Natural wonders waiting to be discovered!

Well known for its friendly locals, great food, and its ‘Kia Orana spirit’, let’s explore Rarotonga’s Seven Natural Wonders that call this little paradise home.

If there’s one place on this planet that is a true tropical paradise, it has to be the beautiful Rarotonga. It is located in the South Pacific’s Cook Islands. Often referred to as ‘being like Hawaii 50 years ago’, famous for having no buildings taller than a coconut tree. This idyllic destination offers something for everyone.

1. Muri Lagoon

Embark on your journey with the renowned Muri Lagoon—an easily recognizable destination cherished by people worldwide. As the island’s most popular hub, Muri Lagoon boasts crystal clear waters that captivate both locals and visitors. Renowned for its four charming Motus (islets), this iconic location offers unique exploration opportunities and serves as ideal picnic spots. Families enjoy a refreshing swim in the safe and warm waters of Muri Lagoon, while adventure enthusiasts can partake in snorkelling excursions to witness the abundant marine life.

For those seeking a different perspective, consider grabbing a kayak or stand-up paddleboard (complimentary for Pacific Resort Rarotonga guests) to explore the lagoon’s surface.

2.Fruits of Rarotonga

Dive into turquoise splendor at Fruits of Rarotonga Reserve, Rarotonga’s crown jewel. Dazzling fish kaleidoscope: Angel, Butterfly, & Parrotfish dance in front of you.  Located on the southeast tip of the island, the famous ‘Fruits of Rarotonga’ Marine Reserve is well known for its vivid turquoise waters. An amazing sight on the surface, but the view underwater is nothing short of mesmerising. Fruits of Rarotonga is easily accessible, just park up the scooter or car, change into swimwear, and set off on an aquatic adventure!

3. Te Rua Manga (The Needle)

Many could be forgiven for thinking that all these natural wonders would be of the aquatic variety, but Rarotonga is also blessed with some fantastic on-land attractions too. One of these is Te Rua Manga, otherwise known as “The Needle”. It’s the iconic mountainous landmark of the island that you can get to via the “Cross Island Walk”. The walk itself is striking, snaking through some of the island’s most beautiful natural vegetation. The real reward, however, is near the base of the summit, where a lookout point gives panoramic views of the entire island. It’s a fantastic example of the variety of landscape to be appreciated and enjoyed during a visit to this little paradise.

4. Black Rock

Another intriguing spot which offers something a little bit different is Black Rock. The well known attraction is a collection of volcanic black rocks that rise from the sands at the end of a beach known as ‘Nikao Social Centre’. They also make great platforms to dive off, when the tide and conditions are right (safety always comes first). The black rocks are so picturesque many have chosen to take their wedding photos on and around them. Unique and prominent, these basalt rock formations hold considerable cultural significance, as according to mythology, this is the place for spirits departing the island.

5. Takitumu Conservation Reserve

Cook Islands culture values land, sea, and creatures, evident in Takitumu Conservation Reserve, home to Kakerori birds and rare flora. Explore tracks amid tropical surroundings and enjoy bird calls in this beautifully manicured area on Rarotonga’s southeast side. Whistle to the birds, and they might say Kia Orana (hello)!

6. Avana Point

Avana Point is an area of cultural significance to Cook Islanders. History reveals that seven canoes, arriving in Rarotonga from Hawaii, later set sail to New Zealand. Visit the eastern memorial site, a 15-minute drive from Avarua, featuring seven rocks symbolizing the canoes and their brave sailors. This coastal area, in contrast to Rarotonga’s calm beaches, offers a rugged coastline and a reef near the shore. Explore the connection with New Zealand Maori culture.

7. Raemaru

While Rarotonga and Aitutaki are sister islands, there is also a fierce rivalry between their people. Local legends say the proud people of Aitutaki grew envious of Raemaru’s tall peak.  Setting out to steal it for their own. Arriving before dawn, they managed to chop the peak off the mountain, however, in their haste to depart, they dropped parts on the shoreline.

This area and these formations then became ‘Black Rock’, previously referred to in this article. Pieces left were spilt on the shoreline of Aitutaki, at the spot that Pacific Resort Aitutaki was built on. The end result of this was Raemaru having a famously flat top and Aitutaki gaining a hill – Maunga Pa!.

Popular with visitors, Raemaru offers a more gentle trek to the cross-island walk. This walk takes only 30 to 45 minutes. Suitable for all ages until the steep rock face at the very end (which is a bit of an exciting climb!).

The above seven points of interest are just the ‘tip of the iceberg’ when it comes to the natural wonders of Rarotonga. This tiny island, with a circumference of just 32 kilometers, is jam packed with amazing sights and sounds, and offers a truly authentic tropical experience that will have wanting to stay.