Rarotonga

The Cook Islands, Oceania

Rarotonga, the largest of the Cook Islands, enchants visitors with its azure lagoons, lush mountains, and welcoming culture. Known for its breathtaking beaches like Muri Beach, vibrant coral reefs for snorkeling, and rich Polynesian heritage, Rarotonga offers a slice of paradise. Explore the island’s lush interiors on hiking trails, indulge in delicious local cuisine, and immerse yourself in traditional island life at the weekly market. Its laid-back vibe and stunning landscapes make it a must-visit destination for adventurous travelers and beach lovers alike.

Quick facts

Target stay

5-7 days

Type

Island

Vibe

Relaxing

Airport

Rarotonga

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

12 Best Things to Do in Rarotonga

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Snorkel in Aroa Marine Reserve

Explore vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.

No booking required
2

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Hike to the Needle

Trek to a stunning viewpoint of the island.

No booking required
3

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Punanga Nui Market

Experience local culture through food and crafts.

No booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Discover Muri Lagoon

Relax or kayak in crystal-clear turquoise waters.

No booking required
5

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Attend a Traditional Island Night

Enjoy Polynesian culture through dance and cuisine.

Booking required
6

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Rarotonga Cultural Village

Learn about the island's history and traditions.

No booking required
7

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Go on a Lagoon Cruise

Sail through the lagoons and snorkel at reefs.

Booking required
8

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Te Vara Nui Waterfall

Enjoy a scenic spot and local flora.

No booking required
9

Est. 5 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Join a Fishing Charter

Catch local fish in the Pacific waters.

Booking required
10

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax at Black Rock Beach

Unwind on a beautiful sandy beach.

No booking required
11

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Ara Metua

Walk along ancient pathways of the island.

No booking required
12

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Cook Islands National Museum

Discover the rich heritage of the Cook Islands.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

No data

Tapwater

Generally safe to drink

Safety

No data

LGBTQ+ safety score

-6 (#109 globally)

Cost

Expensive

Currency

New Zealand Dollar

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Rarotongan

(20-50% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Umukai

Traditional underground cooked feast. (National dish)

Ika Mata

Raw fish marinated in lime and coconut.

Rukau

VE

Taro leaves cooked in coconut cream.

Poke

Marinated raw fish with coconut and vegetables.

Banana Poke

VE

Banana dessert with coconut and sugar.

Phrases to learn

English

Rarotongan

Hello

Kia Orana

(Kee-ah o-rah-nah)

Yes/No

Ae / Kare

(Eye / Kah-reh)

Thank you

Meitaki

(Meh-ee-tah-kee)

Excuse me

Aroa mai

(Ah-roh-ah my)

How much?

E hia?

(Eh hee-ah)