Rarotonga
Discover Rarotonga – Top Rarotonga Activities & Island Experiences
Welcome to Discover Rarotonga, your gateway to the very best of Rarotonga Island. Known for its crystal-clear lagoon, lush jungle mountains, and vibrant island culture, Rarotonga is filled with unforgettable experiences waiting just beyond your doorstep. At The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium, we make it easy to explore the top Rarotonga activities, from snorkelling and hiking to cultural tours and island events.
At the Resort
Your Rarotonga holiday starts right here at the resort. Guests can take part in daily cultural and adventure activities, including ukulele lessons, coconut husking, drumming, island cooking, and pareu tying. Families can join beach games, fitness classes, and guided snorkelling tours, while water lovers enjoy paddle boarding, kayaking, and marine sanctuary explorations — all part of our free daily programme.
Lagoonarium
The Aroa Lagoonarium Marine Sanctuary, directly in front of the resort, is one of the island’s most prized natural wonders. Known for offering the best snorkeling in Rarotonga, the lagoon is filled with tropical fish, vibrant coral, and crystal-clear waters safe for swimmers of all ages. Guests can even experience unique night snorkeling tours for an unforgettable adventure.
Turtles
Few Rarotonga activities are as magical as swimming alongside turtles. Both Green and Hawksbill turtles are frequently seen in the Lagoonarium, and guided excursions give guests the chance to safely encounter these gentle marine creatures in their natural habitat.
Water Safety
At The Rarotongan, guest safety is a priority. The calm, all-tide lagoon directly in front of the resort is one of the safest swimming spots on the island, and our team provides water safety guidance so you can enjoy snorkelling, paddle boarding, and kayaking with peace of mind.
Walks & Trails
Discover the lush interior of Rarotonga Island on scenic walking tracks. From easy coastal strolls to the adventurous Cross-Island Trek through tropical jungle and mountain ridges, there are trails for every fitness level. Along the way, discover waterfalls, rare plants, and panoramic views of the island.
Gardens & Flora
Rarotonga is home to tropical gardens bursting with orchids, hibiscus, and frangipani. Guests can visit the renowned Maire Nui Botanical Gardens or simply wander through the island’s lush landscapes to experience the island’s rich biodiversity.
Birdlife
Birdwatchers will love the variety of species found across Rarotonga, including the rare Kakerori Monarch found in the Takitumu Conservation Area. Native forest birds, seabirds, and migratory species make Rarotonga a rewarding destination for eco-tourism.
Whales
From July to October, humpback whales migrate past Rarotonga. Guests can often spot these majestic creatures breaching just beyond the reef from the resort’s beachfront — one of the island’s most spectacular natural shows.
Diving
Rarotonga is a diver’s paradise, offering more than 30 dive sites including coral gardens, caves, drop-offs, and wrecks. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced diver, explore vibrant marine life including rays, turtles, and reef sharks.
Game Fishing
The waters around Rarotonga are rich with big-game fish such as tuna, marlin, and mahi mahi. Guests can charter boats for half-day or full-day fishing trips and experience the thrill of Cook Islands deep-sea fishing.
Sunsets
Rarotonga is famous for its fiery tropical sunsets, and the resort’s beachfront is one of the best spots on the island to watch the sun dip below the horizon. Pair it with a cocktail for the perfect island evening.
Star Gazing
With no city lights, Rarotonga offers some of the clearest skies in the South Pacific. Guests can gaze at constellations, the Milky Way, and shooting stars for a breathtaking night-time experience.
Around the Island
Take the island bus or rent a scooter to explore the villages, markets, churches, and hidden beaches of Rarotonga Island. With a relaxed 32 km loop road, you can discover the island’s charm at your own pace.
Tours & Excursions
Rarotonga offers a variety of tours including glass-bottom boat trips, 4WD safaris, eco-tours, cultural village shows, and lagoon cruises. Our team can help arrange excursions to suit your interests.
Events
Experience the energy of Rarotonga’s cultural and sporting calendar. From the vibrant Vaka Eiva outrigger canoe festival to the Round Raro Road Race, the island comes alive with celebration year-round.
Your Gateway to Rarotonga Island
Whether you’re seeking relaxation, romance, adventure, or family fun, The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium is your perfect base to experience all that Rarotonga has to offer. From reef to rainforest, lagoon to mountain, every day brings a new adventure.
