Your Ultimate Island Adventure!
Welcome to a slice of paradise! Rarotonga is the largest and most populous island in the Cook Islands, nestled between Hawaii and New Zealand in the South Pacific Ocean. Known for its stunning natural beauty, Rarotonga boasts crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and lush tropical landscapes.
Rich in Polynesian culture and traditions, Rarotonga is a fantastic place to indulge in Maori culture. With fewer than 20,000 people, this Oceania destination is the perfect getaway for relaxation and peace. In this blog, I’ll share the top spots to stay in and must-see attractions in Rarotonga.
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Rarotonga Language & Currency Tips
Language: The locals in Rarotonga speak Cook Islands Maori and English! Most people speak English, so you won’t have any trouble getting around, but learning a few local phrases is always fun—try saying ‘Kia Orana’ (hello) and ‘Meitaki’ (thank you) to impress the locals!
Currency: In Rarotonga, you’ll be using the New Zealand Dollar (NZD), but keep an eye out for the cool Cook Islands coins—they’re unique and can’t be used anywhere else! Most places accept cash and cards, but smaller shops and markets prefer cash, so having some on hand is good. ATMs are available, but not everywhere, so plan ahead!
Rarotonga is a slice of ultimate paradise!
Avarua
Avarua is where island vibes meet local life! As the capital of Rarotonga, it’s the best spot for cool cafes, markets, shops, and buzzing culture. Grab fresh tropical fruit at the Punanga Nui Market, shop for souvenirs, or chill at a waterfront bar with ocean views.
Avarua is also the hub for island adventures, making exploring the rest of Raro super easy. If you want a mix of relaxed island life and local action, Avarua is the place to be!
Arriving at the Cook Islands and eating yummy food at Le Rendez Yous
Activities In Avarua
Areas To Stay In Avarua
Town Center (Avarua Town). Stay right in the heart of the action, with cafes, shops, and markets just steps away. It’s perfect if you want easy access to restaurants, nightlife, and island tours. Plus, you’re near the harbour for boat trips and stunning ocean views!
🩵 Recommends: Kia Orana Villa & Spa is a 4-star, intimate stay with friendly staff and vibes.
Tupapa. Located just east of Avarua, Tupapa offers a chilled-out vibe while still close to town. It’s great for oceanfront stays with epic sunrise views and easy access to hiking trails. It’s perfect if you want peace but still want a quick ride to Avarua’s shops and markets.
🩵 Recommends: Ocean Escape Resort & Spa offers a gorgeous tranquil setting with a boutique vibe.
Nikao. Just west of Avarua, Nikao is known for its stunning beaches and sunsets. It’s close to the airport, making it super convenient for travellers. Plus, you’ll find beach bars, local eateries, and laid-back resorts right on the water!
🩵 Recommends: Rarotonga Golfsea View offers clean, spacious rooms, a beautiful ocean-view pool, and a golf course.
Arorangi
If epic sunsets, beachfront vibes, and chill resorts sound like your thing, Arorangi is a must! Located on Raro’s west coast, this area is perfect for lazy beach days, snorkelling, and sipping cocktails by the water.
Arorangi is also home to some of the island’s best cafes, bars, and local eats, plus you’re just a short drive from Avarua. Whether you want adventure or relaxation, Arorangi brings the best of both worlds!
Cool bars (Tumunu Restaurant) and Black Rock Beach on the Cook Islands
Fun Things To Do In Arorangi
Where To Stay In Arorangi
Moana Sunset Beach. This spot lives up to its name with some of the best sunsets on the island! Stay in a beachfront bungalow or resort, steps away from calm swimming spots and beachside bars. It’s perfect for those who love laid-back vibes and ocean views.
🩵 Recommends: The Edgewater Resort & Spa offers a 4-star stay with friendly staff and gorgeous beach views.
Black Rock. Famous for its volcanic rock formations and crystal-clear waters, Black Rock is great for snorkelling and exploring local legends. Stay here for adventure and relaxation, with stunning beaches and a quieter, peaceful vibe. Plus, it’s super close to Avarua, which is great for easy trips into town.
🩵 Recommends: The Cook Oasis provides a clean, cosy, spacious room and is only 500 m from Black Rock Beach.
Main Arorangi Strip. You’ll find beachfront resorts, cool cafes, and local restaurants here. It’s perfect if you want to be close to everything—from island tours to beach bars with live music. A great spot for social travellers and those who love fun and relaxation!
🩵 Recommends: Manuia Beach Resort is the perfect getaway with stunning ocean views and a tropical, upscale, boutique vibe.
Muri
Muri is the ultimate Oceania beach paradise! With crystal-clear lagoons, white sandy beaches, and tiny islets (motus) you can kayak to, it’s a dream spot for swimming, snorkelling, and paddleboarding.
By day, soak up the sun and explore the water, and by night, enjoy beachfront dining, night markets, and chill island vibes. If you’re looking for Raro’s best mix of adventure and relaxation, Muri is where it’s at!
Stop along Muri for beachfront views
Things To Do In Muri
Places To Stay In Muri
Muri Lagoonfront. Stay right on Muri Beach, where you can swim, kayak, and snorkel straight from your doorstep. With epic lagoon views, beachfront resorts, and easy access to Muri Night Market, cafes, and bars, it’s the perfect spot for those who love a lively beach atmosphere!
🩵 Recommends: Pacific Resort Rarotonga offers an unreal stay with a gorgeous beachfront and top-notch services.
Tikioki Beach. Just down from Muri, Tikioki Beach (aka ‘Fruits of Rarotonga’ spot) is a snorkelling paradise with some of the clearest waters and best marine life on the island. It’s quieter than Muri but still close enough to walk or bike to all the action. Great for those who want a relaxed, ocean-loving getaway!
🩵 Recommends: If you want to spoil yourself rotten, the Crystal Blue Lagoon Villas is a hit!
Ngatangiia Beach. A hidden gem near Muri, Ngatangiia Beach offers a peaceful, less touristy vibe with stunning coastal views. It’s a great spot for chilling, long beach walks and soaking up the island’s natural beauty. Perfect for travellers looking for seclusion but still easy access to Muri’s restaurants and activities!
🩵 Recommends: Mama Taras Bungalows is a great self-accommodating stay and is budget-friendly!
Titikaveka
Tucked away on Rarotonga’s southern shores, Titikaveka is the ultimate beach bum’s paradise! With its postcard-perfect beaches, clear-as-crystal-waters, and chill-as-a-coconut cocktail vibes, this village is a top pick for sun-seekers and water babies alike.
Titikaveka is perfect for snorkelling, swimming, and relaxing in a peaceful setting away from the crowds. With coconut trees, local cafes, and laid-back vibes, Titikaveka is all about unwinding and soaking up the island life!
Cute scenic view around the Cook Islands, Titikaveka
Fun Things To Do In Titikaveka
Most activities in Rarotonga are readily available in any location as the island is small and easy to get around. There are a few other activities to do whilst in the Titikaveka area.
Best Excursions
Places To Stay In Titikaveka
Titikaveka Beachside. This area along Titikaveka Beach offers beautiful beachfront stays and easy access to the lagoon for snorkelling, kayaking, and relaxing on the sand. It’s perfect for travellers who want to enjoy quiet beaches while still being close to Muri Beach for activities.
🩵 Recommends: Little Polynesian Resort is just a 10-minute walk from the beach. It offers clean rooms and friendly staff.
Vaimaanga. A quieter spot, Vaimaanga offers peaceful beachfront stays with stunning sunset views. Ideal for those looking to escape the crowds but still want to be close to Muri Beach for the occasional adventure. It’s perfect for honeymooners or those seeking a romantic retreat.
🩵 Recommends: The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium is a stunning stay with an unreal view and vibes!
Titikaveka Village. For a more authentic and local experience, stay in the village of Titikaveka. It’s a great spot for those looking to experience traditional island life, surrounded by lush gardens and quiet beaches. You’ll find friendly guesthouses and simple beachfront accommodations here, perfect for laid-back travellers!
🩵 Recommends: Muri Beach Club Hotel is a few minutes walk from Te Vara Nui Village.
Hiking Trails In Rarotonga
Te Manga
Get ready for a thrilling outdoor adventure to Te Manga, the highest peak on Rarotonga. On a local guided tour, you’ll hike to its summit, with breathtaking panoramic views of the tropical paradise below. While the hike is challenging, the rewards are worthwhile, making it a must-do for seasoned hikers and fitness enthusiasts.
Pa’s Cross Island Track & The Needle Hike
Pa’s Cross Island Track and The Needle Hike are top picks for those craving an adrenaline rush. Trek through lush landscapes and rugged terrain on a 4-hour journey filled with scenic wonders. Scale The Needle’s 20-meter ascent using fixed chains and ropes before cooling off with a refreshing swim at Papua Waterfall. Whether solo or with a guided tour, this semi-challenging hike promises thrills and stunning vistas.
Ara Tapu Road
Take a leisurely loop around Ara Tapu Road, the palm tree-lined coastline of the Cook Islands. Whether by car or bicycle, this 31.2km trek offers spectacular scenery and plenty of opportunities to stop and soak in the beauty. Exercise caution on the roads and watch out for uneven surfaces, but don’t let that deter you from enjoying this easy and enjoyable route, perfect for visitors of all kinds.
Welcoming scenic views in Rarotonga
That’s A Wrap!
Rarotonga has it all, whether you seek adventure, relaxation, cultural enrichment, or simply a tropical retreat. The friendly and welcoming spirits of the locals add to the overall charm of Rarotonga, making it an unforgettable Oceania destination. It is a slice of paradise in the heart of the Pacific Ocean. So what are you waiting for?
Travelling alone but feeling nervous? The How To Travel Solo Ebook has tips for planning safe, confident, and unforgettable adventures!
