Find hotels in Rarotonga from $123

Top reasons to visit Rarotonga

• Stunning Beaches: Rarotonga boasts beautiful beaches like Aroa Beach, featuring crystal-clear waters perfect for relaxation and swimming.
• Adventurous Activities: Enjoy thrilling boat tours, whale watching, and diving at exciting underwater platforms.
• Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in local culture by visiting markets and exploring historical sites.
• Picturesque Lagoons: Experience the breathtaking lagoons that offer serene settings for kayaking and snorkeling.
• Diverse Accommodation: Choose from a range of hotels and resorts catering to all types of travelers, ensuring a memorable stay.

Find great hotels in Rarotonga

Discover the perfect getaway in Rarotonga, where a variety of hotels and resorts cater to every type of traveler. Whether you seek relaxation on pristine beaches, thrilling adventures, or a family-friendly vacation, you'll find exceptional accommodation options like the Rarotongan Beach Resort and the Pacific Resort Rarotonga. Experience the beauty of the Cook Islands while enjoying top-notch amenities tailored to make your stay unforgettable.

• The Edgewater Resort & Spa: Nestled along the beautiful shores of Rarotonga, The Edgewater Resort & Spa is a 3.5-star property boasting a guest rating of 8.4. This family-friendly resort offers direct beach access, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a relaxing beach vacation. The resort provides a variety of amenities for children, including a playground and supervised childcare services, ensuring a fun-filled experience for families. With its tropical ambiance and warm hospitality, The Edgewater is perfect for travelers looking to unwind while enjoying family-friendly activities.
• The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium: Rated at 8.0 and recognized as a 4-star hotel, The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium offers a luxurious beach getaway in Rarotonga. This resort features direct access to the stunning beach and provides an array of services for families. Children can enjoy games, toys, and supervised childcare options at no cost, making it an excellent choice for families looking for both relaxation and entertainment. With its picturesque lagoon and exceptional amenities, this resort ensures a memorable vacation experience.
• Club Raro Resort – Adults Only: For those seeking an adventurous getaway, Club Raro Resort – Adults Only is a 3-star resort rated at 8.2, catering specifically to adult travelers. This beachfront property provides easy access to various adventure sports, including snorkeling, surfing, and fishing nearby. With its vibrant atmosphere and recreational activities, Club Raro is perfect for couples or friends looking to explore the beauty of Rarotonga while enjoying a lively vacation experience.

Where to stay in Rarotonga

Rarotonga, the heart of the Cook Islands, offers a perfect blend of tropical vibes and stunning scenery. Explore Aroa Beach for its crystal-clear waters and relaxing atmosphere, or venture to Atiu Island for a taste of local culture and friendly hospitality. With family-friendly activities and romantic spots, Rarotonga is an ideal destination for all types of travelers seeking adventure and relaxation in paradise.

• Muri: Nestled on the southeastern coast of Rarotonga, Muri is a vibrant neighborhood known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear lagoons. This area attracts travelers year-round, with peaks in January, April, and July. Muri is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of activities such as snorkeling, paddleboarding, and beachside relaxation. The local markets provide an authentic taste of island culture, and the picturesque lagoon is perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Don't miss the chance to explore the nearby water features that enhance the area's natural beauty.
• Arorangi: Located on the western side of Rarotonga, Arorangi is a charming district that boasts a mix of local culture and stunning scenery. Visitors flock to Arorangi between March and May, making it a moderately seasonal destination. Known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant public markets, Arorangi offers a unique experience to immerse yourself in the local lifestyle. Enjoy leisurely walks along the beach, take in breathtaking lagoon views, and relish the tranquility of the area. The district's water features and lush landscapes provide perfect backdrops for photography enthusiasts.
• Takitumu District: Situated in the southeastern part of Rarotonga, Takitumu District is an idyllic area known for its pristine beaches and outdoor adventure opportunities. With peak visitor numbers in July, August, and October, this district is a fantastic choice for beach lovers year-round. The resorts in the area offer luxurious accommodations, while the beautiful lagoons and water features invite relaxation and exploration. Whether you're looking to unwind on the beach or engage in water sports, Takitumu District is a must-visit destination that showcases the natural allure of the Cook Islands.

Things to do in Rarotonga

Rarotonga is perfect for a beach and outdoor vacation, offering stunning scenery and a variety of activities. Popular things to do include relaxing at Muri Retreat, taking boat tours, and enjoying thrilling whale watching experiences. Adventurous visitors can explore outdoor adventures or dive at exciting platforms, while the local markets provide a taste of the vibrant culture. Rarotonga promises a memorable getaway filled with natural beauty and engaging experiences.

Shopping

In Rarotonga, explore the local markets like Avarua Market, where you can find handmade crafts and fresh produce. If you're up for a drive, check out the Muri Night Market, located about 10 miles away, offering a delightful mix of local foods and unique souvenirs.

Recreation

Experience the tranquility at Manea Spa, where you can indulge in rejuvenating massages and holistic treatments surrounded by lush gardens. For outdoor adventure, explore the pristine beaches and take a leisurely hike through the breathtaking Rarotonga rainforest.

Join a yoga session at the serene Little Polynesian Resort, embracing the stunning ocean views. For a unique experience, partake in a traditional vaka (canoe) ride, connecting with the island's rich culture and natural beauty.

Adventure

Explore Rarotonga's lush interior on a guided hike to the breathtaking Te Rua Manga (The Needle). Experience thrilling snorkeling at Aroa Marine Reserve, where vibrant coral reefs teem with marine life. For adrenaline seekers, try paddleboarding or kayaking in the crystal-clear lagoons along Muri Beach.

Nightlife

Rarotonga offers a vibrant nightlife with beachfront bars like The Edgewater Resort, perfect for cocktails and live music. For a more laid-back vibe, enjoy a relaxed evening at Trader Jack's, where you can savor local cuisine and mingle with friendly locals under the stars.

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 April, July and September, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Rarotonga is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
• 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: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will show you a range of sustainable and eco-friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by booking a package through Expedia that combines your hotel accommodations in Rarotonga with your flights and activities.

Find the best attractions in Rarotonga

Rarotonga offers a perfect blend of beach relaxation and outdoor adventure, making it an ideal vacation spot. Visitors can explore stunning beaches, picturesque lagoons, and local history museums. The attractions cater to those seeking cultural experiences as well as opportunities to enjoy the beautiful scenery and vibrant outdoor activities, ensuring a memorable trip to this tropical paradise.

• Muri Beach: Experience the quintessential beach vibes at Muri Beach, where powdery white sands meet crystal-clear waters. Ideal for relaxation and water activities, this picturesque spot offers stunning sunsets and vibrant local culture.
• Muri Lagoon: Immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery of Muri Lagoon, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy kayaking, snorkeling, or simply lounging by the water while taking in the lush surroundings and vibrant marine life.
• Cook Islands Library and Museum: Discover the rich cultural heritage of the Cook Islands at the Cook Islands Library and Museum. Engage with fascinating exhibits and artifacts that showcase the islands' history and traditions, providing a unique insight into local life.

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	Slightly High
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	Average
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

RARotonga International Airport (RAR) is conveniently located 3 miles from Rarotonga. For accommodation, the 5-star Little Polynesian Resort and Rumours Luxury Villas & Spa, both situated 6 miles away, offer excellent amenities and transportation services to the airport. Little Polynesian provides 24-hour airport shuttles and transfers, while Rumours offers complimentary airport transportation on request. Closer to the airport, the 4.5-star Crown Beach Resort & Spa is just 2 miles away and features various transport options including 24-hour shuttles and transfers, albeit with some fees. Each hotel ensures a seamless journey to and from the airport, enhancing your travel experience in this beautiful destination.