Empty hammock between palm trees on the tropical beach of Rarotonga, Cook Islands

Things to do in  Rarotonga

Coral reefs and beachside feasts

Rarotonga, the largest of the Cook Islands, offers a textbook tropical island experience with its beaches, black pearls, and rich Polynesian culture. While many come here for the laid-back beach vibes, there are plenty of other things to do in Rarotonga apart from sun-worshiping. If adventure is your calling, explore the Cross Island Track hiking trails or dive into the waters of the Aroa Marine Reserve. Take advantage of the boat trips, kayaking, or epic island barbecues, too.

Learn more

Explore Rarotonga by interest

Top activities in Rarotonga

Premium Sea Scooter Turtle Adventure
Likely to Sell OutLikely to Sell Out

Premium Sea Scooter Turtle Adventure

star-5
204
From
$115.59
Cook Islands Turtle Tour

Cook Islands Turtle Tour

star-4
398
From
$91.29
Half-Day Muri Lagoon BBQ Lunch Cruise including Snorkeling

Half-Day Muri Lagoon BBQ Lunch Cruise including Snorkeling

star-5
865
From
$63.90
4-Hour Rarotonga Going Troppo Nightlife Tour

4-Hour Rarotonga Going Troppo Nightlife Tour

star-4
69
From
$50.72
Turtle and Ray Snorkel Tour (Worldclass photography included)

Turtle and Ray Snorkel Tour (Worldclass photography included)

star-4
89
From
$109.55
'Discover' Rarotonga Cycling Tour with Lunch

'Discover' Rarotonga Cycling Tour with Lunch

star-5
82
From
$72.43
Seat in Coach Transfer from Rarotonga Airport to Hotel

Seat in Coach Transfer from Rarotonga Airport to Hotel

star-4.5
15
From
$22.52
3-Hour Rarotonga Island Discovery Tour

3-Hour Rarotonga Island Discovery Tour

star-5
29
From
$57.75
Seat in Coach Transfer from Rarotonga Hotel to Airport

Seat in Coach Transfer from Rarotonga Hotel to Airport

star-3
1
From
$22.52
'Explore' Rarotonga Guided Bike Tour with Lunch and Swim

'Explore' Rarotonga Guided Bike Tour with Lunch and Swim

star-5
46
From
$84.60
Rarotonga International Arrivals Seat in Coach Transfer

Rarotonga International Arrivals Seat in Coach Transfer

star-5
3
From
$31.65
VIP Arrival Transfer from Rarotonga Airport to Hotel

VIP Arrival Transfer from Rarotonga Airport to Hotel

From
$115.64
per group
Premium Sea Scooter Lagoon Discovery
Likely to Sell OutLikely to Sell Out

Premium Sea Scooter Lagoon Discovery

star-5
26
From
$85.21
Private TURTLE tour (Worldclass photography included)

Private TURTLE tour (Worldclass photography included)

star-4.5
39
From
$377.34
Avarua Historical Walking Tour

Avarua Historical Walking Tour

star-3
2
From
$34.08
Half-Day Rarotonga Private Scenic Island Excursion

Half-Day Rarotonga Private Scenic Island Excursion

From
$346.45
VIP Departure Transfer from Hotel to Rarotonga Airport

VIP Departure Transfer from Hotel to Rarotonga Airport

From
$115.64
per group
Rarotonga Turtle Tour
Special Offer

Rarotonga Turtle Tour

star-5
1
From
$43.33
$54.17  $10.84 savings
Eagle Ray and Turtle Tour Photography Included
Special Offer

Eagle Ray and Turtle Tour Photography Included

From
$87.64
$109.55  $21.91 savings
Cook Islands Turtle Tour

Cook Islands Turtle Tour

star-5
1
From
$91.29
See all Rarotonga tours

All about Rarotonga

When to visit

Rarotonga's dry season, from May to October, is ideal for beach lovers thanks to sunny skies and low humidity. The driest months, June through August, coincide with peak tourist season, so avoid them if you want to avoid crowds. In summer, don't miss the Te Maeva Nui Festival, usually held in July or August. It's a vibrant celebration featuring parades, cultural performances, and a spectacular dance competition showcasing the rich traditions of the Cook Islands.

Getting around

After jetting into Rarotonga International Airport, travelers can easily arrange car rentals or opt for a taxi service or local bus transfer. Once in the town, exploring the island is a breeze—there’s just one main road that circles the whole island and two bus services—one goes clockwise, and one goes counterclockwise. Other options for more flexible sightseeing include cycling, scooter rental, and taxi services.

Traveler tips

Don’t worry about looking up local bus timetables in Rarotonga, as the local bus services stops on demand—anywhere on the main road. You only need to wave down the bus, and the driver will pull over at the safest spot. Just remember to bring cash with you. When you want to get off, either stand up or shout to the driver.

Attractions
0
Tours
23
Reviews
1,884
EN
d1a086d5-2de2-472b-adb9-a27b7e4971d9
geo_hub

People Also Ask

What are the top attractions to visit in Rarotonga?

Some of the top attractions to visit in Rarotonga are its natural wonders. Muri Lagoon offers picture-perfect beaches, lagoons, and snorkeling, whereas you can see exotic plants and flowers at Maire Nui Gardens. Also, many travelers trek across the island to see Te Rua Manga—a rocky pinnacle with spectacular views.

...More
Do I need a visa to travel to Rarotonga?

No, tourists aren't required to have a visa for stays of up to 31 days. Passports must be valid 6 months beyond the intended stay. Proof of an onward or return ticket is also required. You must have proof of accommodation for where you’re staying while on the Cook Islands.

...More
What are the best beaches in Rarotonga for swimming and snorkeling?

Aroa Beach is an ideal destination for swimming and snorkeling. It boasts clear, calm waters and the rich marine life of Aroa Marine Reserve. Muri Beach, another favorite, offers a plethora of watersports and excellent snorkeling. Additionally, Tikioki Beach, adjacent to the Tikioki Marine Reserve, is a renowned snorkeling spot.

...More
Can I use my credit card in Rarotonga, and are there ATMs available?

Yes, you can use your credit card in Rarotonga, and there are ATMs around the island—particularly in the main town of Avarua. Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. American Express is less commonly accepted, making it wise to carry cash or an alternative card.

...More
What kind of accommodation options are available in Rarotonga?

Rarotonga caters to all types of travelers and offers diverse accommodation for every budget. Luxury seekers can enjoy high-end beachfront resorts and villas, while mid-range hotels and villas combine comfort with local charm. Budget-friendly choices include hostels with dorm rooms and private rooms, guesthouses, and apartment rentals.

...More
What are some recommended day trips from Rarotonga?

One of the top day trips from Rarotonga is the lagoon of Aitutaki, known for its pristine palm-fringed beaches and exceptional snorkeling. Alternatively, some travelers enjoy glass-bottom boat tours, complete with lively entertainment and a barbecue lunch stop on the picturesque Motu Koromiri beach.

...More
Frequently Asked Questions
The answers provided below are based on answers previously given by the tour provider to customers’ questions.
Q:
What are the top activities in Rarotonga?
A:
Q:
What are the top things to do near Rarotonga?
A:
Check out things to do near Rarotonga:

More Tours in Rarotonga