What areas are best to stay? We have a bungalow booked. Rarotonga Hotels and Places to Stay. Rarotonga, Southern Cook Islands . drops 4-5 degrees after 5pm and it gets windy. Kia Orana Belinda, welcome to the Rarotonga forum. I've read a lot. Find various hotels in Rarotonga including both cheap discount hostels &inns from USD 111 in suburb area and luxury 5-star hotels in central downtown, most with free cancelation. 671. . Though just be aware that even 5-star resorts in Rarotonga don’t actually look too great so adjust your expectations accordingly. 4. Love sunsets but also love snorkelling and swimming. this portion of titikaveka beach is located outside the popular charlies cafe and is another great swimming spot. For one of the top Rarotonga 5-star resorts, look no further than Te Vakaroa Villas with this beachfront luxury resort on Muri Beach. 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. . 00 per day for backpacking Rarotonga to stay on the safe side. " Best Seller. 21 Nov - 22 Nov. Muri beach seems to be the consensus, but wondering if there are some other good (potentially less expensive) alternatives. . drops 4-5 degrees after 5pm and it gets windy. Rarotonga. #7 of 24 hotels in Rarotonga. 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. The studios and suites at Resort Sunset are nestled among tropical gardens. Love sunsets but also love snorkelling and swimming. We are undecided where to stay. Travel shots are taken at all times of year. Personally, I love to stay in Rarotonga for 10-14 days. Answer 1 of 8: Does anyone know which hotel in Raro allow one night stay or at the most 2 nights? We only have 6 nights total :Either 5 in Aitutaki and one in Raro or 4 in Aitutakui and 2 in Raro We had Palm Grove in mind but their minimum is 3. . We realize this is the winter season. 3 grocery stores, numerous licenced restaurants, coffee shops, rental vehicles, tours and attractions. 0 899 reviews. 7. Visitors staying here will be close to all the amenities, including banks, supermarkets and museums. What advice can you. Answer 1 of 12: Hi, I have been doing some research about where to stay in rarotonga and I am a bit confused. What places to stay in. Check out accommodation that appeals to you in Vaimaanga or. There are no stingers and guests swim everywhere, except near the passages in the reef. Sunset Resort is a larger sized resort situated in the NW corner of the island, with nicely presented grounds and accommodation. When it comes to getting around Rarotonga, the public bus is an easy and cheap option. Rarotonga. Rarotonga Tourism Rarotonga Hotels Rarotonga Bed and Breakfast Rarotonga Vacation Rentals Flights to Rarotonga Rarotonga Restaurants Things to Do in Rarotonga Rarotonga Travel Forum Rarotonga Photos Rarotonga MapAnswer 21 of 40: Hello, My husband and I will be visiting Rarotonga for 12 nights in October. A private room for one person costs 35-40 NZD, while a double private room is about 40-55 NZD. And don’t. Whether you prefer to exchange vows barefoot on a secluded beach at sunset, surrounded by a heart-shaped arrangement of shells, inside a serene whitewashed coral church accompanied by a soul-stirring gospel choir, on a private islet adorned with. We are travelling to Rarotonga in August for the first time for our honeymoon with our 18month old daughter. Rarotonga Tourism Rarotonga Hotels Bed and Breakfast Rarotonga Rarotonga Holiday Rentals Flights to Rarotonga Rarotonga. Which side of the island would you advise staying on? We heard that the east side can be cool and windy, and the west side more protected. Maire Nui Gardens is located on the South side of the island, and encompasses 7 acres of colourful and unique plants. The south of Rarotonga is home to the best beaches on the island, with deep lagoons perfect for snorkelling and non-motorised watersports. I have heard that the south side of the island is better for. Ranked as one of America’s Best Small Towns by Fodor’s, Paia is a beach town that bears. From $216 per night. #17 of 24 hotels in Rarotonga. 3. 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. Muri, Rarotonga. Discover jaw-dropping coconut crabs, astonishing stonefish, stunning aquarium fish, inspiring natural history, cinema and so much more in this unique Cook Island Marine and Wildlife Centre. Maire Nui Gardens is located on the South side of the island, and encompasses 7 acres of colourful and unique plants. Where to Stay. We realize this is the winter season. #5 of 24 hotels in Rarotonga. from 7. We are very active and want to hike, bike, swim, and explore the island. Kia manuia. We are very active and want to hike, bike, swim, and explore the island. 2023. South Pacific ; Cook Islands ; Southern Cook Islands ; Rarotonga ;. Just park up opposite fruits of Rarotonga and take the plunge into the waters. Rarotonga, Cook. Sea Change Villas is nestled discreetly on the southern side of Rarotonga, on its own secluded white sandy. I have read that on the east coast the temp. Save more when you add extra nights! Read More What's included. 5. Top beaches to explore Muri Beach, Rarotonga Located on the South-Eastern side of Rarotonga, this beach is a hub for water activities, including: Sea scooter safari tours,. Now $149 (Was $̶1̶7̶3̶) on Tripadvisor: Aro'a Beachside Resort, Arorangi. Relax by the pool with a cocktail, soak up the sun, rejuvenate your soul and indulge in. To help you choose a suitable stay, browse through this list of the best long-term rentals in Rarotonga, Cook Islands. What side of the island is best for low-key rental properties (less than $250 a night) . Flea & Street Markets. Though it’s ideal to stay on the beautiful island of Aitutaki, a day. West obviously has sunsets, but maybe not as many restaurants & bars? Have also heard east & south are colder. Make a splash in Ocean Escape Resort & Spa’s unique swimming pool. The stunning pool at Te Vakaroa Villas. Rarotonga. Vaka Rua is set right over the golden sand facing the lagoon, Rainbow Villas, MM Batch South Side, Rarotonga's Fishing Lodge - GT's, Te Moana Nui Villa 3: More places to stay in Rarotonga. Looking for advice on best accomodation that is not massively expensive for a couple. I have read that on the east coast the temp. Table of Contents. The same rules above apply to staying at a budget place as they do for a luxury stay anywhere on the island. PO Box 121, Avarua, Rarotonga, Cook Islands. BTW Lagoon Lodges isn't beachfront being situated on the inland side of the main road. Wellesley Hotel Rarotonga. . Hurunui camping grounds. THE 5 BEST Cheap Hotels in Rarotonga 2023 (with Prices) - Tripadvisor. The east side and Muri Lagoon is a hub for watersports, the west side offers the best sunsets and places to eat, the north side is close to Rarotonga’s main shops and services, while th e south side is the most. Licenced restaurant onsite, and a pool-side bar. Cleanliness. This is not the case with the west coast. It's well worth it - the most stunning sunset I have ever seen was when we stayed at the Sunset Resort. Arorangi – The Best Resorts for Whale Watching on Rarotonga. Arorangi School Passage in between Black Rock and Aro’a beaches. If you do decide to come in July, your best bet would be to stay on the western side of the island rather than the east side, it's more sheltered from the winds. 3 reviews. Pacific Resort Rarotonga: Best staff, best accomodation. into a tropical oasis loved by both visitors and locals alike. Castaway Resort Rarotonga. This 64-room boutique resort offers a range of spacious suites. Island in Aitutaki Lagoon. Table of Contents: The Best Rarotonga Resorts for Families. 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. We realize this is the winter season. Show more. #1 of 10 apartments in Rarotonga. The weather is starting to warm up at this time of the year and anywhere on the south of the island will give you a pleasant cooling breeze. Answer 1 of 12: Hi, I have been doing some research about where to stay in rarotonga and I am a bit confused. Fully refundable Reserve now, pay when you stay. Started in 1996 by Hinano Macquarie, Maire Nui Gardens has evolved from what was originally swampland, into a tropical oasis loved by both visitors and locals alike. Maire Nui Gardens & Cafe. #6 of 24 hotels in Rarotonga. This is a beautiful experience, especially in the spring when the island is bursting with cherry blossoms. We are very active and want to hike, bike, swim, and explore the island. Aitutaki Escape. Best Rarotonga Resorts on Tripadvisor: Find traveller reviews, candid photos, and prices for 18 resorts in Rarotonga, Cook Islands. Like Sunhaven and Murivai beach in the west. Over on this side of the island, the reef breaks far from the coast, creating a large and calm lagoon. Two buses go around the perimeter of the island: The Clockwise bus leaves on the hour, and the Anti-Clockwise bus every 30 minutes. 6. Kia Orana, Rarotonga is a popular island holiday destination for Kiwis and has an impressive tourism infrastructure for an island of its size. Rarotonga. Black Rock Beach, Rarotonga. Marlborough camping grounds. This is not the case with the west coast. Choose from a range of accommodation options. I have read that on the east coast the temp. What areas are best to stay? We have a bungalow booked. Set alongside Aitutaki Lagoon, this resort offers 3 beachfront bungalows. Best place to stay in Rarotonga 5 replies; There IS a Rainy Season 29 replies; Car or scooter hire on Rarotonga 20 replies;Where to stay on Rarotonga. Little. Matavera, Rarotonga. It can be a bit murky in the shadows unless it is a super calm day. I have doubts that you will enjoy staying at the Muri Beachcomber due to its very busy location. 697 Reviews . However. Free parking . This is during the dry season, when the weather is hot (but tolerable) and not too wet. And don’t worry, wherever you stay in Rarotonga or Aitutaki, your. Religious Sites. The pace of life is a lot slower and more relaxed here compared to Rarotonga, where finding yourself alone on a motu or sandbank amongst turquoise waters is a fairly common. . THE 10 BEST Rarotonga Resorts. 6. 1. Rarotonga Tourism Rarotonga Accommodation Rarotonga Bed and Breakfast Rarotonga Holiday Rentals Rarotonga Holiday Packages Rarotonga Flights Rarotonga. Aim for a budget of NZ$90 (US$63) per day upwards for a backpacker stay on the islands, staying in dorms, taking local buses and cooking meals at your hostel. On sunset side of the island and only. If you are looking for a proper getaway from you busy life, but also want a resort that is onto it and efficient, then look no further. We are thinking of booking a place called kia orana beach bungalows in Arorangi for the week. There are plenty of great options, at all price points, around the island. 19. 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. Rarotonga. Show more. Avarua is quite a cute South Pacific settlement, small enough yet with all the amenities for a comfortable and easy-going life. Just park up opposite fruits of Rarotonga and take the plunge into the waters. . Rarotonga. Day 3 - Hiking Te Rua Managa - The Needle. 11 Apr, 2023 06:00 AM 5 mins to read. There are plenty of options when it comes to accommodation in Rarotonga. Experience a Rarotonga “Island Night”. I have read that on the east coast the temp. Rarotonga Tourism Rarotonga Hotels Rarotonga Guest House Rarotonga Holiday Homes Rarotonga Flights Rarotonga Restaurants Rarotonga AttractionsAnd yes, September/October to early November is a wonderful time of year. For entry to the Cook Islands, visitors need a valid passport with at least six months remaining on it and an exit ticket. . Captain Tama’s and Koka are the two main ones. . Answer 1 of 3: Hi, what is the best side of the island to stay in June, July, or August? I have heard that Muri is windy in winter, and not very sunny? Also we have young kids so keen to stay near a beach that is safe for them. Muri Lagoon. Started in 1996 by Hinano Macquarie, Maire Nui Gardens has evolved from what was originally swampland, into a tropical oasis loved by both visitors and locals alike. BTW Lagoon Lodges isn't beachfront being situated on the inland side of the main road. NZ$237. My dilemma is that there are many beautiful resorts on the east side such as Sea change villas and Reflections on rarotonga. Enjoy our fresh water cool-off pool and other great complimentary facilities including snorkelling gear, sun lounges, kayaks and beach towels. Sunset Resort is a larger sized resort situated in the NW corner of the island, with nicely presented grounds and accommodation. On average, it costs $149 per night to book a 3-star hotel in Rarotonga for tonight. Answer 1 of 5: My husband and I will be on Rarotonga for 1 week in Feb 07 on our way to Christchurch . "Thankyou Rarotonga sanctuary for a nice stay. . Are Renga Motel. One of the most popular things to do in Rarotonga is join one of the glass bottom boat trips. Aroa Beach Marine Reserve, Arorangi, Ara Tapu Rd, Rarotonga. Rarotonga Tourism Rarotonga Hotels Rarotonga Bed and Breakfast Rarotonga Vacation Rentals Flights to Rarotonga Rarotonga Restaurants Things to Do in Rarotonga Rarotonga. We scuba dive most days so don’t do much lagoon swimming but many people do swim and snorkel on the west side. Could anyone be more specific as to where the BEST of the foregoing (other than sunsets) are to. My dilemma is that there are many beautiful resorts on the east side such as Sea change villas and Reflections on rarotonga. 809 reviews. 5/5. Its spacious, self-catering studios and suites either boast a beachfront location, or overlook the 2 outdoor swimming pools. The south of Rarotonga is home to the best beaches on the island, with deep lagoons perfect for snorkelling and non-motorised watersports. Families traveling in Rarotonga enjoyed their stay at the following beach resorts: Little Polynesian Resort - Traveler rating: 4. 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. Find various hotels in Rarotonga including both cheap discount hostels &inns from USD 111 in suburb area and luxury 5-star hotels in central downtown, most with free cancelation. 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. 1,503 Reviews . Check out this interactive map of Raro, you can see the various beaches & properties, it may give you some idea of where things are located and where the various properties are. Serenity Villas offer four very spacious, well appointed villas featuring all the modern comforts of home to make for an easy self service stay. Things to Know When Backpacking Rarotonga. 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. BlueOrange Studio/Shutterstock. Our Cafe currently operates from Monday - Friday 10am - 3pm. 5 years ago. Which restaurants are open over Christmas and NYE, and the festive season? Mosquitoes and vector-borne diseases in the Cook Islands. Luxury villas, resorts, hotels and holiday homes & apartments. Crime is increasing around Rarotonga; Sunblock can kill coral - choose carefully; 2021 Dengue Fever on Rarotonga; 2020 Dengue Fever on Rarotonga; 2019 Dengue Fever Outbreak on Rarotonga; 2019 Rarotonga Trip Reports; 2018 Trip Reports Rarotonga; 2017 Rarotonga Trip Reports; 2016 Rarotonga Trip Reports; COVID - 19 virus advisory. Service. Let’s start with the two most affordable and family-friendly villas with a private pool on Rarotonga. 00 to $130. Casa Muri. With your stay, you’ll get a private, air-conditioned room with free wifi and a private bathroom. Rarotonga. It would need to have a pool and very importantly a hammock strung between two palm trees, with the ocean in the background. You will not find one place that fits all your requirements. I have heard that the. 7. " Read all reviews. Rarotonga Tourism"We had a wonderful holiday in Rarotonga. Rarotonga Tourism Rarotonga Hotels Bed and Breakfast Rarotonga Rarotonga Holiday Rentals Flights to Rarotonga Rarotonga. My dilemma is. 5/10 ⭐. This vacation rental will make your holiday in Rarotonga one for the books, offering an unforgettable setting surrounded by tropical. Muri Night Market. Answer 11 of 19: My family is planning on visiting Rarotonga from May 28-June 4, 2005. For some of the best resorts along with amazing sunsets and whale watching, the west coast, Arorangi , is the best side of Rarotonga. 82 helpful votes. Aitutaki. Where Not To Swim In Rarotonga. Lagoon Breeze Villas. com and holiday homes and I'm trying to narrow it down. Our Cafe currently operates from Monday - Friday 10am - 3pm. What a stunning place to stay. Edited: 26 May 2023,. " Read all reviews. 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. 3 nights from $1180 per person/twin share. Hotel in Muri, Rarotonga. See 231 traveler reviews, 322 candid photos, and great deals for Aro'a Beachside Resort, ranked #1 of 4 hotels in Arorangi and rated 4. 2. Little Polynesian. Cook Islands Church. Best Rarotonga Resorts on Tripadvisor: Find traveller reviews, candid photos, and prices for 18 resorts in Rarotonga, Cook Islands. The majority of travelers stay on Rarotonga (affectionately nicknamed Raro), the largest of the Cook Islands, which itself is still really small: it takes less than an hour to drive around the island's perimeter road! Competitions are held at the national auditorium in Avarua. drops 4-5 degrees after 5pm and it gets windy. Clear all filters. The Aroa Marine Reserve in front of The Rarotongan Beach Resort. Most visitors can stay in the Cook Islands for up to 31 days; although, New Zealand citizens can stay for up to 90 days. Rarotonga. "We had a wonderful holiday in Rarotonga. We realize this is the winter season. The units are comfortable and have everything you need. With this being your first time I think a split of 6 nights at Rarotonga and 4 at Aitutaki would perhaps be better for you. 6 Night Package from $2,889 per person. If you are looking for deeper water when the tide is low, look at the Tikioki- Titikaveka area foremost. com prices). 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 heard that the east side can be cool and windy, and the west side more protected. We enjoy relaxing, swimming, snorkelling, walking. . The north coast of Rarotonga is the best part of the island for proximity to the airport and the capital, Avarua. Sunset Quay Rarotonga is located in Arorangi Village, 15 minutes’ drive from Avarua. . 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. Answer 11 of 12: Hi, I have been doing some research about where to stay in rarotonga and I am a bit confused. Rarotonga Tourism Rarotonga Accommodation Rarotonga Bed and BreakfastAnd The Waterline because I know the owners. Silty and shallow beach across the road, but within walking distance to the lovely lagoon area heading north from Pacific Resort. Rarotonga. It’s so easy to get around the island. Tuoro Tapas Bar: Holiday Rarotonga - See 471 traveler reviews, 222 candid photos, and great deals for Rarotonga, Cook Islands, at Tripadvisor. Another couple of good resources to add to NzLilibet's that could prove useful: - Heaps of information on the Cook Islands (Rarotonga and Aitutaki) and links for accommodation. drops 4-5 degrees after 5pm and it gets windy. THE 10 BEST Accommodation in Rarotonga, Cook Islands Rarotonga Hotels and Places to Stay Enter dates to find the best prices Check In — / — / — Check Out — / — / — Guests 1 room, 2 adults, 0 children Popular. We love the ocean so would love to stay somewhere where we have the option of both. The Cooks Oasis. Only seven villas furnished with elegance and indulgence in mind cater to the honeymooner or other discerning adults. Edited: 1. Started in 1996 by Hinano Macquarie, Maire Nui Gardens has evolved from what was originally swampland, into a tropical oasis loved by both visitors and locals alike. Answer 1 of 12: Hi, I have been doing some research about where to stay in rarotonga and I am a bit confused. 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. Set the right tone for a tranquil tropical getaway by staying at an adults-only resort in the Cook Islands. Rarotonga Tourism Rarotonga Hotels Rarotonga Bed and Breakfast Rarotonga Vacation Rentals Flights to Rarotonga Rarotonga Restaurants Rarotonga Attractions. How Much Is The Aitutaki Day Tour. Sunset Resort is located just 3. 6 km from the villa, while Albertos is 12 km away. Licenced restaurant onsite, and a pool-side bar. com What to Do on Rarotonga Koromiri has the best secluded beach. Most all the beaches a great for something or another. But you don't want to miss the best chances of whale spotting - again the western side for that since the reef is close to the island there but still allows for some water activities. Manuia Beach Resort. The South/west side around Fruits of Rarotonga is great swimming and snorkeling. 2023. If you only do one activity while you’re in Rarotonga, this is the one to splurge on. We want to be on a. 9 Fabulous 326 reviews. 1. Location. Drinking a cocktail at Nautilus Resort. drops 4-5 degrees after 5pm and it gets windy. The Rarotongan Resort has the nicest beach for snorkelling (in the marine reserve), kayaking and swimming but the food outlets are limited to onsite dining or driving to another village. Pacific Resort Aitutaki undeniably claims to be a ‘calm and tranquil oasis’ and we think it sums up their Aitutaki resort perfectly. Also we have young kids so keen to stay near a beach that is safe for them. Chuck. drops 4-5 degrees after 5pm and it gets windy. The back-packer hostels are decent places for single travellers to Rarotonga. Have an Awesome Night at the Highland Paradise Cultural Show. We love the space the facilities and the safety of the pool for kids. Captain Tama's Lagoon Cruizes. Muri Beach Club Hotel, an adults only oasis from 18years and over is ideally located on the beachfront at Muri Lagoon. The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium. Kia Orana Sarah, welcome to the Rarotonga forum. Nature & Wildlife Areas. Brighton is a brilliant mish-mash of. Titikaveka is a much quieter area than Muri, the lagoon in this area isn't as effected by pollution to the extent that Muri is. The 4-bedroom villa features a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher, an oven and a microwave. Aim for a budget of NZ$90 (US$63) per day upwards for a backpacker stay on the islands, staying in dorms, taking local buses and cooking meals at your hostel. 9. Answer 11 of 12: Hi, I have been doing some research about where to stay in rarotonga and I am a bit confused. But you don't want to miss the best chances of whale spotting - again the western side for that since the reef is close to the island there but still allows for some water activities. Re: Best time & nicest part of island for snorkeling. Muri Night Market. I have been doing some research about where to stay in rarotonga and I am a bit confused. Answer 11 of 19: My family is planning on visiting Rarotonga from May 28-June 4, 2005. I have read that on the east coast the temp. Approximately 1. drops 4-5 degrees after 5pm and it gets windy. 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. Hi, Does anyone know the best resort on the west coast (sunset side) of Rarotonga. We heard that the east side can be cool and windy, and the west side more protected. View Hotel. 36 reviews. 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. Featuring a private beach, outdoor tennis courts and an outdoor pool, The Edgewater Resort & Spa is situated in Arorangi and provides comfortable accommodation. into a tropical oasis loved by both visitors and locals alike. The very best side is on the west - there are several places you can enjoy the sunset. It’s where many of Rarotonga’s most popular resorts are located, each offering stunning spots to watch whales, whether. Aroa Marine Reserve took my breath away. 158 posts. Book the Best Rarotonga Hotels on Tripadvisor: Find 22,889 traveller reviews and 23,822 candid photos for hotels in Rarotonga, Cook Islands. What areas are best to stay? We have a bungalow booked. Boat Trips. Rarotonga Hotels and Places to Stay. Wonderful. We have a great beach bar & restaurant, the Shipwreck Hut, on property which offers a menu with variety for all & local dishes. See moreStay at Rarotonga Backpackers. Little Polynesian Resort. Which side of the island would you advise staying on? We heard that the east side can be cool and windy, and the west side more protected. The resort is all about the fun with a diverse theme at their restaurant each night, a beach bonfire on Sundays and. 41 helpful votes. Answer 11 of 19: My family is planning on visiting Rarotonga from May 28-June 4, 2005. Cleanliness. Very different from Rarotonga, Aitutaki is an atoll with one large island (although smaller than Rarotonga) and several small “motu” (islets) encircling a glorious lagoon. Discover Marine and Wildlife Eco Centre. What side of the island is best for low-key rental properties (less than $250 a night) . 8/10 Good! (318 reviews) "Really loved the outdoor facilities for children and the amazing menu for both adults and children. Te Rua Manga (The Needle) One of the most prominent sights on Rarotonga, Te Rua Manga, otherwise known as The Needle, is an exposed breccia structure reaching 413m (1,355ft) high. Temps are warming up in late spring, the flowers are blooming, days are longer, and the beach is a wonderful spot to cool off in the middle of day. Manuia Beach Resort. Villa. The south has the best snorkelling and swimming. Day 1 - Exploring Muri Lagoon. 1. Answer 1 of 3: We are going to Rarotonga for the first time. Bright abode with tropical gardens; Tapere of Titikaveka (from USD 190) Show all photos. It’s where many of Rarotonga’s most popular resorts are located, each offering stunning spots to watch whales, whether.