Apart from lying on the beach (which of course is amazing in itself!), there are loads of activities and things to do in Rarotonga. Here is a selection of our favourite things to see and do in the Cook Islands - some are paid activities and Rarotonga tours, and others are free things to do in Rarotonga so you can start dreaming and planning your next tropical holiday!
Snorkelling in Rarotonga: Captain Tama’s Lagoon Cruizes
Rarotonga Markets
The other market to check out is the Muri Night Markets on every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday from 5pm*, located in the Muri Beach Village. If you’re looking for where to eat in Rarotonga, this market is a great option for a cheap dinner out with some awesome food trucks offering things like local BBQ meals, curries, amazingly fresh seafood, pizza, wok fried noodles and some sweet treats for dessert too!
Te Vara Nui Village - Show & Dinner
Rarotonga Tours
• Aitutaki Day Tour: For an easy and more affordable way to experience the beauty and charm of Aitutaki, the Aitutaki Day Tour is a must. This all-inclusive day tour is suitable for all travellers including families with children and is only a short flight from Rarotonga. The Aitutaki Day Tour is designed to showcase all the best places in Aitutaki and fill the day with breathtaking views of the lagoon and its many islands including One Foot Island. Enjoy a lagoon cruise on board a traditional-style Vaka, including BBQ lunch and some activities like swimming and snorkelling to make the most of this idyllic island. This day trip is definitely one not to be missed!
• Raro Buggy Tours: Looking for an exhilarating way to explore Rarotonga? Join a Raro Buggy Tour! Venture around the island and get off the beaten track as you zoom through the hills in your personal buggy. Don’t forget a change of clothes, you will get muddy!
• 4WD Inland Safari Tour: For an off-road experience of Rarotonga, take the 4 Wheel Drive Safari Tour where you will explore the inland roads and heights of the island. The tour guides will give you a glimpse into the Cook Islands history and culture, while you take in a different view of Rarotonga not experienced by most!
• Going Troppo Nightlife Tour: Want to experience the Cook Islands by night? Jump on board the Going Troppo Nightlife tour and dance the night away. This tour is a night of fun and music, and is the safest and most entertaining way to visit some of Rarotonga’s best nightlife spots. Running on Wednesday and Friday nights*, the nightlife tour does pick up and drop off to your accommodation so makes an easy option to get out and have some fun in Rarotonga! Just note that this tour is not suitable for children.
Cross Island Trek & Nature Walk
You can also do the cross island hike yourself which is a free option to explore the natural scenery of Rarotonga. If you’re doing it yourself, it’s recommended to do the walk north to south so there is less chance of taking a wrong turn. The walk up to The Needle is the most popular walk to do in Rarotonga.
Rarotonga and Cook Islands Beaches
To really make the most of your tropical holiday, spending some time relaxing on the best Rarotonga beaches is a must! Here are some of our top recommendations to enjoy the beaches and the glorious Rarotonga weather!
• Muri Beach & Lagoon, Rarotonga: One of the most popular beaches on Rarotonga is Muri Beach, it’s a hub for many fun water activities - you can hire a stand-up paddle board or kayak, book in a lagoon cruise, or go kitesurfing. Some resorts will also have free use of water activity equipment, so check that out with your Travel Expert when they book your accommodation. If you’re looking for where to eat in Rarotonga there is plenty of choices at Muri Beach with many cafés, bars and restaurants right on the beach front.
• Titikaveka, Rarotonga: Located south of Muri Beach, another top beach to visit is Tikikaveka with its turquoise blue water, white sand and classic palm trees. It’s also a famous Rarotonga snorkelling spot, so make sure you add Tikikaveka Beach to your list!
• Black Rock Beach, Rarotonga: Positioned on the ‘sunset side’ of Rarotonga, Black Rock Beach is a favourite for experiencing the stunning sunsets Rarotonga is famous for. Black Rock is also a perfect spot for swimming and snorkelling.
• One Foot Island, Aitutaki: Only a short trip from Rarotonga and located in Aitutaki’s lagoon is One Foot Island. Accessible by boat, experience a beautiful beach with spectacular snorkelling where you’ll see giant clams and corals. Don’t forget your passport, you can get it stamped at the local post office hut – a must do Cook Islands experience to show you’ve been to paradise!
Aroa Marine Reserve
Considered one of the world’s best snorkelling spots, Aroa Marine Reserve is a must-do tropical experience while in Rarotonga. As it’s a protected lagoon there is an abundance of reef fish and the crystal clear water will ensure you get an unforgettable snorkelling or diving experience. There is snorkelling gear and diving tours available from the resort on Aroa Beach or the dive centre.
Feeling inspired? Book your Rarotonga flights or holiday package here!
*Timings may have changed due to COVID-19 - we recommend you check these timings with your Flight Centre Travel Expert.