Top Things to do in Rarotonga
Top Restaurants in Rarotonga
What to do and see in Rarotonga, Southern Cook Islands: The Best Free Things to do
Sipping coconut milk while bargaining for handmade jewelry and swaying your hips to live music—just another Saturday morning in Rarotonga. After a few hours of checking out the wharf-side Punanga Nui Market, hit the beaches of this reef-protected volcanic island. There are plenty of picturesque lagoons that allow peaceful swimming or snorkeling, and moonlit strolls along the East Side sands are pure magic. Raro Safari Tours are a popular way to explore the island’s vivid rainforest.
Restaurants in Rarotonga
1. Boogies Bar & Takeaway
2. Bergman & Sons
3. Tivaevae Collectables
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 22 reviews
Designer traditional pacific fabric art for your home. We are proud to keep the art of Tivaevae alive with both traditional hand embroidered Tivaevae, machine made or cut and tacked Tivaevae for you to hand sew yourself. Plus many other pacific inspired gifts for you to take home.
Reviewed By 808allie
I wanted a reminder of the absolute joy of our visit to Rarotonga, and the dress I purchased here is the perfect momento as it not only has the design, colors and uniqueness of the Cook Islands, but I know it is made with the spirit of joy and kindness. Kathrine was so helpful with my purchase, and the earrings I bought are also so lovely and unique, I will always feel as if I am back on my perfect holiday when I wear - or even just look at - these items. Can't wait to go back!
4. Te Rua Manga (The Needle)
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 291 reviews
This tall, rocky pinnacle can be spotted from several locations on the island and is a favorite challenge for those who enjoy a good climb.
Reviewed By Bree1991 - Newcastle, Australia
We trekked from the Pāpua waterfall up to the needle and back. Quite a challenging but beautiful walk. Extremely slippery in some sections and I did slip over a couple of times going down hill. Stunning stream trickling for most of the walk. Give yourself plenty of time and take lots of water. Barry the rooster greeted us up the top! Nice swim in the waterfall at the end of the walk. Definitely don’t do as I did and wear and white singlet. It soon turns muddy and brown!
5. Muri Lagoon
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 877 reviews
One of the island's most beautiful locations, this lagoon and beach is a popular destination for swimming and snorkeling.
Reviewed By Kinkoona - Sydney, Australia
One of the many excellent aquatic locations on the island - but a “must do”. Lagoon itself is excellent as a beach and swim spot - it also has access to hiring things such as paddle boards, kayaks and snorkeling gear. Koka and Captain Tama day trips also leave from here and there is a few spots on the beach to get a drink/food. It is also a close walk to main road of Muri for supplies or food. No sunset at end of day but the views are excellent
6. Punanga Nui
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 462 reviews
Saturday is the best time to visit this outdoor market where you can purchase fruits, vegetables, bedding and clothing.
Reviewed By 341neilm - New Zealand, null
Keep in mind this market happens TWICE a week. Saturday morning is much bigger, has all kinds of food and cultural performances. Thursday night is much smaller, but great food to tie you over till Saturday. Support local produce, donate to SPCA (the have an op shop there) and participate in local show which gives away a free tour (you will need to demonstrate your dancing abilities;-))
7. 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.
8. The Little Red Gallery
9. Perfumes of Rarotonga Avarua
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 70 reviews
Rarotonga is so lucky to be surrounded by the most beautiful flowers in the world. The scents, starting at sunrise, and never ending have to be smelt to be believed. We make here the most delicate of perfumes, complimentary body cosmetics, candles. Finally our local fruit liqueurs bring flavor as well as scents to the palate.Our Factory in Panama welcomes you and shows you how our various products are made, whilst in the Cook's Corner we have our famous Fudge Factory! Try an ice cream with chocolate fudge sauce!
Reviewed By ELLAI_11 - Salt Lake City, United States
We visited this store twice. Purchased most of our souvenirs there. It is conveniently located: in Avarua and right at the bus terminal. The two ladies that helped us were very nice, friendly and very willing to help us pick our items. On our second visit, they greeted us like we were long time friends. If you go there, try their fudge( so many flavors).
10. Titikaveka Beach
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 476 reviews
Reviewed By B5009DYbenh - Singapore, Singapore
Prefect beach for small kids and baby’s. Water is like a mirror. You can see the fishes swimming at the coral heads from the beach. Nice white sand beach perfect to play for the little ones. Nice coral for snorkeling
