Lotion, tick… Swim, tick… Lounge, tick… There’s more to a little paradise when it comes to recreation. We take our playtime seriously.
Snorkelling
The variety of tropical fish in the Rarotonga and Aitutaki lagoons is breathtaking! Snorkelling is accessible directly off the beach which makes it safe and exciting for learners who can see fish as soon as they put on their masks and peer below the surface. Onsite snorkelling gear is offered complimentary to our guests!
There are generally two areas that are the most popular for snorkelling in Rarotonga – Fruits of Rarotonga and Aroa Beach. As these locations are on the southern side, if the wind comes from the south head to the west or to Black Rock on the north west coast.
Guest Tip: We’ve been told by a well-recognized marine biologist that the snorkelling right in front of Sea Change is fantastic!
Walking/Hiking
Rarotonga has no snakes, wild animals or poisonous insects which makes it ideal for exploring. Walking or hiking the many tracks and roads of Rarotonga is very popular for visitors to the island. We recommend using a guide when going into the interior of the island who will also share some local history of Rarotonga.
Lagoon Cruises
A lagoon cruise is a not to be missed activity for your Cook Islands holiday. There are a number of cruise options in Rarotonga and all will provide an amazing day out exploring the lagoon. Most cruises will include a glass bottom boat, snorkelling stops to take in the underwater attractions, an island feast lunch with fresh BBQ fish and entertainment from the local crew such as coconut tree climbing, music, weaving and pareu tying.
Scuba Diving
All of the islands offer a stunning underwater experience. Visibility underwater is usually at least 30 metres (100 feet) and can be up to 70 metres (230 feet) on a good day. With the reef drop-off from about 30 to 4000 metres (13,000 feet) it has to be seen to be believed!
Each side of Rarotonga has its own distinct dive environment and sometimes wind and weather will determine the best dive sites for the day. The sites are only a short distance from the shore so you can be out there and in the water in minutes – maximizing your dive time.
There are many diving centres in Rarotonga, each offering a range of dives for experienced and novice divers, along with training.
Stand Up Paddle Boarding
Grab a SUP from beside the beachfront villas and spend the day exploring the lagoon right in front of Sea Change! It takes a few minutes to get the hang of it if you’re new to stand up paddling boarding but before long you’ll be a pro! Enjoy the underwater world – it’s an aquarium down there!
Fishing
Deep sea fishing in the Cook Islands is an adrenaline rush! Choose from a range of fishing charters which take you out on the open ocean to catch big game fish like Wahoo, Barracuda, Marlin, Tuna and Dorado. You’ll even get to keep part of your catch to cook back on the BBQ at your accommodation if you wish!
Kite Surfing
Kite surfing is popular in the Cook Islands with its wide lagoons and calm waters. Aitutaki even hosts an international kite surfing competition every year! Rarotonga has a couple of kite surfing schools down at Muri Beach where you can have some lessons or casually hire some equipment.
Adventures on Wheels/Jungle Trekking
Get off the beaten track with a range of wheeled adventures on offer. Try out the buggy and quad bike adventure tours which take you across streams and into the jungle. Take to the mountains with a Raro Safari Tour by 4WD which is bound to get the blood pumping and the heart racing, while also giving you access to amazing views and ancient maraes and palaces.
Or explore the island from the comfort of an air-conditioned coach on the Island Discovery Tour, where our experienced local guide will take you on a fascinating 3-hour sightseeing adventure!
Looking for something a little slower paced then use one of the resorts bicycles and explore the back roads on your own or go on a bicycle tour with a local guide who will show you some hidden gems and share local stories and legends. A great way to see another side of island life!
Golf
If golf is your game even if you are only a casual golfer, don’t miss out on enjoying the nine holes at the Rarotongan Golf Club. The club is open six days a week from 8am and you can hire a half set of clubs if you decide not to bring your own. The club house is ideal for that cool drink after a warm round of golf.
Aitutaki Day Tour
Aitutaki is the quintessential South Pacific Island that you may have visualised reading Robinson Crusoe or Mutiny on the Bounty. The day tour encapsulates all that Aitutaki has to offer including one of the world’s most magical lagoons.
The day tour leaves Rarotonga around 8am. Once there, you get a quick tour of the island and then you’re on the water for the rest of the day. You will be on and off the boat snorkelling and swimming with the aquarium of fish, and will experience landing on several (motus) sand banks and islets, including One Foot Island. A delicious BBQ lunch is included. The boat crew will keep you entertained with their Cook Islands humour and hospitality, and they will get you back in time to catch your late afternoon flight back to Rarotonga.