Muri Lagoon: Rarotonga's Turquoise Jewel
Discover Muri Lagoon: Rarotonga's iconic turquoise paradise offering snorkeling, water sports, and idyllic motu for the ultimate South Pacific escape.
Muri Lagoon, located on the eastern coast of Rarotonga, is a stunning expanse of clear turquoise water, dotted with small, idyllic islets called 'motu'. Sheltered by a reef, the lagoon offers calm, shallow waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and various water sports, making it the most popular tourist attraction in the Cook Islands.
A brief summary to Muri Lagoon
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Local tips
- Explore the motu (islets) by kayak or paddleboard for a secluded beach experience.
- Take a lagoon cruise for snorkeling, cultural entertainment, and a delicious BBQ lunch.
- Visit the Muri Night Market for local food and crafts (held on select evenings).
- Be aware of the sun and bring reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
- Check the weather forecast, as conditions can affect water clarity and activity options.
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Getting There
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Bus
From Avarua, the capital of Rarotonga, the Clockwise bus travels to Muri Lagoon. Buses depart approximately every hour from Monday to Saturday, and less frequently on Sundays. The bus trip takes around 20 minutes. A single fare costs between NZ$3 and NZ$12.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Rarotonga. A taxi from Avarua to Muri Lagoon takes approximately 12 minutes and costs around NZ$19-NZ$23. Several taxi companies operate on the island, and it's advisable to confirm the fare before starting your journey.
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Car
Driving to Muri Lagoon from Avarua is straightforward. Follow the main coastal road east for approximately 9.7 km. The drive takes around 12 minutes. Parking is available near the beach, often free of charge. Car rentals are available at Rarotonga International Airport.
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More about Avarua
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