Located in the South Pacific Ocean, Rarotonga is the most populated of the Cook Islands and is home to their capital, Avarua. Known locally as “Raro,” the island offers palm-fringed beaches, bush walking, colorful festivals and snorkeling in warm, clear waters.
The island’s circumference measures just 20 miles (32 kilometers) and is surrounded by a lagoon. Tropical fish and coral abound in the warm, shallow waters. The calm waters of Muri Beach are perfect for beginner snorkelers.
Rarotonga was formed by a rocky volcano, which collapsed to form a round island with small jagged peaks and hidden waterfalls. Visit Wigmore's Waterfall, which teems with wildlife. You can easily explore this and other natural attractions by bike or on foot. Another great opportunity to see the island’s flora and fauna is at the Maire Nui Botanical Gardens, which features much of the local vegetation.
Visit the lively Punanga Nui growers market every Saturday before noon in Avarua village. Try the local cuisine, including seafood, and enjoy live music while buying souvenirs, locally-grown vegetables and flowers.
Chickens and coconuts are just some of the obstacles often found on the roads of Rarotonga, and with not one traffic light on the island, you may find driving an eye-opening experience. You can also get around using the island’s bus service that travels both clockwise and anti-clockwise on the road circling the island. Bus drivers will pick up and drop off on demand. A round trip of the island takes about 50 minutes.
Rarotonga International Airport is the main gateway to the Cook Islands. Boats traveling between the islands can be very infrequent – sometimes weeks apart, with generally no scheduled ferry service – so flying is recommended.
The Cook Islands were once a British protectorate, with control later passed to New Zealand. Today, the islands are self-governing in free association with New Zealand. English is one of the official languages here. Many locals also speak Cook Islands Māori, often called Rarotongan after the capital island.
Rarotonga
Where to stay in Rarotonga
Takitumu District
While visiting Takitumu District, you might make a stop by sights like Muri Beach and Muri Night Markets.
Arorangi
Arorangi is known for its stunning beaches, and you can see some sights in the area like Aroa Beach and Black Rock.
Tapere of Titikaveka
Tapere of Titikaveka is known for its pristine beaches, and you can make a stop by Muri Beach and Tikioki Marine Sanctuary while in the area.
Avarua
Beaches, snorkeling, and bars are some highlights of Avarua. Make a stop by Cook Islands Library and Museum or Cook Island Christian Church while you're exploring.
Tapere of Vaimaanga
Travelers like the museums in Tapere of Vaimaanga, and Wigmore's Waterfall is a top attraction you might want to visit.
Takuvaine Tapere
While visiting Takuvaine Tapere, you might make a stop by sights like Cook Islands Library and Museum and Cook Island Christian Church.
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Popular places to visit
Muri Beach
Stretch out comfortably on the bone-white beach while watching the sunrise over Rarotonga’s popular lagoon.
Muri Lagoon
Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Muri Lagoon during your travels in Rarotonga. Stroll along the area's beautiful beaches, or simply savor its seafood restaurants.
Aroa Beach
Leave the bustle of the modern world behind and lounge on stretches of powdery white sand with the transparent Pacific Ocean at your fingertips.
Te Vara Nui Village
Join an interactive experience to appreciate the authentic educational and entertaining story of Cook Islands’ culture.
Tikioki Marine Sanctuary
Swim with multi-colored fish or spend hours on a stretch of powdery white beach at one of Rarotonga's best coastal spots. Dive around nearby shipwrecks.
Cook Islands Library and Museum
Through art and literature, learn about the history and traditions of the Cook Islands in a library and museum run by friendly local residents.
Things to do
Reviews of Rarotonga
5/5 - Excellent
The people on the island are so friendly. The Island has almost no crime. With the current exchange with the US dollar it is a very affordable vacation.
5/5 - Excellent
A great place to explore with super friendly people and good service in restaurants and bars. Do as much or as little as you please
4/5 - Good
Go on the buggy tour
5/5 - Excellent
I will be heading back to Rarotonga the first chance I get. It's very hard to go anywhere and truly unplug from reality, but Raro gives a person that opportunity. It's such a lovely experience. I'm incredibly grateful I was able to visit!
5/5 - Excellent
Rarotonga and Aitutaki are both very beautiful and safe. I like that plastic and Styrofoam have been banned on the islands. The beaches are very clean
4/5 - Good
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