A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Rarotonga, Cook Island

Almost all of the best activities in Rarotonga take place in or next to the water. The crystal waters, sandy beaches, and vibrant reefs are the perfect playground to dive, snorkel, and fish.
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Beneath the Cook Islands and Rarotonga’s stunning landscapes lies a vibrant underwater world where crystal-clear waters reveal an abundance of colourful marine life. The islands’ lagoon is a paradise for explorers, with live coral reefs teeming with life just waiting to be discovered.
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Whether you’re snorkelling right off the beach, zipping through the water on a sea scooter, or gliding across the surface on a stand-up paddleboard, Rarotonga offers the perfect conditions year-round, with warm water and exceptional visibility.
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You can also dive into the island’s underwater wonderland by snorkelling around the live coral reefs. With warm water and impressive visibility all year round, it’s not something to be missed.
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In the vast turquoise playground of Rarotonga, paddleboarding and the lagoon are a perfect match. It’s a relaxed and scenic way to explore the island’s beauty.
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For a thrilling underwater adventure, try sea scootering at 4 km/h to discover the incredible marine life that thrives around Rarotonga’s shores. It’s a fun and easy way to explore this vibrant undersea world.

With so much to see and explore, no two experiences are ever the same. However, one thing is certain — a lagoon cruise is an absolute must for your holiday!
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Aitutaki’s expansive lagoon, stretching for miles, offers a breathtaking setting for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Visitors can take a quick 50-minute flight with Air Rarotonga from Rarotonga to Aitutaki and explore the pristine lagoon on a day tour.
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What’s more, on the southeastern coast of Rarotonga, in the heart of Muri Beach, you’ll find two unforgettable glass-bottom boat tours.

With translucent waters, tropical temperatures, and pristine reefs that plunge into the Pacific Ocean, Rarotonga is a haven for anglers. In fact, both Rarotonga and Aitutaki are home to an abundance of giant trevally, making them prime spots for sport fishing. It is a formidable opponent on light tackle, offering anglers the thrill of a catch-and-release adventure.
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What sets fishing on Rarotonga apart is the island’s unique geography, with its 36 km circumference ensuring ideal fishing conditions in nearly any weather. For those seeking the ultimate land-based fishing challenge, the fast-running, hard-fighting bonefish await on Aitutaki’s stunning sand flats.

Divers are captivated by the Cook Islands’ crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, which make this tropical paradise a dream destination. With water temperatures ranging from 23°C to 28°C and visibility reaching up to 60 meters, the underwater landscape is a spectacular playground.
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It features steep oceanic drop-offs, canyons, caves, vibrant coral walls, and a kaleidoscope of colourful fish. With over 73 types of live coral and hundreds of fish species, every dive is an unforgettable adventure.
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Rarotonga’s volcanic plateau gently slopes before plunging into a 4,500-meter abyss, offering a mesmerizing array of coral formations. All deep-sea diving trips are boat-based, with most dive sites just a short ten-minute journey from the departure point. With over 30 dive sites available, Rarotonga caters to divers of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced.
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Aitutaki also beckons divers with its caves, vibrant marine life, and the opportunity to encounter turtles. The island boasts numerous dive sites, including thrilling night dives for those seeking an extra dose of adventure.

Exploring the land in the Rarotonga is just as captivating as its underwater wonders. From lush rainforests and volcanic peaks to cultural landmarks and charming villages, the islands offer a wealth of experiences that showcase their natural beauty and rich heritage.
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Atiu’s landscape is a stunning blend of dense rainforests, limestone caves, and dramatic coastal cliffs. The island’s terrain is rugged and untamed, offering endless opportunities for exploration.
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-Anatakitaki Cave: One of the island’s most famous attractions, this limestone cave is home to the kopeka bird, which navigates its dark chambers using echolocation. Guided tours take you deep into the cave, where you can marvel at impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and underground streams.
-Takutea: This small, uninhabited islet just off the coast of Atiu is a bird sanctuary and a paradise for birdwatchers. Here, you can spot rare and endangered species, including the red-tailed tropicbird and the brown booby.
-Coastal Walks: The island’s coastline is dotted with secluded beaches and rocky outcrops. Explore Atiu’s coral limestone coast, where you’ll find natural rock pools, caves, and dramatic ocean views. The coastal walks offer a peaceful retreat into nature, far from the crowds.

Cycling in Rarotonga offers an enjoyable and eco-friendly way to explore the island’s breathtaking scenery, local culture, and hidden treasures. With its relatively small size and well-maintained roads, Rarotonga is perfect for both leisurely rides and more adventurous cycling experiences.
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As you cycle around Rarotonga, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the turquoise lagoon, lush mountains, and picturesque coconut palms lining the coast. Also, the island’s natural beauty is best appreciated at a slower pace, and cycling allows you to stop and take in the sights whenever you wish.

Hiking in Rarotonga offers a chance to experience the island’s stunning natural beauty and diverse landscapes up close. From lush rainforests and rugged mountains to serene waterfalls and scenic viewpoints, Rarotonga’s trails cater to all levels of hikers.
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Popular hiking trails include:
-Cross-island track
-Raemaru track
-Wigmore’s Waterfall trail
-Papua Waterfall trail

Even though Club Med doesn’t currently serve Rarotonga, our stunning resort in Nusa Dua in the South Pacific might be the tropical getaway you’re looking for. Here’s what you can look forward to at Club Med Bali.
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Surrounded by lush nature, the exquisite beauty of traditional Balinese architecture and craftsmanship infuses every detail of the rooms, bringing this exceptional destination to life.

Our resort features 33 activities included in your stay, plus an additional 13 on-demand activities available for discovery. From personalized spa treatments to fascinating excursions, group and solo sports, and much more – Club Med Bali has much to offer.

Turquoise waters, ancient temples, and lush rice fields make “the Island of the Gods” a true paradise, and a perfect haven for your children. Relax and unwind while Baby Club Med® provides a nurturing and engaging environment for your little ones.
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At Petit Club Med®, children can embark on adventures among the frangipani, bougainvillea, and banyan trees, while Mini Club Med® offers nature-filled fun and exciting games for the younger crowd. Meanwhile, teens at Junior Club Med can dive into a variety of sports, both on land and water, ensuring they stay active and entertained.

At Club Med Bali, dining transcends the plate. Immerse yourself in exceptional food, vibrant ambience, and stunning decor. Enjoy a world of choices, generous cuisine, and lively events, all set in a casual yet chic atmosphere.