Aroa Beach. Set alongside Aitutaki Lagoon, this resort offers 3 beachfront bungalows. There are BlueSky Teleshops in Avarua and Muri Beach in Rarotonga and on Aitutaki island as well that all offer internet access and sell prepaid wi-fi access which can be used at hotspots around the islands. com What to Do on Rarotonga Koromiri has the best secluded beach. Aroa Marine Reserve took my breath away. Some excellent snorkeling around that area and headed back up the eastern side a bit (basically south from the place known as Fruits of Rarotonga). Enter dates to see prices. Hurunui camping grounds. Save. # 126 Best Value of 150 places to stay in Rarotonga. Avarua is quite a cute South Pacific settlement, small enough yet with all the amenities for a comfortable and easy-going life. There are other areas around the island, which have better snorkeling, but as suggested by Lacey02, hire a car and ten minutes west you will find Tikioki Marine Reserve and ten minutes to the. security. We have heard that the western side is less windy! We are more mature - 2 couples 60+. As Rarotonga is the largest of the Cook Islands, you might want to dive deeper into the subject of “where to stay” in A Guide on the Best Side of Rarotonga to Stay. gather one side of island has good/nice beaches and other side doesn't? Got good flights CHC/Raro return. . 1. Just park up opposite fruits of Rarotonga and take the plunge into the waters. It has a separate living room with a flat-screen TV and a DVD player. Could anyone be more specific as to where the BEST of the foregoing (other than sunsets) are to. Best lagoon in Rarotonga. 3. We heard that the east side can be cool and windy, and the west side more protected. I have read that on the east coast the temp. What places to stay in. How Much Is The Aitutaki Day Tour. On the western side of Rarotonga, Manuia Beach Resort captures some of the most breathtaking sunsets from its beachfront suites and acclaimed On The Beach (OTB). . It’s a tight operation run by a solid team and is right on one of the best spots right on Arorangi Beach – possibly the best place on the entire island to watch the sunset. The western side provides the best sunsets, and is generally more sheltered compared with the east and south sides of the island. We are undecided where to stay. Seaside Beachfront Villas Rarotonga offers accommodations in Rarotonga. At 32km in circumference it's relatively small, and you can drive the flat, coastal road in around 45 minutes. BTW Lagoon Lodges isn't beachfront being situated on the inland side of the main road. We visited in the 1990s multiple times. "We had a wonderful holiday in Rarotonga. Rarotonga. Arorangi – The Best Resorts for Whale Watching on Rarotonga. Hi, Does anyone know the best resort on the west coast (sunset side) of Rarotonga. from 7. Celebrated my birthday with my family by travelling to the Cook Islands and staying at the Muri Beach Club Hotel which was fantastic. . . Panther: Look to Costco for some remarkable bargains that include airfare from LAX to Raro and Aitutaki, if you are interested in splitting your time in the Cooks. . Silty and shallow beach across the road, but within walking distance to the lovely lagoon area heading north from Pacific Resort. Do any family resorts in Rarotonga have a spa on-site? Family Resorts in Rarotonga: Find 8161 traveller reviews, candid photos, and the top ranked Family Resorts in Rarotonga. South Pacific ; Cook Islands ;. 9. Arorangi: Best Place to Stay to Catch Amazing Sunsets. Where would you recommend to stay? We are indecisive between Muri Beach and the West coach, close to the Edgewarter Resort. The beaches are still pretty, but there’s more coral in the water and you can’t swim at low tide. . Traffic causes parking to be very difficult. These may not be clearly signposted so the best way to avoid these is to only snorkel in the recommended locations. THE 10 BEST Rarotonga Resorts Rarotonga Resorts Check In — / — / — Check Out — / — / — Guests 1 room, 2 adults, 0 children Popular Breakfast included 5 Star & up Luxury. Rumours Luxury Villas and Spa is the ultimate in luxury set a little farther south on the Muri Beach. PO Box 121, Avarua, Rarotonga, Cook Islands. Rarotonga Tourism Rarotonga Hotels Rarotonga Bed and Breakfast Rarotonga Vacation Rentals Flights to RarotongaFrom a two-star property up to a five star, we have accommodation for all families in the Cook Islands. These villas each. It has been said that the water, snorkeling, and fish watching are better on the Western side of the island, and I suppose the sunsets are better too. Re: Best Area to Stay. Kia Orana Sarah, welcome to the Rarotonga forum. And don’t. com This 5-star accommodation. Rarotonga. Koromiri Motu. Kids and teens activities, and kids club. The south of Rarotonga is home to the best beaches on the island, with deep lagoons perfect for snorkelling and non-motorised watersports. We scuba dive most days so don’t do much lagoon swimming but many people do swim and snorkel on the west side. Maire Nui Gardens & Cafe. Cons: Located far from many of Key West’s top attractions, lacks the charm of the Old Town. Distance from. I have read that on the east coast the temp. Price from. What areas are best to stay? We have a bungalow booked. Aro'a Beachside Resort: great location - See 224 traveler reviews, 304 candid photos, and great deals for Aro'a Beachside Resort at Tripadvisor. Hang Out at the Punanga Nui Morning Markets. Answer 1 of 10: Hello, I am planning a trip to Rarotonga for late July this year. The Mooring Fish Cafe Rarotonga: Fish and Chips - See 2,495 traveler reviews, 732 candid photos, and great deals for Rarotonga, Cook Islands, at Tripadvisor. We are after any advice on family friendly accommodation. Relax by the pool with a cocktail, soak up the sun, rejuvenate your soul and indulge in. We realize this is the winter season. . It has been said that the water, snorkeling, and fish watching are better on the Western side of the island, and I suppose the sunsets are better too. However. 21 Nov - 22 Nov. Save. Where is the best part of Rarotonga to stay? The north coast of Rarotonga is the best part of the island for proximity to the airport and the capital, Avarua. Snorkeling at Titikaveka Beach is one of the best things to do in Rarotonga and is honestly one of my personal favorites as well. North side of Rarotonga - Near the airport (located in the NW area) there is a fairly wide lagoon providing good snorkeling, swimming and reef fishing. In our opinion, this hotel’s mission is to make you feel like royalty but for a reasonable price. To qualify for the mileage offer, you must be the primary. One of Rarotonga's newest must see attractions, featuring amazing live exhibits and interactive displays. Arorangi, Rarotonga. For an October stay I prefer to stay in either the Vaimaanga or Titikaveka area. Sunset Quay Rarotonga is located in Arorangi Village, 15 minutes’ drive from Avarua. Hotels near the sights. 3. Aroa Beach is a 15-minute walk, and Rarotonga International Airport is a 10-minute drive away. #1 of 24 hotels in Rarotonga. Rarotonga, Cook. Tropical Sands – The Best Budget Holiday Homes on Rarotonga for Couples Scattered among picturesque tropical gardens yet footsteps away from Matavera Beach, Tropical Sands offers a small selection of holiday homes on Rarotonga for small groups. Perched on the hillside of Black Rock, the Mediterranean-inspired villa with three levels of dining area basks in wonderful views and sunsets. Little Polynesian. #6 – Take a Snorkel trip at Muri Beach, Rarotonga 2. Rarotonga is only small so if you hire a car you can have the best of both worlds and travel to other beaches depending on the weather. View on map. I guess I could be accused of promoting certain establishments because we know the owners - but such is life in the Cooks. Rarotonga Tourism Rarotonga Hotels Rarotonga Bed and Breakfast Rarotonga Vacation Rentals Rarotonga Vacation. 7. Snorkel At Titikaveka Beach. The Cooks Oasis. Manuia Beach Resort. For breakfast, grab one of the outdoor tables at The Lucky Rooster (formerly Cafe Salsa) and do a bit of people watching. Which is the best side of Rarotonga to stay on? The north coast of Rarotonga is the best part of the island for proximity to the airport and the capital, Avarua. Muri Vista Villas is a sustainable villa in Muri where guests can make the most of its pool with a view, free bikes, and garden. The units are comfortable and have everything you need. Relax by the pool with a cocktail, soak up the sun, rejuvenate your soul and indulge in romantic evenings under the stars, with delicious food and fine wine. Unbeatable experience! - See 1,487 traveler reviews, 1,205 candid photos, and great deals for Pacific Resort Rarotonga at Tripadvisor. What side of the island is best for low-key rental properties (less than $250 a night) . . Have an Awesome Night at the Highland Paradise Cultural Show. We visited twice during our trip, once with our whole extended family (8 adults and 6 kids ranging from 3 - 13 years old) and the second time a smaller group of four - both times a wonderful experience. I see people like Muri for the swimming,, Titikaveka for the breeze and quiet and Arorangi for the wider range of dining and hotels and sunsets. 702 Reviews . Muri Lagoon Water Quality; Water filter stations; Crime is increasing around Rarotonga; Sunblock can kill coral - choose carefully; 2021 Dengue Fever on Rarotonga; 2020. Aug 7, 2023, 5:39 PM. Aro'a Beachside Inn: Relaxation in Rarotonga - See 218 traveler reviews, 256 candid photos, and great deals for Aro'a Beachside Inn at Tripadvisor. See hotel recommendations below. Price trend information excludes taxes and fees and is based on base rates for a nightly stay for 2 adults found in the last 7 days on our site and averaged for commonly viewed hotels in Rarotonga. Rarotonga is the kind of place I would happily travel to time and time again. The best way to stay connected is to buy a Bluesky prepaid wifi card. Rarotonga. Rutaki, Papua and Avaavaroa Passages between Aro’a Beach and Tikioki Marine Reserve. Pacific Resort Rarotonga: Best staff, best accomodation. Currency: New Zealand dollar along with Cook. What a stunning place to stay. The 4-bedroom villa features a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher, an oven and a microwave. My dilemma is. With the potential for limited shade in the mornings in Muri and afternoon in Arorangi / Black Rock areas, you must protect yourself from the sun’s rays. We have stayed on the West side once and the South side about 20 times. " Read all reviews. Lodging Area. Flea & Street Markets. . To book, phone Spacifica Travel, 1800 800 722. Muri Beach Club Hotel. August this year has been a mix of strong winds, heavy rain, hot days, cool nights, still air, blue. 3 km from city centre, Rarotonga, Cook Islands. Special RateTripadvisor Exclusive - 25% Off Book Now Stay from 1Oct2023- 30Apr2024! Visit. We heard that the east side can be cool and windy, and the west side more protected. Avana Passage north of Muri Beach. Pacific Resort Rarotonga. Hawke's Bay camping grounds. 2 kms east of Sunhaven and the Aroa Beachside is the Aroa marine reserve which has excellent swimming and snorkelling. Cook Island Christian Church (CICC) 359. Aroa Beach and Marine Reserve, Rarotonga. Best Holiday Home: Hideaway Cove Poipu Beach – 9. Go in for an economical 10-ride pass, which should accommodate most weeklong stays. Rumours Luxury Villa and Spa (Best Adults-Only Rarotonga Resort) Photo Credit: Rumours. 5 years ago. It has been said that the water, snorkeling, and fish watching are better on the Western side of the island, and I suppose the sunsets are better too. . We have stayed on the west coast in Arorangi during October and whilst we did enjoy the lovely sunsets we did find it very warm, particularly without. Rarotonga. 2. Could anyone be more specific as to where the BEST of the foregoing (other than sunsets) are to. Muri Lagoon. 8/10 Good! (318 reviews) "Really loved the outdoor facilities for children and the amazing menu for both adults and children. 4. Boat Trips. Which side of Rarotonga has the best beaches? The south and west coast of Rarotonga have the most beautiful beaches, with many secluded and less-visited beach areas. Which side is preferable for this time of year? Rarotonga. We have 8 self catering villas nestled within tropical gardens. For beaches and watersports, the best side of the island of Rarotonga to stay on is Muri Beach (east coast) or Titikaveka (southeast coast). Answer 1 of 12: Hi, I have been doing some research about where to stay in rarotonga and I am a bit confused. Take your pick! © CookIslandsPocketGuide. We are very active and want to hike, bike, swim, and explore the island. Titikaveka is obviously closer to Muri than Vaimaanga but in my opinion and experience there is certainly a marked difference between Titikaveka and Muri. Our Cafe currently operates from Monday - Friday 10am - 3pm. Cook Islands Maori Dictionary. The back-packer hostels are decent places for single travellers to Rarotonga. Exclusively for adults Serenity Villas is brand new providing 4 boutique beachside villas on the western sunset side of Rarotonga, offering couples the ultimate relaxing holiday. Featuring a Nintendo Wii, the villa has a kitchen with a dishwasher, an oven and a microwave, a living room with a seating area and a dining area, 3 bedrooms, and 2 bathrooms with a bath and a shower. This resort catches the southerly and SE winds though, with the Edgewater being more sheltered in its NW location. Flight to Aitutaki with Air Rarotonga: Make sure you get a window seat for this 30-minute flight! Stay 3-6 nights on Aitutaki: For a longer stay on Aitutaki, I suggest switching hotels from one side of the island to the other, so you can get the best of both worlds. Rarotonga Tourism Rarotonga Hotels Rarotonga Guest House Rarotonga Holiday Homes Rarotonga Flights Rarotonga. 1. Lovely pool and beautiful surrounds. Save. Go Scuba Diving with Pacific Divers. The palm-fringed pool is just one beneficiary of significant recent upgrades to this 30-year-old Cook Islands stalwart, helping it keep up with the resort Joneses. How to get there from London: The train from London Victoria takes 1 hour 34 minutes. drops 4-5 degrees after 5pm and it gets windy. Sunset Quay Rarotonga is located in Arorangi Village, 15 minutes’ drive from Avarua. . . . I have read that on the east coast the temp. We realize this is the winter season. Ride Rarotonga in nearby Panama (close to the harbour) rents out cycles. Re: Best place for a family. . Bright abode with tropical gardens; Tapere of Titikaveka (from USD 190) Show all photos. Harnessing a sustainably repurposed piece of coral, Ocean Escape’s reef is the highlight of a pool refreshed tidally by water from the South. Hotel in Muri, Rarotonga. Titikaveka, Rarotonga . Rarotonga Tourism Rarotonga Hotels Rarotonga Bed and Breakfast Rarotonga Holiday Rentals Flights to Rarotonga. We are very active and want to hike, bike, swim, and explore the island. The South Pacific tropics are recreated at this Deluxe resort, with two- and three-story Hawaiian longhouses set among some of Disney's best landscaping. Banks Peninsula, Akaroa camping grounds. "Had the best stay with Kia Orana Villas! The. I have read that on the east coast the temp. Located on the western side of Rarotonga, Aroa Beach (or Aro’a Beach) gets the most sun throughout the day and typically has calm and clear waters. Answer 1 of 12: Hi, I have been doing some research about where to stay in rarotonga and I am a bit confused. drops 4-5 degrees after 5pm and it gets windy. View Hotel. Would we be better to stay half the time in one area, and then move to another, or just do day trips from the original destination? (Don't want to get caught with. into a tropical oasis loved by both visitors and locals alike. We heard that the east side can be cool and windy, and the west side more protected. My wife and I (60s) wish to visit Rarotonga for the first time in July for 5 nights. Book a villa with two or three bedrooms, complete with full kitchen and laundry facilities and plenty of space for everyone. 50 NZD for a child aged 2-11 years of age. A neat little spot to stay on the western side of Raro. In Muri lagoon, there's a handful of motu (small islands) easily reached by kayak, but you should paddle for Koromiri, which has one of the best beaches in Rarotonga. 3 nights from $1180 per person/twin share. Show more. Most all the beaches a great for. Snorkeling at Titikaveka Beach is one of the best things to do in Rarotonga and is honestly one of my personal favorites as well. However when were had 6 of us on Raro in early 2020 ( Pre-Covid) we stayed just down the beach at Natura Beach pool villa 2. Snorkeling at Aroa Beach (Aroa Marine Reserve) Snorkeling in Tikioki Beach (Marine Reserve) – Opposite Fruit of Rarotonga. Pacific Resort Aitutaki undeniably claims to be a ‘calm and tranquil oasis’ and we think it sums up their Aitutaki resort perfectly. There are plenty of great options, at all price points, around the island. We realize this is the winter season. This vacation rental will make your holiday in Rarotonga one for the books, offering an unforgettable setting surrounded by tropical. Rarotonga Tourism Rarotonga Hotels Bed and Breakfast Rarotonga Rarotonga Holiday Rentals Flights to Rarotonga Rarotonga. "Pacific Resort Rarotonga, what a magical place to stay. Package purchases must include a round-trip flight and a hotel stay purchased together on the same transaction for the same length of stay. A short flight from New Zealand, the 15 main islands of the Cook Islands are spread over 850,000 square miles in the South Pacific Ocean. Arorangi – The Best Resorts for Whale Watching on Rarotonga. This is one of the best hotel in the island, the service is really good and the best thing was having stand up paddle boards and kayak available. 2 kms east of Sunhaven and the Aroa Beachside is the Aroa marine reserve which has excellent swimming and snorkelling. Apr 2023. I have read that on the east coast the temp. The Little Polynesian has three-night stays including transfers, daily breakfast, use of snorkelling equipment, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards. About Rarotonga. Becomes difficult to arrange how to return to the car if you exit down the Papua stream side in Vaimaanga. Advertisement. On Aitutaki, the Amuri Guest House is located next door to the Amuri hall is a good place to stay, and which is affordable. 2 Reviews . Most accommodation in Rarotonga and Aitutaki is on the water’s edge. Located the Western side of Rarotonga, Black Rock is a local favourite for relaxing, swimming, snorkelling and catching. 2023. Answer 11 of 19: My family is planning on visiting Rarotonga from May 28-June 4, 2005. Could anyone be more specific as to where the BEST of the foregoing (other than sunsets) are to. Love sunsets but also love snorkelling and swimming. Plus, accommodation in Rarotonga is cheaper during this time. Types of rooms and prices range from. Rehab is the club of choice on the weekend if you really want to let your hair down. Choose from a range of accommodation options. Save. Value. Nature & Wildlife Areas. Rarotonga Tourism Rarotonga Hotels Rarotonga Bed and Breakfast Rarotonga Vacation Rentals Rarotonga Vacation PackagesAnswer 1 of 6: Hi, my husband and I are planning a trip to Rarotonga in August and I am a little confused on what the best side of the island is. Best value for. Some excellent snorkeling around that area and headed back up the eastern side a bit (basically south from the place known as Fruits of Rarotonga). What advice can you. . What is the best cultural night options? What places have the best happy hours/nightlife?. Best place to stay in Rarotonga 5 replies; There IS a Rainy Season 29 replies; Car or scooter hire on Rarotonga 20 replies; Taking food into Raro. These rankings are informed by traveler reviews—we consider the quality, quantity, recency, consistency of reviews, and the number of page views over time. Rumours Luxury Villas and Spa is the ultimate in luxury set a little farther south on the Muri Beach Lagoon. Rarotonga. Most people do it as a day trip, but we strongly recommend at least two or three nights to get the real Aitutaki experience. Best place to stay in Rarotonga " Great room with everything you need and we were lucky enough to get a lovely ocean view. Answer 11 of 19: My family is planning on visiting Rarotonga from May 28-June 4, 2005. The Rarotonga sits on the famed Aroa marine reserve well suited to snorkelling, kayaking, swimming and SUP. Make a splash in Ocean Escape Resort & Spa’s unique swimming pool. Just park up opposite fruits of Rarotonga and take the plunge into the waters. Of course, the food matches the theme right down to the extensive. Hi there, We have just booked our trip - very excited! I'm just trying to work out what area I should be looking at for a place to stay. Also we have young kids so keen to stay near a beach that is safe for them. For entry to the Cook Islands, visitors need a valid passport with at least six months remaining on it and an exit ticket. Muri Lagoon Water Quality; Water filter stations; Crime is increasing around Rarotonga; Sunblock can kill coral - choose carefully; 2021 Dengue Fever on Rarotonga; 2020. 7 mi from Avarua in Rarotonga. Te Vara Nui Village. drops 4-5 degrees after 5pm and it gets windy. Answer 1 of 5: Am looking at staying at Crown beach which is on the west side and apparently has fantastic sunsets, that sounds nice and all. . In many places, you must stay a minimum of three nights. One of the best ways to explore the Cook Islands is by water, and a lagoon cruise in Muri is the way to go. Everywhere around Rarotonga is tidal. We have a great beach bar & restaurant, the Shipwreck Hut, on property which offers a menu with variety for all & local dishes. This property offers access to a balcony and free private parking. Re: Best time & nicest part of island for snorkeling. Little. October/November is a great time to visit Rarotonga. " It’s located on the western side of Rarotonga,. Answer 1 of 19: My family is planning on visiting Rarotonga from May 28-June 4, 2005. The resort is all about the fun with a diverse theme at their restaurant each night, a beach bonfire on Sundays and. On the western side of Rarotonga, Manuia Beach Resort captures some of the most breathtaking sunsets from its beachfront suites and acclaimed On The Beach (OTB) Restaurant. 82 helpful votes. Kia Orana, welcome to the Aro'a Beachside Resort an adult only (16+) resort. Enter dates to see prices. What areas are best to stay? We have a bungalow booked. I have heard that the. Tips on Departing Rarotonga. As you move eastward, the lagoon narrows dramatically, until the reef is essentially up against the shoreline, resulting in rougher waters, unswimmable in parts due to corl heads with somewhat. Most accommodation in Rarotonga and Aitutaki is on the water’s edge. drops 4-5 degrees after 5pm and it gets windy. I have read that on the east coast the temp. We’ll look at not only the parts of town that jump off the page for tourists, but which budget, mid-range, and luxury hotels rank above the rest. Enjoy our fresh water cool-off pool and other great complimentary facilities including snorkelling gear, sun lounges, kayaks and beach towels. #15 of 24 hotels in Rarotonga. Te Manava, arguably the best resort in Rarotonga, offers a lavishly, luxurious experience that cannot be replicated. We are undecided where to stay. Aroa Beach Marine Reserve, Arorangi, Ara Tapu Rd, Rarotonga. What is the best side of Rarotonga to stay on? Rarotonga’s north coast is closest to the airport and the capital, Avarua, where you’ll find shops, museums and outdoor markets. Best place to stay in Rarotonga 5 replies; There IS a Rainy Season 29 replies; Car or scooter hire on Rarotonga 20. Are Renga Motel. Excellent spot for winter whale watching though, at the Edgewater ! Do any family resorts in Rarotonga have a spa on-site? Family Resorts in Rarotonga: Find 8161 traveller reviews, candid photos, and the top ranked Family Resorts in Rarotonga on Tripadvisor. Capital: Avarua on Rarotonga. Always very crowded & noisy; Waikiki beach is very busy. On average, it costs $149 per night to book a 3-star hotel in Rarotonga for tonight. Very quite and remote spot. 5h • Aircraft: Airbus 321neo • Meals: dinner, snack Depart. Our List of the Best Things to Do in Rarotonga. There is a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom in each unit. Day 7 - Relax. Answer 1 of 7: Many seem to feel Muri has the best beaches, while other say it is too crowded, but yet lots of restaurants. A fabulous option on the western side of Rarotonga, Castaway Resort is the resort of the hugely popular Wilson’s Beach Bar & Restaurant, yet only guests aged 16 and over can stay, ensuring a tranquil setting throughout the day. Maire Nui Gardens & Cafe. Rarotonga. Which side of the plane to sit on when flying. While The Needle can be admired all the way from shore on the northern side of the island, those who want a closer look will have to do a portion of the Cross. By Jeremytung. " Best Seller. There are plenty of options when it comes to accommodation in Rarotonga. There are plenty of picturesque lagoons that allow peaceful. This is not the case with the west coast. Island in Aitutaki Lagoon. Museum Tour. Family-Friendly: Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa – 9. Aorangi District is also on the west side of Rarotonga, so it’s also where to stay in Rarotonga for an amazing sunset. Maire Nui Gardens & Cafe. Muri beach is on the windy side of the island, therefore expect some wind. Two buses go around the perimeter of the island: The Clockwise bus leaves on the hour, and the Anti-Clockwise bus every 30 minutes. Maire Nui Gardens is located on the South side of the island, and encompasses 7 acres of colourful and unique plants. Location. This is one of the most booked hotels in Rarotonga over the last 60. Rarotonga Honeymoon Resorts. com. Staff were friendly and caring, rooms were spacious, food was great - and the access to the beach. Cost Range. Te Etu Villas. Specialty coffee for breakfast NZ$ 5, better take your beach towels and umbrellas to the reception upon checkout, otherwise you will be charged. The secluded beachfront location provides guests with an unspoilt view of Rarotonga's crystal clear aqua blue lagoon and. View Hotel. We realize this is the winter season. Table of Contents. Cleanliness. Rarotonga’s best beaches are on the southern side of the island, starting from Muri Beach in the east to Aroa Beach in the west. We have heard that the western side is less windy! We are more mature - 2 couples 60+. Now $149 (Was $̶1̶7̶3̶) on Tripadvisor: Aro'a Beachside Resort, Arorangi. Aroa is my personal favorite beach, so much so I actually booked the Rarotongan Resort on my recent trip. 2. Edited: 1. Rarotonga. Eat a Fish Burger from Mooring Cafe. The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium. 6 casual shirts (tees and/or singlets) 1 button down shirt (for going out) 2 pairs of shorts (one pair of chino shorts and one pair of sports shorts) 1 pair of pants/chinos (for going out) 1 light sweatshirt. Casa Muri. It has been said that the water, snorkeling, and fish watching are better on the Western side of the island, and I suppose the sunsets are better too.