What to do in Rarotonga

Activities, attractions and tours

A wooden pier extending into turquoise waters, supported by wooden pillars, with palm trees and a clear sky in the background.
A heart-shaped arrangement of coconuts on a sandy beach with a calm ocean and clear sky in the background.
A beach with a wooden pier extending into turquoise waters, surrounded by lush greenery and palm trees.
A beach with clear turquoise water, a palm tree, and two people in the water.
A close-up of a green plant with long, narrow leaves radiating from a central point.

Rarotonga Tourist Attractions & Activities

Always up for unique ways to get your kicks and have an enlightening experience, you’re eager to explore an exciting city like the savvy traveller you are. It’s not difficult to fill an itinerary, because Expedia Australia can hook you up with loads of things to do. Reserve your activities today, and all you'll have left to do is pack your suitcase and prepare to have fun!

  • Book your favourite excursion on Expedia Australia for a great price, and you'll still have money for a dream hotel or fine dinner while you’re visiting. The things to do in Rarotonga are not only topnotch, but they won’t bust your budget. We have things to do here, and you can reserve them starting at just .
  • Rarotonga is a favourite among adventurers like yourself. In fact, a good percentage of travellers can't wait for the next trip to the regionto check out local hot spots and find the top activities. The most popular things to do can catch the enthusiasm of even experienced travellers, and one look at our list explains why. Our activities includes an impressive array of historically based excursions and opportunities for adventure. From thrilling ways to get your feet wet like a Glass-Bottom Boat Lagoon Cruise with Barbecue Lunch to unique ways to discover the best this area has to offer like a Going Troppo Nightlife Tour, there is a huge selection of possibilities to choose from when you browse through all the things you can do here at Expedia Australia.

Our activities are the ideal way to organise your trip. It takes an expert itinerary to make the most of a trip to Rarotonga, especially when you wish to pack in plenty of food and entertainment. And it's evident that you're someone who likes to get out and about—you're excited to get out and see what life is like for locals. You're excited to sign up for the best activities around, and an afternoon walking through charming neighbourhoods is a perfect way to spend an afternoon. Book guided tours on Expedia Australia, and you may find all that you are searching for and more.

Activities


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Top places to visit

1. Muri Beach

On southeast Rarotonga, find some of the island’s best snorkeling at the idyllic Muri Beach. Lounge on powdery sand, explore exquisite marine life, discover Polynesian culture and heritage and see the sights of Rarotonga Island.
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A wooden pier extending into turquoise waters, supported by wooden pillars, with palm trees and a clear sky in the background.

2. Aroa Beach

Enjoy the freedom and serenity of the pristine Aroa Beach. Relax under swaying coconut trees, float on the currents, read a favorite book or swing in a hammock for hours. This tropical shoreline is a world-class scuba and snorkeling destination where multi-colored marine creatures provide mesmerizing underwater photo opportunities with every turn.
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A beach with clear turquoise water, a sandy shore, and lush green vegetation.

3. Tikioki Marine Sanctuary

Find some of the most stunning sea life in the South Pacific at the Tikioki Marine Sanctuary. Scuba, snorkel or swim in transparent water to see numerous tropical fish species in Rarotonga's southern lagoon.
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A beach with turquoise water, palm trees, and a clear sky.

4. Te Vara Nui Village

See a concentration of Maori cultural artifacts and performances at Te Vara Nui Village. The setting itself is alluring, with a lake, islands, volcanic rock gardens and small waterfalls.
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A traditional thatched-roof hut surrounded by lush greenery.

5. Cook Islands Library and Museum

Away from sunny shores and thick island vegetation is the peaceful refuge of the Cook Islands Library and Museum. Come here to learn about the fascinating past of this region of more than a dozen islands scattered across the Pacific Ocean. Borrow books for your beach reading too.
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A wooden boat with a pointed bow and a flat stern, featuring a central mast and two side oars.

Recommended things to do in Rarotonga

Number of things to do
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
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Top 5 things to do
Half-day tours
With kids

What to do in Rarotonga


Stay near popular Rarotonga attractions

Our guide on where to stay in Rarotonga

Find the best Rarotonga areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Rarotonga
Learn more about Rarotonga

Muri

While visiting Muri, you might make a stop by sights like Muri Beach and Muri Night Markets.

Takitumu District

While visiting Takitumu District, you might make a stop by sights like Muri Beach and Tikioki Beach.

Arorangi

Arorangi is beloved for its stunning beaches. Take some time to explore sights in the area like Aroa Beach and Black Rock.

Tapere of Titikaveka

Tapere of Titikaveka is known for its beaches, and you can plan a trip to Muri Beach and Tikioki Beach while you're in town.

Avarua

Beaches, snorkelling and bars are just a few things travellers enjoy about Avarua. Check out Cook Islands Library and Museum or Punanga Nui Market while you're exploring the area.


 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 


 

Day trip destinations from Rarotonga

Frequently asked questions

Is Rarotonga worth visiting?
From shopping to history and outdoor adventures, there are many interesting things to do in Rarotonga. Be sure to discover the area's blend of unmissable attractions, local charm and culture.
How do I spend a day in Rarotonga?
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Muri Beach and Aroa Beach. Then, explore different parts of Rarotonga for local restaurants and a little retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Rarotonga?
The top tourist attraction in Rarotonga is Muri Beach, so make sure to include it on your agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in Rarotonga?
Three days in Rarotonga is enough to enjoy the city's main highlights. Many guests book for six days on average. Muri Beach, Aroa Beach and Black Rock are among the most popular sights. Want to discover more? Hang around a bit longer to visit nearby hotspots such as Ngatangiia.
Is Rarotonga a walkable city?
With popular neighbourhoods and leading attractions within walking distance of the city centre, Rarotonga is a good place to see on foot. Wander between Aroa Beach and Cook Islands National Museum. Then take a stroll through Arorangi, located 5 kilometres from the centre, and Takitumu District, which is about 3 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Rarotonga with kids?
Planning what to do in Rarotonga with kids has never been easier. Whether you're getting away with teenagers or toddlers, there's no shortage of family-friendly attractions to keep everyone entertained here.
What to do in Rarotonga for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food connoisseur or fan of Mother Nature, there's no shortage of things to do in Rarotonga for adults including Matutu Brewing Company and Koteka Winery.
Are there free things to do in Rarotonga?
One of the easiest ways to learn about free things to do in Rarotonga is to chat to a local tour guide. You'll get insider recommendations on exciting neighbourhoods, parks and other highlights you can experience without getting your cash out. Muri Beach is one place that doesn't charge an admission fee.

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