When it comes to finding a tropical paradise to create family memories you will treasure forever, Rarotonga with kids is an amazing destination.
Albeit we might be bias. But we love Rarotonga – and that’s speaking from the best experience – because we live here in the Cook Islands for a second time as a family; living in Rarotonga with kids!
The island – and island-life – is beautiful and makes the perfect beachy playground for children of all ages. Family togetherness is such an important part of culture in the Cook Islands; you will be welcomed warmly as a family.
It’s a feeling we’ve come to know and love, and it’s what makes this island the ultimate family holiday destination.
So read on for everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable holiday in Rarotonga with kids – and an adventure they will never forget!
- About the Cook Islands
- Visas
- Getting to Rarotonga
- Best Time to Visit
- Language
- Money and ATMs
- Communication and SIM Cards
- Health and Safety
- Drinking Water
- Accommodation Options
– Resorts
– Hotels & Motels
– Self-Catering & AirBnB
– Budget & Backpacking - Transportation
- Food and Budget
- Costs
- Things To Do in Rarotonga
– Kid-Friendly Activities
– Island Culture Nights
– Family-Friendly Dining - What To Pack
- Other Resources
Hey! We are Away With The Steiners. Wondering about living in Rarotonga, Cook Islands?
Choosing Rarotonga With Kids as a Holiday Destination
Before our first visit, we had the typical anxieties: Is it safe for littlies? Will the kids get bored? How will we get around with a family?
But our fears were quickly replaced with a deep sense of calm and a feeling of pure freedom. Plus, the feeling of parenting success in choosing such a great holiday destination to visit as a family!
Rarotonga with kids isn’t just a trip; it’s an experience that brings you closer as a family. There are no theme parks, no traffic lights, and no over-the-top attractions. Just pure, simple, genuine fun. The island is small, the people are incredibly friendly, and the pace of life is so relaxed that it’s impossible not to slow down.
This Rarotonga With Kids Travel Guide is for any family considering a trip to the Cook Islands. It’s a deep dive into what makes this island so special for children of all ages, with our personal tips on where to stay, what to do, and how to embrace the island’s unique and welcoming spirit from the moment you land.
A Quick Introduction to the Cook Islands
- Location: South Pacific Ocean
- Capital: Avarua (on Rarotonga)
- Language: Cook Islands Māori, English
- Population: 17,459 (13,000 in Rarotonga)
- Climate: Tropical; Average Temp of 26°C.
- Time zone: GMT-10
- Calling Code: +682
- Currency: NZ Dollar (NZD)
- Driving side: Left
- Outlets: Angled 2 or 3 Pin Plug; 230/240V
Welcome to Rarotonga and the beautiful Cook Islands (one of our closest Pacific neighbours to New Zealand!).
About the Cook Islands
The Cook Islands are a self-governing nation in the South Pacific Ocean, in free association with New Zealand. There are 15 islands, scattered over a vast area, but the main hub and international gateway is Rarotonga.
The islands are divided into two distinct groups: the Southern Cook Islands and the Northern Cook Islands.
Rarotonga is the largest island in the southern group of the Cook Islands about 3400km (2100 miles) northeast of New Zealand.
It’s a stunning volcanic island, ringed by a beautiful coral reef that creates a calm, turquoise lagoon. The interior is lush and mountainous, a dramatic contrast to the white-sand beaches.
Rarotonga is the perfect blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and laid-back island life.
Most people holidaying in the Cook Islands visit Rarotonga. But there are other islands in the Southern group that are easy (and incredible) to visit too. More about that later!
Visas
For many nationalities, a visa is not required for a stay of up to 31 days. If you are a citizen of New Zealand, Australia, the United States, or the European Union, you can enter visa-free.
It’s always a good idea to check the official Cook Islands Immigration website before you travel to confirm the latest requirements for your specific passport. But for most families, this is a very straightforward process.
All you need to prepare is the following:
- Passport with 6 months validity beyond intended period of stay in the Cook Islands
- Evidence of an outbound ticket or return ticket to your port of origin
- Proof of accommodation for your stay in the Cook Islands
Note that New Zealand passport holders are allowed to stay in the Cook Islands for up to 90 days.
Hey! We are Away With The Steiners. Wondering about living in Rarotonga, Cook Islands?
Getting to Rarotonga With Kids
The main airlines that service Rarotonga International Airport (RAR) are Air New Zealand and Jetstar, with direct flights from Auckland, Sydney, Tahiti and Hawaii.
It’s a relatively short and easy journey from these hubs, and the moment you step off the plane, you are greeted by the warm island air and the welcoming sound of a local band playing.
The airport is small and easy to navigate, which is a huge bonus with kids.
For now, Air New Zealand flights from Auckland to Rarotonga start at around NZD $800 return. Prices are the most expensive during the July (winter) school holidays in New Zealand, with return flights up to $1250 return at the time of writing.
Best Time to Visit
The Cook Islands have a tropical climate with two distinct seasons.
- Dry Season (May to October): This is the most popular time to visit. The weather is cooler (around 25°C) and less humid, with less rainfall. The gentle trade winds keep things comfortable. It’s the ideal time for outdoor activities and beach days with kids.
- Wet Season (November to April): The weather is hotter and more humid, with a higher chance of tropical downpours. However, these showers are usually short and followed by sun. The benefit of visiting during this time is that prices for flights and accommodation are often lower, and the island is less crowded.
In theory, the best time to visit Rarotonga is later in the year from September – November when the weather is hot (but tolerable) and it isn’t too wet. Later in the year is also the quieter time of year to visit. As tourist-wise it is not as busy as the middle of year (when everyone is escaping the NZ winter!).
It is definitely worth looking ahead when planning which time of year to travel to Rarotonga with kids.
But don’t stress too much about timing and weather. The Cook Islands is a topical country and experiences warm temperatures year-round. We’ve now been living here for the last couple of years! During that time, we’ve found that even in the wet season, there’s always plenty of sunshine and fun to be had.
- Read more about the best time to visit Rarotonga and the Cook Islands.
Language
The two official languages are Cook Islands Māori and English. English is spoken widely, especially in tourist areas and at all accommodations and restaurants, so you’ll have no trouble communicating.
But learning a few simple Cook Islands Māori phrases like ‘Kia Orana’ (hello) and ‘Meitaki’ (thank you) is a great way to show respect and will be met with a warm smile from the locals.
- Hello: Kia Orana
- Good Morning: Popongi
- Goodbye: Aere ra
- Thank you: Meitaki
- Thank you very much: Meitaki ma’ata
- How are you? Pe’ea koe?
Money & Currency in the Cook Islands
The currency used in the Cook Islands is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD).
The Cook Islands also has specific coinage. Though New Zealand coins are accepted too. But there is even a triangular $2 Cook Islands coin!
Remember that you cannot change Cook Islands money outside of the country. So remember to spend/change local coins before you leave.
ATMs & Payment – Rarotonga with Kids
There are sixteen ATM’s around Rarotonga operated by ANZ, BSP (Bank of the South Pacific) and BCI (Bank of Cook Islands). They each provide facilities for cash advances on major credit cards.
Most major businesses, hotels, and restaurants accept credit cards. But you’ll want to have cash on hand for the local markets, small roadside fruit stalls, and some taxi drivers.
There are two ATM’s on Aitutaki (none of the other islands have ATM facilities).
There are ATM facilities at Rarotonga airport for cash withdrawal on arrival.
- Tip: All ATM’s in Rarotonga charge international cardholders a withdrawal fee of $5 NZD.
Communication and SIM cards
Staying connected is easy. You can purchase a local SIM card from Vodafone Cook Islands at the airport upon arrival or at their main store in Avarua.
This gives you a local phone number and a data package, which is invaluable for using maps, booking tours, and keeping in touch with home.
Wi-Fi is also available at most resorts and some cafes, but it can be expensive and slow. Otherwise, there is the option to get an eSIM for the Cook Islands.
- Read more about getting a SIM card for Rarotonga.
Health and Safety – Rarotonga with Kids
Rarotonga is an incredibly safe destination with a very low crime rate. It is a fantastic holiday destination for families. The biggest health concerns are sun exposure and mosquitoes.
If you’re visiting Rarotonga with kids you’re likely already thinking ahead about mosquitos. But don’t panic.
Most accommodation places have mosquito screens on the windows. Plus both the accommodation providers and local villages are continuing precautionary action against Dengue Fever in the Cook Islands by spraying regularly throughout the year to eradicate mosquitos.
Use a good insect repellent and dress kids in light, long trousers in the evening if mosquitos are around.
Pack a high-SPF sunscreen and wide-brimmed hats for the sun during the day.
When swimming pay attention to the coral reefs and passages to the open ocean. These should be treated with caution – there are no lifeguards on beaches. Wearing reef shoes is encouraged for kids (and adults) to protect against stonefish and coral cuts.
There are medical clinics and a hospital in Avarua for any emergencies.
Drinking Water
Tap water in Rarotonga is not filtered and therefore not recommended for drinking while on holiday. It’s recommended for visitors to drink filtered water, bottled water or boil tap water first.
Many accommodations have filtered water and there are filtered water stations dotted around the island. It’s free and easy to refill your reusable water bottle at one of the filtered water stations. It is a great initiative for locals and tourists alike!
Accommodation Options
Your choice of accommodation can make or break a family holiday. In Rarotonga, you have some great options, each with its own benefits.
We’ve found that self-contained villas or apartments are a game-changer for families. They allow you to prepare your own meals, which saves money and gives you the flexibility to cater to picky eaters.
Having a separate bedroom and living space also means you’re not all crammed into one hotel room, making for a much more relaxed trip for everyone.
Resorts:
For families who want amenities and activities on site, resorts are a great choice. They often have kids’ clubs, restaurants, and swimming pools. Popular options include The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium, The Edgewater Resort and Nautilus Resort.
Hotels and Motels:
These offer a simple, comfortable base for exploring the island. They are usually more affordable than resorts and are a great option if you don’t need all the bells and whistles. Lagoon Breeze Villas or Palm Grove is a good example.
Self-Catering & AirBnB:
This is our top recommendation for families. There are countless privately owned villas and holiday homes available. Websites like AirBnB and Bookabach offer a wide range of options that give you plenty of space and a fully equipped kitchen, which is perfect for a longer stay.
Budget & Backpacking:
For those looking to save every dollar, there are a few budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Places like Rarotonga Backpackers or Backpackers International Hostel offer dorm rooms and private rooms at a very low cost, with shared kitchens and a social atmosphere.
We stayed at Rarotonga Backpackers on our first trip to Rarotonga with kids and it was perfect! We even saw whales from our balcony – on Christmas day!
How long to visit for?
We would recommend a stay of 7 to 10 days as the ideal length for a family trip to Rarotonga. This gives you enough time to explore the entire island at a relaxed pace without feeling rushed.
You can have a few days dedicated to beach and lagoon time, a few for exploring the interior and markets, and a few for simply relaxing by the pool or enjoying a quiet evening.
Transportation – Getting Around the Island with Kids
The beauty of Rarotonga is that getting around is half the fun. The single main road makes navigation a breeze.
- Rental Car: This is the most popular and practical option for families. It gives you the freedom to go where you want, when you want, and provides a safe and comfortable way to transport beach gear, snacks, and tired kids. You can rent cars from several companies at the airport or in Avarua.
- Scooters: A popular choice for couples and solo travellers. But not so practical for a family with young children.
- Bus: Rarotonga has a clockwise and anticlockwise bus that circles the island. It’s an easy, cheap, and fun way to get around. Our kids loved waving to the driver and other passengers.
- Read more about Taking the Bus in Rarotonga and the Best Way to Get Around Rarotonga with Kids.
Food and Budget – Rarotonga with Kids
The cost of food can be a big expense on Rarotonga, especially if you eat out for every meal. Imported goods are expensive.
Our number one tip for saving money is to book self-catering accommodation and shop at the local supermarkets.
The Punanga Nui Market on Saturday mornings is a fantastic place to buy fresh fruit, vegetables, and fish for a fraction of the price. The Muri Night Markets are also a great way to eat delicious, affordable meals. Or head to the main CITC Supermarket in Avarua to stock up at the start of your trip.
- Read about Supermarkets in Rarotonga.
How Much Does It Cost?
Ah ha. Now to the juicy part.
How much does it cost to holiday in Rarotonga with kids?
The main expenses for your holiday are accommodation and transport. Well, aside from the flights to get here in the first place!
The cost of activities ranges depending on what type of holiday you are planning. Although the Cook Islands has the same currency as New Zealand, food costs can be quite pricey. This is simply because most foods are imported from New Zealand.
But there are some good things to know to help keep the budget down! Keep reading to find out some of the costs with examples of options to make your holiday fit within your budget.
How Much Do Things Cost?
Costs can vary. But here’s a rough idea of what to expect (all in NZD):
- Accommodation: Self-catering villas, and lower end motels and hotels can range from $150 to $300+ NZD per night while resorts are typically $250 – $400+ nightly.
- Rental Car: Around $70 to $90 per day.
- Bus Fare: Costs $5 for a one-way trip.
- Food: A main dish at the Muri Night Markets is around $15-$25. A meal at a restaurant can be $20-$30. Groceries for a week of self-catering could be around $200-$300.
- Activities: Many of the best activities, like snorkeling in the lagoon, are free! Tours and shows can cost anywhere from $50 to $150 per person.
Obviously costs in Rarotonga (and anywhere) are totally personal and can range depending on your budget and spending habits!
- Read more about the cost of living and cost of expenses in Rarotonga.
Things to Do in Rarotonga
The beauty of Rarotonga is that the best activities are simple, authentic, and perfect for families.
Kid-Friendly Activities in Rarotonga
- Snorkel in Muri Lagoon: The calm, shallow waters of Muri Lagoon are perfect for kids to learn to snorkel. The lagoon is protected by the reef, so the water is crystal clear and you are guaranteed to see plenty of colourful fish.
- Kayak to a Motu: Rent a kayak and paddle out to one of the small, uninhabited islands in the lagoon. Our kids felt like real explorers!
- Find a Secret Waterfall: Take a drive into the lush inland mountains to find a hidden waterfall. Albeit it isn’t really hidden; Papua Waterfall is easy to access and great for a refreshing dip!
- Explore the Markets: Let the kids pick out their own food at the Muri Night Markets. Or choose a special souvenir at the Saturday morning Punanga Nui Market.
There are lots more great activities to do in Rarotonga with kids. There are tours too. But not all activities have to be organised tours or costly things to keep the kids entertained!
- Read about the best cheap and free things to do in Rarotonga with kids.
Island Culture Nights
It’s always a great opportunity to experience the culture wherever we travel. An Island Culture Night is a great opportunity to do that in Rarotonga with kids. You can book a spot at a cultural village or a resort for an evening of powerful drumming, dancing, and storytelling.
It’s an incredible way to learn about the island’s history and traditions. The fire dancing is always a highlight that will have the kids on the edge of their seats.
Rarotonga has some fantastic cultural shows with dinner included. Or there are even a couple of free fire shows that are ideal with kids!
Island nights and cultural shows in Rarotonga:
- Te Vara Nui Village, Muri
- Highland Paradise Cultural Centre, Arorangi
- Edgewater Resort Island Night, Arorangi
- Islander Hotel Night Show & Buffet, Avarua
- Crown Resort Island Feast & Show, Arorangi
Hey! We are Away With The Steiners. Wondering about living in Rarotonga, Cook Islands?
Family-Friendly Dining – Rarotonga with Kids
Kids menus are popular in Rarotonga so it’s easy to dine out as a family.
Our favourite family-friendly restaurants and takeaways in Rarotonga (beachfront too) are:
- Charlie’s: Fresh seafood platters, island fries, live music and beach space for the kids to play.
- Vaianas Bar & Bistro Beautiful beachfront location with kids meals, fresh fish and cold drinks plus a playground – on the beach!
- The Falafel Shack: Amazing wraps and fresh kebabs eaten right on the beach. Our favourite spot to get lunch in Rarotonga with kids!
- Vili’s Burger Joint: Delicious and well-priced burgers with an island twist.
- Muri Night Markets: This is our top pick. The variety of food means there’s something for everyone, and the casual, outdoor seating is perfect with kids.
- Churbros Rarotonga: Perkynana churros (try it) found at the Muri Night Markets.
- Bite Time Café: Awesome fresh sashimi for the parents and right next to the main playground in centre of town.
- Palace Burgers: Must try fish burgers – and $3.50 burgers on Wednesdays!
- Beluga Café: Great breakfasts and very good coffee.
- Tiare’s Café: Awesome breakfast, delicious pastries and has a fab playground out the back for the kids.
What to Pack for Rarotonga with Kids
Yippee! You’re packing for a tropical family holiday!
Along with the obvious items – swimming togs, sun hat and jandals – there are a few further items for travel with kids that we always recommend so you can feel prepared (and therefore relaxed).
- Reef Shoes: This is our number one tip for anyone traveling to Rarotonga. But a great tip for packing for kids. The coral on the beaches and in the lagoon can be sharp. Reef shoes are essential for protecting your feet and making beach exploration worry-free.
- Sun Protection: The tropical sun is strong, even on a cloudy day. Pack plenty of high-SPF sunscreen, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses.
- Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes can be a nuisance, especially in the evenings. Get a strong repellent – but make sure it’s something that is suitable for the kids.
- Lightweight Clothing: The island is casual and warm. Pack lightweight cotton clothes for the kids, swimwear, and a sarong for yourself!
- Snorkel Gear: While many places rent gear, having your own ensures a good fit and lets you snorkel whenever the mood strikes.
It sounds obvious, but do pack lightweight clothes for your island holiday – for all of you.
Don’t forget some more modest items of clothing for wearing in town (away from the beach). The general dress code in Rarotonga is informal. But don’t wear brief attire in town or villages – and certainly if you attend a Sunday church service (recommended for the singing alone) be sure to dress respectfully.
What to Bring With You From Home
A toiletry bag is obvious. But a basic medical kit is always good to include for travel anywhere with kids. (Don’t panic if you forget something as these items are all available in Rarotonga). But it’s always easier to bring your own and be prepared.
Travelling to Rarotonga with kids you might include:
- Insect Repellent (essential)
- Panadol or Ibuprofen (for kids and adults)
- Plasters
- Basic Antiseptic Cream
- Sunscreen (reef-safe for Rarotonga)
If you normally go away with antihistamine and/or a thermometer this could be good to pack for peace of mind. Plus obviously seek advice from your doctor for anything of concern to you.
Babies – Rarotonga with Kids
If you are holidaying with babies or younger children bring everything you normally need in your nappy bag for your tropical holiday.
It is possible to buy nappies and baby-items in Rarotonga. Albeit everything is more expensive and the selection is less.
I’d recommend packing enough:
- Nappies (plus waterproof ones)
- Wet Wipes
- Nappy Rash Cream
- Teething Rusks
- Baby Food (if particular required)
Don’t forget to declare baby food or packed food items with customs on arrival.
- Read more about bringing food to Rarotonga and the Cook Islands.
Packing – Rarotonga with Kids
Clothes-wise, a packing list for Rarotonga for the family might look something like this:
- T-shirts
- Singlets
- Light Long Sleeve Shirt to cover arms for sun protection
- Shorts/Skirts/Dresses (some below the knee or formal for church)
- Light Cardigan or Jacket for cooler evenings
- Light Sleepwear
- Smart-Casual Outfit for dinner at restaurants
- Underwear
- Swimwear
- Jandals
- Sneakers or Walking Shoes
- Light Rain Jacket if visiting in wet season (just trust us on this one)
Plus a few extras that will make all the difference for an island holiday:
- Sunhat
- Swimming Sunhat for the kids
- Sunglasses
- Rash Vest for sun protection while swimming
- Reef Shoes better than flippers for swimming in the lagoon
- Mask, Snorkel or Goggles if you have your own
Snorkelling gear can be hired if you need it.
- Read more about packing for Rarotonga and the Cook Islands.
Planning the Ultimate Holiday to Rarotonga with Kids
That’s it for our complete Family Travel Guide to Rarotonga with Kids. But we do have plenty of other guides to local activities, highlights and some of our favourite things to do in the Cook Islands that is perfect for the whole family.
Rarotonga is a place that will capture your family’s heart. It’s a holiday that feels like a real escape, a chance to reconnect with each other and the simple joys of life.
What’s the one thing you’re most excited to do on your family trip? Let us know below in the comments!
Read More About Rarotonga
- All About The Rarotonga Bus.
- Essential Tips On Visiting Cook Islands.
- All About The Markets In Rarotonga.
- Places To Eat In Rarotonga On Sunday.
- Renting A Car in Rarotonga.
- How To Buy A Car In Rarotonga.
- Finding And Renting A House In Rarotonga.
- Rarotonga Reef Explorer Tour With Ariimoana.
- Is Dengue Fever A Worry For Travel To Rarotonga?
More About Travel Planning for Cook Islands and Beyond
These are the companies we use while traveling as a family and that we would recommend to anyone planning and booking travel.
- Booking.com – The best all-around accommodation booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation and it’s easy to filter and sort into price and availability with all the extras you are looking for personally.
- Skyscanner– This is by far our favourite flight search engine. They are able to search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites often miss. We book all our flights through Skyscanner.
- GetYourGuide– Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions offered all around the world. Everything from walking tours, to street-food tours, cooking classes, desert safari’s and more!
- SafetyWing – A global travel insurance that covers people from all over the world while outside their home country. You can buy it short or longterm; and even if you are out of the country.
- World Nomads – Travel insurance tailored for longterm travel and nomads including those who have already left home. Make sure you have travel insurance before traveling to the Cook Islands!
Hi! I’m Sarah. I am the self-confessed dreamer, travel-schemer and the main editor behind this blog. I love to write, and it is a dream come true to share so many experiences together and inspire others in our stories.
