What's the Weather Like in Rarotonga in November
Temperature
On the shoulder of Rarotonga's span of warmer months, November has mid-range temperatures. Daily overall averages are 25C (75F), with a high of 27C (81F) and a low of 22C (72F). The average sea temperature in Rarotonga is 26C (79F) in November. While not the warmest water of the year, it's still comfortable for water activities in Rarotonga's famed lagoon.
Sunshine
Sunshine levels are also mid-range in November. The average is 10 hours a day, contrasted by the highs of 12 daily hours in September and October and the low of 7 hours each day in January.
Rain
November marks the start of Rarotonga's wet season (from November to May), so expect some precipitation. November has an average of 14 rainy days with an overall average rainfall of 130mm. This is more than the yearly low in July with 60mm over 15 days and less than the year's high in January with 190mm over 19 days.
Humidity
Humidity is moderate in November. The average relative humidity is 80%, with humidity of around 85% in the mornings and 75% in the evenings.
Sunrise and Sunset
The duration of daylight is constantly increasing in November. On November 1, the sun rises at 5:55 am and sets at 6:49 pm, creating 12:53 hours of daylight. On November 30, with the most daylight of the month, the sun rises at 5:48 am and sundown takes place at 7:07 pm, with 13:19 total hours of daylight.
Wind Speed
The trade winds that arrive on Rarotonga's eastern shore from May to October abate in November. For much of the month, you can expect moderate winds of 5.2 m/s, equal to those of October..
Extreme Weather
The South Pacific's cyclone season is from November to April. While this month falls in that range, the Cook Islands aren't often struck by the tropical cyclones that more frequently hit locations such as the Solomon Islands and Tonga. When Rarotonga is struck by the rare major storm it can see winds of up to 55 m/s (124 mph) and extreme flooding.
Rarotonga Hotels in November
While most of Rarotonga's lodging options focus on the island's famed white-sand beaches and turquoise lagoon, you'll also encounter spots for exploring inland nature. Restaurants, bars and traditional markets are also accessible from most accommodation choices.
Nautilus Resort
Set back a two-minute walk from the shore, Nautilus Resort provides high-end escapes at luxury villas featuring private saltwater plunge pools. Polynesian-inspired accommodations have kitchens, lounging areas and balconies with glorious garden or sea views. Refresh before a dramatic mountain backdrop at the resort's main infinity pool. Treat yourself to a soothing massage at the spa and wellness centre. Drawing on Polynesian culture for both its design and cuisine, the Nautilus Restaurant serves gourmet fare at an elegant indoor space and on an outdoor patio with Instagram-perfect views of the sea. When you're ready for the lagoon's tranquil waters, grab a kayak or some snorkelling gear.
Little Polynesian Resort
Offering a four-star boutique experience, Little Polynesian Resort has studio-style bungalows in lush tropical gardens and along a stunning white-sand beach. Air-conditioned accommodations have kitchens and private outdoor showers to refresh under open skies. Enjoy alfresco dining or a tropical cocktail overlooking a saltwater infinity pool that stretches out toward the azure waters of the lagoon. When you can't resist its placid waters, make use of complimentary kayaks and snorkelling equipment. The haven is perfect for honeymoons and other romantic escapes.
Magic Reef Bungalows
Situated before the sublime sunsets of the island's west coast, Magic Reef Bungalows has nine studio-style cottages with furnished verandas that look out onto the ocean. Air-conditioned accommodations also feature stately four-poster beds, kitchenettes, separate seating areas and outdoor showers with privacy. On the landscaped grounds you'll find a large outdoor swimming pool and an area for barbecuing. If you're not in the grilling mood, it's just a short stroll to a fine selection of local restaurants.
Paradise Inn
For value, comfort and location, Paradise Inn delivers. On a beachfront and known for its surfer-friendly vibe, the 17-room motel has boutique accommodations with kitchenettes, en-suite bathrooms and panoramic views of Pacific waters. You can grab a drink at the self-service bar, make yourself an alfresco meal at barbecue facilities, and gaze out over the lagoon on a wide oceanfront terrace. It's just steps to the white-sand beach. You can also take a five-minute walk to downtown Avarua, where you'll have a wide choice of restaurants, bars and shops. Ready for some nature exploration? You're within walking distance to some wonderful hikes and dramatic mountain treks.
Rarotonga Beaches for November
Aroa Lagoon Marine Reserve
The waters off of Aroa Beach are arguably the best place for undersea exploration in Rarotonga. The Aroa Lagoon Marine Reserve doesn't allow fishing, making it a top snorkelling spot to encounter moray eels, brilliant butterflyfish and octopus close to shore. Motorboats and jet skis are also banned, ensuring tranquil seas for kayaking or stand-up paddle boarding. You'll want to hang around until dusk. The beach is perfectly positioned to take in stunning sunsets.
Bars and Restaurants
Savour the flavours of Latin America, tastes of Asia and culinary traditions from across Europe on one small island. The bars and restaurants of Rarotango reflect both the local culture and influences from people who have emigrated to its shores from around the world.
The Yellow Hibiscus
At the Palm Grove resort in Vaima, the open-air Yellow Hibiscus Restaurant overlooks green gardens in a laid-back setting. Enjoy a tropical breakfast buffet and lunch and dinner menus that focus on Pacific Rim fare. Delight in ribeye or fresh-caught broadbill at a popular Sunday evening barbecue that features live music. The restaurant is open daily from 8 am to 10 pm.
Kikau Hut Restaurant
Kikau Hut Restaurant infuses South Seas cuisine with European influences. Tucked into a stand of coconut palms on the northwest side of the island, the breezy eatery welcomes with a colourful array of local art in a casual-yet-elegant atmosphere. Island-style steak and fish dishes include Thai Beef Salad with sweet chilli and soy sauce and tangy Kikau Chowder. You can catch live music during the week. Kikau Hut is open daily from 6 pm to 11 pm.
La Casita Rarotonga
With bright colours and a welcoming vibe, La Casita Rarotonga brings the spirit of a Mexican street café to the South Pacific. The small restaurant in the centre of Muri Village has relaxed bench seating at a semi-indoor space and on an intimate wooden deck. Delight in enchiladas, burritos and Mexican-style quesadillas. If you're feeling adventurous, try one of their massive frozen margaritas. La Casita is open on Monday, Tuesday and Friday from 5:30 pm to 9 pm.
Kai Pizza
Kai Pizza isn't just about pizza. While the small restaurant in downtown Avarua is known for their wood-fired delights, they've also got a good selection of gourmet wraps including the Pork and Mango Wrap with crumbled pork loin, mango puree and tamarind sauce. Locals love their Asian Salad with chicken and ginger-sesame dressing. With just a handful of outdoor tables, Kai is open from 11 am to 9 pm from Tuesday to Friday, and from 4 pm to 9 pm on Monday and Saturday.
Things to do in Rarotonga in November
Visit a Real-Life Shipwreck
Shouldn't your South Seas adventure include a trip to a shipwreck? Hop aboard a bright yellow semi-submersible for a cruise to a sunken ship in the Avatiu Harbour. En route you can descend into the banana-coloured boat's hull and view the amazing underwater world from wide windows. In whale season from July to October you might even see a gentle giant come close to the boat. A highlight of the tour is an up-close look at the largely intact remains of the RMS Maitai, which slammed into a coral mushroom and sank in 1916.
Revel in an Off-road Adventure
If you're searching for something a bit more high octane than lagoon life, join a buggy convoy for a tear across the island's interior. Roar along inland trails that most travellers never see in an off-road beach buggy. Splash through puddles and motor in mud on your ride through nature, enjoying serene stops at spots including Wingmore's Waterfall. Complete your buggy adventure with a break at the shore for a refreshing dip in the lagoon and a meal at a scenic seaside eatery.
Take a Break at Titikaveka
Just south of the popular hub of Muri Beach you'll find the serene shores of the Titikaveka coast. Home to several boutique hotels and hideaway villas, the district is ideal for snorkelling in calm waters and romantic walks on white-sand beaches. With a ban on motorboats and jet skis at Tikioki Beach, a peaceful getaway is guaranteed. Take a short walk to the Takitumu Conservation Area for a nature tour that offers the chance to spot rare and exotic birds.
Feast on Island Night
Several resorts, restaurants and cultural centres offer their own versions of Island Night. In common they celebrate local culture with food, music and dance. Often served buffet style, the cuisine is always island style and includes classic dishes such as taro, poke, rukau and ika mata. You'll see string bands with local musicians playing time-honoured tunes using traditional drums and handmade ukuleles. Evenings culminate with festive troupes performing ancestral dances.
