Day 1: Start your holiday with a complete island circuit to get your bearings and see how easy Rarotonga is to explore. With car hire in Rarotonga, follow the main road and stop at places such as Black Rock, Nikao Beach, Avana Lookout, Muri Beach and Tikioki Beach rather than trying to drive the loop without a break. Cook Islands Tourism includes these locations in its own suggested island drive, so they make a useful introduction to different sides of Rarotonga. Your Rarotonga car rental means you can stay longer wherever you find a beach, view or roadside stall that catches your attention.

Day 2: Give the south and east coasts more time, starting around Muri before continuing towards Tikioki and other lagoon-side stops. Muri is a good base for enjoying the lagoon, while Tikioki is among the snorkelling areas highlighted by Cook Islands Tourism. If your visit falls on Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday, you can return to Muri from 5pm for the Night Market, where local food stalls operate until they sell out. Having your own Rarotonga cars or scooter makes it easy to spend the day at your own pace and head back out for the evening.

Day 3: Spend your final day exploring Avarua, local shops and any parts of the coast you passed too quickly on the first day. If it is Saturday, visit Punanga Nui Market early for local produce, food, crafts and entertainment before taking another relaxed drive around your favourite part of the island. If you are comparing Rarotonga rentals, three days is still enough time to benefit from having your own transport because you can easily move between town, beaches and different sides of the island. A short itinerary works best when you leave some room to change your plans rather than trying to fill every hour.