Experience paradise in Takitumu District, where Muri's turquoise lagoon meets white sandy beaches lined with swaying palms. Traditional Cook Islands culture thrives alongside luxury resorts and authentic village life. Ancient stone temples dot the coastline where sacred ceremonies once took place. The Cross Island Track winds through jungle-covered peaks offering breathtaking island views. Te Vara Nui Village showcases traditional performances with fire dancing and rhythmic drumming. Snorkelling reveals colourful coral gardens teeming with tropical fish just steps from shore.
Muri's pristine white sand beaches stretch alongside a turquoise lagoon with four picturesque motus (small islands) dotting the horizon. Snorkellers explore vibrant coral gardens while traditional outrigger canoes glide across crystal-clear waters. This premier beach destination on Rarotonga offers the perfect balance of relaxation and island adventure. The area comes alive with regular island nights featuring traditional Cook Islands dancing and music. Beachfront restaurants serve fresh seafood and Polynesian fusion cuisine with stunning sunset views. Visitors can easily kayak to nearby motus or join glass-bottom boat tours revealing the colourful underwater world below.
Arorangi captivates visitors with its pristine beaches and authentic village atmosphere along Rarotonga's sunset coast. The turquoise lagoons offer perfect snorkelling conditions while local churches showcase traditional coral stone architecture. Gentle waves lap against golden shores as tropical birds call at dawn. This peaceful district balances tourism with genuine Cook Islands culture. Travellers can explore craft workshops selling handwoven baskets and black pearls. Beachfront resorts provide stunning sunset views while Sunday church services offer glimpses into local traditions that remain vibrant throughout this welcoming community.
Avarua blends Pacific charm with vibrant island culture in the heart of the Cook Islands. The bustling Punanga Nui Market showcases local crafts and fresh cuisine. Traditional marae sites and the Cook Islands Library & Museum offer glimpses into rich Polynesian heritage. The harbour area provides scenic waterfront paths with mountain views. Explore this walkable town centre where turquoise waters frame traditional vaka canoes alongside modern fishing boats. Most visitors rent scooters or bicycles to discover nearby beaches and cultural sites. Local cafes serve authentic ika mata and rukau dishes while small guesthouses offer genuine hospitality.
Titikaveka welcomes visitors with pristine white sand beaches and a crystal-clear lagoon perfect for snorkelling adventures. Traditional Cook Islands homes blend with small-scale accommodation, creating an authentic local experience. Lush tropical vegetation and swaying coconut palms frame the coastal landscape. The peaceful rhythm of island life defines this uncrowded paradise. Visitors can explore the Tikioki Marine Sanctuary or wander through Maire Nui Botanical Gardens. Beachside cafes serve fresh seafood while gentle waves provide a soothing soundtrack to your Rarotonga getaway.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Rarotonga
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.
Aroa Beach
9.2/10 (498 reviews)
Aroa Beach's protected lagoon teems with vibrant marine life in crystal-clear turquoise waters. Snorkel among colourful fish, then unwind with a tropical drink at the Shipwreck Hut as the sun sets over the Pacific.
Muri Lagoon
9.2/10 (721 reviews)
Muri Lagoon's crystal-clear turquoise waters create a paradise for spotting vibrant tropical fish and coral reefs. Glide across the calm surface in a glass-bottom kayak or snorkel among the four sacred islets.
Tikioki Marine Sanctuary
9.2/10 (173 reviews)
Dive into Tikioki's crystal-clear waters where vibrant coral gardens host a kaleidoscope of tropical fish. Morning snorkelling offers the best visibility, with gentle currents suitable for all experience levels.
Te Vara Nui Village
9.0/10 (226 reviews)
Experience authentic Cook Islands culture at Te Vara Nui Village with traditional crafts and legends. The night show features vibrant Polynesian dancing, drumming, and fire artistry with an island-fusion buffet.
Cook Islands Library and Museum
8.2/10 (157 reviews)
This intimate museum houses Cook Islands treasures from ceremonial artefacts to rare Pacific literature. Explore traditional weapons, shell displays, and historic vaka canoes while immersing yourself in island heritage.
Black Rock
8.6/10 (308 reviews)
Black Rock, a sacred volcanic outcrop, marks where spirits begin their afterlife journey in Rarotonga tradition. Snorkel its clear waters to discover vibrant marine life or enjoy the spectacular sunset over the lagoon.
Muri Night Markets
8.6/10 (553 reviews)
The Muri Night Markets buzz with Rarotonga's culinary diversity and live entertainment four evenings weekly. Arrive at 5pm to sample the island's best BBQ and seafood before popular dishes sell out.
What to do in Rarotonga
Half-Day Muri Lagoon BBQ Lunch Cruise including Snorkeling
"Wonderful resort. Great pool and bar. Very sweet poolside rooms if you want to step it up but the other rooms are also lovely. NZ$25 breakfast buffet is a great offering.
Staff is very friendly and helpful.
Cook Island bus stops right out front."
"When we arrived we thought we’d come to the wrong hotel. It was like rolling up to the entrance of an old western motel. A gritty, broken up driveway brought us to the main entrance which had a large plain pond with nothing in it - just an unloved body of water which must have, at one stage, had a welcoming water feature, I assume.
The stairs up to reception were plain concrete with grubby iron handrails. And the reception looked as if we’d arrived at the back entrance- barely any lighting,...
"The property has a lot of rooms plus private accommodation that is part of the resort too. This results in the restaurant being overrun in the morning for breakfast. The pool is also really small considering the amount of people that can stay there.
The grounds and rooms are really nice- clean and comfy, but the walls are not the most soundproof and with the amount of people coming and going we were woken up at least briefly each morning or night.
Not the place for us, had more of a Bali/...
"View was amazing, just across the road. Snorkels and googles available. Convenience store and cafe approximately 40 meters from property (next door). No parking on property but directly outside. Beautiful stay
"
"We just had an overnight stay here getting in late from Honolulu and leaving the next day at 4. The room was great. Right on the beach. Clean
and very nice. The restaurant was great for lunch and we hung out by the pool."
"Muri Beach Club is a bit of a mixed bag.
The location is excellent, right on Muri Beach and within walking distance of plenty of restaurants and cafés. The staff were genuinely lovely and always helpful, and because it's a smaller resort it never felt crowded. There were always loungers available by the pool and we never had trouble getting a good breakfast table. The bed was comfortable and the complimentary kayaks, SUPs and snorkelling gear were a great bonus.
On the downside, the resort is...
"Thanks to Craig and Jane.
This bungalow was close to the best snorkel spot on the coast. We even saw turtles and an octopus. What we saved on accommodation we spent on adventures. It was nice to be able to cook at home too."
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
You can snap up a holiday package to this popular destination on Expedia. But how much your holiday to Rarotonga costs will depend on your hotel choice, length of stay and season.
What are the cheapest months to go to Rarotonga?
You can generally find reduced prices and greater availability in January, August and December. Explore our cheap Rarotonga holiday packages and you could land some great off-season deals.
How many days is enough for Rarotonga?
Rarotonga holidays can be short or long, but to get a real feel for this place, we'd say 6 days is a good ballpark. This will mean you can visit top attractions like Black Rock and Cook Islands National Museum and track down some underrated gems. Don't forget to visit cool neighbourhoods such as Arorangi and Takitumu District either. If you plan wisely, you can even allow for a day trip from Rarotonga too.
Is it worth booking a holiday package to Rarotonga?
Rarotonga is a good holiday destination with attractions like Aroa Beach among the many things to keep you entertained. Whether you're heading away with the family or planning a trip with friends, a Rarotonga holiday promises a good time for everyone.
How to find the best Rarotonga package deals?
Start your search for a Rarotonga package deal by entering your preferred travel dates and destination under our "Packages" tab. Then select a few filters, like "Popular locations" and "Property type," to fine-tune the results to your exact style. You can also sort by "Package discount" and browse offers that come with huge savings. If you don't find the ideal Rarotonga package deal right away, just switch up your dates and search again. Keep in mind that deals are only available for a limited time, so book early and get your Rarotonga escape underway.
Is it cheaper to book a Rarotonga holiday as a package?
An Expedia holiday package could score you significant savings when compared to arranging flights and stays separately. Better still, you can customise your Rarotonga escape to fit your exact needs. Pick your preferred flight time, select the hotel type and add a rental car. Browse our great deals to see how much you can save.
When to book a holiday package to Rarotonga?
If you're planning an impromptu Rarotonga getaway, check out our last-minute deals that can be booked up to one week before you go. Prefer not to wait until the last minute? You can find awesome deals on your hotels and flights by booking ahead.
How to plan a trip to Rarotonga?
Pick the ideal time to travel: Your schedule, favourite season and the type of weather you enjoy can all influence your decision on when to visit Rarotonga.
Budget wisely: In addition to the cost of your hotel, you'll need to consider other expenses. These include food, flights and transportation. Also, put aside some extra funds for unexpected expenses that may crop up during your trip to Rarotonga.
Decide your trip length: Consider how long you want to spend exploring Rarotonga. Plan your days so you can get to all the experiences and attractions you're interested in at a leisurely pace.
Bundle your bookings: With your travel dates in order, you can combine your hotels, car rental, flights and more into a tailored Rarotonga holiday package.
The Muri Night Markets offer a vibrant atmosphere with local crafts and delicious street food. The Beachcomber Pearl Market is perfect for unique gifts. If you're up for a drive, visit the Punanga Nui Market, renowned for its varied stalls and lively ambiance.
Recreation
The Rarotonga Golf Club offers a serene experience amidst lush greens, perfect for golf enthusiasts seeking outdoor relaxation. For family fun, Cocoputt presents a delightful mini-golf adventure, with vibrant themes and exciting challenges. The National Stadium hosts various sports events, providing a lively atmosphere for sports lovers.
Adventure
Explore the Wreck of the Matai, a captivating underwater adventure in Rarotonga. Dive among vibrant marine life and historic remnants, experiencing the thrill of underwater sports in a stunning tropical setting. Embrace the adventure and discover the beauty beneath the waves in this picturesque location.
Nightlife
Rarotonga’s nightlife is vibrant and laid-back, featuring beach bars and live music. Enjoy cocktails at the popular Trader Jacks on the waterfront, or experience local talent at the island’s night markets. For a unique atmosphere, visit the Rumours Lounge for a relaxed evening under the stars.
Find the best attractions in Rarotonga
Rarotonga, the stunning heart of the Cook Islands, is ideal for beach and outdoor enthusiasts seeking breathtaking scenery and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore pristine beaches, vibrant lagoons, and intriguing museums, providing a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Whether indulging in local cuisine or immersing oneself in the rich culture, Rarotonga promises an unforgettable getaway for every traveller.
Te Vara Nui Village: Immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Cook Islands at Te Vara Nui Village. Experience traditional dance performances, craft demonstrations, and a sumptuous buffet dinner while surrounded by stunning tropical gardens and a lagoon.
Cook Island Christian Church: Visit the Cook Island Christian Church, a beautiful example of local architecture and spirituality. This serene place of worship offers a glimpse into the island's Christian heritage and hosts vibrant services that showcase island culture.
Tikioki Beach: Relax on Tikioki Beach, known for its pristine sands and crystal-clear waters. Ideal for swimming and snorkelling, this picturesque beach offers a tranquil atmosphere to soak in the tropical beauty of Rarotonga.
Best time to go to Rarotonga
The best time to visit Rarotonga can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Rarotonga falls in March, when visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain. The coolest average temperature in Rarotonga falls in August, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
Tips to save on your trip to Rarotonga
Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Rarotonga.
Consider traveling to Rarotonga during the low season (January to March) for more affordable options.
Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.
* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.