Top Camping Beaches in the Cook Islands
The beautiful Muri Beach is located on Rarotonga, one of the islands within New Zealand's Cook Islands archipelago. Rarotonga is a reef-protected island, shielding Muri Beach from the rough ocean waves and giving it the perfect conditions for a wide range of water activities, including kitesurfing, snorkeling, swimming, kayaking, and more. The calm, turquoise waters are shallow and warm, inviting you in for a peaceful swim.
The beach is home to the Pacific Resort Rarotonga, a vacation destination in and of itself. The resort has a myriad of beach and cultural activities right on the sand. Te Vara Nui is a must-see cultural experience just steps away from the resort; the musical performance showcases "The Legend of Tongaiti" by torchlight, with dancers using their bodies to tell the story. Stand-up paddleboarding is a particularly popular pastime at the resort, with lessons and rentals at the Beach Hut; paddling through sparkling, turquoise water is an experience you won't ever forget. The only thing that can top it is the Captain Tama Glass Bottom Boat Tour, which gives beachgoers captivating stories and facts about the island, as well as the chance to snorkel alongside colorful reef fish.
The best way to unwind after a fun-filled beach day is to enjoy one of Barefoot Bar's happy-hour cocktails. Watch the sunset and sip on the best margarita you've had in your life. Be sure to check out Muri Beach's Night Market, a Thursday-night hotspot for local dishes, including Cajun chicken, fish curry, and chicken carbonara. The lively atmosphere at the beach is what gives Muri Beach its reputation as one of the best places to visit in the Cook Islands. Treat yourself to the adventure you've been waiting for!
