"Rarotonga - Paradise on Earth" Cook Islands by emmicat

Cook Islands Travel Guide: 442 reviews and 948 photos

Home away from home

The Cook Islands was my vacation destination spot of choice for 4 years in a row and then thought I should try somewhere else for sun and relaxation. So off to Mexico I went, which was nice but not quite the same somehow. In May I needed a break and on the spur of the moment I decided that I would revisit my old favorite rather than rack my brain thinking up someplace new.

I have fallen in love all over again!!! Rarotonga had changed a little in the two years I was away but basically it was the same wonderful place. The beaches are beautiful and plentiful and, for the most part, deserted but yet only steps away from the main road which goes around the island. The people are friendly and I received a warm welcome back from some of the locals I had met on previous trips. The pace is still slow and relaxing if that's your pleasure but you can also find various activities to keep you occupied.

Petty theft is pretty much the only thing a visitor needs to worry about although if you're out driving on a Friday night be wary of the party crowd coming home on their motorbikes. Accidents abound on the week-end.

Clear warm waters

Be warned though that these are TROPICAL islands and it rains!! Hard and fairly often but rarely lasts for long, Regardless, it's always warm (sometimes a bit too warm when the humidity is high) and there are many, many of those absolutely perfect days when the sun is shinning and there are a few white clouds being blown across the sky by a gentle south pacific breeze.

Sunset in paradise

There are many excellent eating places on Rarotonga and no lack of drinking establishments. Be warned that although the resorts are lovely and nice to go to for "happy hour" the prices are more than you might find elsewhere and the food is not near as good as a rule. Try the less "touristy" bars with no view and no umbrella drinks and you'll find yourself saving money, meeting the locals, and getting a flavor of the island.

Pros and Cons

Pros:Just about everything
Cons:Mmmmmmmm

Last visit to Cook Islands: May 2006
Intro Updated Jul 7, 2006
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Reviews (12)

Hibiscus Off The Beaten Path (1)

There's a woman who lives on the back road behind Avarua who grows the most amazing hibiscus. She cross-pollinates and... more travel advice

Beaches and More Beaches Things to Do (3)

The beaches are beautiful and usually almoste deserted except at the resorts. Long stretches of beach are great for a... more travel advice

Watching the World Go By Things to Do (3)

Sitting on the deck at Sails on Muri Beach having a nice cold one is a great way to pass a lazy afternoon. There's... more travel advice

Saturday Morning Market Shopping (2)

The Saturday morning market is a must for locals and visitors alike. Pick up all your fresh fruit and veggies for... more travel advice

Transportation (1)
Cook's Corner Transport
Hotels (1)
An Alternate Option
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Comments (8)

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marielexoteria Nov 19, 2007 at 4:37 AM

Those dancers look so cute and happy :)
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birchy99 Apr 17, 2007 at 4:22 PM

Hi, great pages on the Rarotonga. Brings back fond memories from my only visit. Am intrigued by the carved pearls. Could be my ticket back if the wife likes them, too. Thanks, Mart
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Sininen Nov 26, 2006 at 5:16 AM

Hello Jean! Cook Islands - they look like paradise. Great tips and excellent pictures. Happy birthday from Finland.
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easterntrekker Nov 25, 2006 at 6:06 PM

Thanks for you tips on the Cook Islands . we're heading there in a couple of days...really looking forward to it.
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catalysta Sep 16, 2006 at 5:46 PM

Loved Rarotonga, and loved reading your page, it was like a mini return trip for me. What a gorgeous sunset shot!...Wendy
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bijo69 Jul 7, 2006 at 3:47 AM

Beautiful page about a beautiful place! Would love to go back!
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Waalewiener Jul 6, 2006 at 10:45 PM

This is very nice Jean you are doing the tips very well .I will write you about the fonts how to get colour font Keep up the great work Jean
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kiwi Jul 4, 2006 at 4:37 PM

Great little page, lovely photos and good packing list here !! regards, kiwi.