What's the Weather Like in Rarotonga in February
Temperature
You can expect temperatures in February that are slightly higher than those January and equal to those in March. One of the hottest times of the year, February's daily average temperature ranges from a high of 29C (84F) to a low of 24C (75F). The overall average in February is 27C (81F). These temperatures are like those found in other South Pacific spots such as Tahiti and Bora Bora. Rarotonga's average sea temperature in February is 28C (82F). So expect warm seas as you swim, snorkel and scuba dive in the famed lagoon that encircles the island.
Sunshine Hours
While you can still count on bright clear skies most days, February has some of the year's lowest levels of sunshine. The month has an average of 8 hours per day, contrasted by the highs of 12 daily hours in September and October. The cloud cover that hangs over the centre of Rarotonga for much of the year is more pronounced in February.
Rainfall
Falling in the middle of Rarotonga's wet season (from November to May), February has a fair amount of precipitation. In close competition with January and March for the rainiest month of the year, February has an average of 17 rainy days with an overall average rainfall of 190mm. Expect these brief and strong downpours to hit in the afternoons and dry times in the mornings and evenings.
Humidity
As one of the island's more humid months, February offers some muggy weather. The average relative humidity in February is 85%, with humidity of around 88% in the mornings and 78% in the evenings.
Sunrise and Sunset
On February 1, the sun rises at 6:21 am and sets at 7:23 pm, giving the island 13:02 hours of daylight. On February 28, the sun rises at 6:35 am and sundown happens at 7:06 pm, creating 12:31 hours of total daylight.
Wind Speed
As balmy winds are a constant on Rarotonga, you can expect a moderate breeze with wind speed averages of 4.7 m/s.
Extreme Weather
The South Pacific's cyclone season is from November to April -- putting February in the middle of the path. But unlike South Pacific locations such as Australia and the Philippines, the Cook Islands aren't likely to see huge storms. Those that do occur have brought gales of up to 55 m/s (124 mph) and caused widespread flooding, but these occurrences are infrequent.
Rarotonga Hotels in February
From exclusive five-star villas to no-nonsense accommodations for the backpackers, Rarotonga offers a diverse range of lodging options. Most lie along the pristine coast and have magnificent views of the lagoon.
Crystal Blue Lagoon Villas
Upscale and contemporary with spectacular ocean views, Crystal Blue Lagoon Villas invites you to repose at a serene sanctuary on a lush estate. As its name suggests, stylish two-bedroom villas sit before Rarotonga's lagoon by the heart of Muri Beach. Hop into a complimentary kayak for a paddle around the azure waters. Later, settle back into a lounger on a natural wood deck before an infinity pool that seamlessly blends into the shimmering sea. You can grill a meal at outdoor barbecue facilities, or take a short walk to the cafés and eateries of Muri Village.
Castaway Resort
A secluded three-star option, Castaway Resort enjoys a prime spot on the sheltered west side of the isle. The adults-only boutique offers a mix of standard rooms and villas with traditional island décor, and an outdoor pool that sits before a white-sand beach and the placid lagoon. Dine on Polynesian cuisine with ocean views at Crusoe's Restaurant & Bar, and enjoy a cocktail in the sand before a stunning sunset at Wilson's Beach Bar (a nod to the volleyball friend of Tom Hanks in the film Castaway). Centrally located, Castaway Resort is just a quick stroll from the nearby shops and restaurants in the village of Arorangi.
Sunrise Beach Bungalows
Another solid three-star choice, Sunrise Beach Bungalows is nestled in a tropical garden before sweeping views of the ocean on the sunrise-facing east side of Rarotonga. Ease back and enjoy the view from a private balcony that's mere steps from the inviting waters. Splash around in an ample outdoor pool, or grab complimentary snorkelling gear for some undersea exploration. A top surfing spot, the scenic beach is also a perfect place to watch migrating whales that pass just offshore from July to November. If island exploration calls, hop on a free bicycle to pedal around paradise.
Tianas Beach Bungalows
For value and comfort in a prime location, Tianas Beach is an excellent option. A handful of cottages and studio accommodations sit directly on Muri Beach close to the Muri Night Markets and Te Vara Nui Village. A pair of one-bedroom bungalows have high ceilings, kitchenettes and raised wooden decks that look over the beach with views of the lagoon and the offshore island of Taakoka. Tucked into stands of ironwood trees and coconut palms, open-plan studio units have generous verandas that overlook the beach.
Rarotonga Beaches for February
There's a reason that Muri Beach is the most popular stretch of sand on the island -- in fact, there are a few reasons. With a lagoon that's protected by small islands and a coral reef, Muri has some of Rarotonga's calmest waters for swimming and snorkelling. It's also a top spot for kayaking, paddle boarding and taking glass-bottom boat tours to visit tiny islets, which you can wade to if the tide is low and the current isn't too strong. Muri's wide white-sand beaches are perfect for picnics, scenic strolls or just lazing with family and friends. Some of the island best resorts lie on Muri Beach.
Bars and Restaurants
As it's surrounded by Pacific waters, Rarotonga's speciality is seafood. However, people from across the globe have settled on the tiny island and brought with them a world of culinary influences. Enjoy German-style schnitzel, French baguettes and juicy American hamburgers on your South Seas getaway.
Flambé
Offering fine dining at the Crown Beach Resort, Flambé specialises in Mediterranean cuisine in an upscale setting with mood lighting, vibrant local art and an outdoor gazebo bar before a coral waterfall. As the eatery's name suggests, desserts are delivered with fiery showmanship. Closed on Sundays and Mondays, the restaurant is only open for dinner starting at 6 pm and ending at 9 pm.
Tumunu Tropical Garden Bar & Restaurant
One of the oldest restaurants on Rarotonga, Tumunu Tropical Garden Bar & Restaurant serves hearty fare in a relaxed garden setting. Feast on chicken schnitzel with mushroom sauce or zesty lemon braised fish served with spinach mashed potatoes. For value and variety, diners love their seafood platters. Tumunu opens daily at 6 pm, closing at 12 am Monday through Saturday and at 10 pm on Sundays.
The Lazy Trout Cafe & Restaurant
Set in a garden at the Wellesley Hotel in the Avarua District, the Lazy Trout Cafe & Restaurant offers poolside alfresco dining with sweeping mountain views. An all-day breakfast menu includes an eclectic selection of waffle dishes, while dinner menus focus on seasonal fare. The eatery is open daily from 9 am to 2 pm and from 6 pm to 9 pm from Thursday to Saturday.
Vili's Burger Joint
Serving from a colourful thatch-roofed hut in Muri, Vili's Burger Joint makes what many say are the best burgers on the island. Settle down at picnic-style seating for fresh hand-packed beef or veggie burgers topped with delights such as beets, eggs and bacon. You can even bring your own beer to the casual roadside joint that's open daily from 12:30 pm to 9 pm.
Things to do in Rarotonga in February
Dine at the Punanga Nui Market
While shopping the colourful stalls of Punanga Nui Market is a top draw, eating there is arguably its greatest delight. You can find almost any kind of cuisine you can imagine at affordable prices. Browse the food huts that dot the grounds to indulge in waffles heaped with decadent toppings, tropical fruit smoothies and juicy grilled kebabs. Enjoy local favourites like poke and chicken with taro. Seafood is served virtually everywhere you look, so savour island-inspired delicacies like ika mata. Top off your dining discovery with a glass of fruit-infused wine.
Hike the Cross Island Walk
The most-popular land trek on the island, the Cross Island Walk takes you on a nature tour through Rarotonga's lush interior. In under four hours, you'll wind through dense stretches of tropical trees and native plants to encounter a waterfall that begs to be posted on Instagram. Cross trickling stream and make a vigorous ascent as you near the island's volcanic core. Standing at its centre your gaze will lift to "The Needle", a soaring rock spire and one of the island's most iconic images. From the lofty perch, you'll have sweeping views across Rarotonga as a reward for your strenuous hike.
Live the Resort Life
While a trip to Rarotonga's welcomes exploration across the island, chances are you'll wish to spend a good bit of time at your home away from home. Most of the resorts are on, or near, the beach, making exotic getaways just steps away from your accommodations. Plunge into a seaside infinity pool and then settle back into a sun lounger. Enjoy a romantic dinner with your toes in the sand at one of the many beachfront hotel restaurants. From glorious sunrises at resorts on the east side of the island to sublime sunsets on the west, Rarotonga invites you to live the resort life.
Take a Nature Tour
Most travel guides will tell you about Rarotonga's famed lagoon -- but don't forget about its other nature offerings. Walk the trails of the Takitumu Conservation Area to discover exotic birdlife including the endangered yellow kakerori, one the rarest bird species on the planet. Catch glimpses of myna birds plucking tropical treats from mango trees. Unplug and unwind on a relaxing stroll through terrain teeming with mammoth king ferns, Polynesian chestnuts, stunning orchids and vibrant plumeria flowers.
