Things To Do
in Avarua
Avarua is the capital city of the Cook Islands, located on the island of Rarotonga. It is a vibrant and bustling town with a mix of traditional Polynesian and modern influences. The town is known for its colorful markets, where locals sell fresh produce, crafts, and souvenirs.
Avarua also has a beautiful waterfront area with restaurants, shops, and a serene lagoon perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
- "Kia orana" - Hello
- "Meitaki" - Thank you
- "Aere ra" - Goodbye
- "E ia ra" - Yes
- "Kare" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing swim at Muri Beach. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a beachside café with stunning ocean views.
Rent a kayak and explore the crystal-clear lagoons. Take a break for lunch at one of the local eateries offering fresh seafood.
Watch the sunset from the beach, sipping on a tropical drink. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant with live music.
Hike to the highest point of Rarotonga for breathtaking views of the island. Bring water and snacks to enjoy at the summit.
Take a guided tour of the island's lush interior. Discover local flora and fauna while learning about the history and culture.
Relax at your accommodation and freshen up. Head out to a local night market to indulge in various food stalls and crafts.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty with lush landscapes and pristine beaches
- Welcoming and friendly local community
- Rich cultural heritage and traditions
- Ideal destination for water activities like snorkeling and diving
- Mild tropical climate suitable for year-round travel
- Limited healthcare facilities and services
- Higher cost of living and travel compared to some other destinations
- Remote location may require long travel times to reach
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options
- Potential for natural disasters such as cyclones during certain seasons
Best Activities in Avarua
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life around Avarua, with guided snorkeling tours available for all skill levels.
Rent a kayak to paddle around the crystal-clear lagoons, with opportunities to explore secluded beaches and hidden coves.
Take advantage of the scenic trails around Avarua, including the picturesque cross-island hike leading to breathtaking viewpoints.
Bike along the scenic coastal roads and enjoy the views of the ocean and lush landscapes. Bikes are available for rent in town.
Join a fishing charter for deep-sea fishing adventures or try your hand at shore fishing in the plentiful waters around Avarua.
Participate in guided tours that explore the rich cultural heritage of the Cook Islands, including visits to local villages and historical sites.
Enjoy a game of beach volleyball on the sandy shores, which often have nets set up for public use.
Experience the stunning sunset over the lagoon with a cruise, often accompanied by dinner and drinks.
Tours
Uncover the best of Avarua with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Avarua
Visit one of these nice places.
A famous rock formation offering panoramic views of Avarua and the surrounding lagoon. It's a popular spot for photography, especially at sunrise.
The harbor provides stunning views of the water and boats. The colorful local buildings in the background make this spot ideal for vibrant photos.
Known for its unique rock formations and clear waters, Black Rock is perfect for capturing the natural beauty of the Cook Islands.
This viewpoint requires a moderate hike but rewards visitors with breathtaking views of the valley and coastlines. The lush greenery adds to great photo opportunities.
One of the most picturesque beaches in Avarua, Muri Beach is famous for its turquoise waters, coral reefs, and stunning sunsets, making it perfect for photography.
The vibrant colors and bustling activity of the market provide excellent opportunities for capturing local culture, crafts, and friendly faces.
Food in Avarua
Avarua Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try dish made of raw fish marinated in coconut milk, lime, and vegetables. Best enjoyed at local fish markets or traditional cookhouses.
Must-Try!
Tender taro leaves cooked in creamy coconut cream. Available at local eateries and traditional feasts across Avarua.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers an array of fresh produce, local delicacies, and crafts. Visitors can sample traditional snacks like po'i (mashed swamp taro) and coconut bread.
A vibrant hub for authentic street food, offering an array of savory and sweet treats such as fresh grilled seafood, tropical fruit smoothies, and popular dishes like chop suey and mahi mahi.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When meeting locals in Avarua, it's customary to greet with a friendly 'Kia Orana' (meaning 'may you live long'). A warm smile and a handshake are also part of the etiquette.
Dress modestly and respectfully, especially when visiting local churches or communal events. Swimwear should be reserved for the beach or pool areas, and it's advisable to wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees in more formal or traditional settings.
Be mindful of local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or sacred sites, and show respect during cultural performances or events by refraining from loud conversations or disruptive behavior.
Safety
Tipping in Avarua
Ensure a smooth experience
In Avarua, tipping is not a common practice and is not expected. Service charges may be included in bills at restaurants and other service establishments. If a customer wishes to express gratitude for exceptional service, leaving a small tip is appreciated but not mandatory.
Payment methods in Avarua include cash and credit/debit cards. New Zealand dollars are commonly used, given the close economic ties with New Zealand. Many establishments accept cards, but it is advisable to have cash on hand for small vendors and markets. Additionally, mobile payment options are becoming increasingly popular.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is considered the best time to visit Avarua, with pleasant weather, lower humidity, and minimal rainfall. You can expect sunny days and cooler evenings, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as snorkeling, diving, and exploring the islands.
During the wet season, expect higher humidity, increased rainfall, and occasional storms. While temperatures remain warm, this season may not be as favorable for outdoor activities. However, it is also the time when the islands are lush and vibrant, and you may find better deals on accommodation and tours.
Avarua at Night
Hiking in Avarua
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hike that offers panoramic views of Avarua and the surrounding areas. The trek takes you through lush forests and up to the Raemaru summit.
This trail leads to the highest peak on Rarotonga, offering rewarding views at the summit. The trek is challenging but suitable for experienced hikers.
A beautiful nature reserve with various hiking trails, rich in native flora and fauna. It's a great spot for bird watching and enjoying the natural scenery.
A leisurely walk along Muri Lagoon with stunning views of the water and surrounding islands. It's excellent for family outings.
A less-known hiking route that takes you through the picturesque Avatiu Valley, showcasing the island's natural beauty.
Aiports
How to reach Avarua by plane.
The main international airport in the Cook Islands, located near Avarua on the island of Rarotonga.
An airport in French Polynesia, located on the island of Bora Bora, approximately 215 km away from Avarua.
The primary airport serving Tahiti in French Polynesia, about 250 km from Avarua.
The main international airport in Fiji, located approximately 1,600 km from Avarua.
New Zealand's largest airport, located about 2,100 km from Avarua, serving as a major hub for international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The indigenous Polynesian people, making up the majority of the population in Avarua, known for their rich culture and traditions.
Individuals of mixed heritage, combining Maori and various other ethnic backgrounds, reflecting the multicultural aspect of Avarua.
People of European descent, including those from New Zealand and other Western countries, contributing to the cultural diversity.
A smaller demographic group comprising individuals of various Asian ancestries, including Chinese and other nationalities.
Residents from other Pacific Island nations who have settled in Avarua, adding to the broader cultural landscape.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Rugby is a popular sport in Avarua, with both union and league formats being played.
Football is widely enjoyed in Avarua, with local leagues and community games taking place regularly.
Netball is especially popular among women and girls in the Cook Islands, with dedicated competitions held throughout the year.
Cricket has a growing following in Avarua, with local teams and matches fostering community spirit.
Canoeing is a traditional sport in the Cook Islands, often showcasing cultural heritage through competitive events.
Basketball is played in local schools and communities, gaining popularity among the youth.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Avarua.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Cook Islands cuisine heavily features seafood, many restaurants and cafes in Avarua offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, often using locally sourced fruits, vegetables, and plant-based ingredients.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find suitable options at various eateries, with several restaurants offering gluten-free menus and accommodating special dietary requests with advance notice.