Rarotonga Hotels

Top reasons to visit Rarotonga

• Stunning Beaches: Rarotonga boasts breathtaking beaches with crystal-clear lagoons, perfect for relaxation and water activities.
• Vibrant Markets: Explore local markets offering unique handicrafts and fresh produce, showcasing the island's culture and flavours.
• Exceptional Snorkelling: Dive into abundant marine life at renowned snorkelling spots, ideal for underwater adventures.
• Cultural Experiences: Visit local museums and partake in traditional ceremonies to immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Rarotonga.
• Serene Accommodation: Choose from luxurious resorts to charming holiday homes, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay.

Find great hotels in Rarotonga

Discover the enchanting offerings of Rarotonga, where diverse accommodation options await to make your stay unforgettable. From luxurious resorts to charming holiday homes, there’s something for every traveller seeking adventure, beachside relaxation, or a memorable family getaway. With an array of facilities tailored for your comfort, you’ll find the ideal base to explore this tropical paradise and create lasting memories in the heart of the Pacific.

• The Edgewater Resort & Spa: A delightful 3.5-star resort perfect for families and adventure seekers, The Edgewater Resort & Spa offers a unique spa-themed getaway. Nestled in Rarotonga, this property features an array of adventure sports including snorkelling on-site, and nearby activities such as sailing and mountain biking. Families will appreciate the amenities tailored for children, including supervised childcare, an arcade game room, and a ping pong table. For relaxation, guests can indulge in a full-service spa offering deep tissue massages and facial treatments, along with a beautiful pool area complete with umbrellas for a serene day in the sun.
• The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium: A stunning 4-star hotel, The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium is ideal for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts. This property boasts direct beach access, providing guests with the perfect setting for sunbathing and water sports. Adventure awaits with on-site snorkelling and nearby options such as windsurfing and moped rentals. The lush surroundings and a variety of recreational activities ensure that every guest can experience the beauty of the Cook Islands while enjoying a beach-themed vacation.
• The Islander Hotel: This charming 3-star hotel is tailored for families, business travellers, and adventure lovers alike. The Islander Hotel offers a welcoming atmosphere and a variety of activities, from snorkelling and mountain biking to boat tours. Guests can also take advantage of nearby bicycle and moped rentals for exploring the island. With amenities such as on-site childcare services and comfortable accommodations, this hotel strikes a perfect balance between adventure and convenience for all types of travellers.

Where to stay in Rarotonga

Rarotonga offers a tropical paradise, perfect for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With stunning resorts like the Pacific Resort, visitors can unwind in beautiful surroundings. The island's friendly atmosphere is ideal for families and couples alike, providing a relaxing and romantic backdrop. Explore the serene beaches and lush landscapes, making your vacation a memorable escape in this peaceful haven.

• Arorangi: Nestled on the western side of Rarotonga, Arorangi is a charming district that attracts visitors with its stunning beaches and outdoor adventures. With traveller arrivals peaking from March to May, this area is perfect for families seeking a blend of relaxation and excitement. Enjoy outdoor activities, visit the vibrant local market, or play a round of golf while soaking in the picturesque surroundings. Key attractions include beautiful beaches, serene parks, and a history museum that showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Cook Islands.
• Muri: Situated on the eastern coast of Rarotonga, Muri is a vibrant neighbourhood renowned for its breathtaking scenery and inviting lagoon. Travellers flock here year-round, with peak visits in January, April, and July. Muri offers a fantastic beach experience and is perfect for those who love outdoor activities and scenic views. Explore the local resorts and public markets, or simply relax by the magnificent lagoon and water features. The allure of Muri lies in its stunning natural beauty, making it an ideal spot for a memorable holiday.
• Takitumu District: Located in the heart of Rarotonga, Takitumu District is a picturesque area that draws visitors for its stunning beaches and outdoor scenery. With a steady influx of travellers peaking in July to August and October, this district offers a plethora of activities. Visitors can enjoy resorts, explore local stores, and experience the vibrant markets. The breathtaking beaches and tranquil lagoons provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation and adventure, making Takitumu District a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Cook Islands.

Things to do in Rarotonga

Rarotonga offers a splendid vacation with its stunning beaches and outdoor scenery. Popular activities include exploring local resorts, visiting vibrant markets, and enjoying the best snorkelling spots. Don't miss the exceptional boat tours and abundant snorkelling opportunities that showcase the island's rich marine life. Additionally, there are numerous free activities to enjoy, making Rarotonga an ideal destination for relaxation and adventure.

Shopping

Punanga Nui Market offers a vibrant atmosphere with local crafts and fresh produce, perfect for unique souvenirs. Muri Night Markets provide a delightful evening experience with food stalls and handmade goods. If you're up for a drive, the Beachcomber Pearl Market showcases exquisite pearl jewellery and gifts.

Recreation

Rarotonga Golf Club offers a stunning outdoor experience with its lush fairways and breathtaking views, perfect for golf enthusiasts. For family fun, Cocoputt provides an adventurous mini-golf course amidst vibrant surroundings. Meanwhile, the National Stadium is ideal for sports fans, hosting various thrilling events throughout the year.

Adventure

Explore the Wreck of the Matai for an exhilarating underwater adventure. Dive into the vibrant marine life surrounding this historic wreck, where you can snorkel or scuba dive amidst colourful corals and fascinating sea creatures, providing a thrilling experience for adventure enthusiasts.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Rarotonga is vibrant and laid-back, perfect for relaxation. Enjoy live music at the famous Te Vara Nui Village or sip cocktails at the coastal bars, such as The Islander Hotel, where you can soak in stunning sunset views and mingle with locals and fellow travellers.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Rarotonga

To save money on your trip to Rarotonga, consider visiting between January and March when prices are lower. Enjoy free activities at Muri Beach, Aroa Beach, and Muri Lagoon. For transport, renting a scooter or bike can be cost-effective. Book your accommodation about a month in advance for the best rates, and check for last-minute deals on Expedia. Fridays typically offer the best hotel prices, while Tuesdays are the priciest. Additionally, combining hotel, flights, and activities in an Expedia package can yield significant savings.

• 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: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Rarotonga is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
• 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: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional preferences. You can organise your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to view the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in Rarotonga with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Rarotonga

Rarotonga is a paradise for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, boasting stunning lagoons and rich cultural experiences. Popular attractions include its beautiful beaches, the serene Sanctuary Rarotonga, and local museums that showcase the island's heritage. Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, Rarotonga offers a diverse range of activities that cater to every traveller's desire for scenic beauty and cultural immersion.

• Aroa Beach: Aroa Beach boasts stunning turquoise waters and soft white sand, creating the perfect setting for relaxation. Enjoy swimming, snorkelling, or simply lounging in the sun while taking in the picturesque views. The laid-back atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for beach lovers.
• Highland Paradise Cultural Centre: Immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Cook Islands at the Highland Paradise Cultural Centre. Here, you can experience traditional dancing, storytelling, and local cuisine, offering a deep insight into the heritage and customs of the islanders.
• Nikao Beach: Nikao Beach is another beautiful spot where you can unwind and soak up the sun. With calm waters perfect for swimming and a serene environment, it's a lovely place to enjoy a leisurely day by the ocean.

Best time to go to Rarotonga

The best time to visit Rarotonga is dependent 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 situated 4.8km from Rarotonga. Nearby, Crown Beach Resort & Spa, a 4.5-star establishment, is located 3.2km from the airport and offers various transport options including a 24-hour airport shuttle and fee-based transfers. Rumours Luxury Villas & Spa, a luxurious 5-star hotel, lies 9.7km away and provides an on-request airport shuttle service. Also 9.7km from the airport, Nautilus Resort, another 4.5-star resort, features accessible shuttles and transport services with fees applicable. These hotels ensure a comfortable stay and easy access to the airport for all visitors to the beautiful Cook Islands.