The distinctive Rarotonga

Many people think Rarotonga and the Cook Islands are two different places. Not so. Rarotonga is the capital island of the enchanting Cook Islands, which comprises 15 islands.

>> Destination Rarotonga, Weekends For Two

Fortunately these islands enjoy lovely weather all year round. Indeed some of the best months to visit Rarotonga are around Christmas-New Year through to April-May. During this period you get fragrant frangipanis, gardenias and the Cook Islands Christmas Tree in full bloom while the mangoes, guavas and pineapples are ripe. It’s a truly delicious time to visit, and the days are longer because it’s ‘summertime’.

Another of the joys of. Rarotonga is it’s one big playground - at just 32 kilometres in circumference it’s small enough to easily get around, but big enough to pack in heaps of activities. You can explore it on scooter, bicycle, car or soft-top jeep - or the friendly island bus.

In the centre of the island are majestic high mountains clothed in lush cloud forest, perfect for a cross-island trek or the island’s most popular tour, the Raro Jeep Mountain Safari Tour. On the fringes of the island are lovely white sand beaches, and beyond the reef is deep ocean, perfect for diving or gamefishing. So leave the knitting at home!

The island’s best snorkelling spot is the seven year old Aro’a Lagoon Marine Reserve, directly in front of the Cook Islands’
signature resort, The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa.

Another must is a visit to the Saturday morning Punanga Nui Market where you’ll find local handicrafts, pareus (sarongs), T shirts, island CD music, ukuleles, carvings, and the all important, Cook Islands black pearls in mysterious hues of peacock blues, greens and grays. Or for your dose of cultural enrichment, go on a tour of the island’s art galleries which range from funky to high art.