Rarotonga in June: Your weather and travel guide for 2023
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Wondering whether it’s worth travelling to Rarotonga in June? You’ve come to the right place, Rarotonga is one of my all-time favourite holiday destinations!
I’m going to tell you everything you need to know about travelling to Rarotonga in June, along with some helpful travel tips to get you ready for your holiday.
Rarotonga is a mere 4-hour flight from New Zealand with tranquil white sand beaches and lush rainforests bursting with life to vibrant cultural experiences – this island has it all! Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, Rarotonga is an unforgettable destination perfect for any traveller.
June is an especially wonderful time to visit Rarotonga as it marks the beginning of Rarotonga’s winter season. Here’s everything you need to know about travelling to Rarotonga in June!
Weather in Rarotonga in June
In June the days are pleasant, you can expect temperatures to be quite warm but not overly hot. With the warm weather comes plenty of sunshine, with an average of 8 hours a day – perfect for enjoying Rarotonga’s beaches and outdoor activities.
The cooler nights make June a fantastic time for getting a good night’s sleep, extremely handy if your accommodation only has a fan. Due to power on the island being pretty expensive, it is common not to have air-con and if you do, it’s not uncommon to be asked not to have it running all the time.
Average Temperature in Rarotonga in June
Rarotonga’s average maximum temperature during June is 26°C (79°F) with the average low temperature being 20°C (68°F).
Is it hot in Rarotonga in June?
An average of 26°C (79°F) is pretty hot, and on an island where the weather can be quite humid, it’s likely it’ll feel a little hotter than it actually is. Particularly during the day when the sun is out!
Can you swim in Rarotonga in June?
Certainly! In fact, due to the warm tropical weather, you can actually swim in Rarotonga all year round.
Of course in the cooler months, the water won’t quite be as warm but it is still definitely swimmable at a toasty 24°C. Rarotonga’s coastline is home to some beautiful crystal clear waters as well as plenty of marine life if you’re lucky enough to spot it!
Does it rain in Rarotonga in June?
June is actually one of the driest months in Rarotonga so you shouldn’t have to worry about the rain too much. You may still get the odd rainy spell but it’s usually quite light and infrequent. Rarotonga averages around 120mm of rain in June, which is much less than in the summer months.
Best things to do in Rarotonga when it rains
In case you do happen to have a rainy day during your holiday don’t worry, there are still plenty of things to do!
1. Go snorkelling
A perfect activity rain or shine. Rarotonga has some amazing snorkelling spots and marine reserves, where you can explore the underwater world and its inhabitants. If you haven’t already got snorkelling gear you may be able to rent this from your accommodation if you’re staying at a resort or head to Fruits of Rarotonga and hire your snorkel gear from Chantal’s Concierge. Take some cash with you as there will be an honesty box out if no one is there.
The best snorkelling spots include
- Black Rock
- Aroa Lagoon Marine Reserve (located next to The Rarotongan)
- Fruits of Rarotonga
2. Have a spa day
Nothing screams being on holiday like having a spa day! And a rainy day is the perfect time to lie back and relax. Due to the many resorts on the island, the opportunities for a high-quality spa are endless. Rarotonga is home to some of the best spas and wellness centres in the South Pacific.
Try Rumours Water Spa, Spa Ariki, Te Manava Spa, Nautilus Resort Spa or Edgewater Resort and Spa for an indulgent experience.
3. Go on a Raro Quad Tour
For an action-packed adventure book a tour with Raro Quad Tours and head off the beaten track to explore some of the island’s tropical forests and valleys. The tour operates rain or shine so it’s a perfect year-round activity. Expect to get wet, get muddy and have a whole lot of fun!
Are there cyclones in Rarotonga in June?
Rarotonga’s cyclone season is usually from mid-November to mid-April, so if you visit Rarotonga during June, you shouldn’t have to worry about any nasty storms.
Other low-risk months include July, August and September. In contrast, peak cyclone season is considered to be December, January and February.
Rarotonga in June: Travel Guide
Best things to do in Rarotonga in June
June is when the sun is likely to be shining so you’ll want to get outdoors are make the most of it! Rarotonga is the perfect place for a beach holiday. There are plenty of activities to keep you busy throughout your stay, from snorkelling and scuba diving to exploring Rarotonga’s stunning scenery or even simply relaxing on a beach.
1. Half-Day Muri Lagoon BBQ Lunch Cruise including Snorkeling
Are you looking for a unique Rarotonga experience? Look no further than the Half-Day Muri Lagoon BBQ Lunch Cruise with Snorkeling!
Depart from the beautiful Muri beach and embark on a glass bottom boat where you’ll spend time floating over the gorgeous turquoise waters.
This exciting tour is perfect for anyone visiting Rarotonga who wants to make the most of their holiday and experience some culture at the same time. From traditional Cook Island drummers welcoming you, to snorkelling in a marine reserve and barbecuing lunch on the beach, this half-day cruise has something for everyone.
✅ Check tour prices and reviews here
2. Turtle Sea Scooter Safari
This fun and unique experience will take you on a journey through the sheltered waters of Rarotonga, giving you the chance to swim with turtles, observe colourful sea life, and whizz through the water.
This tour includes instructions on how to use the sea scooter and all the snorkelling gear you’ll need, such as masks, fins, and snorkels. So whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, Rarotonga’s Turtle Sea Scooter Safari is a must-do!
✅ Check tour prices and reviews here
3. Swim with turtles
If jumping on a sea scooter isn’t your kind of vibe, go traditional and snorkel with the turtles instead. Join your experienced guides through the passage where you’re highly likely to spot turtles swimming around.
Have the bonus of a professional photographer with you so no need to worry about dragging a go-pro out with you to capture this amazing experience. You’ll get access to the digital photos after the tour.
All snorkel gear is included so you can just turn up and enjoy this magical experience. I loved this tour and I’m sure you will too!
✅ Check tour prices and reviews here
Note that swimming in the passage can be dangerous depending on the tides and conditions so you must only go here with a guide.
What to wear in Rarotonga in June
If you’re planning to visit Rarotonga in June, you may be wondering what kind of clothing to pack. After all, the weather can vary from hot and humid during the day to cool at night.
For the beach, bring lightweight, breathable clothing and a hat to protect your head from the sun. Swimwear is obviously essential for swimming and snorkelling activities. For cooler evenings, you may want to throw on a light jacket or sweater or opt for some long flowy pants.
Rarotongan locals tend to dress casually and modestly, so avoid any overly revealing clothing when roaming around town.
Lastly don’t forget comfortable shoes – there is plenty of exploring to be done so you’ll want to make sure you have the right footwear.
Is Rarotonga safe to travel to?
Yes, Rarotonga is a safe destination to visit. Rarotongans are friendly and welcoming people who take much pride in their culture and take great care of their guests. To stay safe while exploring Rarotonga, just use common sense and be aware of your environment.
Don’t leave valuables unattended and be aware of your surroundings when walking at night. Rarotonga is considered a very safe destination with no serious crime issues or major health risks. With the proper precautions, Rarotonga can be an amazing experience!
Where is Rarotonga, Cook Islands?
Rarotonga is the largest island in the Cook Islands, a small archipelago nation located in the South Pacific Ocean. Rarotonga is located approximately 3,400 kilometres northeast of New Zealand. It has an area of 67 square kilometres and a population of about 14,000 people.
Rarotonga and the other islands of the Cook Islands are popular destinations for travellers from around the world who come to explore their pristine beaches, lush forests, and unique culture.
Best place to stay in Rarotonga
My favourite place to stay in Rarotonga is Muri Beach. Here you’ll find stunning resorts that back onto a pristine beach. Muri Lagoon is also nearby for exploring and the town in general is quite compact, making it easy to get around on foot and explore.
Best Muri Beach Accommodation
How many days do you need in Rarotonga?
How long you spend in Rarotonga really depends on what you hope to get out of your trip. That being said, most people tend to stay for at least 5-7 days. This gives you enough time to explore Rarotonga’s beaches, do some snorkelling or diving, and visit the local attractions.
Personally, I love to stay in Rarotonga for 10-14 days. This gives you time to really relax and get on island time.
Rarotonga is the kind of place I would happily travel to time and time again. There’s something pretty special about this beautiful island nation that is hard to explain until you’ve experienced it for yourself.
Rarotonga in June: FAQ
What is the best month to go to Rarotonga?
The best month to visit Rarotonga is September or October. This is because the temperatures are lovely and warm and rainfall is at a minimum.
Overall a great time to visit Rarotonga is from May to October when the weather is milder and rainfall is low. The shoulder season includes April, May, September and October which is a great time to visit if you want to avoid some of the crowds – although how crowded does it really get in Rarotonga anyway…
The main issue you’ll run into in peak season is tours being booked out and rental vehicles being sparse so if you book ahead you should be fine to visit anytime during the dry season.
Something also worth noting is when the New Zealand school holidays are. As Rarotonga is a short flight from NZ, it is a very popular holiday destination for kiwis!
What is the wettest month in Rarotonga?
The wettest month in Rarotonga is January, with an average of about 260mm of rainfall. The wet season in Rarotonga runs from December to March aka the summer months.
What is the driest month in Rarotonga?
The driest month in Rarotonga is July, with an average of 100mm of rainfall and a toasty temperature of 25°C. This makes it the perfect time to visit Rarotonga if you’re looking for a dry and sunny vacation.
What is the hottest month in Rarotonga?
The hottest month in Rarotonga is February and March, with an average temperature of 29°C. During this time of year, Rarotonga is a great place to relax on the beach and enjoy some outdoor activities. However due to the humidity, expect some rain.
What is the coldest month in Rarotonga?
The coldest month in Rarotonga is July, with an average temperature of 25°C. However, Rarotonga remains warm all year round and the temperatures rarely drop below 20°C. Even at night time in July, you can expect an average of 19°C at nighttime.
Is there Uber in Rarotonga?
Unfortunately, Rarotonga does not have Uber or any ridesharing services. The easiest and most convenient way to get around Rarotonga is by car. There are many rental companies that provide vehicles at reasonable prices.
It is also possible to hire scooters which is a super fun way to ride around the island. In order to hire one, bear in mind you’ll need to show that you’ve got a motorbike license or sit a short driving test at the police station to gain a temporary license.
Conclusion: Rarotonga in June
Rarotonga is a beautiful island nation that is worth visiting any time of year. June in Rarotonga offers mild temperatures and low rainfall, making it an ideal month to visit if you want to avoid the crowds but still enjoy all Rarotonga has to offer.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an adventurous exploration of Rarotonga’s beaches and attractions, there are plenty of activities available during this time.
With its pristine waters, lush rainforests, stunning sunsets and friendly locals, Rarotonga provides something truly special that can’t be found anywhere else – so why not plan your trip today?