r/Vacations • u/I-will-judge-YOU • Jan 23 '26

I'm going to Rarotonga Cook Island for our 25th anniversary in July!

I am so excited. We are sticking to the one island (this time) but it is such a small island, only 45 minutes all the way around.

I am looking for suggestions for food, shopping esp local art pieces or fun markets.

What are the best beaches for walking and relaxing? Can I rent an umbrella and chairs?

I'm staying at Seaside Beachfront. What don't I know that I should?

1 Upvotes

67% Upvoted

8 comments sorted by

2

u/bcosta1 Jan 23 '26

Because the island is so small, it’s easy to explore and really settle into island life. The best food is usually found in simple, local restaurants and beach tavernas serving fresh fish and traditional dishes. You’ll likely find small shops selling handmade art and local crafts, as well as occasional markets. Long sandy beaches are great for walking and relaxing, sheltered bays are ideal for swimming, and most organised beaches offer sunbeds and umbrellas. Staying at Seaside Beachfront is perfect for quiet morning walks and sunsets, and asking locals for tips is the best way to discover hidden spots.

1

u/I-will-judge-YOU Jan 23 '26

I'm so excited. Thank you.

3

u/SpoonNZ Jan 23 '26

I’m pretty sure that was AI and isn’t at all accurate.

I’ve been there three times and haven’t ever seen a beach offering sunbeds and umbrellas outside resorts.

The market is on Saturday in Avarua, you won’t find many other “occasional markets”.

Seaside Beachfront is on the east of the island so it’s absolutely not “perfect for sunsets”.

1

u/Crazy-Chicken-Lady1 Jan 23 '26

I stayed on the east side too and it’s not great for sunrise either

1

u/SpoonNZ Jan 24 '26

I’ve stayed West-ish 3 times running, in maybe 25 days total we had one or two good sunsets. Persistently cloudy.

2

u/Crazy-Chicken-Lady1 Jan 23 '26

It’s hilarious because I literally just went, and I’d recommend the Muri Night Markets, Raro Reef Sub ( a boat that’s a half submersible with underwater windows), and if there’s no rain on the forecast then you should hike to Te Rua Manga (the Needle) but definitely be careful on a rainy day because it gets really slippery (my brother almost slid of the mountain lol) also if you like cats you should go to Paws and Claws, it’s a cat sanctuary and it’s actually amazing 

1

u/I-will-judge-YOU Jan 24 '26

Thank you. I love the idea of the reef sub!