Aroa Rā’ui

This dive site, Aroa Rā’ui, is a designated marine reserve ("rau'i") located off Aroa beach in Rarotonga, Cook Islands. It is renowned as a safe, sheltered lagoon environment, making it an excellent spot for both recreational snorkeling and confined water scuba dive training. As an easily accessible shore dive, navigating the site is straightforward, primarily involving exploring the sandy and patchy coral bottom areas within the designated reserve. There's no specific history or wreck mentioned, but its status as a local marine protected area emphasizes conservation.

The calm waters of Aroa Rā’ui are home to a diverse array of marine life. Divers and snorkelers can expect to encounter vibrant schools of goatfish, gold-lined seabream, and surgeonfish. Unique creatures such as massive star pufferfish, flat flounders, elusive octopus, and various species of moray eels are also frequently sighted, making for interesting macro and mid-sized animal encounters.

The Aroa Rā’ui is suitable for visiting year-round, with the dry season (May to October) often offering the calmest conditions and best visibility. Its shallow depths and protected nature make it an ideal location for beginner divers to practice skills and for snorkelers of all ages to enjoy the vibrant marine ecosystem safely. Freedivers will also find the calm, clear waters and accessible depths perfect for breath-hold diving practice and exploration.