On the eastern edge of the abandoned Sheraton resort site, a road leads inland to Wigmore’s Waterfall, a lovely cascade dropping into a fresh, cool swimming pool. Note that in the dry season, the cascade can be more of a trickle. The south coast also has the island’s best beaches, with the best snorkelling to be found at Aro’a, Titikaveka and Tikioki.
Lonely Planet's must-see attractions
3.49 MILES
Avarua’s white-washed church was built in 1853. The graveyard contains the graves of author Robert Dean Frisbie, and Albert Henry, the first prime…
3.57 MILES
This historical building was once an LMS missionary school. These days it houses an excellent art gallery, gift shop and courtyard cafe.
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Highland Paradise Cultural Centre
2.09 MILES
High above ‘Arorangi, Highland Paradise stands on the site of the old Tinomana village with panoramic views over the west and south coasts. Members of the…
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Cook Islands Library & Museum Society
3.38 MILES
Inland behind the Para O Tane Palace, this collection of Pacific literature incorporates a small museum. Intriguing exhibits include an old whaling pot,…
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3.77 MILES
Te Vara Nui combines a purpose-built village showcasing local culture including traditional medicine, carving, tapa making and legends, with one of…
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3.84 MILES
A small sign points off the road to the island’s most important marae site, Arai-Te-Tonga. Situated just off the Ara Metua, there’s a stone-marked koutu …
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Cook Islands Whale & Wildlife Centre
3.33 MILES
Visit this centre to learn about whales and other wildlife frequenting the Cook Islands. It’s an essential stop if you’re planning on going whale watching…
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3.51 MILES
On the inland side of the main road is this palace and its surrounding Taputapuatea marae. The palace is where Makea Takau, the paramount ariki (chief) of…
Nearby Rarotonga attractions
2. Highland Paradise Cultural Centre
2.09 MILES
High above ‘Arorangi, Highland Paradise stands on the site of the old Tinomana village with panoramic views over the west and south coasts. Members of the…
3.04 MILES
On Rarotonga’s west coast, ‘Arorangi was the first missionary-built village, conceived as a model for other villages on the island. The missionary Papeiha…
3.32 MILES
Pop in to meet the guys behind Raro's very own craft brewery. Regular beers – also sold around the island – are Mai Lager and Kiva Pale Ale. Seasonal…
5. Cook Islands Whale & Wildlife Centre
3.33 MILES
Visit this centre to learn about whales and other wildlife frequenting the Cook Islands. It’s an essential stop if you’re planning on going whale watching…
6. Cook Islands Library & Museum Society
3.38 MILES
Inland behind the Para O Tane Palace, this collection of Pacific literature incorporates a small museum. Intriguing exhibits include an old whaling pot,…
3.43 MILES
Discover the unique flavours of banana wine at Muri’s Koteka Winery or visit the winery’s stall at Avarua’s weekly market. The wine is mixed with whatever…
8. Cook Islands Christian Church
3.49 MILES
Avarua’s white-washed church was built in 1853. The graveyard contains the graves of author Robert Dean Frisbie, and Albert Henry, the first prime…