The Cook Islands have so many amazing and rewarding experiences for travellers that we have put together our list for top things you must do in Rarotonga.
Whether it be taking it easy or going on an adventure, Rarotonga has so many options for its visitors. The island is well known for its great holidays, beautiful beaches, and welcoming locals. The real charm of Rarotonga is, in our opinion, in their beautiful and welcoming cultural experiences.
So if you are looking for a must do guide for your Rarotonga holiday, then look no further than this list our team have collated.
1. Drive Around the Island (in 45 minutes)
A great way to get familiar with the island is to do a roadtrip.
It takes about 45 minutes to drive around the whole island, which means there is plenty of time to stop and smell the coconuts. A drive around the island will allow you to properly explore the area, try out all of the beaches, and decide on your favourite spots.
We can add car hire to any of our Cook Island holiday packages for this very reason - it is simply something you must do in Rarotonga.
2. Spend the day at Muri Beach
Muri Beach is Rarotonga’s most popular beach for a reason. Straight from a postcard, Muri is lined with swaying palms, and its crystal blue water and soft white sand is plentiful. It is also a watersport haven, with snorkelling, paddleboarding, kayaking, and sailing available (just to name a few).
Muri Beach is so gorgeous, we recommend blocking out an entire day to enjoy its many offerings.
3. Hike to the Needle
This four hour cross-island hike to Te Rua Manga (or Needle Rock) is a must do for any adventurous spirits on Rarotonga.
We recommend using a guided tour, not only for safety reasons, but also because they will be able to provide cultural and informational context to your hike.
Our personal recommendations for the hike is to start from the north end and to head south. This gets the steep climb out of the way early and ends at the waterfall in time for a refreshing dip.
4. Do some night time paddle boarding
While there are so many water sports available on Rarotonga, we recommend trying out the night-time paddleboarding. This unique experience sends you out on the water with LED lined paddle boards that glow in the evening water. The lights are beautiful and it’s a really fun way to spend your evening in Rarotonga.
5. Go snorkelling with giant clams, turtles, and humpback whales
Rarotonga is a popular destination not just for adventurous Aussies - all sorts of sea life loves the Cook Islands too!
Aroa Lagoon Marine Reserve, Black Rock, and Tikioki are all beautiful spots to snorkel. You will find all sorts of beautiful sea life in the reefs around the island - tropical fish, turtles, giant clams, and even humpback whales.
If you are looking for a truly unreal snorkelling experience, then look no further than this must do Rarotonga activity.
6. Party it up on the party bus!
The Rehab Nightclub offers a party bus service for nightlife lovers and it is a great way to see the island after dark.
The bus - a party in its own right - takes you to some of the island's best bars before finishing the night at Rehab Nightclub. The bus is a great way to have a bit of a dance and make some new friends while seeing another side to the island.
7. Eat with the locals with a progressive dining tour
If you are looking for a truly special culinary experience, the progressive dining tour is a must do.
This tour takes you to three local residents’ homes where they will each provide a different course that they made themselves. This tour allows you to truly get to the heart of this island's spirit - great food, beautiful people, and welcoming locals.
It is also a great way to meet new people and connect over a shared experience.
Go to the buffet dinner and show
Te Vara Nui offers a truly spectacular dining experience in the form of a buffet dinner and Polynesian show.
Not only is the food delicious, but the entertainment will tell you the story of Rarotonga. Traditional Polynesian dance style will explain the legend of how Rarotonga came to be and is performed on a floating barge in the water.
This amazing show is sure to leave you in awe!
Rarotonga: A Must Do!
There are truly so many things you must do in rarotonga that it can be hard to fit it all in one holiday. That’s why this amazing destination has so many people coming back for more. The Cook Islands laid back energy, great culture, and fun activities will leave you rested, fulfilled, and fully transported.
If you are thinking about your next Rarotonga holiday, reach out to our team at Spacifica Travel today. We would love nothing more than to plan your island itinerary with you.
Photos Credit of Cook Islands Tourism