Avana Harbour: A Passage to the Past
Discover Avana Harbour: Rarotonga's historic gateway, where Polynesian voyagers set sail and serene beauty captivates at sunrise.
Avana Harbour, nestled on Rarotonga's eastern coast, is more than just a boat club and marina; it's a site of immense historical and cultural significance. It marks the departure point for the great Polynesian migration to Aotearoa (New Zealand) and offers a serene escape with stunning waterfront views.
A brief summary to Avana Harbour
- Q73F+XG3, Ngatangiia District, CK
Local tips
- Arrive early in the morning to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and stunning sunrise views.
- Bring your snorkeling gear to explore the nearby coral reefs teeming with marine life.
- Check local schedules for boat charters to ensure you don't miss out on exploring nearby islands.
- Pack a picnic and enjoy a meal by the water to fully embrace the tranquil surroundings.
- Take a leisurely stroll along the harbour to appreciate the stunning views from different vantage points.
Getting There
-
Walking
From the center of Ngatangiia, head northeast along the main road (Ara Tapu) towards the coastline. Continue walking for about 1.5 kilometers until you reach the intersection with the road leading to the beach. Turn left onto this road. After approximately 500 meters, you will see signs directing you to Avana Harbour. Follow these signs, and you will arrive at the harbour, which is located at Q73F+XG3, Ngatangiia District. The walk should take approximately 30 minutes.
-
Public Transport
Check for local bus services that operate in Ngatangiia. Take a bus heading towards Avana or the beach area. Ask the driver to let you know when to get off at the closest stop to Avana Harbour. From the bus stop, walk towards the beach road and follow the signs leading to the harbour, located at Q73F+XG3, Ngatangiia District. Bus fares are typically around $5 NZD for a single trip.
-
Taxi
Taxis are available from major locations on Rarotonga. Ask the driver to take you to Avana Harbour in the Ngatangiia District. The taxi fare from Avarua to Avana Harbour is approximately $30-$40 NZD. Confirm the fare before setting off.
Discover more about Avana Harbour
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Avana Harbour
0.0 km
Discover the serene beauty and vibrant culture of Avana Harbour in Ngatangiia, where adventure meets relaxation in the heart of the Cook Islands.
Kaireva Beach House - Rarotonga
0.1 km
Experience Rarotonga's beauty and culture at Kaireva Beach House, a tranquil beachfront retreat in the heart of Ngatangiia.
Captain Moko's Fishing Charters
0.3 km
Reel in the adventure with Captain Moko's Fishing Charters in Rarotonga! Experience authentic deep-sea fishing with a seasoned local expert.
Muri Vista Villas
0.6 km
Experience Rarotonga in style at Muri Vista Villas: stunning lagoon views, spacious villas, and easy access to Muri's best attractions.
The Passage Villas
0.6 km
Experience beachfront bliss at The Passage Villas in Rarotonga. Relax, explore, and create unforgettable memories in paradise.
Ariki Bungalows
0.7 km
Experience Rarotonga's charm in a tranquil eco-retreat. Self-catering bungalows, close to Muri Beach, offering adventure and relaxation in paradise.
Little Oneroa
0.7 km
Experience island paradise at Little Oneroa in Muri, Rarotonga. Self-contained apartments with stunning lagoon views for an unforgettable escape.
Muri Lagoon View Bungalows
0.7 km
Experience Rarotonga's beauty from Muri Lagoon View Bungalows: Comfort, convenience, and stunning lagoon views await!
B's Beach House On Muri Lagoon
0.8 km
Experience beachfront bliss at B's Beach House on Muri Lagoon, Rarotonga. Perfect for families, groups, and those seeking a tropical escape.
Kura's Kabanas
0.9 km
Experience Rarotonga's beauty from Kura's Kabanas, offering beachfront villas on Muri Beach with stunning lagoon views and island-style relaxation.
Sokala Villas - Private Beachside Accommodation
0.9 km
Experience beachfront bliss at Sokala Villas, an adults-only retreat on Rarotonga's Muri Beach with private pools and stunning lagoon views.
Manea Beach Villas
1.0 km
Experience Rarotonga's beauty at Manea Beach Villas: beachfront villas on Muri Lagoon with a personal touch for an unforgettable island escape.
Muri Beach Club Hotel Rarotonga
1.1 km
An exclusive adults-only beachfront resort on Rarotonga's stunning Muri Lagoon, offering tranquility, Polynesian charm, and unforgettable experiences.
The Rickshaw Rarotonga
1.1 km
Savor authentic Asian flavors at The Rickshaw Rarotonga, where Vietnamese, Thai, and Indonesian cuisines meet island charm in Muri's heart.
Te Puka Estate
1.3 km
Discover the charm of Te Puka Estate, a welcoming homestay in Rarotonga, perfect for families seeking an authentic island experience.
Unmissable attractions to see
Muri Lagoon
0.5 km
Experience the serene beauty of Muri Lagoon, a tropical paradise in the Cook Islands renowned for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life.
Manea on Muri
0.9 km
Experience the beauty of Rarotonga at Manea on Muri, a beachfront paradise offering self-catering accommodations in a stunning tropical setting.
Raro Buggy Tours
1.2 km
Experience the thrill of Raro Buggy Tours in the Cook Islands, where adventure and natural beauty collide for an unforgettable outdoor escapade.
Te Vara Nui Village
1.2 km
Experience the vibrant culture, stunning performances, and delicious cuisine at Te Vara Nui Village, a must-visit destination in the Cook Islands.
Muri Beach
1.3 km
Discover the enchanting beauty of Muri Beach, where soft sands meet turquoise waters in a tropical paradise perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Captain Tamas Lagoon Cruizes
1.4 km
Explore the stunning lagoon and vibrant marine life with Captain Tamas Lagoon Cruises at Muri Beach, Rarotonga for an unforgettable tropical getaway.
Muri Night Markets
1.5 km
Discover the vibrant Muri Night Markets, where local culture and diverse cuisine come together for an unforgettable culinary experience.
KiteSUP Watersports Cook Islands
1.6 km
Experience the thrill of kite surfing, paddleboarding, and snorkeling in Rarotonga's stunning Muri Lagoon with expert instruction and guided tours.
Te Ara Cook Islands Museum of Cultural Enterprise
1.7 km
Explore the rich cultural heritage of the Cook Islands at Te Ara Museum, where art, tradition, and community come together in a stunning beachfront setting.
Maire Nui Gardens and Cafe
3.9 km
Explore the vibrant beauty of Maire Nui Gardens and Cafe, a botanical paradise in Rarotonga offering fresh, local cuisine and stunning landscapes.
Titikaveka Beach
4.0 km
Experience the natural beauty and vibrant marine life at Titikaveka Beach, Rarotonga's idyllic destination for relaxation and adventure.
Arai-Te-Tonga
4.1 km
Discover Arai-Te-Tonga, the sacred historical site in Avarua, where ancient Polynesian traditions meet stunning natural beauty in the Cook Islands.
Umu Experience
4.3 km
Experience the rich culinary heritage of the Cook Islands at Umu Experience in Avarua, where tradition and flavor come together.
Marae Moana
4.4 km
Explore Marae Moana, the Cook Islands' vast marine park, balancing conservation and culture in a South Pacific paradise.
Tie Dye Rarotonga
4.7 km
Discover the colorful world of Tie Dye Rarotonga – where creativity and island culture collide in a vibrant hands-on experience.
Essential places to dine
Deli
0.4 km
Discover culinary delights at Muri Beach Deli – where fresh flavors meet stunning beach views in paradise.
La Casita Rarotonga Mexican Cafe
1.1 km
Experience vibrant Mexican cuisine at La Casita Rarotonga, where tropical beauty meets authentic flavors for an unforgettable dining experience.
Papa Pizza
1.5 km
Savor delicious pizzas made from fresh local ingredients at Papa Pizza in Muri, Rarotonga - your perfect takeaway spot!
Takitumu Tapas
1.5 km
Experience exquisite tapas at Takitumu Tapas, where local flavors meet culinary creativity in Ngatangiia District.
Rima's Bakery Cafe
1.8 km
Discover Rima's Bakery Cafe in Ngatangiia District - where delicious pastries meet island charm in a cozy atmosphere.
Nautilus Resort Rarotonga
2.0 km
Experience paradise at Nautilus Resort Rarotonga—where luxury meets nature in breathtaking harmony.
Saigon Shack
2.5 km
Discover the authentic taste of Vietnam at Saigon Shack in Rarotonga—where every dish is a journey through flavor.
Vibe Cafe - Muri
2.5 km
Discover vibrant flavors and delightful fast food at Vibe Cafe - Muri, where every meal is an adventure in taste.
Laguna on Muri Restaurant and Bar
2.7 km
Experience exceptional steak dining with breathtaking lagoon views at Laguna on Muri Restaurant and Bar in Ngatangiia District.
Sam's
2.8 km
Discover authentic local flavors at Sam's in Matavera District, where every dish tells a story and delights your taste buds.
Charlie's Raro
3.7 km
Experience exquisite local cuisine and vibrant nightlife at Charlie's Raro in Takitumu District – a true culinary delight in Rarotonga.
Manea Food - Oa'oa
4.3 km
Discover authentic local cuisine at Manea Food - Oa'oa in Avarua, a perfect stop for delicious takeout meals amidst your island adventures.
Eren Usta Köfte's
5.0 km
Discover authentic köfte at Eren Usta Köfte's in Avarua – where delicious flavors meet warm hospitality.
Marcus Mori Kitchen
5.4 km
Discover authentic Dutch cuisine at Marcus Mori Kitchen in Cooks – where tradition meets modern flavor.
Coastal Kitchen
5.6 km
Discover Coastal Kitchen: A Culinary Oasis Offering Fresh Local Flavors and Stunning Ocean Views in Avarua.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
KMD Ukuleles
0.6 km
Discover the artistry of Rarotonga at KMD Ukuleles, where handcrafted instruments and local crafts bring the spirit of the Cook Islands to life.
Paradise Bakeshop Ltd
1.0 km
Discover the sweet delights of Paradise Bakeshop Ltd in Ngatangiia District, where local flavors come to life in every delicious bite.
On the Juice Bar
1.0 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of On the Juice Bar, a delightful coffee shop in Ngatangiia District, offering refreshing drinks in a cozy atmosphere.
Treasure Chest Ltd
1.3 km
Explore unique souvenirs and local crafts at Treasure Chest Ltd, the ultimate gift shop by Muri Beach in Rarotonga.
TEM Store and Takeaways
1.4 km
Experience local culture and cuisine at TEM Store and Takeaways in Ngatangiia District, your one-stop shop for groceries and delicious takeout.
Vouvous Akari Pi
1.5 km
Explore Vouvous Akari Pi, Rarotonga's premier oil store, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the Cook Islands with authentic local products.
Tem Parengaru Convenience Store
2.5 km
Discover the heart of Takitumu District at Tem Parengaru Convenience Store, where local culture meets convenience for every traveler.
TEM Liquor Store
2.5 km
Explore the unique offerings of TEM Liquor Store in Takitumu District, your gateway to local and international beverages.
Mai'i Hub
2.5 km
Explore Mai'i Hub: Rarotonga's vibrant shopping mall offering local crafts, international brands, and delightful dining options in the heart of the Cook Islands.
Matavera Village Traders
2.7 km
Discover the authentic flavors of the Cook Islands at Matavera Village Traders, the local grocery store for fresh produce and island delicacies.
Prey.co
2.8 km
Explore contemporary men's fashion at Prey.co, Avarua's premier clothing store offering unique styles and quality apparel.
Rito Cook Islands
3.2 km
Experience the essence of beauty and wellness at Rito Cook Islands in the serene Takitumu District, where tropical charm meets natural healing.
WOO AKAPUAO
3.5 km
Discover the essential convenience store in Takitumu District, where great prices and friendly service meet for an unforgettable island experience.
Kano Store
4.5 km
Discover the flavors of the Cook Islands at Kano Store, your cozy cafe in the heart of Takitumu District.
Bargain House
6.0 km
Discover unique clothing styles and affordable fashion at Bargain House, Avarua's top shopping destination for tourists seeking quality apparel.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Fix Espresso Bar
1.5 km
Discover the best coffee experience at The Fix Espresso Bar in Muri, Ngatangiia District, where every sip is a taste of paradise.
Mai’i Cafe & Bar
2.4 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Mai’i Cafe & Bar in Takitumu District, where delightful drinks meet island charm for an unforgettable experience.
Hidden Spirit Cafe
3.8 km
Experience the serenity of Hidden Spirit Cafe in Takitumu District, where exceptional coffee meets a cozy atmosphere in the heart of the Cook Islands.
Terua Git Cooking
5.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Cook Islands at Terua Git Cooking, a lively bar in Tapere offering a unique culinary adventure.
Tamarind House Restaurant & Ukulele Bar
6.0 km
Experience the culinary delights of the Cook Islands at Tamarind House Restaurant & Ukulele Bar, where local flavors meet vibrant entertainment.
Chillis Sport Bar
6.1 km
Experience the thrill of live sports in Rarotonga at Chillis Sport Bar, the ultimate destination for sports fans and delicious cuisine.
Rehab
6.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Rehab in Avarua, a premier bar and disco club with lively music, delicious drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere.
On the Rocks (OTR) Bar
6.6 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and stunning ocean views at On the Rocks (OTR) Bar in Avarua, Rarotonga – a must-visit for all travelers.
Trader Jacks
6.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite flavors of Trader Jacks, Avarua's premier grill, bar, and nightlife destination.
Margaritas Bistro & Bar
6.7 km
Savor the vibrant flavors of the Cook Islands at Margaritas Bistro & Bar, your go-to spot for local cuisine and refreshing drinks in Avarua.
Trio's Garden Bar
6.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and tropical charm of Trio's Garden Bar in Avarua, a perfect spot for relaxation and fun.
Cafe Ariki
6.9 km
Experience the flavors of Rarotonga at Café Ariki – a local favorite for delicious meals and stunning views in Avarua.
Vaima Restaurant and Bar
7.3 km
Discover the culinary delights of Vaima Restaurant and Bar in Takitumu, where local flavors meet stunning tropical views for an unforgettable dining experience.
Burgery
7.6 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Burgery, Avarua's hidden gem for tourists seeking a unique bar experience.