Kia Orana, fellow adventurers! If you’ve been dreaming of a perfect slice of paradise, let me tell you about a little corner of Rarotonga that has absolutely captured our hearts: the Arorangi district.
This is the area we stayed when we very first visited the Cook Islands. Then it became the spot we have made home living right here in Rarotonga!
Located on the west side of the island, Arorangi is where the sunsets are legendary, the beaches are pristine, and the vibes are just pure, unadulterated island magic. We’ve explored this area top to bottom, and I’ve put together a list of 15 must-do experiences that will make your time here unforgettable.
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1. Arorangi Beach: The Sunset Mecca
There’s no better place on the island to watch the sun dip below the horizon than Arorangi Beach. Every evening, the sky explodes in a symphony of pink, orange, and purple.
The sand is soft, the view is uninterrupted, and the atmosphere is serene. Just grab a coconut, find a spot on the sand, and let the magic unfold.
2. Snorkelling at Aro’a Beach
Just a short stroll from Arorangi Beach, you’ll find Aro’a Beach and its marine reserve. This is easily one of the best spots for snorkelling on the island, and it’s perfect for all skill levels.
The water is calm and clear, filled with vibrant coral and schools of tropical fish. It feels like swimming in a giant aquarium.
3. Ice Cream at Kavera: Things To Do in Arorangi, Rarotonga
In the heart of Arorangi, you’ll find the Kavera store, which serves up some of the most delicious ice cream on the island.
It’s the perfect treat after a day in the sun, and a favourite with locals and visitors alike. Nothing says ‘island holiday’ like a scoop (or two!) of a tropical flavour.
4. Raemaru Hike: Things To Do in Arorangi, Rarotonga
For those who crave a bit of adventure, the Raemaru Hike is a fantastic choice. This is the island’s “flat-top” mountain, and the trek to the summit is a fun challenge with a big reward.
The climb offers stunning views of the coast and the interior. Just be sure to wear good shoes and bring plenty of water!
- Read Raemaru Hike and Best Hikes in Rarotonga.
5. Visit the CICC Church: Things To Do in Arorangi, Rarotonga
The Cook Islands Christian Church (CICC) in Arorangi is a beautiful piece of history and community.
The stone building is a stunning example of local architecture, and if you have the chance, attending a Sunday service is a beautiful cultural experience.
The singing is absolutely incredible, a powerful and moving harmony that will give you goosebumps.
6. Sunset: Things To Do in Arorangi, Rarotonga
Yes, I’m putting this on the list twice because it’s that good!
Whether you’re on the beach, at a cafe, or just on the side of the road, the daily sunset in Arorangi is an event. It’s a moment of calm reflection and sheer beauty, a daily ritual that reminds you just how lucky you are to be here.
7. Breakfast at Beluga: Things To Do in Arorangi, Rarotonga
Beluga is one of our go-to spots for a great breakfast or brunch.
The cafe has a relaxed, trendy atmosphere, fantastic coffee, and a menu that ranges from a full cooked breakfast to smoothie bowls and fresh pastries.
It’s the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploring.
8. Whale Watching from the Beach: Things To Do in Arorangi
If you visit Rarotonga between July and October, you might be lucky enough to spot humpback whales right from the shore!
These gentle giants migrate past the island, and the calm, clear waters of Arorangi make it a prime viewing location. Literally just from a walk on the beach. Or if you are relaxing with lunch at The Falafel Shack or watching the sunset from Castaways. This is one of the most special things to do in Arorangi that make this side of the island magic!
Keep your eyes peeled for a spray of water on the horizon—it’s a truly unforgettable sight.
9. Coffee at Sammy’s: Things To Do in Arorangi, Rarotonga
For a no-fuss, delicious cup of coffee, Sammy’s is the place to be.
This small, unpretentious cafe is a local favourite and serves up a perfect brew. It is a brand-new café in Rarotonga and one of the newly iconic things to do in Arorangi that is also open on a Sunday!
It’s a great spot to grab a coffee, chat with a local, and get a feel for the relaxed pace of island life.
10. Tumutoa Tour Experience
For an unforgettable cultural immersion, book a tour with Tumutoa Tours. The experience is hosted by a true local chief who shares ancient stories, shows you how to use a coconut, and takes you on a fascinating walk through the jungle.
It’s an authentic and educational experience that you won’t get from a guidebook.
11. Sunday Lunch at the Falafel Shack
This is our favourite place to go on a Sunday in Rarotonga!
Sunday is a special day on the island, and for a delicious and easy lunch, head to The Falafel Shack. This little gem serves up mouth-watering falafel wraps, platters, and salads.
It’s the perfect, casual spot to refuel and recharge on a quiet Sunday afternoon. Not to mention it is one of the best things to do in Arorangi as far as whale-watching AND delicious lunches!
12. Discover Marine and Wildlife Eco Centre
The Rarotonga Discover Marine and Wildlife Eco Centre has been created to showcase the Cook Islands unique and diverse marine and wildlife. It is a small but packed, marine museum that is perfect for a rainy day in Rarotonga.
There are live exhibits with coconut crabs and aquarium fish. Plus, static exhibits on geology, geography, turtles, sharks, fossils, shells, ecology, cinema and so much more.
Learn about the maritime history of the Cook Islands through the incredible displays of whaling and shipwreck artefacts. See the rescue centre for turtle and bird rehabilitation on site which part of your entry fee goes towards supporting.
Plus, treat yourself after all that great discovery to a sweet treat at the new onsite Lickity Splitz Ice Cream Parlour.
13. Pacific Fish and Chips: Things To Do in Arorangi, Rarotonga
Tucked away on the western side of the island, Pacific Fish and Chips is a legendary takeaway spot that promises an authentic taste of Rarotonga. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a shop celebrated for its incredible value and fresh, ocean-to-plate goodness.
The menu is simple but perfect, centred around locally caught fish like mahi-mahi and parrotfish, which are battered and fried to crispy perfection.
You can order a classic fish and chips pack or a delicious fish burger, and a local tip is to add some of their homemade tartar sauce for an extra burst of flavour.
With a few picnic tables outside, it’s a popular spot to grab a bite and watch the sunset. This is the real deal—a no-frills, high-quality, and deeply satisfying island experience.
14. OTB or Castaways Fire Show
As the sun dips below the horizon, the Arorangi coastline transforms into a stage for one of Rarotonga’s most spectacular cultural experiences: the OTB Fire Show.
Located at the On the Beach Bar & Grill within the Manuia Beach Resort, this event is a must-do for anyone staying on the western side of the island.
The evening begins with a delicious buffet dinner, allowing you to feast on a mix of local and international dishes with your toes in the sand. Then as night falls, hear the rhythmic beat of Cook Islands drums, signalling the start of the show. Talented dancers and fire twirlers take to the stage, performing a breathtaking display of traditional storytelling through graceful movements and fearless fire artistry.
It’s a powerful and mesmerising end to a perfect day in paradise.
15. Stop at a Roadside Market
Lastly, our favourite of things to do in Arorangi that living in Rarotonga never gets old. Is to stop at one of the small, local roadside markets and grab a fresh coconut to drink.
This is one of those pinch-me type routines that reminds us daily we live in a beautiful pacific island!
Best Things to Do in Arorangi, Rarotonga
Arorangi truly has something for everyone, whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a deep dive into the local culture.
It’s the kind of place that will make you want to slow down, breathe, and soak up every single moment. 🙂
Where to Stay in Arorangi, Rarotonga
Arorangi in Rarotonga is ideal as a destination for a fabulous holiday. There is a great range of family friendly accommodation options with resorts, hotels and motels, holiday homes and self-catering AirBnB’s.
It is often possible to book flights and accommodation in Rarotonga as a package (through a NZ travel agent).
Otherwise it’s easy to book accommodation online:
- Resorts: Prices for the resorts start around $150 – $200 NZD p/night for a basic room (options for breakfast included).
- Hotels and Motels: Prices from $200 NZD per night. Some of the hotels advertise special deals in the quieter months.
- AirBnB: Options for self-catering are from $150 NZD p/night depending on the length of stay and location on the island (proximity to the beach!).
- Luxury: High end accommodation in Rarotonga starts from between $600 to $1000 NZD per night.
Here is an initial list of accommodation in Arorangi, Rarotonga. There are plenty more. But this is just a start!
Resorts in Arorangi, Rarotonga
- The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium
- The Edgewater Resort & Spa
- Manuia Beach Resort
- Castaway Resort
- Crown Beach Resort & Spa
Hotels and Motels in Arorangi, Rarotonga
Holiday Homes and AirBnB
There are loads of amazing AirBnB options to browse online (I haven’t listed them all). But check them out for a great self-catering holiday option.
Backpacker and Budget Options
I have to add in here that on our first ever trip to Arorangi, Rarotonga we came for Christmas in Rarotonga with our extended family. We stayed in a self-catering, beachfront bungalow at the Rarotonga Backpackers. Which was just perfect!
Look into your options when choosing accommodation in Rarotonga.
There is a fantastic range available and each option has different qualities that will make your trip suited just to you.
Read More About Travel to Rarotonga
- 10 Foods To Try In Rarotonga.
- All About The Rarotonga Bus.
- Hiring a scooter in Rarotonga.
- 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?
- Transport And Getting Around Rarotonga.
More About Travel Planning for Rarotonga
These are the companies we use 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. Easy to filter and sort into price and availability with all the extras you are looking for.
- 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 including those who have already left home. Make sure you have travel insurance before holidaying to Rarotonga!
Gavin is our people-meeter wherever we go. For all the stories we share about the kindness of strangers in Uzbekistan, Morocco, Saudi Arabia and more, it is Gavin that extends a handshake and meets a new friend without even sharing the same language.