Rarotonga Hotels

Top reasons to visit Rarotonga

• Stunning Beaches: Rarotonga boasts beautiful beaches and crystal-clear lagoons, perfect for relaxation and water activities.
• Vibrant Local Culture: Immerse yourself in the island's rich culture through local markets, museums, and traditional ceremonies.
• Adventure Activities: Engage in thrilling outdoor adventures, such as exploring adventure playgrounds and beachcombing for unique treasures.
• Warm Hospitality: Experience the friendliness of the locals, enhancing your stay with a welcoming atmosphere.
• Diverse Accommodation: Choose from a range of lodging options, from beachfront resorts to family-friendly hotels.

Find great hotels in Rarotonga

Discover an array of accommodation options in Rarotonga, where you can unwind at a fairmont-managed hotel or indulge in an absolute beachfront resort. Whether you're seeking adventure, a family getaway, or accessible lodgings, you'll find a variety of categories to suit your needs, including options for larger groups. Enjoy the stunning beaches and vibrant culture that this tropical paradise has to offer.

• The Edgewater Resort & Spa: A perfect blend of relaxation and recreation, The Edgewater Resort & Spa is a 3.5-star retreat ideal for families and business travellers alike. Nestled in Rarotonga, this resort features a full-service spa that offers a range of treatments, alongside a poolside bar for leisurely afternoons. Families will appreciate the complimentary children’s club and playground, while business amenities ensure productive stays with conference facilities available. Enjoy the tranquility of manicures and pedicures in a serene environment, making it a great choice for those seeking both relaxation and business conveniences.
• The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium: As a 4-star hotel, The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium offers an exciting adventure and family-friendly atmosphere right on the beach. With direct beach access, guests can indulge in various water sports, including snorkelling and windsurfing, while children are catered for with supervised childcare and a trampoline. The resort's vibrant atmosphere makes it perfect for those looking to explore the stunning natural beauty of Rarotonga, ensuring an unforgettable beach holiday filled with activities for all ages.
• Club Raro Resort – Adults Only: Catering exclusively to adults, Club Raro Resort is a 3-star beachfront escape located in the city centre of Rarotonga. This resort is a haven for adventure enthusiasts, offering easy access to kayaking, surfing, and fishing. The vibrant setting is ideal for couples or friends seeking a fun-filled holiday. With a variety of recreational activities nearby, guests can relish the perfect mix of beach relaxation and urban exploration, making it a fantastic choice for those wanting a lively yet serene getaway.

Where to stay in Rarotonga

Rarotonga, the vibrant heart of the Cook Islands, offers an idyllic escape for beach lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. With its stunning beaches, charming bungalows, and lush scenery, visitors can unwind in a tropical paradise. Experience the warm hospitality of friendly locals as you explore the island's family-friendly attractions and romantic spots, making it the perfect destination for relaxation and recreation. Discover the essence of a true beach holiday in this enchanting locale.

• Muri: Nestled on the southeastern coast of Rarotonga, Muri is renowned for its stunning lagoon and white sandy beaches. The area is a paradise for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a plethora of activities such as snorkelling, kayaking, and paddleboarding in its crystal-clear waters. Muri is also home to vibrant markets where you can experience local culture and cuisine. The best time to visit is during the peak months of January, April, and July, when the atmosphere is lively and full of energy. With its picturesque scenery and welcoming resorts, Muri promises an unforgettable tropical getaway.
• Arorangi: Located on the western side of Rarotonga, Arorangi is famous for its magnificent sunsets and tranquil beaches. This district showcases a blend of outdoor adventures and relaxation, with activities ranging from golfing to exploring local markets. Arorangi attracts visitors primarily between March and May, providing an excellent opportunity to enjoy the scenic beauty and laid-back vibe. The area is dotted with charming beachside resorts where you can unwind and soak up the sun, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both adventure and leisure in a stunning natural setting.
• Takitumu District: Encompassing the southern part of Rarotonga, Takitumu District is a hidden gem for travellers looking for a mix of serenity and adventure. With its beautiful beaches and lush landscapes, this district is perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking and swimming in the lagoon. The peak tourist months are July to August and October, allowing for a lively atmosphere filled with visitors eager to explore. The local markets and resorts offer a taste of authentic Cook Islands culture, ensuring that your stay here is both enriching and memorable. Whether you're relaxing by the beach or indulging in local delicacies, Takitumu District has something for everyone.

Things to do in Rarotonga

Rarotonga is perfect for beach and outdoor enthusiasts, offering stunning scenery and a variety of activities. Visitors can enjoy relaxing at resorts, exploring vibrant public markets, and engaging in beach activities. Adventurous options include an adventure playground and searching for beach glass along the shores. The island promises a delightful blend of relaxation and excitement for all who visit.

Shopping

In Rarotonga, enjoy the vibrant Muri Night Markets, perfect for local crafts and street food. The Beachcomber Pearl Market offers beautiful pearl jewellery. Additionally, visit the Punanga Nui Market for fresh produce and handicrafts. If you're up for a drive, explore further afield for more unique treasures.

Recreation

The Rarotonga Golf Club offers a tranquil outdoor experience, where you can enjoy stunning views while playing a round of golf. Cocoputt provides a fun-filled mini golf adventure perfect for families, while the National Stadium showcases thrilling sports events, all contributing to an active and vibrant atmosphere.

Adventure

The Wreck of the Matai offers an exhilarating underwater sports experience, perfect for diving enthusiasts. Explore the sunken vessel and its vibrant marine life, surrounded by the stunning beauty of Rarotonga's crystal-clear waters. This adventure will leave you with unforgettable memories of the underwater world.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Rarotonga is vibrant and relaxed. Enjoy cocktails at the lively Trader Jacks, or experience traditional Polynesian culture at Te Vara Nui Village. For a laid-back evening, the Coconut Tree offers refreshing drinks and a casual vibe, perfect for unwinding under the stars.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Rarotonga

Rarotonga provides numerous ways to save during your visit. Enjoy free attractions like Muri Beach, Aroa Beach, and Muri Lagoon. For transport, consider hiring a scooter or bike to keep costs down. The most affordable time to visit is from January to March, with the best deals on accommodation found when booking around a month in advance. Fridays are the cheapest days to stay, while Tuesdays are the priciest. Use Expedia to filter your accommodation options and consider package deals to maximise savings on flights and activities.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Rarotonga are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April, July and September, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel in Rarotonga about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Rarotonga is Friday. The most expensive day to stay in Rarotonga is Tuesday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you desire. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You could potentially reduce your costs by combining your hotel reservation in Rarotonga with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Rarotonga

Rarotonga offers a delightful blend of beach and outdoor experiences, perfect for a scenic getaway. Visitors can explore beautiful beaches and lagoons, while cultural enthusiasts may enjoy the local museums. The island’s attractions cater to those seeking adventure, relaxation, and a taste of the vibrant island culture, making it an ideal destination for a memorable holiday.

• Muri Beach: Experience the quintessential beach vibes at Muri Beach, where soft white sands meet crystal-clear waters. Ideal for sunbathing, swimming, or simply relaxing, this beach is a picturesque spot for unwinding and soaking up the tropical atmosphere.
• Muri Lagoon: Discover the stunning scenery of Muri Lagoon, renowned for its breathtaking views and outdoor activities. The lagoon offers excellent opportunities for snorkelling, paddleboarding, and kayaking amidst vibrant marine life, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts.
• Te Vara Nui Village: Immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Cook Islands at Te Vara Nui Village. Enjoy traditional performances, explore local crafts, and savour authentic cuisine, providing a unique insight into the island's heritage and community spirit.

Best time to go to Rarotonga

The best time to visit Rarotonga is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. March is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain. August is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	79.3°F (26.3°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
February	80.1°F (26.7°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	80.4°F (26.9°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
April	79.2°F (26.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
May	77.4°F (25.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
June	75.2°F (24.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
July	74.1°F (23.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	73.0°F (22.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
September	73.9°F (23.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
October	74.3°F (23.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
November	75.7°F (24.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
December	77.9°F (25.5°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Rarotonga

Rarotonga International Airport (RAR) is conveniently located 4.8km from the heart of Rarotonga. For luxurious stays, the 5-star Little Polynesian Resort and Rumours Luxury Villas & Spa are both situated 9.7km away, offering airport shuttle services on request, with some amenities available 24 hours. Closer to the airport, the 4.5-star Crown Beach Resort & Spa is only 3.2km away and provides various transport options, including shuttles and services for a fee. These hotels ensure an easy and comfortable transition to and from the airport, enhancing your travel experience in the beautiful Cook Islands.