Kia Orana,

Rarotonga has a plethora of fabulous cafes, restaurants, bars, and even nightclubs. Days in the sun and sea can definitely work up an appetite, and you won’t be disappointed with the dining options available. Here are some of our favourites:

Trader Jacks Restaurant and Bar The most iconic restaurant on Rarotonga, serving ice cold beers and Pacific cuisine since 1986. Right on the water at Avarua harbour in the main township, it offers stunning views from the bar and restaurant area. Live music on Fridays and Saturday. Open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner.

21.3 Vaiana’s Bistro and Bar Our favourite beach bar. Tables right on the sand, live music several evenings a week, and simple meals available from the kitchen. Located in Nikao on the northwestern coast. Open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner.

Charlie’s Cafe and Beach Bar A wonderful, casual beachfront venue on the southern coast. Popular for drinks, dinner, and darts competitions with your mates. Open 12pm to 8pm Monday to Friday, and 12pm to 5pm on Saturday.

The Lucky Rooster Eatery Right in the main township of Avarua, this cafe offers an extensive breakfast and lunch menu and great coffees. Indoor and outdoor seating available. A perfect place to stop for a bite or a brew during a visit to town. Open 8.30am to 2.30pm Monday to Saturday.

Beluga Cafe A very popular destination for locals and visitors alike! Situated in Arorangi on the main road on the western side of Rarotonga. Offering daily specials rather than a set menu, with a selection of giftware and art for sale. Open 7.30am to 2.30pm Tuesday to Friday, and 8.00am to 1pm on Saturday.

Tamarind House Restaurant and The Ukulele Bar Now under new management, Tamarind now offers two dining/bar options. In the main building, a fine dining restaurant with sea views of the eastern coast of Rarotonga. Dine open air in the restaurant, or at tables on the beautiful lawn. Open for lunch selected days, and dinner Tuesday to Saturday 5.30pm to 8.30pm. Or opt for the more casual Ukulele Bar. Brand new venue with bar seating, open air on three sides, with tables available on the sand below. Great spot to meet for drinks, and a bonus is that you can still order off the full restaurant menu and opt to dine at Ukulele Bar.

Antipodes Restaurant A must-do, especially if you are celebrating a special occasion. Located hillside on the northwestern side of the island, the restaurant offers sweeping sea views and partial sunsets. Tasting platters and shared meals in addition to traditional a la carte dining. Open select evenings. Reservations required and sometimes need to be made weeks in advance.

Rehab Bar and Nightclub A great spot to see some of Rarotonga’s nightlife. Make an evening of it and book their Party Bus, with stops at other local bars before going to Rehab to finish the night, with a safe sober ride home. Party Bus is available Friday and Saturdays, and reservations are a must.

There are dozens and dozens of other food and beverage options available as well, including the popular Night Market at Muri where local vendors serve up meals and desserts. If you have questions about any of the dining venues you’ve come across, just let us know!

If you have any questions about any part of this blog post, or perhaps have a suggestion for a topic for a future blog post, please feel free to contact me directly at beach@palmgrove.net Kia Manuia, Betsy