Rarotonga, the main island of the Cook Islands, is a dream family destination in the South Pacific. With its laid-back vibe, stunning lagoon, and plenty of kid-friendly adventures, there’s no shortage of activities to keep everyone happy. From exploring the island by electric tuk-tuk to eating your way through night markets, here are my top picks for the best things to do in Rarotonga.
#1. Snorkel or relax on Rarotonga’s tropical beaches
(Top pick for low-cost things to do in Rarotonga)
If you’re travelling on a budget, this is hands-down my favourite activity. Nothing beats a day on Rarotonga’s beaches; the lagoon is calm, clear, and absolutely stunning.
Our go-to spot is Aroa Beach, away from the main beach area. It’s perfect for swimming, teaching the kids to snorkel, or simply kicking back with the sand between your toes. Bonus: it’s only 100 metres from The White House Villa, a great self-contained family stay.
This is my top pick for things to do in Rarotonga when you’re on a budget!
#2. Explore the Circle Island Road
Rarotonga has just one main road, a 32km loop around the island. That means it’s impossible to get lost! You can hire an e-bike, tuk-tuk or car, or simply hop on the clockwise or anti-clockwise bus.
This is one of the easiest and most flexible things to do in Rarotonga, since you can stop wherever you like to swim, grab a bite, or check out local villages.
#3. Drive a buggy through the mud
(Top pick for fun things to do in Rarotonga)
For a burst of adrenaline, join Raro Buggy Tours and tear around a mud track. It’s messy, muddy, and a whole lot of fun – though definitely not for the faint-hearted. Kids are welcome as passengers if they are over six years of age and you must be over 18 years with a licence to drive.
#4. Swim under Wigmore’s Waterfall
After heavy rain, Wigmore’s Waterfall is absolutely spectacular. Brave the slippery climb to jump or slide into the pool below, and don’t forget insect repellent. It’s a refreshing stop and one of the more adventurous things to do in Rarotonga.
#5. Eat till you’re stuffed at the Muri Night Market
Come hungry! For under $20, you can grab slow-cooked pork belly or curried chicken and rice, plus roast veggies. The Muri Night Market is casual, colourful, and buzzing with life. Don’t skip dessert – the stalls change daily, so there’s always something new to try.
#6. Explore Rarotonga on a pushbike or electric tuk-tuk
Take an island tour on a pushbike or rent a tuk-tuk to get a feel for the place. If you go on a guided tour, you’ll learn about island customs, history and traditions while zipping through the backroads. It’s a great way to get your bearings before diving into the rest of your week in Rarotonga.
If you’re DIYing it, you’ll enjoy the freedom of stopping where you want, when you want.
#7. Join a cultural village tour with dinner & night show
This evening combo tour is equal parts cultural experience and family entertainment. You’ll see traditional skills in action, enjoy a buffet with island and western dishes, then sit back for music, drumming, and dance. The kids may be up past bedtime – but that’s what holidays are for!
#8. Play 18 holes at Aroa Village & Mini Golf
Aroa Village & Mini Golf is a fun mini-golf course that comes with a family-friendly bar and occasional live entertainment. Even our toddler managed (with a little foot assist). This light-hearted activity quickly became one of the kids’ favourite things to do in Rarotonga.
#9. Go on a glass-bottom lagoon cruise
(Top pick for must-do things to do in Rarotonga)
Hop aboard a glass bottom lagoon cruise and spend the afternoon exploring Rarotonga’s lagoon. You’ll snorkel over coral gardens and enjoy a barbecue lunch with entertainment.
#10. Wander Punanga Nui Market on a Saturday
For one of the most vibrant local experiences, head to Punanga Nui Market. Come early, grab breakfast from a food stall, listen to live music, and then browse souvenirs and handmade crafts. It’s a must-visit before flying out or exploring the outer islands.
Want to see what it’s really like? Check out our YouTube video below on the best things to do in Rarotonga. And if you’re planning your trip soon, save this list to Pinterest for later – you’ll be glad you did!
FAQs about things to do in Rarotonga
Families love lagoon snorkelling, the Muri Night Market and mini golf. A glass-bottom lagoon cruise is also a top pick because it mixes fun, food, and culture in one easy day out.
Five to seven days is ideal. That gives you time to relax on the beaches, explore inland, and tick off the must-do activities like Punanga Nui Market and the cultural village tour without feeling rushed.
Rarotonga is a year-round destination, but the best weather is usually from May to October when it’s cooler, drier, and perfect for outdoor adventures.
Compared to other South Pacific islands, Rarotonga is more affordable. Many of the best things to do in Rarotonga – like swimming, snorkelling, and exploring the island road – are free or low-cost. Eating at local markets is also a great way to save money.
Not necessarily. The island’s 32km ring road makes it easy to get around by bus, scooter, or even bike. However, hiring a car can be handy if you’re travelling with kids and want more flexibility.
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