Things to do in Rarotonga

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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.
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.
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Things to do

Ariki Adventures: Premium Sea Scooter Turtle Adventure

Ariki Adventures: Premium Sea Scooter Turtle Adventure

$107
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Ariki Adventures: Premium Sea Scooter Turtle Adventure
Swim With The Turtles Rarotonga

Swim With The Turtles Rarotonga

$53
per adult
98% of travellers recommend
Swim With The Turtles Rarotonga
The secret waterfall

'Explore' Rarotonga Guided Bike Tour with Lunch and Swim

$89
per adult
'Explore' Rarotonga Guided Bike Tour with Lunch and Swim
Tpour bus in Cook Islands

Island Discovery Tour by Island Hopper Vacations

$62
per adult
98% of travellers recommend
Island Discovery Tour by Island Hopper Vacations
Rarotonga Turtle Tour

Private Rarotonga Turtle Tour

$368
per traveler
94% of travellers recommend
Private Rarotonga Turtle Tour
At Black Rock / Tuoro.

'Discover' Rarotonga Cycling Tour with Lunch

$74
per adult
94% of travellers recommend
'Discover' Rarotonga Cycling Tour with Lunch
Tourists having fun on the Cook Islands

Private Arts & Crafts Tour with Lunch

$168
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Private Arts & Crafts Tour with Lunch
A Turtle Tour on Rarotonga - small groups, premium experience

A Turtle Tour on Rarotonga - small groups, premium experience

$115
per adult
A Turtle Tour on Rarotonga - small groups, premium experience
Turtle tour Rarotonga

Private Turtle and Ray Tour Rarotonga

$172
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Private Turtle and Ray Tour Rarotonga
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Rarotonga must see attractions

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.

6. Cook Island Christian Church

Rarotonga’s Cook Island Christian Church is not so much a tourist attraction as a well-used local amenity. That’s not to say that visitors aren’t welcome here. Quite the opposite, in fact. Join the hospitable congregation at a Sunday service and stick around for post-service refreshments and conversation with the local community.
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A stone building with arched windows, a white cross, and a graveyard with white headstones.

What to do in Rarotonga

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Rarotonga? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Stay near popular Rarotonga attractions

A wooden pier extending into turquoise waters, supported by wooden pillars, with palm trees and a clear sky in the background.

Muri Beach

9.2/10 (867 reviews)
Muri Beach enchants with its turquoise lagoon and four offshore islets visible from pristine white sands. Snorkel among vibrant coral gardens or kayak to tiny motus for an intimate tropical escape.
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Where to stay in Rarotonga

Find the best Rarotonga areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Rarotonga
Learn more about Rarotonga
A beach with clear turquoise water, palm trees, and a sandy shore.
Photo by Project Forever
Open Photo by Project Forever

Takitumu District

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

A wooden pier extending into turquoise waters, supported by wooden pillars, with palm trees and a clear sky in the background.

Muri

If you're spending some time in Muri, Muri Beach and Muri Night Markets are top sights worth seeing.

A tropical beach with clear turquoise water, palm trees, and a wooden fence.
Photo by Zach Cain
Open Photo by Zach Cain

Arorangi

Arorangi is known for its stunning beaches, and you can see some sights in the area like Aroa Beach and Black Rock.

A harbor with boats, a dock, and a mountainous backdrop.

Avarua

Beaches, snorkeling, and bars are some highlights of Avarua. Make a stop by Cook Islands Library and Museum or Punanga Nui Market while you're exploring.

A tropical landscape with a paved path, palm trees, and dense green foliage.

Tapere of Titikaveka

Tapere of Titikaveka is known for its pristine beaches, and you can make a stop by Muri Beach and Tikioki Marine Sanctuary while in 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.

 

 

Popular day trips from Rarotonga

A tropical garden with palm trees, a thatched-roof structure, and a view of the ocean.

Ngatangiia

Frequently asked questions

Is Rarotonga worth visiting?
From retail therapy to history and outdoor activities, there are loads of great things to do in Rarotonga. Make sure to experience the area's mix of unmissable sights, culture and local charm.
How do I spend a day in Rarotonga?
Muri Beach and Aroa Beach are two great places to kick-start your getaway adventures. Be sure to check out the dining and shopping options in Rarotonga while you're there too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Rarotonga?
Muri Beach is one of the top tourist attractions in Rarotonga and should feature high on every itinerary of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Rarotonga?
You can easily tick off top sights like Muri Beach, Aroa Beach and Black Rock with a three-day trip to Rarotonga. On average, many travelers book six days here. There's plenty to explore nearby too, so stay a bit longer and check out Ngatangiia.
Is Rarotonga a walkable city?
Some major attractions in Rarotonga, like Aroa Beach and Wigmore's Waterfall, are within walking distance. You can also explore several of the city's neighborhoods on foot. Just 3 miles from central Rarotonga is Arorangi and Takitumu District is 2 miles away.
What are some activities to do in Rarotonga with kids?
Whether you're traveling with young explorers or adventure-seeking teens, an itinerary filled with fun activities is the key to a stress-free getaway. Browse our ideas for what to do in Rarotonga with kids.

What to do in Rarotonga for adults?
Whether you're a food lover, culture enthusiast or outdoor explorer, there are loads of things to do in Rarotonga for adults including Koteka Winery and Matutu Brewing Company.
Are there free things to do in Rarotonga?
From enjoying parks to strolling around exciting neighborhoods, it's a breeze to discover free things to do in Rarotonga. If you're in need of ideas, ask for tips from a local tour guide. Muri Beach is a must for anyone wishing to save on their travel adventures.

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