Cook Islands: Down Day, Mair Nui Gardens, Fruits of Rarotonga Snorkeling

Dec 6, 2019: From Marg’s Notes: “Down Day” Took a short a.m. walk on the beach @ 7:30. Breakfast, 9:15. Rod took Jim to get his car. Rod got internet too, $10. We went to the Botanical Gardens (Maire Nui Gardens) ~10:00 & explored until just before noon. Lunch @ our hut, then a rest. Walked down the beach to the Fruits of Rarotonga for snorkeling. It was very windy. So H₂O was choppy. A bit difficult getting out. Saw some great fish tho. Swimming was rough in places. Worth it tho…Back to shower. Wine on porch. Antipodes for dinner. Food was good. I also did laundry in the morning!

Photos & Itineraries

• 2018 Photos
• 2019 Photos
• 2018 Snorkeling
• 2019 Snorkeling
• Cook Islands Itineraries and Adventures

Places & Things

Hiking & Adventures

• Alltrails.com: Hikes on Rarotonga
• Avarua Town – There are enough things to do in Avarua Town to make a day of it. Check out the link.
• Reef Walk with Kura Happ & Ariimoana Walkabouts

Snorkeling, Diving & Swimming

• Snorkeling – The snorkeling is incredible right off the beach. Saw moray eels, eagle rays, tons of colorful fish, clams, large crabs, and much more.
• Snorkeling & Scuba Diving
• Where to Snorkel in Rarotonga + Snorkel Hire on Rarotonga – Includes Fruits of Rarotonga
• Snorkeling Rarotonga: A Complete Guide
• Beaches & Lagoons

Accommodations

• Rarotonga Beach Bungalows (RBB) – The best place to stay on the entire island! Really, right on the beach.

Eating and Restaurants

• Antipodes – Go here to have a nice dinner and see Kura sing
• A guide to supermarkets & food shopping in the Cook Islands – Foodland is in Avarua. For getting your main supplies, it is likely the best place to go.
• Charlie’s and other restaurants – We love Charlie’s!
• Muri Night Market & Other Markets
• Trader Jack’s: Ocean view dining, RESTURUANT, bar, pizzas, great menu, live music, friendly staff & great service.

Miscellaneous

• Cook Islands Pocket Guide
• Cultural Tours and Experiences in the Cook Islands
• Marine Discovery Centre – We enjoyed this. Also, the Fijian lady working there sells curried roti. Yum!
• Museums to Visit in the Cook Islands
• Maire Nui Gardens & Cafe

 

 

Created: 2024