Island Nights
No visit is complete without experiencing one of our unforgettable "Island Nights" or evening shows. Across Rarotonga and Aitutaki, a range of Island Nights and vibrant weekly performances — including exhilarating fire dance shows — bring our culture to life after dark, hosted at resorts, restaurants and cultural venues where passionate locals share our stories through powerful drumming, song, dance and traditional cuisine. Expect plenty of energy, laughter, and moments where you’re invited to join in, because in the Cook Islands, the experience is always best when shared.
Island Nights in Rarotonga
As the sun sets, Rarotonga comes alive with a range of vibrant evening experiences that go beyond Island Nights, from cultural showcases to dynamic fire dance performances. These evenings bring together powerful drumming, storytelling through dance, and the warmth of our people, creating an atmosphere that is both captivating and welcoming. Many experiences include buffet-style dining featuring local favourites like ika mata (marinated raw fish) and other island dishes, while some offer the opportunity to enjoy an umu — a traditional earth oven feast — adding rich flavour to an already unforgettable night.
| M | T | W | T | F | S | CONTACT | COST ADULT | COST CHILD | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21.3 Vaianas Bistro and Bar | ✔️ | ✔️ | 24 516 | Free (a la carte) |
Free (a la carte) |
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| Aroa Beachside Resort | ✔️ | 22 166 | $10pp (a la carte) |
Free (0-12 yrs) |
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| Castaway Resort Rarotonga | ✔️ | 21 546 | Free (a la carte) |
Free (a la carte) |
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| Club Raro | ✔️ | 22 415 | $66pp |
N/A (Adults 18+) |
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| Crown Beach Resort | ✔️ | 23 953 | $100pp | $50pp (6–11 yrs) |
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| Highland Paradise | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | 21 924 | $160pp |
$85 (6-11 yrs) |
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| The Edgewater Resort & Spa | ✔️ | ✔️ | 25 435 | $105pp | $55pp (4–12 yrs) |
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| The Islander Hotel | ✔️ | 21 003 | $95pp | $50pp (5–12 yrs) |
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| The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium / Sanctuary Rarotonga | ✔️ | 25 800 | $99pp | $45pp (3–11 yrs) |
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| Te Vara Nui Village | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | 24 006 | $155pp | $75pp (6–11 yrs) |
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| Tumutoa Tours | ✔️ | ✔️ | 87 608 | $125pp | $62.50 (5–15 yrs) |
*Dates and times are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information and to secure your reservation, please contact and book directly with the operator.
Island Nights in Aitutaki
In Aitutaki, evenings unfold at a gentler pace, where culture and connection take centre stage beneath the stars. These intimate gatherings offer a chance to experience the rhythm and spirit of the island in a more laid-back setting, with storytelling, music and movement reflecting the deep ties between the people and the lagoon. Paired with fresh, locally inspired cuisine and warm island hospitality, it’s a relaxed yet memorable way to end the day in one of the world’s most breathtaking destinations.
| M | T | W | T | F | S | CONTACT | COST ADULT | COST CHILD | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort | ✔️ | 31 200 | A la carte | N/A (Adults Only) |
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| Tamanu Beach Resort | ✔️ | ✔️ | 31 810 | $85pp | $37.50 (6–11 yrs) |
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| Resort Tava'e | ✔️ | 31 842 | $80pp | $40 (4–12 yrs) |
*Dates and times are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information and to secure your reservation, please contact and book directly with the operator.
Want to learn how to dance Cook Islands style? In Rarotonga, visitors can join lively Ura and Tamure dance classes to learn the iconic hip-shaking, rhythmic arm movements, and energetic footwork that define Cook Islands dance. It’s a fun, welcoming way to connect with our culture, meet local people, and leave with new skills. Stop by our Visitor Centre in Avarua to learn more or check out CC Tamure Fitness Cook Islands and Aka'uka Time for their schedules!
