Vakaroa Villas .
• Crystal Blue Lagoon Villas .
• Rumours Luxury Villas & Spa .
• Heliconia Hideaway .

Little Polynesian Resort

Little Polynesian Resort offers Garden Studios with kitchenettes as well as Beachfront Bungalows for extra bliss .

The pool with beach views is impressive and the restaurant is known to cater well to special diets including veganism.

It’s a boutique resort and Little Polynesian Resort prides themself on providing excellent personalised service to their guests.

Check prices and availability at Little Polynesian Resort (adlink) .

Pacific Resort Rarotonga

We stayed at Pacific Resort in Aitutaki and we can’t imagine that the sister resort in Rarotonga isn’t just as outstanding.

It’s located in the heart of Muri and offers 64 rooms surrounded by tropical gardens .

There’s a pool and the beach is located just outside the property where you can snorkel in the lagoon.

Check prices and availability at Pacific Resort Rarotonga (adlink) .

Value for money

The edgewater resort and spa.

The Edgewater is one of the closest resorts to the airport , so it’s a good choice if you just want to jump out of the plane and as quickly as possible into the warm waters of Rarotonga.

There are lots of different accommodation options ranging from studio apartments and double rooms with garden views to deluxe suites and beachfront villas.

Check prices and availability at The Edgewater Resort and Spa (adlink) .

Moana Sands Beachfront Hotel

All of the rooms at Moana Sands Beachfront Hotel are located beachfront and have sea views. They also have air conditioning.

The beachfront studios all come with small kitchenettes so you can do some light catering for yourself.

Check prices and availability at Moana Sands Beachfront Hotel (adlink) .

Muri Beach Club Hotel

Muri Beach Club Hotel is located beachfront in Muri Lagoon where you have extraordinary views across the clear waters to the small islets (motus).

Each of the 30 rooms have air conditioning and you can choose between having a garden view, pool view or beachfront accommodation.

Check prices and availability at Muri Beach Club Hotel (adlink) .

Nautilus Resort

We dined at Nautilus Resort and if the accommodation options are as great as their food, staying here is a fine choice .

It’s located near Muri and it’s possible to snorkel directly from the resort’s doorsteps .

Check prices and availability at Nautilus Resort (adlink) .

Raina Beach Apartments

For our month-long stay in Rarotonga, we stayed at Raina Beach Apartments in an Apartment with Sea View.

Having our own fully-equipped kitchen was perfect for us and made it much easier to eat a healthy vegan diet on a budget while visiting the Cook Islands.

The decor isn’t updated to the newest design standards, but if you can live with that, Raina’s might be the best budget choice if you want to stay in the south of Rarotonga just steps from a lovely beach .

Check prices and availability at Raina Beach Apartments (adlink) .

JO’s Farmstay

JO’s Farmstay offers 3 family-friendly cottages in Matavera, 2.5 kilometres from Muri Beach.

Free bikes are offered and the garden is home to goats and chickens which children will surely love. The ocean is 300 metres away.

Check prices and availability at JO’s Farmstay (adlink) .

Tropical Sands

At Tropical Sands it’s possible to stay in your own villa with either a garden view or sea view. If you want to cook for yourself while staying in Rarotonga and be close to Muri Beach, Tropical Sands looks like a nice place.

Check prices and availability at Tropical Sands (adlink) .

With the road all around Rarotonga being just about 32 kilometres in length (~ 20 miles), getting around the island isn’t exactly a time-consuming affair.

The main road (called Ara Tapu) is in good condition and the general speed limit is 50 km/h except for areas of the tourist town of Muri and the main town of Avarua where the speed limit is 30 km/h.

While there are only sidewalks in Avarua, there is generally both very little traffic and a big enough shoulder on the main road to walk comfortably.

The back road (Ara Metua) is much quieter but doesn’t go all the way around the island.

Heat might make longer outings during the day a bit sticky, at least during summer.

There are street lamps here and there, but we wouldn’t recommend walking by the side of the road after dark outside Avarua and Muri.

Public transport

There are two buses in Rarotonga: One going around the main road clockwise , the other one going around it anti-clockwise .

Taking the bus is a relatively cheap way to get around and offers a unique glimpse in the day-to-day life of Rarotonga.

Be aware that to get off the bus, you have to walk to the front and tap the driver on the shoulder.

A single ride is 5 NZD (~ 3.2 USD / 3 EUR). A return ticket is 8 NZD (~ 5 USD / 4.7 EUR)*. There are also day passes available.

* Prices are from 2020 .

Private transport

As we arrived very late at night , we had made prior arrangements to get picked up at the airport .

The price for the service was 20 NZD per person (~ 13 USD / 12 EUR), so 40 NZD for the two of us (~ 26 USD / 24 EUR)*.

We booked the taxi through our accomodation and the service was completely easy and hassle-free.

The lovely taxi driver even stopped on the way in one of the 24/7 supermarkets so we could do some shopping for the following day’s breakfast. We paid in cash on arrival.

Renting a scooter

We rented a scooter for our stay in Rarotonga.

It’s easily recommendable if you plan to stay for longer or simply want to zip around the island in no time on your own schedule.

Prices generally start at 20 NZD (~ 13 USD / 12 EUR) for a single day and go down to about 15 NZD (~ 9.6 USD / 9 EUR) per day for longer hires*.

You might be asked to pay 2 NZD (~ 1.3 USD / 1.2 EUR) per helmet*. This should be negotiable if you’re renting a scooter for more than a day or two.

We rented our scooter from Island Car and Bike Hire in Muri and got picked up from our accommodation free of charge to get to the scooter.

When we had a small problem with the front-wheel, we got a new scooter without any hassle.

Getting a license

To drive a scooter in the Cook Islands, you need a scooter/motorbike license .

If you only have a license to drive a car from your home country, you need to go to the police station in Avarua and take a small test to get your Cook Island’s license.

Renting a car

It’s also possible to rent a car while visiting Rarotonga.

While more expensive than renting a scooter, it might be a more attractive option as you’ll be sheltered from both rain and sun.

There are plenty of rental outfits all-around Rarotonga and your accommodation will be happy to help you out as well.

Remember to drive on the left-hand side of the road .

Renting a bicycle

We saw several different bicycle rental places in Rarotonga renting out mountain bikes, e-bikes and regular bicycles.

If you don’t have a driver’s license from your home country or a visit to the police station in Avarua doesn’t sound like a fun idea, renting a bicycle might just be your best option for getting around Rarotonga in a cheap, flexible and sustainable way.

The only international airport in the Cook Islands is located in Rarotonga.

Air New Zealand, Jetstar Airways and Virgin Australia operate flights from Auckland to Rarotonga several times a day.

With Air New Zealand it’s also possible to travel directly from Sydney or Los Angeles once per week.

Air Tahiti flies from Papeete in French Polynesia .

Carbon offsetting

A flight to Rarotonga in the Cook Islands will inevitably emit a lot of CO2.

If you want to be awesome, consider offsetting your flight’s carbon footprint.

We have written an article about the subject here that gives a good overview of your different options:

Rarotonga and the Cook Islands have a truly tropical climate and can be visited year-round for sun and warm waters.

The temperatures generally go down to about 22°C (71.6°F) when it’s “cold” and all the way up to 30°C (86°F).

The yearly average is between 25°C and 28°C (77°F and 82.4°F).

Rainy season and dry season

In the summer months aka the rainy season (December to April) it’s hotter, rains more and becomes more humid.

It also brings fewer tourists and many fruits are in season.

The dry season approximately lasts from June to October.

It can rain all year but mostly, the showers are short and warm.

Timing your visit

The most popular time of year to visit Rarotonga is in July and August when it’s wintertime in New Zealand and Australia.

If you can, try to avoid the school holidays as prices on accommodation go up.

Rarotonga never really gets crowded or busy, though. Only the few times a year a cruise ship comes by for the day.

Our experience in January and February

We visited Rarotonga and the Cook Islands at the end of January/beginning of February 2020.

That meant that we arrived during the height of the rainy season that usually falls from December to March.

While it was pretty hot, humid and rained almost daily, the temperature never exceeded what is comfortable.

The humidity made working out a sweaty affair , but the short rains always cleaned up the air and cooled everything down .

Extra green

And while Rarotonga is probably pretty green year-round, every plant looked vibrant and happy as ever.

Lots of fresh produce was in season including deliciousness like mangos, avocados, pineapples and passion fruit.

Although there were a few grey days, most rains lasted for less than an hour, some even just minutes, and there was plenty of sunshine in-between to enjoy time at the beach.

To our knowledge, there’s no free wifi in Rarotonga or in any other of the Cook Islands.

While the internet in Rarotonga is fast enough, it’s rather expensive.

A preloaded Travel SIM from Vodafone can be a good deal. For 49 NZD (~ 31 USD / 29 EUR), you get 3GB of data, 30 minutes of talk and 300 texts.

At the time of writing, 4G is available in Rarotonga and Aitutaki. 3G is available in Atiu, Mitiaro and Mauke. All the other outer islands have 2G.

Wifi hotspots are set up around the island and data for those can be purchased in several places. They’re easy to use – you just connect to a hotspot and login with your bought credentials.

There are different options topping out at 6GB for 50 NZD (~ 32 USD / 30 EUR) (30 days expiry).

Fiber is coming to Rarotonga and the Cook Islands, but we don’t know exactly when.

Visiting Rarotonga doesn’t have to be as expensive to visit as you might think.

While prices are a far cry from true budget destinations, it’s possible to live comfortably and rather cheaply if you stay in a self-catered apartment and cook for yourself.

Restaurant meals and tours are most likely what makes some people’s Rarotonga vacation expensive.

If you’re eating out every day and doing plenty of tours you’ll end up spending quite a bit. Go for it if that’s what’s a vacation to you, we don’t blame you!

For staying a month in a big apartment close to the beach with our kitchen , we paid about $2,000 NZD (~ 1,280 USD / 1,180 EUR).

Shorter stays are usually more expensive per night.

People are really friendly in Rarotonga and the Cook Islands and we felt perfectly safe during our month-long stay.

While you should still have common sense regarding valuables, we really didn’t worry at all about crime or general safety.

The only nuisance is barking dogs and a few roosters here and there. Sunburn is most likely the biggest danger of visiting the Cook Islands.

There’s a small prison in Rarotonga with about 30 “inmates” at the time of writing.

Most of them are in there for petty-theft or marihuana-related incidents – which is punished quite heavily for even carrying small amounts.

Dangerous animals

Mosquitoes can be annoying. Avoid mosquito bites as well as you can be using repellant and cover yourself when and where they’re most active.

Always check the current situation before travelling to be safe. Check out the Cook Islands Traveler View on the CDC website (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention).

There are no dangerous spiders or snakes in Rarotonga.

We were told that the most dangerous animal is Stonefish who hide further out in the lagoon. Some centipedes apparently also bite.

• The currency in the Cook Islands is the New Zealand Dollar.
• There are plenty of ATMs around Rarotonga. Many shops, restaurants and hotels accept credit cards.
• If you don’t have it available in your accommodation, you can get free, clean drinking water at several water stations placed strategically around the island.
• A hospital is located near Avarua. For more serious illnesses and operations, patients are usually flown to Auckland in New Zealand.
• Travel in the off season for cheaper rates on flights and accommodation.
• Book your accommodation well in advance if you’re travelling in the high season months of December, January, July and August. While there are likely always beds available, the best hotels get booked out months ahead.
• The electrical outlets in Rarotonga and the Cook Islands are the type I plugs. Voltage is 240 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. We had no problems using our electrical appliances with a simple adapter.
• Beachwear stays on the beach . Cook Islanders are pretty traditional and wearing beachwear away from the beach is not well looked upon.
• Rarotonga is very family-friendly. It’s safe, there are lots of great things to do and Cook Islanders love children.

• A good camera – here’s a guide to the gear we use .
• Travel insurance (adlink) . Never travel without it!
• Pack light ! The weather is sunny and warm year-round. Get our best packing tips for travelling lighter in this guide .
• Swimwear . You will want to use it daily.
• Bring a rain jacket if you travel in the rainy season.
• A sarong or a quick-dry towel (adlinks) for drying and chilling on the beach (or for covering up when not on the beach).
• Sun protection ; a hat, sunglasses, light covering clothes and an organic, reef-safe sunscreen (adlink) .
• Mosquito repellent .
• Hiking shoes or sneakers if you want to hike or do other outdoor activities.
• Reef shoes and snorkel gear if you plan to spend much time in the water. You can also easily rent equipment on the island.

Kia Orana is the greeting of choice in the Cook Islands and literally translated it means something like “May you live a long and happy life”.

Visiting the Cook Islands might just be what you need to recharge your vitality and we hope that this guide to Rarotonga has been useful.

What do you think about Rarotonga and the Cooks?

If you’ve been here, it would be awesome to hear your best tips in the comments. If you haven’t been yet, please don’t hesitate to ask us anything. We’re glad to help.

Pin for later:

Our favourite travel resources:

• Booking.com for cheap hotels.
• Momondo for the best flight deals.
• SafetyWing for travel insurance. We also like World Nomads and True Traveller . All three compared here .

Our camera gear:

• Panasonic GH5 . Used for all of our photos and videos.
• DJI Mavic 2 Pro . Best drone out there!
• Sirui Tripod . Lightweight and strong.
• See all of our camera gear here .
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• Our Year in Travel 2020 - Which countries we have visited and what we have been up to in 2020
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Rarotonga, Cook Islands Travel Guide- Everything you need to know in 2022

Kia Orana 🙂 Dreaming of floating on the absolutely blue and clearest lagoon, relaxing on beaches with a coconut in hand? Rarotonga is the place to be! Rarotonga is one of the best islands to visit , especially for solo travelers. Experience the famous “Island time”, unwind and forget everything else in the world, any stresses, or worries!

“Good vibes happen on the tides”

Rarotonga has been on my travel list since pre-pandemic, it was supposed to be a graduation trip with my friends. But of course, the pandemic happened, and New Zealand shut down 🙁 So after three years of waiting, I finally went to Rarotonga!!

Rarotonga, Cook islands is one of the best tropical islands in the world to visit. It is not overly crowded by tourists, and definitely not polluted as well.

Without further ado, I’ll jump straight into the Rarotonga travel guide! Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returnee, you would find this helpful!!

Save it for later 🙂

Useful Tips about traveling to Rarotonga, Cook Islands

Page Contents

There are 15 islands scattered throughout the south pacific ocean that make up the Cook Islands. And Rarotonga is the beating heart of this amazing country, and also the most visited island out of the 15. This Rarotonga travel guide will help plan your dream trip 🙂

Tap water at your accommodation is usually alright to drink in Rarotonga, they usually will have a sign that says the water is filtered or not. If you’re not sure, always ask them! Bring your own water bottles, there are free water filling stations around the island (Spotted a few around the town of Avarua).

Cook Island locals are amazingly friendly, I heard a lot about their friendliness. But once I get here, I understand why everyone loves this place. Kia Orana is a greeting for them, it means “May you live long”. Everywhere you go you can hear people saying Kia Orana to you, so reply and blend in with the locals. 

We were walking at night back to our accommodation, and this friendly Cook Islander stopped and asked where we were heading to and gave us a lift! We weren’t even hitchhiking; we were just walking casually. This really showed how friendly and caring they are!

Is there a best time to visit Rarotonga, Cook Island

You will love this tropical island regardless of the time of year. It’s got warm and tropical weather all year round. There are months that are dryer than the others, so if you have the flexibility to choose when you visit then choose the dryer months. Otherwise, I wouldn’t worry too much about it!

Little rain, even a storm won’t stop your love for this amazing tropical island. I experienced some storms the first few days of my visit, and I still went out snorkeling and strolling around the beach. And I kid you not, the lagoon still looks blue and very clear after a storm, which really amazed me!

Warmer, wetter months: December to March is considered the wet season, as it rains more often than the other months. It is also the hottest month of the year as it can get quite humid from all the rainfalls. If you’re not comfortable with heat or humidity, try to avoid those months!

Warm and more sunshine : April to November is said to be the best month to visit Rarotonga, Cook Island as it is warm with lots of sunshine. 🙂 It is also the peak month for tourists, as it is wintertime in both NZ and Aus, so more people travel to Rarotonga to avoid the cold!

Don’t be discouraged if the day starts with rain or storm, it usually doesn’t keep up and clears up by afternoon/evening. And you will get wet in the lagoon anyway, so I’m sure you wouldn’t mind getting wet in the rain as well haha!

How to get around- Rarotonga Travel guide

It is a small island, and the road circling the whole island is only 32 km long. It takes only around 30 minutes to drive around the whole island non-stop! Very easy to get around, and it literally only took me a few hours to figure out the whole island. (And I’m usually very bad at directions, geography, etc… lol)

Driving a car in Rarotonga

An international full licence is required to rent a car, it needs to be in English, or has an English translation. When I went, there was a minimum of 3-day rent for cars. And some companies don’t rent to drivers under 21.

It is the most hassle-free way to travel around the island, but also the most pricey way. The highest speed limit around the island is 50, there’s no need to rush cuz you’re on Island time 🙂 Same as New Zealand , Rarotonga is one of the countries that drive on the left side of the road!

There are quite a few rental car companies around the Island, pre-book before your visit. If you wait until you arrive, chances are you will be disappointed as no car would be available; especially during the peak months.  

I hoped to rent a convertible, as I have always wanted to drive a convertible with the breeze and sun on an island haha. But sadly it was fully booked, so if you have the same dream as me, book as early as possible 🙂

Island car rental is where I rented, they have three offices around Rarotonga. And offer a free pick-up and drop-off service.

Rent a scooter in Rarotonga

Unless you have a motorbike class license overseas. You would need to take a theory and practical test to get a visitor license to legally ride a scooter in Raro. Helmets are mandatory for visitors!

Riding a scooter is probably the best way to get around the island, cost, and convenience-wise. Easy to find parking and cheap daily rates! And it’s also very safe, as the speed limit is 50 max 🙂

Bus in Rarotonga

Two buses circle the island, Clockwise and Anticlockwise buses. Fares are reasonably priced.

Taking the bus in Rarotonga is fairly easy, at first it would be a bit confusing as to which bus to take (Clockwise or Anticlockwise). But after a day or two, you should figure everything out! The best part is that even though there are actual bus stops around the island, you can easily wave down the bus anywhere on the road and they will stop for you.

Here you can find the timetable for the bus in Rarotonga , or download the “TransportMe” app on your phone for live tracking of the buses 🙂

Walking in Raratonga

Rarotonga is really suitable for walking, the whole island is mostly flat. And cars drive at a max of 50, so it is reasonably safe to walk on the main road! I did a lot of walking around on the island, you’d be accompanied by dogs, and chickens most of the time haha 🙂

Flights from Rarotonga

If you are planning to visit other islands, flights are your only option. The fares are not cheap, sometimes it’s even more expensive than flying from other countries to Rarotonga. Lol. But it is highly recommended for you to at least visit another island. The trip to the island of Aitutaki is worth every penny 🙂

Air Rarotonga is the domestic airline for Cook Island, and it’s the only airline that flies between islands 🙂 View from the Rarotonga-Aitutaki flight is out of the world!

Hitchhike in Rarotonga

I didn’t do this while in Rarotonga, as I didn’t see the need to. But my partner and I got offered a ride back to our Airbnb while walking on the road at night. A local mom with her kids stopped the car and asked if we needed a ride. 

If you can get a ride without standing on the road and hitchhike, I assume when you do hitchhike it would not be too hard as well?

Where to stay – Rarotonga Travel guide

The island itself isn’t big, so wherever you stay you would be able to get around quite easily and fast. But choosing the right side of the island to stay, it makes your life even easier 🙂

The popular types of accommodation in Rarotonga are resorts, villas, or Airbnbs. There are backpackers as well, but not as popular of a choice I think!

West side of Rarotonga

This is where you can get the best sunset on the island. There are quite a few resorts along this side of the island, and a famous viewpoint “Black Rock” is here as well. I personally didn’t stay at this part of the island, but I went to the resort, and restaurants to see the amazing sunset 🙂

Edgewater Resorts

It is a popular resort for families and couples! Close to the town center, also close to one of the best places for snorkeling Aroa Marine Reserve. And the famous Black Rock is only a 20 minutes walk from this resort!

Their outdoor restaurant honestly has the best sunset view, make sure to pay a visit here even if you’re not staying here 🙂

Castaway Resort

An adults-only resort, so perfect if you’re looking for tranquility and some downtime away from big groups of families! They have a good rating, especially amongst couples 🙂

There are also quite a few Airbnbs, villas, etc. along this side of the island!

Near Aroa Beach on Rarotonga

I really recommend spending some nights here on the island, especially if you love snorkeling. It is my favorite place for snorkeling on this island!

The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium

The famous choice for families, and people looking for convenience. Access directly to the best snorkeling spot! The rooms are quite dated according to some travelers that I met on the trip, but the location is unbeatable 🙂

Activities for guests, kids club, and watersport hire like kayak, Stand Up paddle boards (SUP), snorkeling gear, etc. 

Sanctuary Rarotonga on the Beach

Sister property of The Rarotongan. It is an Adult-only resort, I stayed here for three nights. Mainly for the location, the room I stay in can use a bit of refurbishment,, the view was amazing though as it is beachfront, and the location! 

You can use all the facilities The Rarotongan has, and it also has its own swim-up bar, restaurant, and a little semi-private beach.

Aora Kainga Bungalows

I LOVE this place! My favorite accommodation that I stayed in out of all three during my trip! Their rating also reflects how good this place is 🙂 I stayed three nights here, the room, the owners, everything was just so good!

A plate of fruits on the table when you arrive, simple breakfast in the fridge for you. The owner, Nev, let us check in super early, the check-in and check-out process was so simple and smooth. They have DVDs, snorkeling gear, and board games for your use. 

The location is not as convenient as the beachside resorts, it takes around a 10-minute walk. And the internet is a bit tricky to connect to, but it shouldn’t be a worry as you’re on an island just enjoy and connect with the place! The price is very friendly and reasonable compared to resorts 🙂

Near Muri Beach on Rarotonga

This is the beach where many water activities and tours are based. The famous “glass-bottom lagoon tours” and Night paddle boarding both take off from this beach. You can easily rent kayaks, Stand Up paddle boards (SUPs), and snorkeling gear at Captain Tama on Muri Beach. There are also many resorts, Airbnb, etc… Some must-eat places in Rarotonga are here as well 🙂

Muri Retreat

This is an apartment-style accommodation, you get your own little kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom. There is a shared pool, BBQ area, and free laundry facilities.

It’s a bit of a walk from the main road and the beach takes around 15 minutes to walk. Making it very quiet at night, the only noise is the chickens in the morning haha. (They’re usually everywhere, so no avoiding this really)

Nautilus Resort

It is Right on the beach, with the pool facing the beach as well. The rooms are quite spacious and modern designed. It is quite luxury-styled accommodation, so it is very pricey 🙁 

If you have the budget, stay here for a few nights. If not, don’t worry just eat at the restaurant like me haha, the only thing I can afford at this hotel. The dishes come out very fast, and at reasonable prices with big portions!

Try to book as early as possible, a lot of accommodations sold out quite early. Especially during the peak seasons in April- November! Stay in different areas, and try out different places. So you’ll know where to book the next time you visit, cause you will definitely want to come back here the second time!

What to eat- Rarotonga Travel Guide

We went for 10 days, and I didn’t really buy groceries and cook much during this period. I brought some instant noodles, and snacks from New Zealand; and that’s all the cooking I’ve done haha. 

There are many places to eat that are affordable, and the portion is big so you can always take-away for a second meal! Restaurants, markets, night markets, food trucks, etc. They really have a variety of options for a small island.

Read more: Where to eat on Rarotonga, Cook Islands

If you would like to buy some groceries and cook for yourself, CITC in Avarua will be the best place to do the shopping, otherwise, the local shops can be a bit pricey, and not have much variety!

Must try food in Rarotonga, Cook Islands

Island Fries: I really love starchy food, so this is perfect for me. They have taro, tapioca roots, and kumara fries. So forget about your regular fries, and upgrade to island fries!

Coconut (Nui): Fresh coconut drink, coconut cream. They are famous for this.

Star Fruit: A fruit that looks like a star, hence the name. You won’t find this often in NZ, or Australia. You’d have to try this, usually, they would be on the complimentary fruit platter where you stay if they provide a fruit platter! 

Poke: Banana or pumpkin poke are traditional Cook Islands staple food. Mixed with milk, arrowroots, and coconut cream. 

Papaya (Pawpaw): Pawpaw salad is a must-try, also an unavoidable food on Rarotonga, every tour that I’ve been on had pawpaw salad!

Umu: Also known as “Hangi” in New Zealand. The traditional style of cooking in the Cook Islands, make sure to book an Island night tour to experience this 🙂

Ika Mata: Raw tuna mixed with vegetables, and coconut cream. It is a unique dish that you must give it a try at least once!

There are so many more unique, different types of food to try. Ask a local, and ask your accommodation providers for suggestions. I believe food is a big part of a country’s culture, so definitely try out as many different things as possible 🙂

Things to do – Rarotonga Travel guide

Snorkeling in rarotonga.

This is definitely one of the top things to do in Rarotonga and the one thing I did almost every day when I was there. Cheapest, easiest with lots of fun! I’m not a strong swimmer, but I still managed to explore the beauty of this amazing lagoon!

No need to swim far at all to see amazing underwater creatures, and you can easily rent snorkel gear near the best spots for snorkeling on Rarotonga !

Island Night in Rarotonga

A night filled with cultural knowledge, fun and food. Start with learning some knowledge about Cook Islands history, to eating an umu buffet while enjoying some performance!

Getting some sun on the beach

Enjoy the island time, lie on the beach with a book, or cocktail in hand. Soak in the sun, and lagoon breeze, and just simply relax!

There’s no need to rush or have a plan. What other times in life can you completely relax and not think about anything?

Get to know some locals

I believe the best way to know the country, and its culture is by talking to the locals. Getting to know a bit of how they live, what they do. 

Join the progressive dinner tour if you’re too shy to just randomly talk to the locals. This tour will take you into 3 different local houses for some dinner, and a chance to learn about the local way of life!

Drive/Stroll around Rarotonga purposeless

Spend a day just driving or walking around the island without a real destination. It’s a small island, and it takes around 30-40 minutes to drive non-stop. 

Take your time driving, and enjoy the scenic route 🙂

Read More: 15 Best things to do in Rarotonga in 2022

Yes, there are some hiking trails on Rarotonga, Cook Islands if you want to get away from the water for a few hours. With the most famous one is “Te Rua Manga”, also known as The Needle Hike . 

This is a cross-island track, which will take you a good few hours to complete. Good hiking shoes are needed to do this hike 🙂

Final Tips of Rarotonga Travel guide

Rarotonga, Cook Islands has always been a popular tourist destination for Kiwis and Aussies, and now that the border has opened back up again. Everyone is rushing their way to this little paradise! So plan ahead, book the tours you want to join ahead of time, and the restaurants you want to dine in. 

If you’re staying for a few weeks, it’s fine to wait till you get there and decide what to do. But if you’re only there for a week or so, you might not get the chance to experience everything if you don’t book ahead! But you can always come back for the second, third or more times, I know I’ll definitely be back here 🙂

Also, NEVER walk, park, sleep, or do anything under a coconut tree, getting hit by a coconut is no joke, you can be seriously injured or lose your life. 

Rarotonga locals are all very energetic and full of life, the famous Island time makes them sound lazy. But you can see they are trying their best to provide for their families and live their life to the fullest. I think this is one of the reasons I fell in love with this place only after a few days here!

Mei Taki is thank you in Cook Island Maori, say that to the stores, restaurants, or bars. Just blend in and enjoy the island time

Hope this Rarotonga Travel guide is helpful for you, and let me know below the comment what you think!!

Read More: Ultimate packing list for Rarotonga

If you like it, save it to read again later 🙂

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I am Angel, a travel enthusiast from Taiwan and currently located in New Zealand. Follow my journey to get inspiration and guides to travel the world :)

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26 Things to Do in Rarotonga: White Sand Beaches, Culture, or Adventure

Tropical Rarotonga is white sandy beaches and water so crystal clear you have to wonder if it is there until a gentle wave brushes up against your toes. New Zealanders treasure it as a holiday paradise with non-stop flights. If you don’t know it yet, you may be about to discover a new South Pacific utopia and all of the unique things to do in Rarotonga.

One of the Cook Islands, there is no question that Rarotonga’s top industry is tourism. Many visitors choose it for relaxing at the beach, snorkelling in pristine lagoons, and slowing down to island time. Others hike through the lush jungle.

However you spend your time here, you will quickly find more things to do in Rarotonga than you imagined.

Things to do in Rarotonga

Explore rarotonga with us, take a bicycle tour onto the back roads, cross-island hike to te rua manga (the needle), enjoy a nature walk with pa, maire nui gardens, see papuavai rere waterfall, snorkel at titikaveka beach, muri beach lagoon, whale watching, other watersports, check out the sunken ship, punanga nui outdoor market, learn a bit about the culture, visit the cook island christian church, visit a museum, explore para o tane palace, take the public bus around the island, stare in wonder at the dilapidated sheraton resort, enjoy sunrise or sunset, take a day trip (or spend a week) on aitutaki, muri night market, our favourite cafés on rarotonga, our favourite restaurants on rarotonga, what will top your list of things to do in rarotonga.

The largest of the Cook Islands, Rarotonga isn’t that big. In fact, the Ring Road that circumnavigates the island is only 32 km (20 miles) long. This pristine island is located in the Southern Ocean about halfway between New Zealand and Hawaii.

Things to do in Rarotonga: adventure

We like to learn about daily life, have a few adventures, relax, and discover new culinary delights when we travel. Rarotonga is no exception.

A cycling tour is one of the most enjoyable ways to enjoy the island. Above all, our three-hour tour with Storytellers Eco-Cycle took us off of the beaten path and on a fascinating adventure. It included frequent stops to learn, discover, sample, or try. More specifically, we visited a vanilla plantation, fed pigs, meet locals picking taro in a swamp, sampled crops from local farms, and observed a marae.

First, even before we set out, the group was asked what we would like to see. A member of our group knew to ask for a marae, and it was a highlight that I would recommend you ask for too.

Prior to the tour, we hadn’t been on bicycles in years. As a result, we opted for the Discover Tour, the shortest and easiest of the Eco-Cycle adventures offered by Storytellers. 

Our Avanti bicycles were good quality, helmets were provided, and there was even a place for our water bottles. Finally, we ended with a local lunch. Check options and reserve your Storytellers Eco Cycle Tour here

Popular amongst energetic visitors, we opted to skip this hike as I just didn’t have the energy for a strenuous, four-hour hike up and over the lush green centre of the island. The trail starts on the north coast and climbs to Te Rua Manga (The Needle), a steep, bald rock that projects straight up into the air. 

It’s been described as fabulous by those in great shape and as challenging by others. On portions of the climb, tree roots are climbed like ladders. Stunning views greet those who climb to the top before they head down the other side to Wigmore’s waterfall. Guides are recommended, although we met a small group of people who did it together without incident.

Things to do in Rarotonga: nature discovery

(Not currently available as Pa retired)

Pa is a healer known worldwide. He is knowledgeable, genuine, and engaging. He leads a daily nature walk; although, to be honest, our tour was more of natural medicine talk than a walk. Pa shares from the heart and customizes each nature walk to its participants.

A vanilla bean plantation was our first stop, but most of the experience took place on Pa’s property, where he grows everything he needs. Before our tour ended, we were treated to a lovely homemade lunch followed by coffee. Rather than milk, Pa gathered, husked, and squeezed fresh coconut cream directly into my coffee. Overall, the tour was a low-energy activity that we both found captivating.

The seven-acre organic Mairie Nui Gardens offered fragrant, tropical surprises around every corner. From wild ginger to lily-topped ponds, the vivid flowers and interesting tropical plant life held our interest.

Entry is by donation into an honesty box. There is also a cafe inside the gardens that serves light meals and coffee.

We opted to drive here rather than hike.

What to do in Rarotonga: beaches and watersports

Rarotonga is surrounded by a reef. As a result, there are protected beaches, calm and warm water, and an abundance of marine life.

Titikaveka is often referred to as the best beach in Rarotonga for snorkelling. That is to say, it’s like snorkelling in a crystal clear aquarium, surrounded by vivid, colourful tropical fish. If you are taking the bus, driving, or walking along the road, Fruits of Rarotonga is the landmark to look for to find one of the best snorkelling spots. ( See more of our underwater images here .)

A safe and protected (by four offshore islets) swimming area and another great spot for snorkelling, Muri Beach (including Muri Lagoon) is one of the more popular resort destinations. Loaded with hotels, resorts and restaurants, everything you need is in walking distance. Unfortunately, the wind was strong and coming from the wrong direction, so we never had a chance to snorkel here.

From July to October, whales and calves can be seen breaching in the sea off of the north and west coasts of the island. Twice, we arrived within 20 minutes of other people spotting whales, but luck wasn’t with us this trip.

If you prefer things a bit more organized, check out one of these options.

Just offshore from Avarua, the capital city of the Cook Islands, sits the rusted wreck of the Matai, which has been there since it sank in 1916. It’s a popular spot for snorkelling or canoes depending on ocean conditions.

Things to do in Rarotonga: cultural discovery and daily life

The Punanga Nui market is the place to go on a Saturday morning. Buzzing with energy, tropical fruits, crafts, and other delicacies, it’s a market best visited with an early start.

Locals come for the fresh produce, while tourists enjoy tropical fruit smoothies (mine was mango-based), crafts, and other Polynesian delicacies like fresh bread, coffee, pork rolls, or sugar-free coconut candy. Plus, there is local entertainment, so it’s well worth grabbing a seat.

For me, the highlight of the market was meeting Fiona, who hand-paints meaningful Pareu (sarongs). Her design below is based around the sun (life) and the flowers (happiness of the Rarotongan people). Radiating outwards, the images represent the journey as people travel around the world, followed by a pattern reminding locals that they always bring a part of themselves when they travel. Yes, I did purchase it.

We believe that the best way to learn about a culture is from a local. We really appreciated the storyteller that was with us on the bicycle tour, as well as Pa’s nature walk.

If you enjoy cultural shows , there are different options depending on which night of the week you want to go.

Also, there is a progressive dinner option on Sunday or Thursday nights that features a three-course meal with each course in a different local home. It is one of the more popular Rarotonga activities, made even more fun with local hospitality and live music.

A charming church dating from 1853 and made from coral, it is open to the public. If you walk around the exterior, you can find areas where the plaster has chipped away, revealing the coral underneath.  Be sure to explore the graveyard to find the tomb of the Cook Island’s first Prime Minister. If you can, partake in a Sunday morning service, here or at a different church on the island.

Things to do in Rarotonga: museums and other indoor activities

There are three museums on the island. The newest, Te Ara – The Cook Islands Museum of Cultural Enterprise , is in Muri Beach and tells the history of the island including migration. It’s a small museum that took us less than an hour to go through.

The original Cook Islands Museum and Library Society is open 9am – 1pm (Monday-Saturday) and 4-7pm Tuesday evenings. However, behind the museum is an interesting, always available vaka (Polynesian canoe) display.

We saved a visit to the National Museum for our final day and, to our surprise, it was closed for a staff meeting.

Also called the Palace of Makea, this building seemed almost out of place. One room was open, so we wandered in.

More of what to do in Rarotonga

If you want a quick, inexpensive visual tour of the island, hop on a bus and you will discover many things to do in Rarotonga. There are two bus routes, one going in each direction, and they circumnavigate the island all day, leaving Avarua clockwise on the hour and anticlockwise on the half-hour. 

A fascinating story and bizarre ruins that would make a fabulous setting for a horror film if they weren’t cursed. This one deserves its own story .

Intense colours make the sunrise and sunset over the ocean some of the best in the world. As we stayed on the southeast corner of the island, we saw the sunrise from our resort. However, our favourite sunset was seen from the Rarotongan Resort.

Nearby things to do in Rarotonga

While we didn’t go to Aitutaki due to Cook Island’s weather the week we were there, we would be remiss in not including it here among our recommendations. Considered one of the world’s most beautiful islands, it’s only a 45-minute flight from Rarotonga.

Once on the island, head to the lagoon that has made it so famous. Crystal clear, sparkling turquoise water, white sand, and huge palm trees are featured in every lagoon photo I have seen.

Where to eat (always one of my favourite things to do on Rarotonga)

Wherever you eat, you won’t go hungry. Big portions seem to be standard. A few tips:

• Drink only filtered water, which is what you find at restaurants and hotels.
• Be prepared to pay for filtered tap water in restaurants. We saw prices ranging from $1 for a glass to $4.50 for a bottle of tap water.
• Make bookings for dinner. Many of the restaurants fill up.
• It is not customary to tip at Rarotonga hotels or restaurants.

Be sure to allocate at least one Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday night to experience dinner at the Muri Night Markets. Here, you will find stalls presenting every fashion of island foods, including chicken and rice, curries, or ribs.

Pro Tip : Go early as it starts at about 5 pm. By 6.30, many of the stalls are running out of food, and by 7 pm, they are closing up.

• Beluga : A charming cafe in Arorangi where I enjoyed wonderful coffee and a fabulous salad. It’s the only place we ate at that didn’t charge us for filtered tap water.
• Salsa Café : Another great cup of coffee alongside a huge, fresh salad. It’s known for its ‘all-day breakfast’ (although it’s only open until 3 pm during the week and 2 pm on Sat). Located in the capital, Avarau, it’s a perfect place for a quick (or slow) bite.
• Trader Jacks Bar and Grill : The iconic place to go for fish, or just to have a drink and enjoy the sunset.
• La Casita Mexican Café (temporarily closed): Exactly as the name describes, in Muri beach. It’s a less expensive alternative to eating at the resorts.
• Spaghetti House Pizzeria & Grill : A huge, delicious portion of pasta (or lasagne in my case). Spaghetti House is located at Edgewater Resort.
• Lagoon Restaurant at Moana Sands Lagoon Resort : Dinners are a culinary masterpiece beautifully presented and delicious, although a bit pricey. One of the best meals I had on the island.

Check out this Rarotogona Travel Guide for our recommendations on where to stay on the island.

General information about Rarotonga

• Rarotonga’s climate is tropical; as a result, it’s an island paradise.
• The Cook Islands is a self-governing country in free association with New Zealand. Consequently, Cook Islanders have New Zealand citizenship.
• The indigenous people are Cook Island Māori.
• The population is estimated to be between 9,000 and 20,000. Our hotel’s driver estimated that there are about 100,000 visitors annually.
• Tourism is the largest industry on the islands.
• Rarotonga is a stopover option from Air New Zealand when flying between Los Angeles (USA) and Auckland (New Zealand). We took advantage of this opportunity and stayed a week on the island for no additional airfare.
• Wear reef shoes if there is coral on the beach.
• Bring a torch (flashlight) if you plan to walk at night, as the streets are dark.
• Island exports include only noni, vanilla, black pearls, yellowfin tuna, and people (according to our Storytellers Eco-Cycle tour).

Save on your trip with these resources

These are our go-to companies when we travel. We believe this list to be the best in each category. You can’t go wrong using them on your trip too.

• Flights: we use Expedia for the best and cheapest flight options.
• Accommodations: we use Booking.com (hotels), VRBO (self-contained), or Hostelworld (budget).
• Cars (gas or electric): we use RentalCars to search for deals and dealer ratings.
• Motorcycles : we have heard good things about BikesBooking .
• Campervans or Motorhomes : we use Campstar where Albom Adventures readers get a 3% discount.
• Private guides : we love the private guides at Tours by Locals .
• Travel Insurance: while not required, we always opt for travel insurance and start at InsureMyTrip to compare coverage plans.

Check out our travel resources page for more companies that we use when you travel.

Save for later

If you enjoyed this article, please share it on social media and save it for later on Pinterest.

Related articles:

• Rarotonga Snorkelling Captured on our Underwater Compact Camera
• Rarotonga Travel Guide: What You Need to Know Before You Visit
• Samoa Highlights: Top 10 Things To Do In Samoa
• Visiting American Samoa: Home to a Tropical US National Park
• Cruising to Tahiti: Things to do in a day (besides the beach)

Disclaimer: We worked with the  Cook Islands Tourism Corporation . T hey provided complimentary entrances, tours, and sample items to assist in the writing of this review. The opinions expressed here are strictly our own.

About Rhonda Albom

Capturing the essence of travel through photography, Rhonda Albom is the primary author and photographer at Albom Adventures. She is an American expat based in New Zealand. She travels the world with her husband.

Reader Interactions

November 17, 2020 at 5:29 am

I’d never heard of Rarotonga but really looks dreamy

November 15, 2020 at 2:10 pm

Aitutaki looks great! And the sunsets there are wonderful!

November 15, 2020 at 12:33 pm

Goodness Rarotonga looks fantastic! I have to admit, if we visited, I would not be able to resist hiking to the Te Rua Manga (The Needle) that hikes looks epic!!

November 15, 2020 at 12:04 pm

I have not heard specifically of Rarotonga before, but it sounds like a lush paradise filled with culture! And amazing snorkeling is a great bonus. Seems like a really fun place, and I love that it can be a stopover!

April 3, 2020 at 6:11 pm

Wow! I have a new bucket list destination.

April 3, 2020 at 1:25 am

There looks like there is so much to see. What a great place to visit.

Cherie Holden

May 15, 2022 at 10:44 am

I am about to visit the Cook Islands for the 4th time. I have travelled the world extensively over the last 40yrs but my heart always longs to go back to the Cook Islands.

April 2, 2020 at 10:20 pm

It looks like there are so many things to do here! The landscapes and nature look amazing from your photos! And how cool is that to be able to meet a healer?! Thanks for all the tips!

March 14, 2019 at 12:46 pm

A good blog of the islands that we lovce so much so that we are coming over for our 5th visit shortly. We have also visited Aitutaki and went on the Vaka which we will be doing for our 4th time, this time with our daughter,her husband and toddler in tow. It is our wedding present to them (all expenses paid) to show them why we love Raro and the people, not to mention the delicious food to be had. Hope that it will rub off on them and they return again. There are a multitude of things that we have done in our years there and it is trully heaven on earth.

December 8, 2018 at 5:57 pm

28 happy hours- lol

Tanja/The Red Phone Box travels

October 1, 2018 at 8:00 am

such pristine nature

September 30, 2018 at 7:16 am

As always, you have a great comprehensive guide and beautiful photos to go along with it! The sunset looks absolutely gorgeous. Would love to see it in person!

Chris Bloomfield

September 28, 2018 at 10:28 am

Rarotonga looks spectacular. I love your tip about the layover there. What a great way to enjoy a tropical island without paying an arm and a leg. It seems like I will need more than just a few hours there though, I wonder if I can get a three or four day layover?

Navita Deshpande

September 28, 2018 at 1:15 am

Rarotonga looks so beautiful and seems like there is just so much to do and experience. A few things really stood out for me and I would love to explore them such as Cross-Island Hike to Te Rua Manga, the Sunken Ship and watch the beautiful sunset or sunrise. The local entertainment seems fun and its great to interact the with the local community where ever one gets a chance! Appreciate the detailed guide here and thank you for adding a place on our bucket list.

September 27, 2018 at 11:41 pm

Resort life is not for me either- so I’d love to enjoy some of the activities you listed! A Nature Walk with Pa, followed by a lunch prepared by his wife would be one of them. Visiting the market as well- that’s where I can feel the beat of the place. I would also take a day to hike the Te Rua Manga. Thanks for the inspo, I’m going to research Rarotonga a bit more. 🙂

September 27, 2018 at 8:29 am

Hi Rhonda – that looks amazing … loved seeing the options – and the photos of what you saw … I’d definitely stop over … sounds too good to be true – lovely – cheers Hilary

Punita Malhotra

September 25, 2018 at 11:54 pm

Tons of interesting stuff to do in Rarotonga. I particularly like the landscape and natural settings. The dose of culture also works well for me..what a lovely insight into local life.

May 30, 2019 at 6:50 am

Thanks for the info. we’re going in dec 2019. teen kids joining us a week later.sounds like a great adventure for all of us.

Michael Hodgson

September 25, 2018 at 3:25 pm

So interesting that for arguably the most famous of the Cook Islands, Captain James Cook never came within eyeshot of Rarotonga. Sounds like such an amazing adventure to visit and tour around the island and enjoy its beaches, water and culture. From the way you described it, taking a tour with Pa is a must!!!

September 25, 2018 at 12:54 am

What a lovely island this is. What more can you ask for? beautiful beach, clear blue water, and a place to relax in a hammock.

Sumit Surai

September 24, 2018 at 2:28 pm

We don’t like places which are known just for the beaches. But this place look awesome with its various offerings along with the beach. Added to our wishlist.

Obligatory Traveler

September 24, 2018 at 11:38 am

Wow! There is so much to do there. I love the markets, they sound really fun. I’m also on board for any kind of garden. The museums look neat too. Thanks for sharing all of these great activities.

Carol Colborn

September 24, 2018 at 9:44 am

We went to Auckland last year. Didn’t have the time to see other NZ destinations. And Rarotonga is one of the most talked about!

Jenn and Ed Coleman

September 24, 2018 at 5:11 am

I love the bike tour. It seems like such an intimate way to see the island. I also love outrigger canoeing. When we lived in San Diego, we used to race competitively. Taking a sunset run like this would be simply incredible. I am not sure what this particular team is doing with seat 4 out of time and everybody paddling against the ama (outrigger) but they are probably practicing. You have to be perfectly in sync if everybody is paddling on the same side and not lean if you’re paddling on the right side of the canoe. We always wanted to visit the Cook Islands but it seemed like an expensive detour. Interesting that you can use it as an layover. That is going into the trip planning vault.

September 24, 2018 at 12:18 am

Love the idea of the free stopover! Great idea! Looks like there is a lot to do and although we do like a few days by a pool with a book we also have to be up and about a lot too! Cook Islands now on my radar thank you!

Rhonda Albom

September 24, 2018 at 4:44 am

Yes, the stopover made it a great deal for us.

California Globetrotter

September 23, 2018 at 8:45 pm

A new utopia indeed! I like the sound of a layover here for no additional cost! Is there a limit to how long you can stay for a “layover”? I’m not much of a resort person either! I like to get out and explore and damn near died when I went on my only trip with my father to Puerta Vallarta for a week and never left the hotel!

September 24, 2018 at 4:02 am

New Zealand citizens can stay as long as they want. I would have to get out of the hotel (and resort) after only a couple of days as I’d get ‘cabin fever’.

September 23, 2018 at 6:44 pm

Goodness New Zealand is a place I’m dying to visit (along with Australia)!! Rarotonga is beautiful although it’s difficult for white beaches most anywhere else (save the Caribbean) to impress me since I’m from Alabama where we have very large sugar white sand beaches without rocks. However, that said, I have been really impressed with what I’ve seen from the Cook Islands and your Rarotonga photos are beautiful. Good to know that it is a stopover option too. I love Fiona’s handprinted sarongs, they are gorgeous! Also, snorkeling at Titkaveka Beach would most definitely happen along with watching the sunset and visiting the Cook Island Christian Church. Based on your photos, I think I would choose to stay in the Rarotongan Beach Resort, holy cow!!

September 24, 2018 at 3:59 am

I think I would stay at the Rarotongan next time as well. Those beaches in Alabama sure sound nice.

Paul Pietrangelo

September 23, 2018 at 2:45 pm

Wow Rhonda, your suite at Moana Sands Lagoon Resort in Rarotonga, Cook Islands is quite a room. I was very impressed with the entire location. It was quite amazing. See ya.

Cruisin Paul

September 23, 2018 at 5:37 pm

The hotel had only been open for several months so the rooms and grounds were fresh and clean.

September 23, 2018 at 10:03 am

Taking a bus tour around the island would be so fun to get to see so many different aspects. It looks like such a dreamy spot to travel to.

September 23, 2018 at 5:35 pm

The public bus allowed me to get a good look at a lot of the island.

September 23, 2018 at 9:15 am

What a beautiful area! So much to do. The snorkeling looks amazing! I would also love to do some hiking and visit that market.

September 23, 2018 at 5:32 pm

The snorkelling was great. The fish did not seem to mind my presence. The fish approached closer than I expected.

carolyn eddie

September 23, 2018 at 4:19 am

This would be the equivalent of stopping in Iceland travelling between the States and Europe? I have not been further than Hong Kong but at some stage would love to travel to Australia and New Zealand. Thanks for the heads up for the tropical island we can throw in for free. Great post, well written and photographed!

September 23, 2018 at 5:30 pm

I can see that. The free stopover in an interesting place is a real bonus.

September 23, 2018 at 3:51 am

Wow, there’s so much to do. I like the idea of climbing the tree root ladders! Although, as it’s absolutely pouring with rain here in England today I would love to just head straight to the beach!

September 23, 2018 at 5:23 pm

The cross-island trek is a challenge according to other people I have talked to.

Dana Howard Freeman

September 23, 2018 at 2:35 am

Absolutely love the idea of a bike tour!

September 23, 2018 at 2:56 am

It was a highlight of our time in Rarotonga.

September 23, 2018 at 1:55 am

I am going to keep in mind the fact that this is a free stopover. Perfect place to relax after a busy trip 🙂

September 23, 2018 at 2:58 am

I didn’t know it was a free stopover as I wanted to break up my long-haul to the US. The lower price of the stopover fare was an added bonus.

September 22, 2018 at 11:46 pm

Oh, I think I’d like all of the activities you’re describing. I am putting Rarotonga on my list, it looks mesmerizing!

September 23, 2018 at 1:58 am

I had a lot of fun. Next time, I may take a side trip to Aitutaki.

Clarice Lao / Camping for Women

September 22, 2018 at 3:16 pm

I can totally relate. I am also not so fond of the resort life. I refer a lot of greens or a trip to the mountains or woods. Basking in the sun is not really my thing. Perhaps it is because I am from a tropical country.

Anyway, I am glad you found other things to do in Rarotonga and enjoyed your trip.

September 22, 2018 at 7:26 pm

I am not a “sit at the beach” sort of person because I like to go out to explore and learn about the places I visit.

September 22, 2018 at 5:59 am

I’ve never heard of Rarotonga before. This is such a fun list of things to do!

September 22, 2018 at 10:20 am

There are plenty of interesting things to do in Rarotonga.

Comedy Plus

September 22, 2018 at 4:10 am

Wow, what a beautiful place. Great shots. I’ve not even heard of this place until this post.

Have a fabulous day and weekend. ❤

September 22, 2018 at 10:22 am

It’s a bit unknown in the USA but not too far to get to with Air New Zealand direct flights from LAX.

L. Diane Wolfe

September 22, 2018 at 3:55 am

I would love to take the tour with Pa.

He is a very interesting person.

Ryan Biddulph

September 22, 2018 at 3:08 am

Pa sounds awesome. Healers usually are found in places like these; well away from the world and its obsession with healing stuff outside-in through Western medicine. The bike tour is about the most fun thing to do in these rural, remote areas. Gives you an idea of how locals live. Eye-popping islands Rhonda. I fell in love with the South Pacific after a Savusavu trip 4 years ago.

September 22, 2018 at 10:25 am

Rarotonga is small but lovely. The people are genuine and I found that they are not jaded by the growth of tourism.

Alex J. Cavanaugh

September 21, 2018 at 11:31 pm

Ready for the story about the cursed hotel! Definitely do some hiking and that bike tour sounds fascinating. Plus the museum.

September 22, 2018 at 2:05 am

The hotel was quite creepy. The bike tour was one of my highlights while in Rarotonga.

Magical Mystical Mimi

September 21, 2018 at 8:34 pm

First of all, the photos.. AH-mazing! I LOVE the sunset pic. Second, don’t laugh at me but I have never even heard of this place. It’s such a beautiful getaway. Honestly, thank you for sharing this, Rhonda. I love learning and this post was so informative. You should work the PR for Rarotonga!

September 22, 2018 at 2:01 am

The sunsets are amazing in Rarotonga. It is an idyllic setting.

September 21, 2018 at 5:39 pm

Rarotonga is so beautiful view and really beautiful photography. I haven’t heard of Rarotonga before, I just added that to a list of places I need to go see.

September 22, 2018 at 1:57 am

It is a beautiful island. I made good use of my camera there.

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Cook Islands Itinerary – How to spend 10 days on Rarotonga and Aitutaki

White sand, turquoise ocean, colourful corals, palm trees… the Cook Islands have all the ingredients of a tropical paradise. At the end of a three month trip in the South Pacific, we flew from Tahiti to Rarotonga and enjoyed two weeks in the Cook Islands, exploring the best of Raro (as it’s affectionately known) and neighbouring Aitutaki. Here we have condensed our favourite bits into a 10 day Cook Islands Itinerary.

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. This means that if you click a link and purchase something I’ve recommended I may earn a small commission. This does not affect the price you pay but helps me to run this site. You can read my full affiliate disclosure here.

Travelling between the Cook Islands

There are in fact 15 Cook Islands, spread over a huge area in the middle of the South Pacific. The main island of Rarotonga has an International airport and is the gateway to the rest of the islands. Some of the islands are easier (and cheaper) to get to than others, and the islands closest to Rarotonga have more of a tourist infrastructure.

The Northern Group

The Southern Group of islands are all accessible by flight from Rarotonga, but the Northern Group are much further and flights only operate to one of the islands – Manihiki. If you want to visit the rest of these islands you’ll need to travel by sailing boat. Shipping companies do operate between the islands, but their schedules change regularly and it’s tricky to book in advance. That said if you have loads of time and are very flexible, this sounds like an adventurous way to see the islands. 

If you do make it to the Northern Group, then try and go to Palmerston – it sounds fascinating. A British ship carpenter named Marsters, arrived on the island in 1863, married three Polynesian women and had 23 children. The island is now almost entirely made up of his descendants. The official language of the island is English, and due to its isolated position, the dialect is an old fashioned style of English with a midlands/west country accent, due to the fact that Marsters originated from Gloucestershire.

The Southern Group 

Most visitors stick to the Southern Group (as we did), which includes the main island of Rarotonga. Aitutaki is the second most visited island in the Cook Islands and these are the two I recommend including in your Cook Islands itinerary. We decided to stick with just two islands for a number of reasons, firstly the inter-island flights are expensive and secondly, we wanted time to really immerse ourselves in the two islands. If you really want to add a third island, then I suggest Atiu ( more on that later ). 

Cook Islands Itinerary

Day 1 – rarotonga.

Unless travelling by sea, you will undoubtedly land on Rarotonga, the largest and most populated island and home to the International airport in the Cook Islands capital, Avarua. There is plenty to do here, lots of accommodation, lovely beaches, and a good selection of bars and restaurants. Though it may seem pretty chilled and quiet, Raro, and in particular Avarua is the busiest and most urban place you’ll find in the Cook Islands. 

Check into your accommodation ( see below ) and hit the beach. 

Muri Beach in the south east and Titikaveka Beach in the south are considered the best beaches in Rarotonga, so if you can, I recommend staying around here. But even if you don’t, make sure you spend some time on both beaches. 

In the evening, immerse yourself in Polynesian culture by going to see the Te Vara Nui Culture Show . Set in luscious gardens on an overwater stage, you’ll learn about a famous Cook Islands legend and see some impressive Polynesian dancing. The show ticket includes a buffet dinner.  Tickets cost from $115 NZ per adult.

Rarotonga Accommodation 

We stayed in three different Rarotonga hotels, ranging from backpackers to high-end resorts. Here are our recommendations: 

High end/luxury

Pacific Resort Rarotonga.  Located on Muri Beach this is a lovely resort with a swimming pool and free snorkelling and kayaking equipment available. Breakfast is included. A standard double studio room starts from $485 NZ. We stayed in a premium garden suite, which starts from $700 NZ.

Te Manava Luxury Villas & Spa . Another gorgeous spot overlooking Muri Lagoon. These beautiful villas have their own pools and terraces, with a self-contained kitchen and BBQ as well as free use of kayaks, snorkelling gear, beach towels and sun loungers. From $600 NZ per night

Mid Range 

Castaway Resort.  Another adults-only resort on the west coast of Rarotonga. The self-catered rooms have air conditioning and there is a swimming pool and snorkelling and kayaking equipment. The two bars – Wilsons Beach Bar and Crusoe’s Restaurant & Bar are well worth a visit. From $109 NZ including breakfast. 

Aro’a Beachside Inn . This is a fab adults-only option on the white sands of Aroa Beach. It has a great bar and restaurant right on the beach – the Shipwreck Hut beach bar – and free use of kayaks and snorkelling gear. Breakfast is included and all rooms have kitchenettes so you can cook at the accommodation too. From $470 NZ per night.

Budget 

Rarotonga Backpackers. Located on the west side of the island this is such a great budget option. We stayed in a beachfront unit with an ensuite. There is a shared kitchen so you can prepare your own meals and eat them right on the beachfront. They also have dorm rooms.

Muri Lagoon View Bungalows . These bungalows are set on a hillside a 5 minute walk from the gorgeous Muri Beach and a 10 minute walk from the restaurants and shops. All bungalows offer a fully equipped kitchen, laundry facilities and a private bathroom.

Find accommodation in Rarotonga

Day 2 – Rarotonga

Rarotonga has one main road which loops 32km around the island’s coastline. I recommend hiring a car in Rarotonga for at least a day, to fully explore the island and drive this loop. If you’re on a budget you can take the bus which does the loop in both directions, however, they can be infrequent and run on ‘Cook Islands time’ so a car (or scooter) is definitely the best option.  

Book a rental car in the Cook Islands

Head into Avarua and explore the shops and the beautiful church here. If you’re visiting on a Saturday, make sure you check out the Punanga Nui Markets for local food stalls and crafts. The markets also run on Thursday evening and there is another great night market in Muri on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday. 

We loved the Beachcomber Pearl Market which sells Polynesian arts and crafts, as well as beautiful black pearls which are cultivated on the islands. It has a great coffee shop too, serving coffee brewed from locally grown beans.

For lunch head to the Mooring Fish Cafe for a fish sandwich. This great little spot is famed for its sandwiches, which are absolutely delicious. I recommend the F.O.B (Fresh Off The Boat), with Mahi Mahi with lime mayo. Mahi Mahi is a delicious meaty fish (my favourite) and you’ll find it in abundance in the pacific islands, so definitely make the most of it! 

Stop at Te Ara – The Cook Islands Museum of Cultural Enterprise to learn about the history of the Cook Islands. The museum is also a business incubator, and you can purchase a variety of local products from the shop.

Day 3 Rarotonga

To learn a bit more about the island, take a bicycle tour. A guide will take you into the interior of the island, where you can learn about the natural flora and fauna. You’ll get to try some of the island’s delicacies including a fruit called Noni,  which is said to have medicinal properties. It has a pretty strong taste and smell so I think it’s an acquired taste but the fermented version of the fruit is sold as a supplement for anti-ageing. A Discover Cycle Tour starts from $80 NZ per person.

Alternatively, go on a hike on the Cross Island Track, which takes you from the north to the south of the island over the Te Rua Manga (Needle), offering fantastic views. Though you can do the hike alone, it’s recommended to take a tour to avoid getting lost and to learn more about the island from an experienced guide.

Day 4 Aitutaki 

Head to the airport and take the 45-minute flight to Aitutaki. This is a small plane with two seats on one side and one on the other, which means you’re almost guaranteed a view. And what a view it is. Landing into Aitutaki has to be one of the most beautiful descents in the world. It’s certainly in my top three landings, along with Rangiroa in French Polynesia and Queenstown in New Zealand. 

Aitutaki is home to the most incredible lagoon, and you’ll fly over this as you land. Appropriately named the Blue Lagoon, it contains approx. 15 beautiful islets, surrounded by varying shades of blue. 

Most of the accommodation is on the main island, and there is a good mix of beachside resorts, homestays, self-catering rentals and backpackers. After checking into your accommodation, grab a snorkel and head into the water and spend the rest of the day on the beach. 

Aitutaki Accommodation

We stayed in two different accommodations in Aitutaki, one luxury and one budget, both were great. Here are our recommendations on where to stay:

High end/Luxury

Tamanu Beach Resort.  The gorgeous Cook Islands resort has a variety of room options. We stayed in a beachfront villa which was a real luxury. There is a beachfront restaurant and bar and a private beach area and free use of kayaks and snorkelling equipment. On Thursday evenings there is a cultural performance of Cook Island song, dance and fire dancing.  

Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort . As the name suggests, this resort is situated on a private island and is the only place in the Cook Islands where you can stay in an overwater bungalow. Breakfast is included and there is a restaurant, bar, day spa and beachfront pool.

Budget/Mid Range

Paparei Bungalows . Located on the west coast, these beachfront bungalows have a kitchenette, lounge and dining area with a separate bedroom and a spacious deck looking out to the lagoon.

Rino’s Motel. We loved this spot, right on the beach within walking distance to shops and a few eateries. The apartments have cooking facilities which is great if you’re on a budget and you can also rent cars and scooters across the street at Rino’s Rentals.

Gina’s Garden Lodges . This is a good budget option. It’s located in the middle of the island and is a 10 minute drive to the west coast beaches but it’s a very peaceful spot with a shared kitchen.

Find accommodation in Aitutaki

Day 5 Aitutaki 

Take a Vaka Cruise! This was my favourite day on our Cook Islands holiday and I highly recommend you do this when visiting Aitutaki. You’ll depart from O’otu Beach aboard Vaka Tiki-a-Tonga – an outrigger-style boat. 

The Vaka Cruise visits a number of motu (sand islets) in the lagoon. Akaiami Island is the first stop and this white sandy paradise was once home to an airport for the TEAL flying boat service (Tasman Empire Airlines Ltd), which operated in the 1950s, transporting the rich and famous of the time along the ‘coral route’ stopping in Fiji, Samoa, Tahiti and Aitutaki. 

Depending on the time of year, you may stop at Moturakau, which is one of the islands used to film Shipwrecked. (If you don’t know this show, think of Big Brother but on tropical islands). We then stopped at another filming location for the show which felt like something straight out of a postcard. 

After a bit of island hopping it’s time for a snorkel with some Giant Trevally. As the name suggests, these fish are huge, and it’s quite an experience to swim so closely to them. 

After a delicious traditional lunch aboard the boat, the final island of the day is One Foot Island. Though barely any people live here, the island has a post office where you can send a postcard and bizarrely, you can get a passport stamp to show you’ve visited the island! A Vaka Cruise costs $149 NZ per person.

Day 6 Aitutaki

We hired a car for the duration of our time on Aitutaki, but even if you don’t I recommend hiring one for at least a day to explore the main island. 

Grab breakfast or a coffee at Koru Cafe near O’otu Beach and have a quick dip. Then drive up to Mount Maungapu, and take the 20 minute walk to the highest point on the island for the most incredible views of the reef and lagoon. 

Check out the island’s main village – Arutanga – where you can buy tropical fruit at the market, meet some of the lovely Cook Islands people and stop for a look at the oldest church in the Cook Islands, built in 1828. Grab lunch around here. Aquila Love Takeaway do great burgers just up the road in Amuri or try MVA’s Tunu2nu in Arutanga.

From Arutanga, continue south. This part of the island feels much wilder and you’re bound to see crabs scuttling across the road and into their holes as your approach! If you’re really lucky you might spot a Coconut Crab – the largest in the world growing up to 1m in length!

Head inland from here to the ancient Polynesian Temples (known as marae) of Marae Te Poaki o Rae and Marae Tikanga Rangi. They aren’t the easiest to find, so it’s worth asking for directions from the locals. 

And finally, stop off to admire the giant banyan tree not far from the village of Vaipae, which creates a natural tunnel across the road. 

Day 7 Aitutaki

On your final day in Aitutaki, make the most of the beach. Hire a kayak and get out on the water, snorkel (the northwest coast is the best for this) and relax on the white sands. 

You could also go scuba diving – just make sure you allow 24 hours between the end of your dive and your flight tomorrow. 

Day 8 Rarotonga

Fly back to Rarotonga for your last few days in the Cook Islands. 

After checking into your final Cook Islands accommodation, head to Muri beach. Hire kayaks and paddle out into the lagoon and bring a mask and snorkel. (These are usually free if you’re staying in the hotels around Muri). There is also the option to go out on a glass-bottom boat here. 

In the evening, have dinner on the west side of the island at the Shipwreck Hut beach bar and enjoy the beautiful sunset (weather permitting!). 

Day 9 Rarotonga 

Get an adrenalin rush on a Raro Buggy Tour. This was such a great day.  You drive through the backroads in a big yellow buggy until reaching the derelict old Sheraton hotel, where you can zoom around the site and through the mud. Definitely don’t wear your best clothes – you will get filthy and wet – but it’s a lot of fun. You need a driving license to drive the buggy. A Raro Buggy Tour costs $200 NZ for two people.

Day 10 Rarotonga 

On the last day of your Cook Islands trip, spend the day snorkelling at Aroa Lagoon Marine Reserve, then have lunch at Charlie’s Cafe, before a second snorkel and beach time at Tikioki. 

Then head back to the airport for your flight home from paradise. 

Other Itinerary Options 

If you prefer to have fewer changes of accommodation, then you can spend 5 days in Aitutaki followed by 5 days in Rarotonga. We enjoyed staying in different areas of Rarotonga which is why I have suggested the above, plus it also reduces the risk of missing flight connections if one of your flights is delayed. If you do decide to do the 5/5 days option, then I recommend planning on landing in Rarotonga in the morning on your first day and flying to Aitutaki later in the afternoon. 

Another option is to spend a few days in Atiu after Aitutaki. If you do this, I suggest reducing your time on both islands by a day and spending two days on Atiu, which is a 45 minute flight from Aitutaki and Rarotonga. 

Things to Do on Atiu

Atiu is a quiet island with even less infrastructure than Aitutaki. The island is also known as Enuamanu which means land of the birds, and more species live there than on any of the other Cook Islands. You can take a tour with “Birdman George” Mateariki and see some of the rare birds living on the island. 

As well as birds, Atiu is known for its many caves, including burial caves and water caves, some of which you can explore with a guide. 

Atiu also produces excellent coffee, served in the traditional island method, which is roasted in coconut cream over an open fire.

Atiu Accommodation 

Atiu Island Villa . There aren’t too many accommodation options on Atiu but Atiu Island Villas are a good choice, featuring chalet-style villas with a kitchen and a fully stocked food cupboard with bread, eggs, cheese, canned goods and more.

How to Get to the Cook Islands

Air New Zealand flies from London Heathrow to Rarotonga via Los Angeles. From Sydney , it’s 6-7.5 hours and from Auckland it’s 4 hours. We flew from Tahiti and then flew onto L.A at the end of our trip. 

It’s worth noting, if you’re flying from Australia or New Zealand you will cross the dateline, and arrive earlier than the date/time you left – so make sure you book your accommodation for the correct dates! 

Cook Islands Currency

The New Zealand Dollar is the official currency of the Cook Islands, and you may come across Cook Islands-issued notes and coins, including a triangle-shaped $2 coin! You cannot change Cook Islands money outside the Cook Islands, so remember to change local notes and coins before you leave.

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How do I book for 8 adults and three kids

You can book direct with the hotels or go through a travel agent who can organise it all for you. We booked our flights directly with Air NZ and Air Rarotonga.

Hello I am Marina from Spain. First of all congratulations for your blog. We are going mid october to New Zealand for our honeymoon and we want to spend the last 4 days (4-8 nov) in a pacific island. What do you think is the best option Fiji or Rarotonga with Aitutaki. We love diving, and doing activities and exploring the islands. We will also love to go to a good hotel with beautiful beaches. We have seen the Fiji has better diving but Aitutaki is like more paradisitic island. As I have seen that you have been to both island I will apreciate your opinion. Thank you for everything. Marina

Both are lovely. I would say with four days you aren’t really giving yourself much time, as two of those days will be taken up by travel. From NZ to Aitutaki you will need to fly first to Rarotonga and then onto Aitutaki, leaving you only two days to spend time there. For Fiji, if you stay on the main island close to Nadi it’s easier and quicker, however, lots of the great diving is on the other islands. Both countries are beautiful and have lovely beaches – especially Aitutaki and some of the Yasawa and Mamanuca Islands in Fiji. There is a lot more tourist infrastructure in Fiji and it has more luxury hotels with International names. Rarotonga and Aitutaki are small so you will be able to see more of them in the time you have, but i don’t think you can go wrong with either. Have a great trip!

Hi, thanks for your blog, it sounds amazing. Can you please tell me if any of the islands are particularly suited to those with walķng disabilities, or which aren’t? Thanks.

I have only been to Rarotonga and Aitutaki. I think Raro would be mostly fine, though I’m not sure how accessible the public transport is. There are lots of low rise and ground floor accommodation options. Aitutaki might be a little more challenging but it would be worth checking with the hotels there to see what assistance they can offer. I hope you have a good trip.

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• Welcome to Rarotonga

Iridescent, sapphire-blue water encapsulates the remote island of Rarotonga.  Uninterrupted, white-sand beaches frame sprawling, tropical forests and a lone, active volcano.  Despite it’s rugged, yet paradisaical, beauty, the Cook Islands are a humble place where you can expect to find grinning locals behind every palm tree.  

The island runs by its own clock, with a timezone called Island Time, buses arriving at less-than-regular intervals, and nothing that can’t wait until tomorrow.  Once you settle in to Rarotonga’s informal pace of life, you’ll get to truly relax and experience the Cook Islands’ Maori culture.

This in depth travel guide to Rarotonga offers everything you need to know for a relaxing holiday on the postcard-perfect beaches of Rarotonga; from Cook Islands travel tips, to the best  resorts in Rarotonga , and the best  things to do in Rarotonga .  Read on & plan an unforgettable trip to Rarotonga.

Rarotonga Travel Guides

Things to do in rarotonga, rarotonga accommodation, getting around rarotonga, best time to visit rarotonga, rarotonga travel tips, rarotonga food – places to eat.

Few places in the world are easier to travel to than the Cook Islands.  Still, it certainly pays to be prepared!  Our comprehensive Rarotonga travel guides will assist you in planning the ultimate island getaway.  We’ll make sure you’ve packed everything you need (and nothing you don’t ), you’re prepared with the  best snorkelling spots in Rarotonga , and that you have plenty of  things to do in the Rarotonga .

8 BEST 5-Star Resorts & Luxury Rarotonga Accommodation

11 STUNNING Aitutaki Resorts not to Miss 2024

11 BEST Places to Visit in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands in 2024

Ultimate Guide to Backpacking Rarotonga on a Budget in 2024

12 BEST Rarotonga Resorts & Accommodation in 2024

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Best Time to Visit Rarotonga in 2024 – Weather by Month

The 5 Best Places to Snorkel in Rarotonga in 2024

A definitive guide to the 15 BEST things to do in Rarotonga .

From where to go snorkelling to which tours are worth paying for, and where you can find the absolute  best  burgers on the island (maybe even the world!). You won’t want to miss these.

Te Manava Resort Rarotonga

Te Manava  is one of Rarotonga’s most luxurious resorts.  The rooms are beautiful and the resort comes with everything you would expect from a 5-star resort.  Most importantly, it’s located perfectly on Tikioki Beach, one of the best beaches on the island for both snorkelling and relaxing.

Palm Grove  is our top mid-range pick for resorts in Rarotonga, especially if you’re travelling with kids.  Some rooms are by the beach and there is a kids’ pool.

Rarotonga Backpackers

Rarotonga Backpackers comes with all the perks of staying on the beach at a great resort, but without some of the outrageous prices.  Obviously, you won’t find a beachfront bar or restaurant, but a short stroll along the beautiful beach will take you to numerous beachfront bars and restaurants.  If you’re on a budget and decided to try  backpacking Rarotonga , this is the place to stay.

For more suggestions, make sure to check out our articles on the 12 best  resorts in Rarotonga , best luxury accommodation Rarotonga  and the best  accommodation in Aitutaki .

Two  public buses  run a full, 45-minute loop around the island in opposite directions.  

The clockwise bus departs hourly from 7am to 11pm Monday to Saturday, and from 8am to noon and 2pm to 4pm on Sunday.  The anti-clockwise bus departs hourly at 30-minutes past the hour, from 8.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 12.30pm on Saturday, and not at all on Sunday.

The night bus runs at midnight on Friday and 2am on Saturday – if you are out drinking, opt for the bus.

A single ride, one-way costs $5 for an adult or $3 for a child.  A return trip costs $8 and $4 respectively.  A day pass is a convenient option, allowing unlimited rides in a day for $16.  Similarly, the family pass allows 2 adults and 2 children to hop on & off as many time sin a day for $26.  A 10-ride concession costs $30 for adults or $19 for children.

Tickets can be purchased on-board.  To catch the bus, stand anywhere on the main road and wave to the driver.  When boarding, let the driver know where you wish to get off and they’ll try to let you know when you arrive.

Car & Scooter Rental

Visitors from Australia, New Zealand, United States, Canada, United Kingdom, and the European Union, can use their own license to rent a car and drive in Rarotonga.  To rent and drive a scooter, you will need to get a visitors motorcycle license and ensure you wear a helmet.

Your accommodation will be able to help you with this, otherwise, it is easy to find rentals all around the island.

Although not necessary, renting your own vehicle is a convenient way to visit all the popular  Cook Islands points of interest  – especially if you have restless kids. 

Taxis don’t drive around the Cook Islands looking for passengers.  It is usually easiest to book taxis through your accommodation.  Otherwise, call a company like Raro Tours to book a pick up.  

The  best time to visit Rarotonga  is during the shoulder months of April & May or September & October.  You will find warm temperatures, lower rainfall, and significantly fewer fellow travellers.

Despite this, it can be great to visit the Cook Islands year-round – you just need to be prepared.  We break down the weather by every month of the year, as well as discuss the cheapest time to visit Rarotonga, the best time to visit for a honeymoon, and the coolest festivals & events that run throughout the year.

Currency:  New Zealand Dollar & Cook Islands coins.

Electricity Socket:  220V AC electricity

Rarotonga Visa:  A visa can be easily obtained on arrival for most visitors.  It is valid for up to 31 days.

Safety:  Rarotonga is a very safe destination.  As with anywhere, exercise caution when alone or out at night.

Language:  English is widely spoken, however, the official language is Cook Islands Maori.

Rarotonga Capital:  The capital of Rarotonga, and largest city, is Avarua, located on the northern side of the island.

Banks & ATMs:   ANZ ,  Bank of South Pacific , and  Bank of the Cook Islands .  There are a lot of ATMs scattered around the island.  These are safe to use.

Sim Cards:  Grab a  Visitor Sim from BlueSky  for $49.  It includes 3GB of data and is the only operator on the island.  Service can be sketchy. Stores in Avarua or the Airport.

Water:   It is safest to purchase and consumer bottled water, otherwise, ensure you boil any tap water before drinking.

Vili’s Burger Joint

Vili’s Burger Joint is the best place to eat in all the Cook Islands.  Make sure to try their fish burger – it is fresh and delicious.  It is conveniently located in the heart of Muri across the road from the Night Market and very close to the beach.  In terms of price, you’re looking at about $10-15 for a burger – which is incredibly affordable for Rarotonga.

Muri Night Market

To try affordable, local food make your way down to the Muri Night Market.  It is located on the main road just back from the beach and contains a wide range of local vendors selling their specialty dishes. 

Trader Jack’s

A local favourite, Trader Jack’s is a beach-side restaurant with good views and delicious food.  Grab a drink and enjoy a pizza – pizza’s are $23.

Le Bon Vivant (LBV)  

This is a slightly more upscale cafe serving French cuisine.  It is a good spot in Muri to stop off for a sandwich and a coffee.

Bring the whanau here for the best pizza in Rarotonga.  They offer takeaway, which is great for ordering pizza and enjoying it on the beach or back home.

Located on the west side of the island, Beluga is a trendy cafe and is the perfect spot to enjoy brunch.

Tamarind House

If you’re looking for something special, Tamarind House is it.  They offer a more formal dining experience overlooking the sea near Avarua, the capital of the Cook Islands.  The food is typical European cuisine and will set you back about $90-100 for two people including drinks.

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An Explorer's Guide to Rarotonga

National Geographic Explorer Jessica Cramp shares insider tips for traveling in Rarotonga.

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Best Things to do in Rarotonga, Cook Island

Last Updated on: Sep 10, 2020  

About this Blog: Rarotonga is one of the most beautiful of Cook Island with turquoise waters, soft sandy beaches with an abundance of coral reefs. In this blog, Delilah from Our Travel Mix writes about the best things to do in Rarotonga along with some travel tips for the most populous of Cook Island.

The Cook Islands are a myriad of unspoilt islands unbeknownst to many. The lack of mass tourism makes this hidden gem such a stunning place to visit.

Rarotonga is the most populous of those islands and there are many great things to do in Rarotonga to keep you occupied. Over recent years, Rarotonga has become a hotspot for New Zealanders and Australians to escape their winters. Follow this city guide to Rarotonga to find out the best places to visit and the best activities in Rarotonga, with tips for first-time visitors.

Best Places to Visit in Rarotonga

Muri Beach is the most popular spot on the island for visitors. You’ll see all kinds of tourists here; families, couples, and backpackers.

Muri beach is unique in its striking views. The beach looks out over islets, which are called motu in Cook Islands Maori. You can kayak out to the closest motu, known as Koromiri.

You can hire kayaks and paddleboards right on the beach. Snorkelling gear is also available, but Muri isn’t the best place to snorkel as the boats and other water equipment disrupt the water, meaning visibility isn’t as good for marine life.

Tikioki Marine Reserve

Tikioki Marine Reserve is hands down the best spot for snorkelling in Rarotonga. This spot is located in the south of the island. The waters are clear and there are so many varieties of fish to see from butterflyfish to angelfish and triggerfish.

If you can, leave your valuables in the car or scooter storage compartment. If not, Rarotonga is still quite a safe country with few tourists and locals around, but I’d still recommend using a waterproof armband for your phone and cards.

Rarotonga is more than just its palm tree-lined beaches. Like many other islands, inland from these beaches is lush greenery which makes for great hikes. Te Rua Manga, The Needle, will take you two to three hours to complete the walk. 

Some prefer to take a guide, but the trail is marked quite well if you would prefer to go on your own. The hike itself is quite steep so a moderate level of fitness is required. Bring mosquito repellent, water, and sunscreen with you.

Just be sure not to attempt the hike after heavy rain – the trail will be very slippery.

Punanga Nui Market

Head to the Punanga Nui Market on a Saturday from 8 am to 2 pm. This huge market is where you’ll find the locals buying their fresh produce for the week, and tourists buying souvenirs to bring home.

Try the baked goods and fresh fruit smoothies made right in front of you. Then bring your food to the stage to watch the traditional Cook Islands dance performances. 

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Trader Jack’s

Trader Jack’s is the place to be if you’re after a pub-style meal with a cold beer and the view of the ocean. The restaurant is located in Avarua, in the main town of Rarotonga. A pizza will cost you $23 NZD and a beer will cost you $6 NZD.

Best Things to Do in Rarotonga

Captain tama snorkelling cruise.

Taking a snorkelling cruise was a highlight during my trip to Rarotonga. Captain Tama’s Lagoon Cruise is the most popular company to go with. The best thing about taking a cruise is that you will be taken further out to the best snorkelling spots. Snorkelling equipment is provided for those who don’t have any with them.

After snorkelling, you’ll probably have built up an appetite. The crew will bring you to one of Muri’s motos for a Rarotongan feast! Before bringing you back to the mainland, the crew will put on some entertaining performances such as coconut tree climbing!

The half-day cruise runs from 11 am to 3 pm. Adults will cost $79 per person, and children are $40 per person.

Paddleboard or Kayak

Water activities are great choices for things to do in Rarotonga. Many popular beaches have stalls to rent paddleboards and kayaks. The best place to do so is Muri Beach, where you can kayak to Koromiri Motu.

Tours and lessons are available to suit all abilities.

Nighttime paddleboarding tours are also offered, where you get to use LED paddleboards that illuminate the water and marine life below.

Ride a Buggy

Riding a buggy through the mud in Rarotonga is as much fun as it sounds. You’ll drive around the track for a couple of hours getting covered in mud as you race through the mud puddles. Near the end of the tour, you’ll stop at a waterfall to wash off the mud and have a snack.

It’ll cost you $175 NZD for a twin-share buggy. You’ll need at least a restricted licence from your home country and be over 18 to be the driver of a buggy.

Despite being such a small island with few night clubs, many pub crawls operate in Rarotonga. Going Troppo is the most popular pub crawl company and hosts them every Wednesday and Friday.

The $42 NZD per person ticket includes a drink to start off the night, as well as a souvenir to take back home with you. They’ll pick you up and drop you off at your accommodation too.

Cultural Village Tour and Night Show

I love to experience a little bit of culture in every country I travel to. For Rarotonga, the best way to experience Cook Islands culture is by watching a cultural performance.

The village tour starts at 5 pm. The tour will explain about historic life in Rarotonga including the acts of carving and weaving. Afterwards, guests enjoy a Pacific-Western fusion buffet dinner.

The performance begins at 8:30 pm, performing about The Legend of Tongaiti. The performance involves dancers, musicians, and fire dancers.

Tickets to the show cost $129 NZD for adults and $59 NZD for children.

Tips for First-Time Visitors to Rarotonga

Best time to visit rarotonga.

The dry season in Rarotonga runs from June to August, however, temperatures are cooler at this time. This makes September to November the best time to visit Rarotonga when it is warm enough to swim, but the rain won’t affect your plans much. December is one to avoid if you’re looking to beat the crowds during the Christmas Holidays.

Take your own Snorkelling Gear

I spent 10 days in Rarotonga, and I snorkelled every day I was there. The major snorkelling spots have nearby stalls where you can rent snorkelling gear from. It will cost you $10 NZD – $15 NZD per person to hire a snorkel, mask, and fins. If you’re only planning on snorkelling once or twice, then this won’t be much of an issue for you. Consider bringing snorkelling gear with you if you’re going to snorkel more than twice. 

Travelling on a Budget

Despite what many say about travelling to tropical islands, it is possible to travel to Rarotonga (and enjoy your holiday) on a budget. Stay at the Rarotonga Backpackers from $25 NZD per night. They’re right on the beach on the west side of the island which is the best place to catch the amazing Rarotongan sunsets. Make use of happy hours, and eat at the night market for the cheapest, and amongst the most delicious foods on the island.

Bring Water Shoes

If you’re planning on going in the water during your holiday and you have sensitive feet, bring water shoes. Some coral and rocks can be quite sharp. It’s definitely not worth spending your time in the water worrying or in pain from stepping on something sharp.

Bio: Delilah is a traveller, writer, and photographer from New Zealand. The aim of her travel blog, Our Travel Mix is to help people travel the world better.

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Backpacking Rarotonga On A Budget: Top Travel Tips

Learn all you need to know about backpacking Rarotonga on a budget while in The Cook Islands. I will be giving you all the information you need to know such as costs, getting around, accommodation, what to do and so much more!

Rarotonga is often a country associated with honeymoons, romance, and family getaways. Though, I made my way over there to find out about backpacking Rarotonga on a budget, making sure I live cheaply without skimping on experiences and eating the best the island had to offer.

Sure prices are similar to countries such as New Zealand or Australia. Though they can be backpacker-friendly, can Rarotonga? Would there be affordable accommodation for those not traveling as a couple for hundreds per night? How about cheap and easy meals without those pricey sunset beachside views and some free things to do in Rarotonga?

Rarotonga is a beautiful island within the Cook Islands. Surrounded by a coral reef and a mountainous interior it certainly is an amazing place to explore. The locals are friendly and the food is great, especially when you pair it with some impressive views of the waves breaking on the reef.

So, get ready as I let you how it is possible to travel around Rarotonga on a budget. From affordable accommodation, cheap eats, and activities to keep you entertained. I will let you know where it is worth spending more and how to save on your backpacking Rarotonga adventure.

Everything You Need To Know About Backpacking Rarotonga On A Budget

How many days to spend in rarotonga, cost per day to travel rarotonga, when to visit rarotonga, where to stay while backpacking rarotonga, where to eat in rarotonga, markets in rarotonga, getting around rarotonga, safety in rarotonga, things to do while backpacking rarotonga.

If you are looking for a nice place for relaxation and the definition of a holiday you will want to spend a week backpacking Rarotonga. Personally, I have visited Rarotonga on 3 different trips, each one I would stay a week or 7 days. For me this allowed me to get over the small amount of jet lag I had and just get into the swing of a much more chilled lifestyle. Raro time is a legitimate thing!

If you are thinking that is too much time to spend in one place, don’t worry! There is plenty of things to do in Rarotonga which I will cover further down. You also may want to break up this time with a trip over to one of the neighboring islands as well. Though if you are planning to leave Rarotonga this will substantially increase your budget. Unfortunately, flights nor accommodation are not cheap.

Honestly, the thing which will affect your Rarotonga travel budget the most is your accommodation, which I will cover the approximate costs further down below. There are a couple of hostels which are the cheapest things, you’ll find starting from $20.00 per night. A private room in one of these hostels generally starts at around $40.00 depending on the shared bathroom etc. Though their prices seemingly increase quite quickly. Hotels then start at around $120.00 per night depending on quality and facilities.

Luckily, there are plenty of affordable restaurants, food shacks, and cafes in Rarotonga where you can find some awesome food deals. Happy hours aren’t just for cocktails over here! There is also a large supermarket in the main township of Avarua. Prices there are relative to those in New Zealand. Though it is more expensive for yogurt, dips, cheese, and chips (basically those luxury items).

Overall I would budget approximately $100.00 to $130.00 per day for backpacking Rarotonga to stay on the safe side. This will allow you to splurge on certain activities, have a somewhat decent bed to rest in, and have delicious meals.

Honestly, the weather itself in Rarotonga can be a bit hit or miss. Basically, you just leave it up to the gods. Though even if it is raining the temperature will be warm and there will be no reason to bring over your winter woolies.

February: This was my first trip to Rarotonga and the worse weather I experienced. The days were warm and humid, though it rained every single day. In saying that it didn’t rain all day, but either in the morning or the afternoon. It made some activities like quad biking super fun. Though for the lagoon cruise, it would’ve been nice to have the sun out when swimming.

June: I somehow, thank you, gods, managed to get all sunny days on this trip! Incredible I know. Though each side of the week I visited was raining, so it seemed to be a matter of luck. 26-degree Celcius days, no wind, and clear skies. I certainly was in paradise.

November: The weather in November was a mixture of the above. We said some fabulous clear days as well as a couple where it just constantly rained. Nevertheless, we made the most of it a ventured out no matter what the skies were doing.

As you can see it can really be a bit hit or miss what the weather in Rarotonga will be like. It is said that from April to November expect temperatures of 25-28⁰C. November through to March are warmer again with higher humidity and tropical showers typically in the morning or afternoons.

Looking on major accommodation booking websites such as booking.com and even hostel world will show very limited affordable accommodation results in Rarotonga. Though trust me they do exist and just take a little extra effort to find. This may be a matter of simply googling “hostels in Rarotonga”. But if you are planning on staying in a hotel or resort all the main ones can be found on booking.com.

Let me just say that even 5-star resorts in Rarotonga don’t actually look too great so adjust your expectations accordingly. This is an island with limited resources and seems to be a few years behind New Zealand, which is again, a few years behind the rest of Oceania. As a result, rooms can look quite dated, think floral prints from the ’70s, though that’s just the atheistic on the island.

Hostels in Rarotonga

I am not sure if it is because of the limited internet access, but some of the affordable accommodations aren’t listed on major third-party booking websites. A simple Google search for ‘backpackers in Rarotonga’ or ‘hostels in Rarotonga’ will bring up a couple of results, and this is basically all there is.

Now your choices may be limited but that does not mean that they are bad. The hostel that I stayed in, Rarotonga Backpackers , was cheap and had good amenities. Rooms were basic with just a fan and bed, honestly, it looked like a sort of converted house, but sometimes that’s all you need to get yourself into the island vibes. There was a pool which we enjoyed throughout the days and best of all it was on a beachside location. The fellow backpackers there were great fun, and often times the majority were on a working holiday visa in Australia or New Zealand. They proved to me that it was possible to backpack in Rarotonga on a budget, making your island getaway an affordable experience. Just set your expectation accordingly. This was the most basic hostel I have actually stayed in. Though places in Southeast Asia where I typically travel are incredible value for money for what you get in a hostel.

There are two individual backpackers, the one mentioned above and Backpackers International . The second one can be found on third-party booking websites, though simply through checking out reviews it does not seem too great.

Apartments In Rarotonga

If you aren’t traveling solo, and rather in a couple or with some friends why not check out a privately owned property or Air BnB? They have some great options listed online with some houses listed from $50.00 per night. Split this between a couple of people and you will have your own private relaxing space right in paradise!

I have stayed at Avana Waterfront Apartments and it was a great stay. Having a kitchen made a huge difference to our food budget as we didn’t have to eat out all the time.

Hotels In Rarotonga

I have stayed in a few different hotels in Rarotonga and I will be first to say quality does differ between them so please make sure you shop around. Though it’s great having the luxuries of onsite dining, snorkeling gear rental, and room service.

On my most recent trip, we stayed at The Rarotongan and absolutely loved it. We found it excellent value for money and it is situated in front of one of the best swimming spots on the island. You bet we spent our days relaxing on the beach chairs and having cocktails!

One of my favorite parts of exploring any country is the culinary experiences they offer, so I was more than willing to find this out for you!

Before traveling to Rarotonga I imagined gorgeous beachside restaurants attached to 5-star hotels with views out to the stunning sunset and prices to match. Though, I was pleased to find there was something for every budget. There is actually a wide variety of places to eat in Rarotonga, perfect for any budget.

Make sure to check out my post on Where To Eat In Rarotonga for exact locations!

Food Trucks

Dotted along the coast you will find delicious food trucks serving up fast meals. This is the perfect option if you are craving a burger and trust me, there are some amazing options. Eating at food trucks is the perfect way to save money if you are on a budget. Plan to spend approximately $10.00 for a basic burger and soda. The burger pictured below costs $15.00 from Palace Takeaways .

For the best coffee and iced drinks stop in at LOVE Cafe which has a couple of locations around the island. I am a sucker for their iced chai lattes.

Locals in Rarotonga seem to love their burgers and fried chicken. James was in food heaven, though being a vegetarian I was not.

Now being a bit of a foodie myself I can vouch that Rarotonga has some delicious cafes. Make friends with the numerous chickens hanging out in front and enjoy the slower-paced island life while you sip on your morning coffee. My favorite cafes include Deli-Licious and LBV both located in Muri Beach. Plan to spend $15.00 to $20.00 for a meal at a cafe including a drink.

Restaurants

Now if you are willing to splash out on a meal or two you will find plenty of restaurants happy to serve you. From the fancy restaurants attached to 5-star hotels to the beachside bar style eateries with ocean views. Prices here vary widely but expect to spend at least $20.00 on a main. Also if you are craving a good pizza I cannot recommend Trader Jacks enough.

Now you cannot visit Rarotonga without checking out its markets. These are the places where you will find the best souvenirs, fresh fruits, and home-cooked meals. They are the perfect place to grab a fresh and affordable meal helping keep your Rarotonga budget low.

Te Punanga Nui Market

The Te Punanga Nui Market is best to visit every Saturday morning between 8 am and 2 pm this is the place where you will find all the tourists and locals alike. Serving up perfect breakfast meals such as waffles and smoothies to the lunchtime favorites of burgers and fried chicken. There’s something for everyone here, whether you are on a bit of a health kick, or you are craving some greasy goodness.

Muri Beach Night Market

The Muri Beach Night Market is a hot spot for all the tourists while it is open on Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday nights from 5 pm. Exclusively selling food this empty space quickly becomes packed as the ultimate dinner spot. You will find everything here from burgers, hot chips, local curries, and even international cuisine. Also, don’t worry about dessert as there are plenty of mouth-watering cakes and sweets available to buy. Just make sure you head there early to snag yourself a seat!

Now Rarotonga is not a large place, actually, the whole island is only 32 km in circumference and its outside road is relatively flat. This means if you have a lot of energy to burn you can chuck on your running shoes and explore at your own pace, perfect for backpacking Rarotonga. Though, if you are not an energizer bunny, don’t worry! There are plenty of other options to travel around Rarotonga as detailed below.

Also, make sure to download the offline map of Rarotonga on the Maps.Me app. This way you don’t have to stress about getting lost and don’t need an internet connection (data & wifi are freakin expensive in Rarotonga!)

A super easy option to travel around Rarotonga is by taking the bus . It travels around the outer road of the island and completes a full circle essentially every hour. Though, do be aware things here run on island time. The drivers always are super friendly and will happily advise which stops to get off at.

The downside to the bus is if you plan on traveling around the island fairly often the ticket costs can add up very quickly. A single journey will set you back $5.00 NZD and there is a 10-journey multi-pass costing $30.00 NZD. Tickets can be brought from the driver and just make sure you check out the schedules for times as on certain days (eg Sundays) there are limited departures.

Another alternative for getting around Rarotonga is by hiring a scooter . Now just so you know you will need to sit a test that is both theory and practical. This will give you your Rarotongan scooter license which is valid for 30 days. The cost of sitting this test is approximately $40.00.

The roads in Rarotonga are not the best, and as a result, I would not advise inexperienced scooter drivers to learn there. Potholes are abundant, street lights are minimal come night and there is plenty of loose gravel to skid out on.

Now, if you feel confident about driving a scooter you will have no problem finding somewhere to hire one in Rarotonga. There are plenty of specialist stores around the island and many hotels also hire them as well. While there I did a weekly special for their scooter hire which was somewhere between $90.00NZD to $110.00NZD

The plus side of hiring a car in Rarotonga is that there is no special license needed and you should already know how to drive one. Though, one major negative is that they can be quite expensive to hire. Running for about $50.00 NZD per day would not be the smartest decision for one person, though if you are traveling in a group and plan on splitting costs this could be perfect! Also, be aware that they drive on the left-hand side of the road.

I hired a car on my last 2 trips to Rarotonga and it certainly was a comfortable way to travel around, especially with air conditioning. We booked both times through Polynesian Rentals and had no issues.

Also, just make sure to get travel insurance which will cover you in case of an accident!

Rarotonga is a super safe place. Though you should always use your common sense to keep yourself and those around you safe. Scams and petty theft are unusual here thanks to the close island community. Nevertheless, look after your belongings and don’t tempt fate.

Don’t drink the water straight out of the tap unless you know it has been filtered or treated in some way. Bottled water is plentiful here and they even have their own brand. Unfortunately, I got Campylobacter on my first trip, though whether that was from the water or food is unknown. All I know is it was the worse case my doctor had ever seen and I had to have multiple weeks off work (I have a very bad immune system so my body struggled to fight it). I also wasn’t expecting to receive a big letter from the Ministry of Health in NZ with a bunch of questions about how I contracted this disease (the joys of traveling).

When hiring vehicles make sure you don’t speed and pay attention to the roads. Potholes are around every corner and there is always some sort of road work going on. Be careful you don’t park underneath coconut trees as insurance is unlikely to cover you for this. If hiring a scooter you always need to wear a helmet when driving.

One great thing about Rarotonga is that is it basically impossible to get bored during your stay! There is such a wide variety of things to do and beautiful sights you will constantly be out exploring. Though, if this isn’t your style and you would rather be lounging around the pool, I won’t judge! Just make sure not to miss out on the opportunity to swim with turtles when backpacking Rarotonga! Also, for a more extensive list be sure to check out my post on the Best Things To Do In Rarotonga .

Across Island Hike

One of the most popular things to do is do the Across Island Hike and visit The Needle. This will take you right into the interior of the mountainous island with some amazing ocean views.

Team up with a bunch of people, tell someone where you are going (in case of an emergency), and download the offline map of Rarotonga on Maps.Me app and you are all good to go.

Now, you can actually book a guided tour with Pa’s Trekking Company sometimes the terrain can be a bit confusing. Though, during my trip, quite a few groups did it unguided with no worries. Just chat with a local first to get an understanding of the track eg muddy slips.

Now you cannot go to Rarotonga and miss out on exploring the incredible ocean life and this can easily be done on a budget, if not for free. Basically, no matter where you are staying on the island the ocean is just a walk away.

Do what I did and bring your own snorkel, or hire your own for a few dollars a day. Honestly, you could spend hours exploring the underwater life and corals (pro tip: the best snorkeling spot is Aroa Marine Reserve behind The Rarotongan beach resort or in front of Fruits of Rarotonga)

Swimming With Sea Turtles

No matter what your budget is swimming with sea turtles is one activity I recommend to everyone visiting Rarotonga. This absolutely, once-in-a-lifetime, experience will have you swimming alongside these majestic beauties. I did this with Ariki Adventures and cannot recommend this enough. Even though you will have a contraption called a ‘sea scooter’ to pull you along the turtle safari should only be done by those who are confident swimmers. As an alternative, they also offer a lagoon safari which I recently did. This is suitable for all ages and is safe for those who are not the most confident swimmers. We saw trevally, pufferfish and so many other marine life which I cannot name.

Lagoon cruise

More of a family-friendly activity is the lagoon cruise. There are a couple of companies you can book with, though we went with Koka Lagoon Cruises. It is a perfect way to get into the Cook Island spirit. With plenty of performances, snorkeling, entertainment, and a delicious lunch it is the ideal way to spend half a day. You will also go snorkeling and meet a few underwater friends. The water is deep though there are cages to stand on. If you prefer to stay on the boat, no worries it has a glass bottom so you can still check out the marine life!

Quad Biking

If you are a bit of an adrenaline junkie then quad biking is perfect for you! Head right into the inland area and among the jungle. Explore off the beaten track and get some of the best views of the famous needle which stands high over Rarotonga. This is the ideal activity if it is rainy so you can splash through all the muddy puddles. Nevertheless, they take you far into the interior of the island to discover areas tourists rarely visit.

Cultural Show

A more tame activity is checking out one of the evening cultural shows . These are magnificent insights into the Cook Island culture with extremely impressive performances involving dance and fire. A buffet dinner is also included with both Western and local favorites.

I went with Te Vara Nui and had such a fabulous evening. Prior to the show we also did a village tour where we learned more about the history of Rarotonga and the Cook Islands. This provided us with a greater appreciation for the performance and the culture.

Raro Buggy Tours

I have always wanted to do the buggy tour as there is such hype so I booked it on my most recent trip. I remember saying at the start to my partner that we must swap halfway so I get some fun. Though when that time came I was enjoying it so much that I was happy to stay a passenger!

You will get a tour of the interior of the island and learn a bit about its history. Next up is getting absolutely soaked in mud and don’t worry if it hasn’t rained recently, they’ll make their own puddles! Lastly, you’ll wash the mud off with a refreshing swim at Wigmore’s Waterfall.

LIKE IT? PIN IT!

Want more Cook Islands inspiration? Check out….

• WHERE TO EAT IN RAROTONGA
• AITUTAKI DAY TOUR FROM RAROTONGA: DISCOVER PARADISE WITH AIR RAROTONGA
• EXPERIENCE THE BEAUTY OF RAROTONGA WITH KOKA LAGOON CRUISES
• HOW TO TAKE THE BUS IN RAROTONGA, COOK ISLANDS
• BEST THINGS TO DO IN RAROTONGA, COOK ISLANDS

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. So, if you click on it and purchase something, I get a small percentage at no extra cost to you. As always all opinions are my own and your support is much appreciated.

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Tasha Amy is a true backpacker at heart and has been discovering the world on a budget since 2015. Based in Gisborne, New Zealand she will spend many months each year traveling overseas as a solo female traveler before coming home and sharing her adventures online with you.

7 thoughts on “ Backpacking Rarotonga On A Budget: Top Travel Tips ”

This is a blatant plug for the place my wife and I stayed on our visit to Rarotonga in March of 2019, and for which I designed a website for them, but regarding accommodation, I submit that Ann’s Island Beach Studio is #1 Greatest Hidden Gem on the face of the Earth!!! Absolute perfect location, and probably the best snorkeling on the entire island, right there 25-feet from your door off of your own (essentially) private beach.

This oasis was not even on my radar, but your overview has given me serious wanderlust!! Need to travel here!

It’s seriously an amazing place! Thanks for reading ?

This is such a great guide! Swimming with sea turtles sounds incredible!

This is such a helpful post. I’ve looked at the cooks so many times but thought them too pricey. Good to know that air bnbs and food is actually not too bad. It looks beautiful, those turtles!!!! Aww :)

I can’t wait to explore Rarotonga. Thanks for all your budget tips

I know very little about Rarotonga but your post has made me add it to the bucket list. Super helpful information and beautiful pictures!

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Rarotonga tips: 5 things to know before you go

We wish someone had told us these Rarotonga tips before we went to the Cook Islands!

One of the disadvantages of travelling in the South Pacific (if there can be such a thing) is the lack of infrastructure for backpackers. It can be done on a shoestring but it’s certainly more difficult than say Southeast Asia or Europe.

At home in London, we knew no-one that had visited places like Tonga or Rarotonga, so first-hand wisdom was very hard to come by. We largely managed with internet research and guidebook information – until we got to Rarotonga where we were hit by a few surprises.

Rarotonga tips

Below, we share the Rarotonga tips learnt to help future visitors prepare for what’s in store.

The internet is gut-wrenchingly expensive

As Rarotonga is part of the far more developed New Zealand, we expected its internet infrastructure to be better than other Pacific islands. Oh, how wrong we were.

In Vanuatu, Fiji, Samoa and Tonga, we had several ways of getting online: cafes that offered free wifi with a purchase, internet shops that offered a fast connection for a small fee, or a local dongle that allowed us to connect from anywhere.

In Rarotonga (or ‘Raro’ as the locals call it), we had only one choice: Telecom and their ridiculous prices including $50 NZD for one gigabyte. That’s $40 USD or £25 GBP for one gigabyte.

There are two pricing structures to choose from. Wifi can be bought as a package which allows you to log in and out as you please, but at pretty hefty prices: 1Gb for $50, 500mb for $25 for and 150mb for $10.

With modern websites as heavy as they are, we found that merely checking email would swallow huge amounts of data at a time. The alternative, which offers slightly better value, is to buy chunks of minutes but these have to be used in one sitting: 30 mins for $6, 60 mins for $9 or 90 mins for $12.

In short: if you need to be online in Rarotonga, it will likely dent your budget.

The bus isn’t cheap either

After three months in the Pacific, we were used to paying mere cents for bus rides. This all changed in Raro where we were paying $5 NZD ($4 USD or £2.50 GBP) for a single journey. The other thing to note is that single rides cost $5 while returns cost $8 so it’s worth buying a return if you’re making a round trip.

Finally (and this is something we have never come across in the 60-odd countries which we have visited between us), you need to pay extra for a big backpack: $2 per bag. We fast felt the pinch after a few bus rides around town.

You probably won’t find Te Manga

On the Cross Island Walk , we bumped into a German-Kiwi couple who said they had tried to climb Te Manga, the highest point on the island, but couldn’t find the trail.

They were experienced climbers so when Peter and I set out to do the same, we made sure we took a map with the point clearly marked. Alas, after two hours of walking and searching, we still weren’t on the trail. Eventually, well into our third hour, we gave up in frustration and went home.

It reminded me of Nevis Peak in St Kitts and Nevis, which tourists are discouraged from attempting alone. In fact, the only reason we found Nevis was because we scoured TripAdvisor for instructions.

If we had been less complacent in researching Te Manga, we may have actually found it. If you’re planning on climbing it, make sure you do some research!

You should stay near Muri Beach even though it’s touristy

We were reluctant to stay on Muri Beach after reading that it was very touristy. We stayed on the other side of the island, figuring we could take the bus down one day.

In reality, Muri is one of the most stunning beaches we have ever seen. It does have a line of hotels down one side with plenty of kayaks and paddleboards littering the scene, but its utter beauty negates the relatively touristy feel.

We made a second trip to Muri but in hindsight, I wish we had stayed within walking distance.

You’ll probably fall in love with it

Despite some of the above, I fell in love with Raro and left a piece of my heart there – and I type this from the private island of Taha’a with a view over the crystal waters of French Polynesia, and Bora Bora awaiting us in the distance.

Raro’s lush but rugged inner landscape, its stunning blue water and soft sand mixed with the convenience of modern supermarkets, roads and restaurants (and a cinema!) made it the first place I could really see myself leaving London for.

Be prepared to fall in love.

Where to stay in Rarotonga

The below are some suggestions for accommodation in the Cook Islands. We always take the time to read reviews carefully to make sure you get exactly what you want from your booking.

• Pacific Resort, Rarotonga

Best time to go to RAROTONGA

The Cook Islands are great to visit all year round with minimal seasonal variations. Generally, May to October are the drier months with November to April wetter.

The best time of year to visit the Cook Islands is September and October when it’s less humid and cooler. Be aware that due to Rarotonga’s mountainous interior it can often rain with little warning so always pack a waterproof jacket.

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Tips for travelling to Rarotonga with kids - Cook Islands Forum

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Tips for travelling to Rarotonga with kids

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I wanted to share my familys experience traveling to Rarotonga and may be help out some people travelling with babies/ toddlers.

The island is very family friendly and safe.

The only thing that I would like to mention is that most hotels swimming pools dont have fencing so there is a need to keep an eye on your little ones.

My daughter enjoyed swimming in the water and pool and was flattered by all the attention from locals and other tourists.

Accommodation: we stayed at Lagoon Breeze Villas in Aroa marine reserve and throughly enjoyed it

The hotel provides Complimentary breakfast which was great for everyone including my toddler daughter. They also had toast and packaged peanut butter which ladies at breakfast offered us to take so we can feed my daughter throughout the day also.

The villas are quite big and equipped with kitchens.

There was a playground just behind our villa for my daughter to play at.

The pool was great, and they also provide free snorkeling equipment and kids toys.

Snorkeling just opposite of the dive centre and towards The Rarotongan resort was the best we found on the island if you plan to snorkel from the beach.

Transport: we hired a small car from Island car and bike hire, which offered the most competitive quote. They are located at the arrivals area of the airport so, it was easy to pick up when we arrived on the night flight .

Other than that there are quite a few rental companies scattered around the island with lots of cars available, which really surprised me as when I was searching for quotes online a lot of them came up unavailable, which makes me think you need to contact them directly for a quote.

Other than that, there are clockwise and anticlockwise buses that go around the island hourly on Mondays through to Saturdays. On Sundays they have limited services.

I was glad we hired a car as even though the island is quite small, the beaches and cafes are still quite spread out, it also saved us from the heat and rain and gave us freedom to go whenever and wherever we wanted to.

Bikes would be a good option if you travel child free.

Food : what we personally struggled with in the beginning was the fact that most cafes and restaurants close at 3 pm with restaurants reopening at around 5.30pm. Which meant we needed to make sure we had lunch before 3 pm, which I suppose won't be an issue for many people, I guess we were just used to being able to get something to eat anytime of the day.

On Sundays most cafes, restaurants, galleries are closed apart from a few that were recommended to us by our hotel.

Places we ate at are :

Vilma restaurant

Charlie's Cafe and bar

The mooring Cafe

Delilicious Cafe

Sails restaurant and iSobar

I have got links for these places with our personal reviews

Aroa: As I mentioned we stayed in Aroa marine reserve and really enjoyed swimming and snorkeling opposite of the Dive centre walking towards Rarotongan Resort. The security guard at our resort also suggested we brought some bread with us to feed fishes which would mean we would see more of them as well.

Muri: we spent most of our time there. Public beach(turn off the main road to where it says Captain Tamas cruises )

Even though we walked across the whole beach trying to find the best area for swimming with less corals, on our last day on the island we found that where the boats are parked where was a nice spot with no corals whatsoever and we were able to swim freely.

Titikaveka : we went there in search of best snorkeling as it was recommended by many locals, we found the ground a bit rocky and lots of coral which made it hard to move in the water. Snorkeling however I then found was great from the boat on the cruise in that area not from the beach.

Black Rock : there is something magical about this place.

We found it really peaceful and great for meditation, beach walk and swim.

Activities :

Captain Tamas cruises : I cannot recommend them enough, and even though it was raining on the day and I was a bit skeptical as to whether I would enjoy it, it ended up being so much fun and the guys absolutely do a brilliant job, the rain didn't spoil the experience at all.

Te Vara Nui Village tour:

we couldn't watch the show as it does start quite late and past my daughters bedtime.

The tour was very informative and brilliantly delivered.

Galleries: the main gallery called Bergman is based in Avarua, the main township.

There are also stores and smaller galleries selling art and pearls in Avarua, Muri and Arorangi.

Te punanga market in Avarua was great whether you are buying souvenirs, sarongs, eating out or just wanting to walk around it.

Its quite big and pretty much all of the island businesses had stalls there.

Vilma restaurant :

We went there on a Sunday evening after reading the reviews and by recommendation from our hotel.

This was one of the few places that were opened on Sunday night.

Frankly we were quite underwhelmed.

It was pretty quiet and we were the only people in the restaurant at the time, however multiple waitresses didn't seem interested in serving us and the food was quite a bit overpriced in our opinion.

Charlie's

My mum and I both agreed that this Cafe had the best food, prices, views and service on the island if not the best in our lives haha.

It's always busy, the food is tasty, the portions are enormous, prices are very reasonable service is unbelievably fast.

One night we went in and weren't hoping to get a table as it looked like it was full, yet they did find us a space and we got our food and drinks in minutes.

We did ask for a side portion of rice for my daughter which they didn't charge us for plus brought it to us straight away.

Absolutely amazing!

The Mooring Cafe.

Great location, yummy food and great service!

We loved the fish sandwiches which were a good value for money

The Cafe had a nice feel about it and a must to visit!

Delilicious Cafe Muri

They are one of the cafes that are open on Sunday.

The coffees and food were great and the service was good.

Sails restaurant and iSobar Muri Beach

They are also open on Sundays and throughout the day, in fact am pretty sure they are the only ones that are constantly open.

They are conveniently located right on Muri beach and have very good coffees and happy hour specials.

Supermarkets:

We did our grocery shopping at Wigmores Superstore which is located between Aroa and Muri, we found the range great and prices competitive.

We also went to the CITS supermarket in town, but found that Wigmores chilled food looked fresher and there wasn't much difference in prices.

To sum up, the island is perfect for a family holiday, the locals are nice and friendly.

Thanks for sharing that Valery. Sounds like you had a wonderful time overall. So nice to read that your little daughter was made a fuss over and had a great time too. It's a wonderful island for family holidays and you picked a great spot to stay with your little one.

Maybe a future visit is in store when she's a little older and you can revisit some of your favourite places along with the addition of some new sights and experiences. Always more to see and do on lovely Raro. :)

Thanks for taking the time to do such a detailed and interesting report. It will be useful to everyone, not just those with children.

If you have the time and inclination, some individual reviews on accommodation and other things would also be useful. All travellers' reports and opinions are so useful to everyone, new and frequent visitors alike, as there is always something new to learn.

Thank you so much for taking the time to write such a comprehensive report of your experience in beautiful Raro.

Having traveled many times to Raro with our grandchildren, I agree it is a very family friendly holiday destination.

I share your enthusiasm for Black Rock, it is also our special place to relax and unwind.

I look forward to reading your individual reviews.

I can't agree with you more @Dianz, we ll definitely be planning another visit in future :)

Thank you @nzlilibet , glad to hear I can help out :)

Yes I will definitely be posting individual reviews on accommodation etc

Thanks @Fernsie for your kind words :)

Kia Orana Valery,

I loved the way that you set out your trip report. The style is most effective and easy to follow. I've been meaning to ask if I can post this to the original location on the Cook Islands forum for trip reports? To my mind the more exposure we can offer people who prepare a wonderful trip report, the better off our readers will find information.

Lagoon Breeze has long been a personal favourite of mine for a family stay. So glad that you all enjoyed your time there. Love what the owners provide by way of the personal and Raro touch.

I love Charlies cafe too.

You will be interested to hear that the horrible road through Vaimaanga village was repaired, upon a special request to the minister for Infrasturcture. About time, since that road was shocking.

Wigmore's superstore will be especially pleased! A popular store for those staying along the southern side.

Thanks very much for your feedback @Frangipani08, oh absolutely -this is my first ever trip report , so wasn’t too sure where this was supposed to go.

Meitaki maata, thankyou Valery.

For a first trip report, you have done brilliantly. I will post your TR to the sticky at the top of this main forum page now.

Enjoy your weekend.

Aw thank you, you too!

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Arriving in Rarotonga: Airport Customs, Biosecurity & Arrival Process

A guide to passing through immigration, customs and biosecurity in the cook islands.

Your final hurdle to an adventure in the atolls of the Cook Islands  is getting through Immigration, Customs and Biosecurity when you arrive on Rarotonga . With fabulous archipelago landscapes, clear waters and a fragile ecosystem, the Cook Islands take strict precautions when it comes to biosecurity. Travellers will also need to make sure they have their passports up-to-date, accommodation and an outbound flight booked, and meet any other current entry requirements . Then, the lagoons, cultural experiences and tropical islands are on your horizon!

Make the airport process as smooth as possible for yourself by following the advice in this guide Rarotonga Airport customs, biosecurity and arrivals process.

Passport, Accommodation Booking and Outbound Travel Confirmation for the Cook Islands

The first thing you will need to organise for your travels to Rarotonga and the Cook Islands is your passport. Your passport needs to be valid for at least six months after your intended departure date from the Cook Islands, unless you’re from New Zealand or Australia, then it needs to be valid for seven days after. In any case, make sure your passport is up to date!

As well as a valid passport, visitors are also required to have:

• accommodation booked (along with the name, address and phone number)
• an outbound/return travel ticket departing the Cook Islands
• any other relevant documents required for the current entry requirements (see What Documents Do I Need to Travel to Rarotonga & the Cook Islands? ).

As long as you meet the above entry requirements, you will be granted a visitor’s permit on arrival. Check out  Cook Islands Tourist Visa: Do You Need a Visa to Visit Rarotonga & the Cook Islands? to learn more about the entry requirements.

Do You Need a Vaccine to Visit the Cook Islands?

There are no current vaccination mandates to enter the Cook Islands. We list all the recommended and/or mandatory vaccines for a visit to the Cook Islands in our article Do You Need Vaccines to Travel to Rarotonga & the Cook Islands?

Packing for the Cook Islands

Before you depart for Rarotonga and the Cook Islands, it’s a good idea to check what items are restricted or prohibited in the Cook Islands so that you don’t risk the item being confiscated at Biosecurity on arrival. On top of that, you will need to check that any outdoor gear or sports equipment that you pack is clean.

What You Can’t Bring into the Cook Islands

• Certain foods , such as fresh vegetables, fruit, honey and more – see Taking Food to Rarotonga & the Cook Islands
• Some animal products without treatment or a permit
• Certain plant products without treatment or a permit
• Dirty camping and sports equipment
• Certain biological items without treatment or a permit
• Illicit drugs and drug paraphernalia
• Weapons and firearms
• Indecent publications
• Endangered species of flora or fauna
• Alcohol and tobacco over the  duty-free allowance
• Other dutiable goods over the  duty-free allowance .

If you do want to bring some of these items, then make sure you declare them. More on that in the “Biosecurity” section below.

Cleaning Your Gear for Arrival in Rarotonga

Although you are allowed to bring sports and camping gear into the Cook Islands, they must be free from dirt and soil in order to pass through Biosecurity. Otherwise, you may either be requested to clean them at the airport or have the item sent for treatment at your expense. So be sure to clean equipment, such as:

• Used footwear
• Camping equipment
• Snorkelling gear
• Scuba diving gear
• Kitesurf equipment
• Fishing equipment , etc.

More Packing Advice for the Cook Islands

For more tips on what to pack for the Cook Islands, check out What to Pack for Rarotonga & the Cook Islands: Cook Islands Packing List .

The Cook Islands Passenger Arrival Card

Skipping to your final direct flight to Rarotonga , it will involve the first part of the Cook Islands Customs and Biosecurity process: completing the Passenger Arrival Card . The form to complete asks for your personal details, as well as your inbound and outbound flight details, Cook Islands accommodation details and passport number, so make sure you have all this information readily available.

The Passenger Arrival Card also asks a series of Yes/No questions concerning Customs and Biosecurity. Answer all of these questions honestly. If you are unsure of the answer, just tick “Yes” and you’ll be able to explain yourself to a Customs or Biosecurity Officer once you arrive on Rarotonga. There are sometimes Health questions to answer too, which change depending on the current public health issues.

Keep ahold of your Passenger Arrival Card until you are asked for it after landing on Rarotonga and going through the border process.

For more information on the Arrival Card and how to complete it, check out  Cook Islands Passenger Arrival Card: What You Need to Know .

Duty-Free, Immigration and Customs

Once you’ve landed in Rarotonga and the Cook Islands, you won’t be swimming with turtles just yet. First up, you have the opportunity to purchase any duty-free alcohol and tobacco you might be tempted by at the duty-free store , making sure you don’t exceed the duty-free allowance . Then, you’ll need to pass through Immigration and Customs .

Declaring Items on the Passenger Arrival Card

At the Immigration Desk , an officer will ask to see at least your passport and Passenger Arrival Card. The officer may ask you questions regarding the answers you have given on the Passenger Arrival Card, especially if you have answered “yes” to any of the Customs and Biosecurity questions. The officer will then tell you if any action is required. Otherwise, your passport and Passenger Arrival Card will be returned to you and you will move to the Baggage Claim area.

For extra documents to have prepared for this step of the arrivals process, such as vaccination certificates and flight booking confirmations, check out What Documents Do I Need to Travel to Rarotonga & the Cook Islands?

Passing Through Biosecurity

Once you have picked up your bags from Baggage Claim , you will finally go through the Biosecurity process.

Declaring Risk Goods

This is your last chance to declare a “risk good” that you might have in your possession or packed in your baggage. Declarable items include:

• Goods that may be prohibited or restricted , such as medicines, drugs, weapons, indecent publications or endangered species
• Cigarettes or alcohol above the  duty-free allowance for the Cook Islands
• Goods for business or commercial purposes
• Goods purchased duty-free that exceeds NZ$750
• Cash with a combined value of NZ$10,000 or more
• Food of any kind
• Animals or any kind of animal products
• Plants or any kind of plant products
• Biological cultures, organisms, soil or water
• Equipment used with animals, water or plants
• Equipment used outdoors equipment like camping gear, hiking shoes, watersports equipment, golfing equipment, etc.
• And whether you have visited a forest or properties for processing animals in the last 40 days .

Note that not all “declarable items” are prohibited, but you still need to declare them so that a Biosecurity Officer can check the item. See a complete list of declarable items in What to Declare When Arriving in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands .

A Biosecurity Officer will ask you questions based on answers given on your Passenger Arrival Card. You may also be prompted to put your bags through an X-ray machine or to open them for inspection.

What Happens if Risk Goods are Found in Your Baggage

If completing your Passenger Arrival Card and you realise you packed something in your bag that won’t go through Biosecurity, like fresh fruit, for instance, don’t worry. You have the opportunity to dispose of potential risk items in bins in the arrivals area of the airport.

If you declare an item and the item is not restricted or prohibited to be imported into the Cook Islands, you will be allowed to pass through Customs and Biosecurity without further action.

What Happens to Undeclared Risk Items?

When passing through Biosecurity, if any restricted, prohibited or declarable items are found in your luggage or in your possession, which you have not declared on your Passenger Arrival Card, you may face penalties.

What if You Declare an Item and it is Prohibited or Restricted?

If you have declared an item that is deemed unsafe to enter the country then you may have the item confiscated. You may be given the option for treatment of the item or exported to an overseas address, both at your own expense. For goods that you have to pay duty tax on, you’ll need to pay the duty and complete the relevant Customs forms.

After Biosecurity

The final part of the Rarotonga airport arrivals process is leaving the arrivals hall to an outside area where you’ll find airport transfers, an ATM, a phone network store, travel agents, a cafe and more.

Check out the Arriving at Rarotonga Airport, Cook Islands: A Step-by-Step Guide for what to do once you have completed the arrivals process, such as getting an airport transfer to your accommodation.

More About Rarotonga Airport Customs, Biosecurity and the Arrival Process

That’s it for our complete guide to the Rarotonga airport arrival process along the what you need to do to pass through customs and biosecurity. For more on the subject, check out our other arrivals guides:

• Arriving at Rarotonga Airport , Cook Islands: A Step-by-Step Guide
• Taking Food to Rarotonga & the Cook Islands: What You Need to Know
• What to Declare When Arriving in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands

Finally, don’t miss a thing about planning a trip to the Cook Islands by checking out The Best Cook Islands Travel Guide .

This article was reviewed and published by Laura, editor-in-chief and co-founder of Cook Islands Pocket Guide. Since arriving solo in the South Pacific over 10 years ago with nothing but a backpack and a background in journalism, her mission has been to show the world how easy (and awesome) it is to explore a paradise such as the Cook Islands. She knows the islands inside out and loves sharing tips on how best to experience Raro’s must-dos and hidden gems. Laura is also the editor of several other South Pacific travel guides.

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