December 17th, 2025
Five Things to Try If You Are in Rarotonga This Christmas
If you’re spending Christmas in Raro, lucky you. While the rest of the world is braving the shops or stuck in traffic, you’ll be cruising past palm trees and filling your days with snorkels, sunsets and maybe a cheeky second serve of pavlova. Here are five chilled-out things to try if you’re on the island this festive season.
1. Snorkel With Turtles at Aroa or Titikaveka
Swimming with turtles is one of those island moments that sticks with you. During Christmas? Even better. Head to Aroa Beach or the lagoon near Fruits of Rarotonga for some of Raro’s best water. Expect coral gardens, schools of colourful fish and, if you’re lucky, a cruising turtle or two.
Alternatively, book a tour with a guide.
Tip: Mornings are usually calmest. Bring reef-safe sunscreen.
2. Grab a Bite at Muri Night Market
In the lead-up to Christmas (and usually just after) the Muri night market is where the good smells and even better feeds are. You’ll find BBQ, fresh seafood, curry, salads and desserts all cooked to order. It’s super casual and packed with locals, travellers and friendly stallholders. Opens around 5 pm on selected nights. Bring cash and an empty belly.
3. Watch the Sunset at Shipwreck Hut
Christmas on the west side hits different. Shipwreck Hut, tucked into the beach at Aro’a Beachside Inn, has front row views to one of Raro’s dreamiest sunsets. Grab a drink, kick back just metres from the ocean and soak it in.
Bonus: There’s often live music in the evenings. Nothing fancy, just guitars and good vibes.
4. Explore Punanga Nui Market for Gifts
The Punanga Nui market in Avarua is your go-to for handmade souvenirs, island fashion, fresh fruit and baked treats. Wander through on Saturday morning for local treasures like carved wood tikis, organic vanilla, pareu and cooling oils. Some stalls may open extra days around Christmas week but check locally as hours can shift with the season.
5. Join A Christmas Feast or Island Night
Loads of hotels and resorts offer Christmas Day feasts or festive Island Nights with all the good stuff, including spit roast, umu-style pork, seafood banquets, live drumming and traditional Cook Islands dancing. If you want to learn how to cook the local way, Tumutoa Tours offers a hands-on cultural experience. It’s slow, meaningful and a beautiful way to share a meal.
Bonus: Go Slow, It’s Christmas
Have a nap under a palm tree. Grab a roadside coconut. Wander into a random café with no plan at all. Let the ocean tell you what kind of day it is. That’s the beauty of spending Christmas on island time. There’s no rush.
Need A Way to Get Around? It’s much easier to explore with your own scooter or car. Whether you're heading to the night market or chasing sunsets, we’ll get you sorted with something reliable and beach-ready.