Taking a trip with babies, toddlers, and young children can feel like a daunting task, but Rarotonga is the kind of place that was made for family travel. The island is incredibly safe, the people are warm and welcoming, and the relaxed, slow pace of life means you can truly unwind and enjoy your time together. Visiting Rarotonga with young kids, babies and family is a great experience.
We’ve spent a lot of time on the island with our own young ones – and guess what; we live here in Rarotonga with kids! We have been travelling fulltime around the world with our kids since they were toddlers.
Now we have put together this guide to help you navigate everything from where to stay to what to pack, ensuring your holiday is a blissful escape rather than a logistical nightmare. Rarotonga with young kids, toddlers or babies is a truly great choice for a family holiday!
- Choosing Rarotonga
- Accommodation Options
- Which Area To Stay?
- Transport
- Things To Do With Young Kids
- Babysitting Services
- Hiring Baby Gear
- Supermarkets & Services
- Where To Eat
- Things To Know
- More About Rarotonga
Hey! We are Away With The Steiners. Wondering about living in Rarotonga, Cook Islands?
Choosing Rarotonga
Rarotonga is an excellent choice for a holiday with young children or a baby. Its small size, laid-back pace, and family-friendly culture make it a stress-free tropical escape.
The island is encircled by a protective reef, creating calm, shallow lagoons perfect for paddling and safe swimming for little ones. Many accommodations, from resorts with kids’ clubs to self-catering villas, cater specifically to families.
The range of activities is well-suited for all ages. Enjoy easy adventures like exploring the Punanga Nui and Muri Night Markets, taking a glass-bottom boat tour to see the marine life, or simply building sandcastles on the beach.
You can also hire baby equipment like car seats and cots, reducing the amount you need to pack. The island’s warm and welcoming atmosphere means locals are genuinely happy to see families, making for a truly relaxing and enjoyable holiday.
Where to Stay: Your Home Away from Home
Choosing the right accommodation is the most important decision you’ll make. For families with young children, we highly recommend self-catering villas or holiday homes.
This gives you the space you need, and most importantly, a kitchen. Being able to prepare your own meals, heat bottles, and have a separate living area for naps and early bedtimes is a game-changer.
- Tip: When searching for and booking accommodation online through Booking.Com for Rarotonga; check the price and availability for two adults as children up to 2 years old can usually stay for free.
Which Area To Stay In Rarotonga With Young Kids?
Picking the best area to stay in Rarotonga is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when planning your trip. Especially for travel to Rarotonga with a baby or young kids.
For such a small island, each area has its own unique vibe, from bustling tourist hubs to quiet, secluded spots. With just one main road circling the island, nothing is ever truly far away. But choosing a base that suits your holiday style can make a huge difference.
- Muri: This is a popular choice for families. The Muri Lagoon is calm and shallow, perfect for toddlers to splash around in. It’s also home to the Muri Night Markets and a good number of cafes and restaurants, making it convenient.
- Arorangi: Located on the western side of the island, Arorangi is known for its beautiful sunsets and calm beaches. It’s a bit quieter than Muri and offers a more relaxed, secluded feel.
- Titikaveka: If you’re looking for the most pristine beaches and the clearest water, head to Titikaveka. The lagoon here is stunning and perfect for snorkeling, and the area is very peaceful.
We’ve explored every corner of the island – we live here in Rarotonga – and have a few vital top picks for where to lay your head.
Transport: Hiring a Car is a Must
While the bus is a fun experience, for families with young children, a rental car is an absolute necessity.
It gives you the flexibility to go to the supermarket, drive to a new beach for the day, and get home quickly for naps or a tantrum meltdown. It also allows you to transport all the beach gear, snacks, and extra clothes you’ll need.
Car Seats
If you are travelling with a baby or toddler, make sure to book a rental car – and you can find some that offer bookings for car seats. It is not mandatory in Rarotonga to have a car seat for children. However, it is always a recommended safety precaution that you should not overlook.
Things To Do In Rarotonga With Young Kids
The best activities in Rarotonga for young children are simple, authentic, and free.
- Beach and Lagoon Time: The calm lagoons are your ultimate playground. Your kids will love playing in the shallow, warm water, building sandcastles, and chasing tiny fish. The best beaches for young children are Muri,Titikaveka, and Aro’a, as the water is calm and safe.
- Lagoon Cruises: A lagoon cruise is a must-do for families. We recommend the Koka Lagoon Cruise or Captain Tama’s Lagoon Cruise. They take you out on a glass-bottom boat, and you can snorkel with the fish in a safe marine reserve. The crew is amazing with kids, and the barbecue lunch on the motu (islet) is a highlight.
- Markets: The Punanga Nui Market on Saturday mornings in Avarua is a vibrant cultural experience. The kids will love the fresh tropical fruits and the lively atmosphere. The Muri Night Markets offer a huge variety of food stalls, which is perfect for little ones who might not want a big sit-down meal.
- Playgrounds: You’ll find a great playground at the Punanga Nui Markets in Avarua. It has swings, slides, and is a great spot for the kids to burn off some energy. There are also smaller playgrounds at some of the resorts and restaurants.
- Read Best Things To Do In Rarotonga With Kids; Cheap & Free Things To Do In Rarotonga With Kids and Things To Do On A Rainy Day In Rarotonga With Kids.
Babysitting Services – Rarotonga With Young Kids
If you want a night out or a quiet dinner, there are a few options for babysitting. Many resorts offer their own services, or you can find independent, vetted babysitters. It’s best to book in advance and get a personal recommendation if you can.
Hiring Baby Gear – Rarotonga With Young Kids
There is a fantastic option to hire baby gear in Rarotonga from Baby Hire Cook Islands.
They have everything you could need (or things that you have forgotten) to make life on the island easier with young kids!
Rental Rates (All Equipment)
- 1 Day: $30
- 3–6 Days: $25/day
- 7 Days: $90/week
Baby Essentials
- Portacot + Thick Foam Mattress
- 3-Wheel Strollers
- Baby High Chairs
- Baby Walkies
- Baby Rocking Swings
- Car Seats (Newborn – 5 Years)
Contact Demi at [email protected].
Shopping for Nappies, Baby Food, and Other Essentials
Don’t worry about packing everything from home. Rarotonga has everything you need.
- Supermarkets: The main supermarkets are CITC and Prime Foods in Avarua. They have a good selection of nappies (diapers), wipes, formula, and baby food. You’ll find popular brands from New Zealand and Australia.
- Roadside Stalls: Look for the small roadside stalls for fresh local produce. You’ll find bananas, papaya, mangoes, and other delicious tropical fruits that make for a perfect, healthy snack for the kids.
- Pharmacies: The main pharmacy is located in Avarua, and it has a good range of baby medications, pain relievers, and other essential supplies.
There are also smaller convenience stores dotted around the island.
Food & Drink – Rarotonga With A Baby
This is a topic that for many first time parents travelling to Rarotonga with a baby or young one that is the one most thought about. You will be wondering which formula and baby foods are available in Rarotonga.
The good news is there is a range of baby food and formula available.
The large CITC Supermarket in Avarua and Wigmore’s have Karicare formula. As a general idea it costs around $5 – $7 NZD more per tin of Karicare.
There is a selection of Watties baby food in pouches and jars at CITC and Wigmore’s. Plus, a small selection at the convenience stores around the island.
Self-Catering – Rarotonga With A Baby
If you prefer to prepare food yourself, you can find almost all the essentials, such as porridge, pasta, rice, potatoes, meat, yogurt, a variety of fruits, and more, in the supermarkets. However, do be aware it is all more costly than at home in New Zealand or Australia. But it is available on the island.
For this prep too, you’ll need a kitchen in your accommodation, so consider self-catered accommodation when making your plan.
Though whichever accommodation you choose for your holiday, we do recommend packing sufficient food, formula, nappies and whatever else you need regularly for the start of your trip. This will help your baby adjust to the new environment. Keep I mind that your baby will likely already be dealing with jet lag, a warmer climate, and many new stimuli.
Restaurants to Eat At: Kid-Friendly and Delicious
Eating out with young children can be a challenge, but these spots are laid-back, delicious, and perfect for families.
- Falafel Shack: This is a fantastic, no-fuss option. Grab a delicious falafel wrap and sit at a picnic table right on the beach. It’s quick, easy, and affordable. Plus, this is open on Sunday – and it is a beautiful place to watch whales in the right season!
- Vaiana’s: Located right on the beach in Nikao, Vaiana’s is a perfect spot for sunset. The kids can play in the sand while you wait for your food and there is a playground on the beach. The atmosphere is very relaxed, and the food is great.
- Tiare’s Cafe: This cafe has a lovely garden setting with a playground out the back and a relaxed vibe. It’s a great spot for a casual breakfast or lunch, and they are very welcoming to families. The cabinet food and treats are delish!
- Kai & Co: A popular spot in town at the Punanga Nui Market, Kai & Co has a great selection of fresh food, including smoothies and salads and is right next to the island’s biggest playground.
- Charlies: Right on the beach in the southern coast, this is another great spot overlooking the shallow lagoon. There is plenty of space to let your young kids wander and make the most of a beautiful location and great food!
- The Beach Hut: This is one of our favourite restaurants for lunch in Muri. Again, it is right on the beach, and the lagoon is shallow here with plenty of space for kids to explore. Try the mutton curry and the best fish and chips!
Pharmacies and Doctors: A Good Thing to Know
Rarotonga has a hospital in Avarua, an outpatient clinic and two doctors’ clinics as well as a well-stockedpharmacy. While you hope you won’t need them, it’s comforting to know they are there.
It’s always a good idea to pack a small first-aid kit with any specific medications your child might need.
- Read Guide To Holiday In Rarotonga With Kids, Supermarkets In Rarotonga and Pharmacies, Doctors & Emergency Services In Rarotonga.
Holidaying in Rarotonga with Young Kids
Holidaying in Rarotonga with young children is a truly special experience. It’s a chance to slow down and embrace the simple joys of island life together.
The relaxed pace, warm people, and safe environment make it the perfect destination for your next family adventure.
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
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!
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.
