There is an excellent range of restaurants and cafes on Rarotonga, some of which are in the most sublime surroundings. This is a culture where food is an essential part of the hospitality.
Chefs create a fusion of international and Pacific flavours using local ingredients and imported specialties. And for seafood lovers, you have found yourself in heaven with the freshest local catches on offer including deep sea fish such as Tuna, Mahi Mahi and Parrot fish. Don’t forget to try a smoked marlin salad or curried octopus (an island speciality) while you’re here!
Many of the restaurants in Rarotonga are situated in the perfect locations to view our amazing sunsets. There are many sunset dining options including private dinner on the beach with your own waiter or intimate restaurants overlooking the lagoon. Many of the restaurants have evening entertainment and are licensed to sell beer, wine and spirits.
The Muri Night Markets offer a variety of food from local vendars. From BBQ plates of food, delicious curries, seafood dishes, freshly picked coconuts, desserts and more. Open Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday evenings from 5PM
For many visitors to the Cook Islands an 'Island Night' is the highlight of their holiday. Combined with a buffet dinner, these popular shows are a spectacle of dance, music and costume. Delight in watching the singers and dancers swing their hips with rhythm and sensuality to the island drums. There are shows at different venues around the island most nights of the week, however ensure you make bookings ahead for these as they fill up fast!
Start with watching the sunset with a cocktail at one of the sand-between-your-toes bars and let the night begin. Join in with the locals and be part of their fun-loving spirit to create a night to remember.
Friday is the big night on the island when the clubs and bars stay open until 2am, unlike every other night when they close at midnight.
What better way to experience Rarotonga nightlife than on a 35-seater converted bus, fitted with lights, sounds, big open windows, seating and a friendly local guide?
The Going Troppo party bus stops at a selection of popular night spots where you can dance the night away with your new found friends on tour. This is also the perfect option if you are organising a Stag or Hens Night, and it all starts with a complimentary cocktail and free stubby cooler.
Rarotonga is encircled by a fringing reef and lagoon, so water-based activities are on offer everywhere.
The Cook Islands, locally referred to as ‘the Cooks’, have some of the most amazing and diverse scenery found anywhere in the South Pacific. From rugged, ancient bush-clad volcanic peaks to white sandy beaches and atolls.
Located halfway between Hawaii and New Zealand, the Cook Islands are easily accessible and enjoy year round sunshine and a pleasant climate.
The Aitutaki lagoon offers many water-based activities including snorkeling and scuba diving, as the island has some of the most bio-diverse reef systems in the world.
Atiu is notable for its coffee too. 'Atiu Coffee' is world famous and its Factory has tours available that end with you sampling a cup of it!
The beauty and charm of the Cooks is matched by the friendliness of the people who think nothing at all of offering a lift, having a chat with you on the beach or extending an invitation to dinner.
Penrhyn, Manihiki, Rakahanga, Suwarrow, Pukapuka and Nassau islands.
Mangaia, Mitiaro, Takutea, Manuae, Mauke and Palmerston islands.
Museums, wood and shell carvings, traditional weaving, hand-stitched tivaevae quilts, and cultural experiences.