Muri Beach: Rarotonga's Tropical Heart
Experience the best of Rarotonga at Muri Beach: stunning lagoon, water sports, cultural events, and island relaxation.
Muri Beach is the most popular beach destination in Rarotonga, Cook Islands, offering a blend of relaxation and adventure. The beach features soft, powdery white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and various water activities. The lagoon is ideal for snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding, with opportunities to explore vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Several small uninhabited motu (islets) dot the lagoon, easily accessible by kayak or paddleboard, offering secluded spots for picnics and exploration. Popular activities include lagoon cruises, glass-bottom boat tours, and kitesurfing. Muri is also a cultural hub, with a vibrant night market offering local cuisine and handicrafts. Visitors can experience traditional Cook Islands culture through dance performances and events. The area has a rich history, with early Polynesian settlers establishing communities around the lagoon. Today, Muri blends its natural beauty with a lively atmosphere, featuring beachfront cafes, restaurants, and resorts.
Local tips
- Visit the Muri Night Market (Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings) for local food and crafts.
- Explore the lagoon by kayak or paddleboard to reach the uninhabited motu.
- Be cautious of strong currents in the lagoon passages.
- Muri Beach is stunning at any time, but sunrise is particularly beautiful.
- Check out the local events calendar for festivals and cultural performances.
A brief summary to Muri Beach
- Muri, CK
Getting There
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Bus
From Avarua, the capital, you can take the Cook's Island Bus. The bus travels in both clockwise and anticlockwise directions around the island. The bus fare from Avarua to Muri Beach is between NZ$3 and NZ$12. The journey takes approximately 15-18 minutes.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available from anywhere on Rarotonga. A taxi from Rarotonga Airport to Muri Beach costs around NZ$40. The ride is approximately 18-20 minutes. Expect to pay around NZ$3 per kilometer.
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Car/Motorbike
Muri Beach is located on the eastern side of Rarotonga and is easily accessible by car or motorbike. Follow the main road from Avarua towards the east. The drive is approximately 15-20 minutes. Parking is available near the beach, though it can be limited.
