Muri Lagoon
Muri Lagoon
4.5
About
One of the island's most beautiful locations, this lagoon and beach is a popular destination for swimming and snorkeling.
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Restaurants
24 within 3 miles
Attractions
13 within 6 miles
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- jarrodhardingChristchurch, New Zealand5 contributionsPerfect swim/snorkel area that is safe and endlessly clear blueWe first came here on the Captain Tamas Cruise. We came back the following day to swim ourselves because we couldnt get enough of this beautiful lagoon. The clear blue warm water, reef/rock points full of fish, ideal snorkel area and yellow/white sands. We'll be back!Visited January 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten January 19, 2024
- NZ40 contributionsGreat swimming, paddle boarding, kayaking. Safe for kids (shallow) and family friendly with a great sandy beach .Muri Lagoon is a family friendly lagoon. Good for a variety of water sports including safe swimming for children. Snorkelling not great so if you want to see tropical fish, head to black rock beach if that’s your thing. A number of resorts are nearby for lunch or there are bakeries and shops within easy walking for snacks and drinks. Lagoon tours also start and finish from Muri Lagoon. It’s great hearing the boats go out with the island boys beating on thier drums and playing their guitars.Visited August 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten August 4, 2024
- Fiona S3 contributionsLovely beach but not great for snorkellingWe spent a day on the beach around the Sailing Club. The beach was lovely, plenty of room for everyone, and food at the Club was tasty and the view perfect. The swimming was easy and the water lovely. We did not do a lagoon cruise as that kind of big party tour is not our thing - you could hear them all cheering on their little island from the beach. The snorkelling from this part of the beach was not good. We did swim out quite far and saw a turtle which was lucky but there aren't really any rocks or coral in this part of the beach so no fish to see. Aroa beach/Lagoonarium was way better for snorkelling with heaps and heaps of different fish within a few m of shore.Visited August 2024Traveled with familyWritten September 30, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
901 reviews
Excellent
539
Very good
233
Average
80
Poor
29
Terrible
20
Jacqui S
3 contributions
Dec 2022 • Family
We snorkeled here on our first day in Rarotonga and were pretty disappointed. Most of the coral is gone and there weren't that many fish. We later found out sewerage leakage from the hotel septic tanks was a big problem, especially in peak holiday season when there's more tourists. This has had a severe impact on Muri lagoon as this is where most of the hotels are and it looks like it hasn't recovered even after the island closed to tourists. Of course the tourist information won't tell you any of this. If snorkeling is what you've come for, my recommendation is to rent a car and give Muri lagoon a miss. There's much nicer beaches on the southern parts of the island where the coral reefs seem to be healthy and there are abundant fish.
Written December 25, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
bhalls
Sydney, Australia8 contributions
Jan 2020
The location is wonderful and my friends who visited two years ago said the lagoon was white sand and fish everywhere. Something must have happened because the entire lagoon is full of awful weed and sea cucumbers. Honestly there are millions of the slimy revolting things in the lagoon. We spent our entire time treading around them only to be smacked in the face by hairy sea weed! When we found a little patch free of weed and sea cucumbers it was lovely ... but I'm talking about a couple of square metres. Very disappointing given we have been to Fiji many times and never experienced anything like this.
Written January 26, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Leigh D
11 contributions
Feb 2023
Evening stand up paddle board classes always attract local dogs to ride along on your board. Great fun, warm water. Safe for kids as the depth is never over 4-5 feet depending on tide
Written March 24, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jeremytung
Coventry, UK4 contributions
Apr 2023
Muri Lagoon, located on the eastern side of Rarotonga in the Cook Islands with its crystal-clear waters and stunning scenery. Muri Lagoon offers something truly unique, with its picture-perfect beaches and beautiful lagoon and reefs.
Most importantly, Muri Lagoon is the best place to swim and snorkel in its warm waters, which are teeming with a variety of marine life. Visitors can explore the colorful coral reefs and encounter an array of tropical fish and sea creatures even turtles, making for an unforgettable underwater experience.
Aside from its incredible natural beauty, Muri Lagoon also boasts a range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. From kayaking and paddleboarding to sailing and kiteboarding, there is something for everyone here. And for those who prefer a more relaxed pace, there are plenty of beachside cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy a refreshing drink or a delicious meal while taking in the stunning views.
Overall, Muri Lagoon is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Cook Islands.
Most importantly, Muri Lagoon is the best place to swim and snorkel in its warm waters, which are teeming with a variety of marine life. Visitors can explore the colorful coral reefs and encounter an array of tropical fish and sea creatures even turtles, making for an unforgettable underwater experience.
Aside from its incredible natural beauty, Muri Lagoon also boasts a range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. From kayaking and paddleboarding to sailing and kiteboarding, there is something for everyone here. And for those who prefer a more relaxed pace, there are plenty of beachside cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy a refreshing drink or a delicious meal while taking in the stunning views.
Overall, Muri Lagoon is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Cook Islands.
Written April 13, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ben H
Singapore, Singapore9 contributions
Mar 2020 • Family
We have heard a lot of good stories about muri beach but when we went to have a look we found it a bit overrated. The lagoon was really smelly, the water was nice but there was a lot of algea in the water.
There are much better beaches on the island
There are much better beaches on the island
Written March 6, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
NZ
40 contributions
Aug 2024 • Couples
Muri Lagoon is a family friendly lagoon. Good for a variety of water sports including safe swimming for children. Snorkelling not great so if you want to see tropical fish, head to black rock beach if that’s your thing. A number of resorts are nearby for lunch or there are bakeries and shops within easy walking for snacks and drinks. Lagoon tours also start and finish from Muri Lagoon. It’s great hearing the boats go out with the island boys beating on thier drums and playing their guitars.
Written August 4, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Rebecca S
4 contributions
Jul 2021 • Family
I have visited Muri many times and have always found the water to be crystal clear and alive with fish. This trip was different. The Lagoon smelt terrible. The water was murky - no snorkeling unless you head out in a glass bottom boat to the far edge of the reef. Outside the Pacific Resort sand bags are being used to reclaim the beach. Such a shame. Relieved we were staying elsewhere on the island. Please do your research before you follow the crowd and book here. I hope they can clean and repair what was a beautiful part of paradise.😥
Written July 29, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Irishkiwi2015
Auckland Central, New Zealand5 contributions
Sep 2019
Best beach for swimming . Beautiful , sandy safe and great for walking. Stay the day , take a trip for lunch on the glass bottom boat and enjoy the food market in the evening.
Written January 3, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
67TravelBug67
Auckland, New Zealand1,119 contributions
Sep 2022 • Solo
First time to Muri and it was a little different to what I expected. My view could be skued as I wasnt staying beach front as such I found it tricky to access the beach.
I ended up going via the Sailing Club or went down the main drive to Muri Beach Club and parked at the end by the sports field.
Lagoon was lovely but I didnt realise it was so tidal. Definitely need to either spend time in front of the resorts as anything to the left of Muri Beach Club whilst more private doesnt have as nice a beach.
Good place to stay with kids and lots of dining options on your doorstep but a tad too busy for me.
I ended up going via the Sailing Club or went down the main drive to Muri Beach Club and parked at the end by the sports field.
Lagoon was lovely but I didnt realise it was so tidal. Definitely need to either spend time in front of the resorts as anything to the left of Muri Beach Club whilst more private doesnt have as nice a beach.
Good place to stay with kids and lots of dining options on your doorstep but a tad too busy for me.
Written September 19, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Fiona S
3 contributions
Aug 2024 • Family
We spent a day on the beach around the Sailing Club. The beach was lovely, plenty of room for everyone, and food at the Club was tasty and the view perfect. The swimming was easy and the water lovely. We did not do a lagoon cruise as that kind of big party tour is not our thing - you could hear them all cheering on their little island from the beach. The snorkelling from this part of the beach was not good. We did swim out quite far and saw a turtle which was lucky but there aren't really any rocks or coral in this part of the beach so no fish to see. Aroa beach/Lagoonarium was way better for snorkelling with heaps and heaps of different fish within a few m of shore.
Written September 30, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Je marche avec un deambulateur et ne peux ni aller sur la plage, ni nager.
Je voudrais savoir s il y a des bars, des terrasses où je pourrais m installer.
Merci
Written October 26, 2019
I would like to know if there is sea glass on the beaches on the Cook Islands. Thanks
Written October 19, 2019
I found some, so yes. Though only small pieces. The beach by the end of the runway is a good place to look, I also found it further down that west coast. Definitely need to wear reef/rock shoes for safety, as new broken glass around too
Written November 23, 2019
Its about 10km by car or taxi...so about 25 minutes drive.
Written October 6, 2019
We have a stopover on Cook Island on a Sunday in December. We’d like to visit Muri Lagoon - do we have to book a room somewhere or are we able to go to the beach without any reservations? We plan to store our luggage near the airport and take a taxi to Muri.
Written September 15, 2019
You can just go to the beach. The beach access is just off the road. We parked and just walked all along the beach. Its a great beach. They are some restaurants along there as well. Thats where the glass bottom boat tours leave from as well. You will love it. Enjoy!
Written October 25, 2019
am staying at muri beachcomber in april .is muri lagoon as bad as some say .
Written January 1, 2017
Krishna N
107 contributions
Stay away. This beach stinks. I dont understand why people can't see that the beach is contaminated. I could smell sewage every day. But it's being covered up or ignored because lots of businesses depend on this beach. Local newspapers have several articles over the past several years that there is sewage run off into Muri. But nobody is taking any action. Unless these businesses are hit there wont be any action. So stop going to this beach. Then only it will improve.
Written August 8, 2018
Hi, My husband and I want to go windsurfing in the Cook Islands. Where can we hire a windsurfer and gear? Where is the best place or best resort for this please? Liz
Written February 29, 2016
HI guys we are looking for a last minute holiday as our fiji trip sadly has been cancelled due to the cyclone. We have been recommended the Te Manava Villas. Which sound pretty good.
We are a family of 2 adults two kids. In fiji we generally have a lazy time swimming and snorkelling and eating. Reading reviews I'm a bit concerned about.
1. Being able to walk out of the villa and swim off the beach and lagoon (sounds very polluted).If we got there and couldn't swim I'd be pretty bummed out.Thats one of the great attractions of where we stay in fiji.
2. Food around the Villas Is there much to go to within walking distance ?
3. Are we likely to just feel bummed out the whole time becuase its not as good as the resort we usually go to in fiji, hence should just cut our losses and have a quiet time at home an forget the holiday .
Any suggestions appreciated
Written February 26, 2016
Hello,
I've just been informed by a local that Muri beach is terribly polluted. I'm hoping my source is wrong. Does anyone know if this is the case and have any details? We have booked to stay in a resort right on the lagoon with our children. Any advise greatly appreciated.
Big thanks,
K
Written November 25, 2015
Lagoon isn't really polluted, there's just occasional blooms of algae. Compared with the Thames, the water is crystal clear. The recent algae bloom was pretty bad, but the storm cleared it up. Which resort are you at?
Written December 21, 2015
Im tempted to leave my cell phone at home when at the beach so I don't need to worry about theft. Did you hear of any issues while people are in the water and not looking at their beach towel?
Written September 14, 2015
Yes, people have had their phones taken before especially if your bag is wide open. I left phone, wallet and bike keys in the bag and did not get robbed. Just luck of the draw I guess
Written December 21, 2015
How far from the cruise ship port & how do we get there?
Written December 19, 2014
A Tripadvisor member
Sydney, Australia
2,793 contributions
30 mins. Walk across the road and get the Anti clockwise Bus, on the way back get the clockwise bus. If you are in port on a Sunday there is only the clockwise bus. You would then need to get a clockwise to Cook's corner and wait 10 mins for the next one to take you to Muri. Buy a 10 trip ticket for $30 or $5 single or $8 return
Written February 11, 2015
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