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Top reasons to visit Rarotonga

• Stunning Beaches: Rarotonga boasts pristine beaches with crystal-clear lagoons, perfect for sunbathing and relaxation.
• Outdoor Activities: Engage in thrilling adventures such as snorkelling, hiking, and Raro safari tours to explore the island's natural beauty.
• Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in local culture through historical museums and traditional ceremonies that showcase the island's heritage.
• Vibrant Markets: Discover lively local markets where you can shop for unique crafts and fresh produce.
• Welcoming Accommodation: Choose from a range of hotels and resorts that cater to every traveler's needs, ensuring a memorable stay.

Find great hotels in Rarotonga

Discover the perfect accommodation options in Rarotonga, where a blend of hotels and resorts cater to every traveller's desire. Whether you're seeking a family holiday, thrilling beach adventures, or a relaxing getaway, the diverse offerings promise an unforgettable experience. Explore the renowned Pacific Resort Rarotonga and other delightful lodgings that ensure your stay is both comfortable and memorable in this beautiful tropical paradise.

• The Edgewater Resort & Spa: The Edgewater Resort & Spa embodies a quintessential beach getaway with a guest rating of 8.6. This resort is designed for those seeking adventure and relaxation in a stunning tropical setting. With direct access to the beach, guests can indulge in various activities such as snorkelling and fishing right on-site. For those keen on exploring, nearby locations offer hiking, biking, and surfing opportunities. The resort's amenities ensure a comfortable stay, making it an ideal choice for adventure enthusiasts looking to enjoy Rarotonga’s natural beauty.
• The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium: Rated 8.0, The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium welcomes families with its thoughtful amenities and stunning beachfront location. This hotel prioritises the needs of younger guests, featuring a playground, childcare services, and a range of games to keep children entertained. Its direct beach access allows families to enjoy safe swimming and snorkelling, making it a perfect spot for a family holiday. The resort also offers a variety of dining options, ensuring a delightful culinary experience for all ages.
• Club Raro Resort – Adults Only: With a guest rating of 8.2, Club Raro Resort – Adults Only is tailored for adults seeking a vibrant and adventurous holiday. This resort features direct access to the beach and offers a range of adventure sports including kayaking, sailing, and boat tours. The relaxed atmosphere is complemented by the resort’s appealing amenities, making it a great choice for couples or friends looking to unwind while enjoying activities together. Its emphasis on adult-only leisure provides a unique and tranquil retreat for those seeking relaxation and adventure.

Where to stay in Rarotonga

Rarotonga, the stunning heart of the Cook Islands, invites you to indulge in a tropical paradise. With its pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and warm, friendly atmosphere, it’s perfect for family-friendly adventures or romantic getaways. Explore the island’s vibrant resorts, bask in the sun on the best beaches, and immerse yourself in the local culture. Rarotonga offers an unforgettable holiday experience, blending relaxation and recreation in a breathtaking setting.

• Takitumu District: Nestled around the enchanting Rarotonga, Takitumu District offers a serene escape with its stunning beaches and lush scenery. This area boasts a steady flow of visitors throughout the year, peaking during the cooler months of July to August and October. The district is renowned for its outdoor activities and resort experiences, making it an ideal base for exploration. Highlights include picturesque lagoons and vibrant water features that invite relaxation and adventure alike.
• Muri: Muri is a captivating neighbourhood in Rarotonga, famous for its beautiful beach and vibrant outdoor scenes. With visitor numbers soaring in January, April, and July, Muri offers a lively atmosphere filled with opportunities for exploration. The local market is a must-visit, brimming with fresh produce and artisan goods. The stunning lagoon, framed by swaying palms, is perfect for swimming, kayaking, or simply soaking up the sun. Muri truly encapsulates the essence of island life.
• Arorangi: Located on the western side of Rarotonga, Arorangi is a charming district known for its stunning sunsets and welcoming vibe. The area experiences moderate seasonal variations in visitor numbers, with peaks from March to May. Arorangi is an ideal spot for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering access to pristine lagoons and vibrant markets. Visitors can immerse themselves in local culture at public markets, where fresh produce and handmade crafts abound, making it a delightful place to experience the flavours of the Cook Islands.

Things to do in Rarotonga

Rarotonga offers a delightful blend of beach and outdoor activities, perfect for a scenic holiday. Enjoy excellent lagoon snorkelling and embark on Raro safari tours to explore the island's natural beauty. The local markets provide a vibrant atmosphere for shopping, while various resorts cater to relaxation and adventure seekers alike. Whether you're in search of thrilling experiences or tranquil moments, Rarotonga has something for everyone.

Shopping

In Rarotonga, visit the Punanga Nui Market for vibrant local crafts, fresh produce, and delicious street food. If you're up for a drive, explore the Avarua Shopping Centre, located 16km away, featuring a selection of shops for clothing, souvenirs, and gifts.

Recreation

Explore the tranquil atmosphere at the Pacific Resort Rarotonga Spa, where you can indulge in rejuvenating treatments amidst lush surroundings. Engage in yoga sessions on the beach, allowing the sound of the waves to enhance your relaxation and mindfulness experience.

Adventure

Explore the stunning Muri Lagoon through kayaking or paddleboarding, where you can glide over crystal-clear waters while enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding islands. For hiking enthusiasts, trek to the summit of Te Rua Manga for panoramic vistas of Rarotonga's lush landscapes and sparkling coastline.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at the Trader Jacks on the waterfront, where you can enjoy live music and stunning views. For a more relaxed vibe, visit the Treetops Bar and Café, offering cocktails and local beers amidst a lush setting, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Rarotonga

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Rarotonga are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to July and September, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel in Rarotonga about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Rarotonga is Friday. The most expensive day to stay in Rarotonga is Sunday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, including your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you prefer. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel accommodation in Rarotonga with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Rarotonga

Rarotonga offers a delightful escape for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, with stunning lagoons and rich cultural experiences. Visitors can explore local attractions such as historical museums and the beautiful Sanctuary Rarotonga, perfect for immersing oneself in the island's natural beauty and heritage. Whether you're seeking relaxation by the beach or adventurous outdoor activities, Rarotonga provides an idyllic setting for a memorable holiday.

• Muri Beach: Muri Beach offers a stunning stretch of soft sand and crystal-clear waters, perfect for lounging and soaking up the sun. The beach is renowned for its laid-back atmosphere, inviting visitors to indulge in leisurely activities like swimming and sunbathing while enjoying the picturesque backdrop of palm trees swaying in the breeze.
• Muri Lagoon: Muri Lagoon is a tranquil paradise, characterised by its vibrant scenery and outdoor vibes. The lagoon's shallow waters are ideal for snorkelling, allowing you to explore the colourful marine life and coral gardens, all while surrounded by lush tropical landscapes.
• Cook Islands Library and Museum: The Cook Islands Library and Museum offers a fascinating insight into the rich culture and history of the islands. You can browse through local literature, historical artefacts, and exhibitions that showcase the unique heritage of the Cook Islands.

Best time to go to Rarotonga

The best time to visit Rarotonga is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. March is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain. August is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	79.3°F (26.3°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
February	80.1°F (26.7°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	80.4°F (26.9°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
April	79.2°F (26.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	77.4°F (25.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
June	75.2°F (24.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
July	74.1°F (23.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	73.0°F (22.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
September	73.9°F (23.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
October	74.3°F (23.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
November	75.7°F (24.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
December	77.9°F (25.5°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Rarotonga

Flying into RARotonga is convenient via Rarotonga International Airport (RAR), located 5km from the island's centre. Among the nearby accommodation options, Little Polynesian Resort and Rumours Luxury Villas & Spa are both situated 10km from the airport, offering 24-hour airport shuttle services and other transport options. Crown Beach Resort & Spa is closer, at only 3km away, providing various shuttle services and transfers. These hotels ensure easy access to the airport, making your arrival and departure seamless while you enjoy your stay in the beautiful Cook Islands.