7 Night Holiday in Rarotonga

Rarotonga, with its pristine beaches and tropical charm, is a dream destination for families seeking a relaxing getaway. Traveling in March 2022, my husband Brett, our daughter – Florence (who was 4 months at the time), and I discovered the magic of this island paradise. We flew with Air New Zealand and secured a bassinet seat for Florence, It was only a short flight from Auckland and she slept most of the way… a perfect passenger. For our week long visit we stayed at the luxurious Nautilus Resort at Muri Beach. We had an amazing bungalow and we think it has the best resort pool in Rarotonga. Make sure to hire a car if you want to go exploring on your own time or travelling with children.

We had the most unforgettable family trip here, we made time to relax, explore, eat and play.. what more do you want while on holiday in Paradise. This won’t be the last time… We will be back and with more children in tow!

Here’s a guide to our unforgettable journey, filled with fun activities and local gems.

Itinerary

• Day 1: Arrival and Resort Welcome
  • Arrive in Rarotonga and check into Nautilus Resort.
  • Spend the day settling in and exploring the resort’s amenities. We had fun lounging by the infinity pool and ordering cocktails/mocktails from the bar. We ate at our resorts restaurant and caught an epic sunset!

• Day 2: Turtle Tour
  • Embark on the Charlotte Piho Turtle Tour for an unforgettable experience swimming with turtles and capturing amazing photos.
  • Explore the stunning marine life at your own pace.
  • Ocean Toa also do turtle tours, we hear they are amazing and can’t wait to go on one of their tours next time we are in Raro.

• Day 3: Spa and Muri Night Markets
  • Treat yourself to a massage or spa treatment at Spa Nautilus.
  • Visit the vibrant Muri Night Markets for a taste of local culture and cuisine.

• Day 4: Nautilus Resort’s Infinity Pool
  • More relaxing by Nautilus Resort’s infinity pool, known for its stunning views and photo opportunities. If you aren’t staying here, you can visit for a day at a charge.
  • Enjoy a leisurely day at the resort, soaking in the beauty of Muri Beach.

• Day 5: Snorkeling at Fruits of Paradise and Black Rock
  • Bring your own snorkeling gear and explore the colorful underwater world at Fruits of Paradise and Black Rock.

• Day 6: Shopping and Dining
  • Explore the local shops north of the island and discover hidden gems like Lillikoi Bikini, a shop with unique designs made by local artisans.
  • Dine at Charlie’s and enjoy live music, immersing yourself in the island’s lively atmosphere.

• Day 7: Paddleboarding and Farewell
  • Spend your last day paddleboarding at Muri Beach, enjoying the sun and creating lasting memories.
  • Reflect on your incredible journey before departing from Rarotonga.

Rarotonga is a paradise for families, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. With its proximity to New Zealand, use of NZD currency, and safe environment, it’s an ideal destination for families looking to unwind and create lifelong memories. Whether swimming with turtles, exploring local markets, or simply relaxing by the pool, Rarotonga has something for everyone.

Start planning your own family retreat to this tropical paradise today!