December 12th, 2024
Five Cool Things to Do on Rarotonga for a Christmas Stay
Rarotonga, the largest of the Cook Islands, is a tropical paradise offering an enchanting blend of festive traditions and cultural charm. Spending Christmas here means immersing yourself in local hospitality, beautiful landscapes, and unique holiday celebrations. Here are five must-try activities for a memorable Christmas on Rarotonga:
1. Explore the Punanga Nui Markets
The Punanga Nui Markets in Avarua are a hub of activity and a festive treasure trove during the holiday season. Open every Saturday from 7 AM to 12 PM, these markets feature everything from handcrafted souvenirs and traditional Polynesian clothing to fresh produce and delicious island cuisine.
During Christmas, the markets are adorned with festive decorations, and live performances by school children and community groups bring an extra layer of joy. Be sure to try local treats like poke (a dessert made from fruit and coconut cream) and ika mata (marinated raw fish). You’ll also find unique Christmas gifts, such as handcrafted ukuleles and shell jewelry.
2. Enjoy a Christmas Day Buffet
Many of Rarotonga's resorts offer special Christmas buffets, blending traditional holiday dishes with local island flavors. For example:
- Edgewater Resort: a favourite among locals with a great selection of food including its famous 'bombed alaska' desserts with sponge, ice cream and meringue.
- Te Manava Luxury Villas & Spa: Known for its exclusive beachfront dining experience, offering a mix of traditional Christmas fare and Polynesian seafood delights.
- Crown Beach Resort & Spa: Famous for its Christmas Day buffet featuring roast turkey, ham, local fish dishes, and tropical desserts, accompanied by live entertainment.
- Pacific Resort Rarotonga: Provides a family-friendly atmosphere with a lavish buffet spread, including Christmas puddings and tropical cocktails.
Reservations are highly recommended as these events are popular with both locals and tourists.
3. Attend a Local Church Service
Rarotonga’s deeply rooted Christian traditions make attending a Christmas church service a moving experience. Churches like the Cook Islands Christian Church (CICC) in Avarua or the St. Joseph’s Catholic Cathedral showcase harmonious choir performances and vibrant celebrations.
Services are often held on Christmas Eve and Christmas morning. Visitors are welcome to join, and the atmosphere is filled with warmth, as locals often greet newcomers with smiles and small gestures of hospitality. The melodic singing in Rarotongan and English is a true highlight.
4. Snorkel or Dive in Pristine Waters
Christmas on Rarotonga wouldn’t be complete without getting into its crystal-clear lagoons and communing with the thriving marine life. Head to Aroa Beach, known as the "marine reserve," for calm waters perfect for snorkelling or Muri Lagoon is a great place to spend an afternoon with the family. Vibrant coral reefs and colorful fish make it a magical experience.
For a more adventurous option, join Pacific Divers for a scuba diving trip. They offer Christmas packages with two-dive excursions, where you can explore underwater caves, swim-throughs, and even spot turtles. Excursions typically start in the morning and last a few hours, with gear and light refreshments included.
5. Join a Progressive Dinner
For a truly immersive cultural experience, participate in a Progressive Dinner tour. This unique event involves visiting local homes for a three-course meal:
- Start with an entrée at one family’s plantation, where you'll learn about traditional farming practices.
- Move to another home for the main course, featuring dishes like rukau (taro leaves in coconut cream) and fresh-caught fish.
- End with a dessert like coconut pudding at the final house.
This experience lasts approximately four hours and offers not just amazing food but heartfelt conversations with locals, sharing their Christmas traditions and stories about life in the Cook Islands. Check the local newspaper, look for signs or ask your hotel reception for more information.
Celebrate Christmas in Paradise
From the vibrant markets to joyful church services and unforgettable lagoon adventures, Christmas on Rarotonga is a blend of tropical relaxation and heartfelt community traditions. Whether indulging in a sumptuous buffet or connecting with locals over a meal, your holiday on the Cook Islands will be truly memorable. The best way to get around and explore is with a Rarotonga rental bike or car from our friendly team.