Rarotonga

Cook Islands

Rarotonga is the main island of the Cook Islands, in the South Pacific, with the capital Avarua on its north coast. A volcanic island ringed by reef and mountains, it is the nation's heart. Attractions include the lagoon's snorkeling at Muri beach, the Cross-Island Track over the Needle peak, the Punanga Nui market, the Polynesian cultural shows and dance, the ancient marae sites, black pearls, and the laid-back island life circling one coastal road.