Things to Do in Muri Beach

Muri Beach stretches along the southeastern coast of Rarotonga in the Cook Islands, offering what might be the most postcard-perfect lagoon in the South Pacific. The shallow, crystal-clear waters are protected by a coral reef that creates an almost lake-like environment - you can wade out hundreds of meters and still be chest-deep. Small motus (coral islets) dot the lagoon, giving the whole scene an almost surreal beauty that actually lives up to the tourism photos. The beach itself curves gently for about two kilometers, backed by coconut palms and surprisingly good restaurants considering you're on a small island in the middle of the Pacific. What sets Muri Beach apart from other tropical destinations is its authentic Polynesian atmosphere - you'll hear more Cook Islands Maori than English, and the pace of life moves at what locals call 'island time,' which means things happen when they happen.

Muri Beach punches well above its weight for dining options, with several restaurants that would hold their own in major cities. The Flame Tree serves excellent Pacific Rim cuisine with lagoon views, while Sails Restaurant offers fresh seafood that's literally caught the same day. For something more casual, the various beach bars serve decent fish and chips alongside local specialties like ika mata (raw fish in coconut cream). Worth noting that prices reflect the remote location - expect to pay resort prices even at casual spots. The local markets in nearby Titikaveka offer fresh tropical fruits and are worth checking out for breakfast supplies.

The dry season from May to October offers the most reliable weather, with less humidity and minimal rainfall. That said, this is also peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and more crowded beaches. The shoulder months of April and November can be ideal - you'll get decent weather with fewer crowds and better accommodation rates. The wet season (December to March) brings higher temperatures and afternoon thunderstorms, but the rain is usually brief and the lagoon is actually warmer for swimming. Cyclone season technically runs November to April, though direct hits on Rarotonga are relatively rare.