From giant trevally to reef fish , Rarotonga ’ s underwater odyssey is replete with curiosities .

Aroa Lagoon Marine Reserve ( Rarotonga ’ s premier snorkelling location ), offers safe snorkelling and zero coral . Even at low tide , the water is deep enough to explore ; simply pick up a snorkelling map from the Activities Centre . Beginners can learn to snorkel in a fresh water pool before enjoying the marine ’ s abundance of protected ( often fearless ) creatures . Then there ’ s Tikioki - ‘ Fruits of Rarotonga ’, which is one of the island ’ s permanent marine parks , with a nearby café for post-snorkelling refreshments .

Blackrock , which is considered one of the calmest places to snorkel in Rarotonga is great for families with kids , it also has a BBQ area . For the avid snorkeller you may want to pack your own snorkelling gear before you leave .

It ’ s a small island , but Raro delivers a big feast of flavours . With so many restaurants in walking distance , take advantage of beachside shacks , burger joints and water-fringing bistros .

We recommend The Mooring ’ s Fish Café off Main Road in Avana , near Muri . With a reputation that precedes itself , believe the hype , because the food here is unrivalled . From the freshest shellfish to crumbed Mahi and thick milkshakes , you ’ ll want to return time and time again .

For an authentic Rarotongan experience , ‘ island nights ’ feature on various nights at different resorts . Enjoy local customs and an island feast known as an Umukai . Try the Ika Mata : White fish marinated in lime juice and served with tomatoes , onion , cucumber and coconut cream .

Don ’ t get caught in a Raro downpour – hire a car and follow the coastal road come rain or shine . With only 32 kilometres of road circumnavigating the island , it only takes about an hour to get around .

Alternatively , head inland along the Ara Metua coral road to see some of the islands lush plantations . Discover deserted white sand beaches and local villages , stopping for lunch at sandy cafés and dinner at one of the island ’ s many restaurants .

Drivers will need to go to the Police Station in town ( closed Sundays ) to get a Cook Island ’ s driver ’ s license for $ 20 . Take your passport with you . Scooters are also available . You will need to provide proof of your current NZ drivers licence , then take a test that involves riding up and down the street without falling off ! Helmets are compulsory .

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