What are the best things to do in Rarotonga?
Visit Black Rock Beach
There are dozens of beautiful beaches to have on your radar when booking cheap flights to Rarotonga from Sydney. Black Rock Beach, located on the western side of the island, is one of the more unique stretches of sand. It has striking black basalt boulders and rock formations along the beach. Spend time lounging on the sand and taking in the gorgeous views, then head into the water for some excellent snorkelling. Black Rock Beach is also one of the best places to watch the sunset while visiting the Cook Islands on Sydney to Rarotonga flights.
See a cultural show at Te Vara Nui Village
Te Vara Nui Village is a go-to spot to learn more about the Cook Islands’ culture while holidaying on flights from Sydney to Rarotonga. The village offers tours during the day in which visitors can explore traditional villages, learn about Polynesian history, and see demonstrations of local crafts. In the evening, immerse yourself further into the culture of Rarotonga by attending the Over-Water Night Show. You’ll see traditional dancers, musicians, and storytellers while enjoying food from an island buffet.
Explore Maire Nui Tropical Gardens
The Maire Nui Tropical Gardens showcase some of the best of Rarotonga nature in one place. Lush vegetation and tropical gardens are spread across seven acres of land in the southeastern end of Rarotonga. Visitors holidaying on cheap flights Sydney to Rarotonga can walk through the colourful gardens while also taking in gorgeous views of surrounding mountains. After you’ve done some exploring, visit the Maire Nui cafe for some traditional island cuisine with an Asian flair.
What should I pack for Rarotonga?
Water activities and spending time on the beach are at the top of the to-do list for many travellers who book Sydney to Rarotonga flights. Come prepared with a few swimsuits, a hat, sunglasses, and some reef-safe sunscreen. A pair of water shoes also comes in handy.
Pack lightweight clothing to wear throughout the rest of your holiday – shorts, t-shirts, and maybe some lightweight sundresses. Bring along some jeans and cardigans to wear at night when the temperatures cool down, especially if you’re planning to fly Sydney to Rarotonga for a winter getaway. Pack some sandals for everyday wear, but also a pair of sturdy shoes if you’re planning to go hiking.
Pack a camera to help capture the memories of your holiday. A device that allows you to take underwater photos, such as a GoPro or a waterproof phone case, is another great thing to take with you on snorkelling and diving excursions.
What is the best way to get around Rarotonga?
Hiring a car is an excellent way to explore Rarotonga. You can book a car through Webjet, then pick it up from Rarotonga International Airport (RAR) after you arrive. Travellers are able to drive with an international licence in the Cook Islands as long as the licence has been issued in English.
Cycling is another popular way to explore Rarotonga if you won’t be renting a car. Some hotels even have bikes available to their guests.
There’s also a public bus that you can make the most of while holidaying on Sydney to Rarotonga return flights. The bus loops around the perimeter of the island and operates in both a clockwise and anti-clockwise direction. The buses don’t have set stops or follow a strict schedule. Simply wave to a bus when you see it approaching and let the driver know where you’d like to get off.
FAQs
What is the flight time from Sydney to Rarotonga?
Direct flights from Sydney to Rarotonga take about six hours and five minutes.
What airlines fly direct from Sydney to Rarotonga?
Air New Zealand operates direct flights from Sydney to Rarotonga. You can also book tickets to Rarotonga from Sydney flying with Qantas, Air Tahiti Nui, or Latam Airlines – these routes include a stopover or two along the way.
What is the flight schedule from Sydney to Rarotonga?
There’s typically one direct flight from Sydney to Rarotonga on Friday of each week. You’ll have extra options to choose from if you don’t mind a stopover or two along the way. There are about five daily departures from Sydney that will get you to Rarotonga, many of which include a stopover in Auckland.
