Top Things to do in Avarua
The 5 Best Sights & Landmarks in Avarua, Southern Cook Islands
At the base of the rugged, dramatic mountains of Rarotonga lies Avarua, a modest capital boasting a number of bustling outdoor markets, several restaurants and bars, boutiques and the National Museum of the Cook Islands. Along the Main Street you will find fine handicrafts and perfumes, as well as the black pearls for which the area is known. Although conditions are rarely reliable for swimming, there are dive sites in the area, including the famous Wreck of the Matai.
Restaurants in Avarua
1. Cook Island Christian Church (CICC)
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 353 reviews
Sunday services are filled with hymns sung in the Maori language at this island church which dates back to 1853. The local graveyard is noted for some famous inhabitants including American author Robert Dean Frisbie.
Reviewed By 670kates - Byron Bay, Australia
What a wonderful experience to sit among a congregation of warm loving people sharing their faith with everyone so joyously. Very proud of their identity and faith, the service is presented in the local language with occasional references to the many visitors. Church is not a tourist attraction as far as I am concerned and all should be respectful of this tradition. Make sure you donate to the collection generously.
2. St Joseph's Cathedral
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 40 reviews
Reviewed By richardf600 - Louisville, United States
We arrived on the island on a Sunday but, unfortunately too late to attend the service. This is a beautiful island church with wood carvings and beautiful statues. There is easy access and a short walk from the cruise ship tender dock.
3. Wreck of the Matai
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 58 reviews
The SS Matai, owned by the Union Steam Ship Co., was carrying a load of Model T cars when it was wrecked on Dec. 24, 1916. This area is now a favorite spot for snorkeling and diving.
Reviewed By WellyChicky - Wellington, New Zealand
Good snorkel spot. If you plan on going on the reefsub or rongohiva speedboat, don't bother making a special trip as these both give you opportunities to snorkel around the wreck. At low tide you can swim/walk out to it, it's quite a big wreck and one of the best snorkel spots on the island
4. Taputapuatea
5. Para O Tane Palace
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
