Muri Beach - Image 1
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Muri Lagoon Rarotonga Cook Islands

4.7
·128 reviews·, Cook Islands

Muri Lagoon: A breathtaking turquoise paradise in Rarotonga, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring its serene waters and motus.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning

Calm waters, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Muri Beach - Image 1

Muri Lagoon Rarotonga Cook Islands

Best Time

Morning

Calm waters, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Muri Lagoon: A breathtaking turquoise paradise in Rarotonga, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring its serene waters and motus.

4.7
(128 reviews)

"The photos are accurate. The colors are truly as vibrant as they appear!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Kayak to the Motus

Rent a kayak and paddle to the small islands for a secluded beach experience. :kayak:

Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Protect the coral and your skin with reef-safe sunscreen. :sunwithface:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Muri Lagoon's Turquoise Waters

Muri Lagoon's Turquoise Waters

Muri Beach

A breathtaking expanse of calm, turquoise water dotted with motus (islets). Perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

Snorkeling with Marine Life

Snorkeling with Marine Life

Muri Lagoon

Discover vibrant coral reefs and abundant fish species. Keep an eye out for turtles and stingrays!

Motu Exploration

Motu Exploration

Islets within Muri Lagoon

Kayak or swim to the small islands for secluded beach experiences and stunning lagoon views.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Calm Waters

Muri Lagoon's shallow, protected waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Arrive early to beat the crowds and enjoy the most pristine conditions. Consider booking a lagoon tour for guided exploration and insights into the marine life.

Island Time Essentials

While Muri Lagoon is a highlight, explore the rest of Rarotonga. Rent a scooter or car to discover hidden beaches and local eateries. Pack reef-safe sunscreen and insect repellent for a comfortable island experience.

Best Times

When
Morning
Why
Calm waters, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Warmer water, vibrant colors
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

This is MURI LAGOON 🏝️ @cookislands 📍 Rarotonga, Cook Islands #travel #aesthetic #nature #beach #solotravel #travelblogger #instatravel #cookislands #cookislandstourism
laurahahnx
42 likes • 1.2K views

Kayak to the Motus

Rent a kayak and paddle to the small islands for a secluded beach experience. :kayak:

Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Protect the coral and your skin with reef-safe sunscreen. :sunwithface:

If you’re looking for the sign? This is it! All inclusive night on the water exploring Muri Lagoon, delicious home made charcoal chicken with a touch of TLC finished off with a fire show on the beach! Come and experience the magic ✨ #fyp #explore #muribeach #kingdrydensaquaventures #rarotonga#cookislands #makingmemories #locallyoperated #authentic #locallyowned #moonlit #rarotonga
kingdrydensaquaventures
70 likes • 1.2K views
An absolutely stunning few days at Muri Lagoon and Muri Beachcomber last week. Come and join us at our little Slice of Paradise here in Rarotonga. #sunshine #muribeachcomber #cookislands #paradise #holiday #rarotonga #muri #tropical
muribeachcomber
46 likes • 668 views

Early Bird Gets the Calm

Visit Muri Lagoon in the morning for the calmest waters and best snorkeling. :clock1:

Pack a Snorkel Set

While tours offer gear, bringing your own ensures a comfortable fit for hours of exploration. :mask:

💙🐟Muri Beach, Rarotonga - Cook Islands 🇨🇰 🇬🇧 Best beach in Rarotonga: Muri Beach Lagoon! Located on the South-Eastern side of Rarotonga, this beach is a hub for water activities, including: Sea scooter safari tours, kayaks, standup paddle boards, lagoon cruises, kitesurfing and more. There is also a concentration of cafes, bars and restaurants right on the water, providing beautiful views and d...
soulviajero
34 likes • 478 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Kayak to the Motus

Rent a kayak and paddle to the small islands for a secluded beach experience. :kayak:

Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Protect the coral and your skin with reef-safe sunscreen. :sunwithface:

Early Bird Gets the Calm

Visit Muri Lagoon in the morning for the calmest waters and best snorkeling. :clock1:

Pack a Snorkel Set

While tours offer gear, bringing your own ensures a comfortable fit for hours of exploration. :mask:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(128 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Muri Lagoon is overwhelmingly praised for its stunning natural beauty, calm turquoise waters, and abundant marine life, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Visitors consistently highlight its picturesque scenery, often noting that photos don't capture its full splendor. While generally a positive experience, some find it can get crowded during peak times, and the popularity means it's a well-established tourist attraction.

"Beautiful and calm beach. Best place to swim. It's a tourist attraction area."

Nesh khalifa

"6/10/2025
Even better than the picture
Even saw turtle and ?stingray when swimming"

Anh thi Hoàng

"One of the best beach in the world ! Sure"

Andrea vivirito

What People Like

Breathtaking turquoise waters
Abundant marine life
Calm and safe for swimming

What People Dislike

Can get crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Muri Lagoon is located on the southeast coast of Rarotonga. From Rarotonga International Airport (RAR), you can take a taxi (approx. 15-20 minutes) or rent a car or scooter to drive yourself. The lagoon is well-signposted and easily accessible by road.

Yes, Rarotonga has a reliable bus service that circles the island. The 'In' bus travels clockwise and the 'Out' bus travels anti-clockwise, both stopping near Muri Lagoon. Check the bus schedules for the most up-to-date timings.

There is decent parking available near the rugby pitch adjacent to Muri Beach. It can get busy during peak times, so arriving earlier in the day is recommended for easier parking.

Many accommodations are located within walking distance of Muri Lagoon, especially those along the Muri beachfront. Check the location of your lodging beforehand to see if it's a convenient stroll.

The main beach area is relatively flat and accessible. However, venturing into the water or exploring the motus might present challenges. It's best to inquire with specific tour operators about accessibility options.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, access to Muri Lagoon and its beaches is generally free for the public. You only pay for optional activities like lagoon tours, kayak rentals, or dining at nearby restaurants.

Muri Lagoon is a natural attraction and is accessible at all hours. However, for activities like snorkeling, swimming, and tours, daylight hours are best. Many businesses operate from morning to late afternoon.

Yes, several companies offer guided lagoon tours. These often include snorkeling, glass-bottom boat rides, and cultural insights. Koka Lagoon Tours is a popular choice mentioned by visitors.

Absolutely! You can rent kayaks, paddleboards, and snorkeling gear from various vendors along Muri Beach. This allows you to explore the lagoon at your own pace.

While not guaranteed, many visitors report seeing turtles while snorkeling in Muri Lagoon. It's a natural habitat, so sightings depend on luck and the turtles' movements.

🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience

The best way is to combine swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. Renting a kayak to explore the motus and enjoying a guided lagoon tour offer diverse perspectives of this beautiful area.

You can expect to see a vibrant array of tropical fish, colorful coral formations, and potentially sea turtles and stingrays. The lagoon is a protected marine sanctuary.

Yes, Muri Lagoon is generally very safe for swimming due to its shallow depth and protection from the outer reef. It's ideal for families and less confident swimmers.

The motus are small, uninhabited islets within Muri Lagoon. They are perfect for a short paddle to, offering a sense of seclusion and beautiful views back towards Rarotonga.

The entire lagoon is incredibly photogenic! The turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and lush motus provide endless opportunities. Sunrise and sunset offer particularly stunning light.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Muri Beach is lined with several restaurants, cafes, and food stalls offering a variety of cuisines, from local island dishes to international fare. The Muri Night Market is also a popular spot for diverse food options.

Many visitors enjoy the food options available right on Muri Beach. The Muri Night Market is highly recommended for sampling local delicacies. Resorts in the area also have excellent dining facilities.

Yes, many eateries around Muri Lagoon offer takeaway options, perfect for a picnic on the beach or enjoying back at your accommodation.

Most restaurants and food stalls are accommodating and offer vegetarian and vegan options. Fresh tropical fruits are also abundant and a delicious choice.

The Muri Night Market is a vibrant evening market where local vendors sell a wide array of delicious food, from traditional island dishes to international favorites. It's a great place to experience local flavors.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Muri Lagoon is a paradise for families. Its shallow, calm waters are incredibly safe for children to swim and play in, offering peace of mind for parents. The abundance of marine life visible even in the shallows provides endless fascination for little ones. Consider a glass-bottom boat tour for younger children who might not be ready for snorkeling, allowing them to see the underwater world without getting wet. Renting a kayak to paddle to the nearby motus can also be a fun family adventure, creating a sense of exploration and discovery.

Many resorts in the Muri area are family-friendly and offer amenities like kids' clubs or shallow pools. Packing plenty of reef-safe sunscreen, hats, and rash guards is crucial to protect children from the sun. The Muri Night Market is also a great family outing, offering a variety of kid-friendly food options in a lively atmosphere. Remember to bring along some beach toys for extra fun on the sand.

🐠 Snorkelers & Divers

For snorkel enthusiasts, Muri Lagoon is a dream come true. The clear, warm waters offer excellent visibility, and the protected reef system is home to a diverse array of tropical fish and coral. You can easily spend hours exploring the different sections of the lagoon, encountering everything from small reef fish to larger species like parrotfish and angelfish. Keep an eye out for the majestic sea turtles that frequent these waters; seeing one glide through the coral is a truly magical experience.Reddit

While Muri Lagoon is primarily a snorkeling destination, the surrounding outer reef offers opportunities for more advanced diving. However, for most visitors, the lagoon itself provides more than enough underwater spectacle. Bringing your own snorkel gear ensures a comfortable fit and allows you to maximize your time in the water. Consider joining a guided tour to learn about the marine ecosystem and discover the best hidden spots for spotting unique marine life. Remember to practice responsible snorkeling by not touching coral or disturbing the marine creatures.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Muri Lagoon: Your Aquatic Playground

Muri Lagoon is the crown jewel of Rarotonga, renowned for its stunning turquoise waters and protected marine environment. The lagoon is shallow and calm, making it an ideal spot for swimming, snorkeling, and a variety of water sports. Its beauty is so striking that photos often don't do it justice; the colors are truly as vibrant as they appear.Reddit The lagoon is dotted with four small islets, or 'motus', which can be easily reached by kayak or even a strong swim, offering secluded spots for relaxation and breathtaking views back towards the main island.

Snorkeling in Muri Lagoon is a must-do activity. The coral reefs teem with diverse marine life, and many visitors report sightings of colorful fish, sea turtles, and even stingrays.Reddit To make the most of your underwater exploration, consider booking a guided lagoon tour. Companies like Koka Lagoon Tours offer fantastic experiences, combining snorkeling with educational commentary and often a delicious island lunch. These tours provide a deeper understanding of the lagoon's ecosystem and ensure you visit the best spots for marine encounters.

For those who prefer to explore independently, renting a kayak or paddleboard is highly recommended. This allows you to navigate the lagoon at your own pace, discover hidden coves, and visit the motus. Remember to pack reef-safe sunscreen to protect both your skin and the delicate marine environment. The clarity of the water and the abundance of life make Muri Lagoon an unforgettable aquatic adventure for all ages.

Getting Around Rarotonga: Island Exploration

While Muri Lagoon is a primary attraction, exploring the rest of Rarotonga is essential for a complete island experience. The most popular way to get around is by renting a scooter or a car. This offers the ultimate freedom to discover the island's diverse landscapes, from pristine beaches to lush interior mountains. Scooters are particularly popular for their ease of parking and the quintessential island feel they provide. Remember to obtain an international driving permit if required and always drive cautiously, as roads can be narrow and winding.

Rarotonga also has a reliable public bus service that circles the island in both directions (clockwise 'In' bus and anti-clockwise 'Out' bus). This is a budget-friendly option and a great way to mingle with locals. The buses are frequent enough to make it a viable alternative to self-driving, especially if you plan to stay within a certain area or visit specific attractions. Check the bus timetables, as services can be less frequent on Sundays.

For those staying close to Muri Lagoon, walking or cycling can be pleasant options for short distances. Many resorts and accommodations offer bicycle rentals. Regardless of your chosen mode of transport, always be mindful of the local pace of life and enjoy the scenic journey around this beautiful Pacific island.

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