Rarotonga is the centre of the Cook Islands, and is the site of the Cook Islands main town, commercial centre and main port - Avarua.  Rarotonga is also where International visitors are first welcomed at the International Airport.  During business hours, Avarua has a friendly, bustling atmosphere together with a good selection of shops, banks, cafes and visitor facilities.

It's circular shape is dominated by high mountain peaks from which lush rain forests cascade to a palm-fringed shore. The island is almost completely encircled by a reef, which harbours a lagoon of clear turquoise waters and many inviting white sand beaches. Beyond the reef, the indigo blue of the ocean provides a vivid contrast and a bountiful supply of fish.

Most people choose to stay in Rarotonga and take outer island excursions on a daily basis.  Indeed, you will find a wide range of accommodation choices sprinked around the island's perimeter - Lagoon Holidays only sources and promotes quality accommodation providers, and ensures only the most highly recommended tour operators are included in their holiday packages.

As the entire island is only 32 kilometres in circumference, getting around is easy. There are two main roads on Rarotonga - you can circle the island on the Ara Tapu sealed road, through the villages and past the beaches; or you can take the older inland road, which winds through fields of taro, pawpaw, bananas and local farmlands.

The motor scooter is a popular, fun way to see the sights, however bikes, cars and jeeps are also available from local rental agencies. The "Island Bus" offers a convenient low cost method of transport, operating regular schedules around the island (in both directions). It will pick you up and set you down anywhere on request.