Rarotonga is a small island packed with big adventures. Its calm, clear waters and lush landscapes make it an ideal place for exploring through guided tours. Whether you’re a snorkel fanatic eager to swim alongside turtles or a culture lover wanting to learn local crafts, Rarotonga has a lot to offer. We especially love the Premium Sea Scooter Turtle Adventure for its vibrant marine life and the Explore Rarotonga Guided Bike Tour for a scenic, active day soaking up island charm. Both offer authentic experiences that go beyond typical beach lounging.
If you’re planning a trip, you’ll find a variety of tours designed for different interests and fitness levels. From eco-friendly lagoon explorations to lively nightlife tours, this list highlights the best options to help you make the most of your time. Ready to dive into adventure? Read on for detailed descriptions of each top-rated tour in Rarotonga.
1. Premium Sea Scooter Turtle Adventure
This tour stands out for its combination of high-energy fun and marine encounters. For around $116, you get approximately two hours of guided snorkeling with all gear included, plus instruction on how to operate a sea scooter. The use of speedy scooters allows you to cover more ground in the sheltered waters of Rarotonga, increasing your chances to see turtles and colorful fish. The reviews are glowing, with many praising the well-organized experience and friendly guides. Tourists mention that the safety measures are top-notch, and the opportunity to get close to the turtles is unforgettable. This tour is perfect for those who want a high-adrenaline, eco-conscious adventure that combines exploration with wildlife spotting.
Bottom Line: If swimming with turtles with minimal effort and maximum fun sounds appealing, this tour offers excellent value and reliability.
2. Eco Friendly Sea Scooter Turtle Tour in Rarotonga
At just over $109 for about 90 minutes, this locally owned tour emphasizes a personal and environmentally respectful approach to sea exploring. The team at Moana Sea Scooters prides itself on helping you reach the turtles quickly with Fun Sea-scooters, avoiding long swims and maximizing your time underwater. The small group setting allows for a more intimate experience, and the photos taken at the end have received high praise. Guests appreciate the easy-to-use scooters and the emphasis on safety and environmental care.
Bottom Line: For travelers who want a more personal experience with a focus on eco-friendliness, this tour delivers with friendly service and excellent photos.
3. ‘Explore’ Rarotonga Guided Bike Tour with Lunch and Swim
Priced at about $85, this half-day cycling tour is a fantastic way to see Rarotonga’s diverse landscapes. It covers the Ancient Coral Road, passing beaches, mountains, and farmland—along with visits to local villages. The tour includes hotel pickup, bike rental, and a delicious seafront lunch, making it a great value for a full day out. Notable highlights include stopping at Black Rock, Wigmores Store, and Papaaroa Beach, with plenty of opportunities to swim and relax along the way. Guests often praise the local knowledge and relaxed pace suitable for most fitness levels.
Bottom Line: If you’d rather stay active and enjoy authentic island scenery, this tour offers a balanced mix of culture, nature, and good food.
4. Premium Sea Scooter Lagoon Discovery
For around $86, this two-hour lagoon exploration provides a fun, eco-friendly way to see vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish. The tour includes snorkeling gear and a hand-held sea scooter, which makes navigating the calm waters effortless. An added bonus is the opportunity to feed the fish, which attracts a swirl of colorful tropical species, including moray eels. Guides are attentive, ensuring safe, confident exploration. Reviewers highlight how much they loved the interactive feeding and the chance to spot turtles and rays in the reef.
Bottom Line: Ideal for snorkelers who want a more relaxed, interactive experience with plenty of marine life.
5. Premium Sea Scooter Ocean Adventure
Priced at about $95, this oceanic expedition takes you around a 100-year-old shipwreck, with chances to see sea turtles, humpback whales (seasonal), reef sharks, and giant trevally. The sea scooters make it easy to glide through the open water, and the guides focus on safety and education. Visitors mention the magical feel of exploring the wreck and seeing abundant marine life. The tour is best suited for those comfortable swimming in open water and interested in a more adventurous experience.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a mix of history, wildlife, and open sea, this tour offers a memorable, immersive ride.
6. Seat in Coach Transfer from Rarotonga Airport to Hotel
This is a practical choice for around $23. It offers a comfortable, reliable transfer from the airport to your accommodation, with flower lei, cold water, and a smooth ride. It’s perfect if you want to start your trip hassle-free, especially after a long flight. The reviews highlight how timely and friendly the service is, making your first impression of Rarotonga a positive one.
Bottom Line: For a stress-free arrival, this transfer gets you settled quickly and comfortably.
7. 4-Hour Rarotonga Going Troppo Nightlife Tour
At around $56, this evening tour is perfect for those wanting to sample Rarotonga’s nightlife without the hassle of planning. The tour includes door-to-door transport, drinks, snacks, and access to 3–4 popular bars. The party bus style makes it lively and social, with reviews praising the fun atmosphere and inclusiveness. It’s suitable for backpackers or anyone eager to meet fellow travelers and experience the local scene.
Bottom Line: A lively, social option for an easy night out in Rarotonga’s main town.
8. Ei Making Classes in Rarotonga
For around $67, learn about local culture with this 2-hour Ei (flower lei) making class. Juanita and her team lead the experience, which includes weaving, painting, or cooking classes, depending on your choice. Guests love the chance to create a meaningful souvenir and learn about island traditions firsthand. The class is perfect for those interested in cultural enrichment and hands-on activities.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers wanting a personal, cultural experience that results in a keepsake.
9. Cook Islands Turtle and Ray Tour
At $91, this snorkel tour guarantees up-close encounters with turtles and eagle rays in their natural habitat. The pro photos taken by staff allow you to relive the experience long after you return home. The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours and is praised for its friendly guides and safe environment. If marine life is your priority, this tour offers a focused, immersive experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for wildlife lovers eager to snorkel with turtles and rays, with the added bonus of professional photos.
10. Rarotonga International Arrivals Seat in Coach Transfer
This quick, budget-friendly transfer (about $35) is designed to get you from the airport to your hotel within 10–30 minutes. It includes a flower lei and chilled water, making your first moments in Rarotonga welcoming and comfortable. Reviewers note the timeliness and friendly service, making it a good choice for a smooth arrival.
Bottom Line: An efficient, economical way to start your trip on the right foot.
11. Cook Islands Family or Couple Photo Session
At $330, this one-hour professional photo shoot captures your time in paradise. The photographer will help you find the best locations and poses to create stunning, treasured photos. It’s ideal for families or couples who want keepsakes from their trip, with at least 50 high-quality images downloadable afterward.
Bottom Line: An excellent way to ensure your memories are beautifully preserved.
12. Half-Day Muri Lagoon BBQ Lunch Cruise including Snorkeling
At $70, this popular 4-hour cruise offers a relaxing way to enjoy Rarotonga’s marine life. The glass-bottom boat lets you see the reef and tropical fish without getting wet, while the BBQ lunch and live entertainment keep things lively. Reviewers love the friendly crew and the fun, relaxed atmosphere, making it perfect for families and couples alike.
Bottom Line: For a laid-back, scenic day with excellent food, this cruise hits the spot.
$70.13 per person
13. Photography Cook Islands
For around $367, this personalized photography session ensures your trip is captured beautifully. The guide will help with posing, lighting, and location choices to make every shot count. It’s ideal if you want professional-quality photos of yourself in Rarotonga, whether for a special occasion or just to remember your trip vividly.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want professional portraits and a fun, relaxed experience.
$366.50 per group (up to 5)
14. A Turtle Tour on Rarotonga – small groups, premium experience
At roughly $118, this small-group guided tour emphasizes a personal, intimate experience. It lasts about 90 minutes and guarantees close-up encounters with green and hawksbill turtles in their natural reef environment. Reviewers highlight that the group size limits the crowding and increases chances to see turtles. The guides go out of their way to support less confident snorkelers, making it ideal for families or nervous swimmers.
Bottom Line: If you want a high-quality, focused marine experience with fewer people, this is a top choice.
15. A Cook Islands Turtle Tour – small groups, premium experience
This tour costs about $118 per person and guarantees swimming with turtles in a small, intimate group. The accompanying photographer ensures you’ll have memorable photos. Guests mention Papa Turtle’s professional and caring approach, making this a reliable, premium experience for wildlife lovers.
Bottom Line: For a guaranteed turtle encounter with a personal touch, this tour combines wildlife and photography beautifully.
How to Choose Your Perfect Rarotonga Tour
When selecting a tour, consider your interests, fitness level, and budget. Want a full-day adventure with lunch and cultural activities? The Explore Rarotonga Guided Bike Tour offers a great balance. If marine life is your priority, the Premium Sea Scooter Tours provide high-energy, close encounters with turtles and fish. For a relaxing day, the Muri Lagoon BBQ Lunch Cruise combines scenic views with delicious food.
Book early, especially for popular options like the half-day lagoon cruise or the small-group turtle tours, to secure your spot. Also, check the season—whale sightings in season add an extra thrill to the ocean tours.
Final Thoughts
Rarotonga offers a broad range of tours for travelers seeking adventure, culture, and relaxation. For a high-adrenaline marine experience, the Premium Sea Scooter Turtle Adventure is hard to beat. If you’d prefer to explore the island’s scenery on two wheels, the Explore Guided Bike Tour provides a scenic, active day. Wildlife lovers should not miss the Turtle and Ray Tour or the Small-Group Turtle Tours for intimate, memorable encounters.
Whatever your style, you’ll find an experience that makes your Rarotonga trip memorable and meaningful. Remember, the best tours tend to fill up quickly, so booking early secures your place in the sun—and the sea.