The main island of the Cooks and home to its tiny capital, Avarua, Rarotonga is not only a holiday destination in itself but the gateway to more far-flung isles. Not that you have to leave its sandy shores. Sink into island time and never leave your resort, but if you do want to venture out, Rarotonga has plenty to offer. Take the local bus around the island circuit route or hire a motor scooter or bike and stop at your choice of idyllic beach or watch the sun set over the reef. Rarotonga is almost completely encircled by a lagoon so water-based activities are on offer everywhere. On land join an island tour or tackle the cross-island trek. Don’t miss the Saturday market in Avarua where you’ll find pareus(sarongs), handmade quilts, tropical fruit and black pearls. Evenings bring a stroll on a moonlit beach or an island feast and dance night with dynamic drumming and twirling hips.
Insider Insights
“Go for an early morning walk along the road & take in the sights, sounds & smells of the villages coming awake. The low dawn sun filters through the smoky mist & pigs, dogs and small boys walking idly to school will share your pathway. Go via the beach on the way back to make the most of the fresh breeze over the lagoon.” Joanna McGrath “There was a free cultural show on stage in the middle of the markets which added to the vibrant atmosphere – but also pulled the crowds away from the stalls - we made the most of the deserted stalls when the show first started to choose our souvenirs before heading over to take in the drums, dancing and beautiful swirling outfits.” Kirsty Guidery “While in Rarotonga you have to watch a plane land. They land so close to the edge of the island the plane literally flies right over the top your head. At night the sea wall at the end of the runway comes alive with tourists ready to see how close they get. Be sure to check out the flight schedules at the Airport or on the back page in the local paper.” Cassandra Cox “If you want some great snorkelling you need to go to Fruits of Raro - This is the marine reserve so the fish & coral are awesome! Buy a bag of frozen peas and the fish will just love you. You can also grab great smoothies, jams & chutneys for sale at Fruits of Raro." Amie Godek
“Exploring the markets on our second day was a brilliant idea. We stocked up on delicious fruit and snacks for our stay. And bought lots of cute Rarotongan souvenirs and a couple of colourful sarongs, did a tiny bit of bargaining but the prices are so reasonable that it was fine paying the price.” Odette Longhurst
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