Whale Watching in Rarotonga & Cook Islands 2025

Whale watching is something to remember for the rest of your life. And the best thing about whale watching on the Cook Islands is that you can watch these majestic creatures anywhere, no matter which island you are on. During the migration season, from July to October, the whales travel through the Cook Islands to the warmer waters of the South Pacific to mate, rest, and give birth to their calves. Humpback whales get so close that there is even a chance to see them from the shore.

Whale Season in Rarotonga

Humpback whales usually tend to appear in the waters of the Cook Islands in the drier months, from July through October. During this time, temperatures slightly drop but still stay relatively high, while the weather is still warm and tropical. Humpback whales annually embark on a journey from the Southern Ocean to South Pacific islands, seeking warmer waters, which serve as perfect conditions for mating and birthing grounds. The peak of whale season in Rarotonga falls on September.

Types of Whales in the Cook Islands

Humpback whales are the most frequently spotted type of whale in the Cook Islands, but the area boasts a rich marine life that's worth witnessing. Sperm whales, Cuvier's beaked whales, short-finned pilot whales, and Blainville’s beaked whales have also been seen in the local waters, although the sightings can't be guaranteed. You might also be lucky to spot some sharks, turtles, dolphins, and stingrays.

Best Places to Watch the Whales

Some of the best places to watch whales on Rarotonga Island are the area called Black Rock the Eastern side of the island, and the North coast. Other places where you can easily meet these amazing giants are the islands to the south, such as Mitiaro, Mauke, Mangaia, and the limestone cliffs of Atiu Island. The territorial waters of the Cook Islands are a real whale sanctuary. You can watch humpback whales playing, flipping, and jumping.

Whale Watching Tours in Rarotonga

To up your chances of whale sighting, consider joining one of many whale-watching expeditions, which are quite popular in Rarotonga. The tours generally last around 2-3 hours, during which you are expected to see several whales. Tickets to tours of Whale Watching Rarotonga, which depart from Avatiu Harbour, cost NZD$100 for adults and NZD$80 for children under 15 years old, while infants get free admission.

Whale Watching Regulations

The Cook Islands Whale Sanctuary, which is one of the largest in the world, consists of an area of about 768,547 square miles (1,990,530 sq km). The Cook Islands have specific regulations protecting both the whales and the whale watchers. Swimming with whales is prohibited the Cook Islands. Following the whales is also strongly discouraged as this can interfere with their natural habitat.

Tips for Whale Watching

Consider bringing a pair of binoculars, sunscreen, a hat, and some water to hydrate during your trip. It's important to wear closed-toe shoes on the boat, and visitors are recommended to refrain from high heels. While the weather may be hot on land, remember to bring a jacket or dress warmly since the temperatures drop significantly once you're out in the ocean.