Aroa Beach sits on the southwest coast of Rarotonga, fronting a dedicated marine reserve that completely bans motorized watercraft and fishing. This protection has allowed the underwater ecosystem to thrive, making it arguably the best off-the-beach snorkeling spot on the entire island. The water here is incredibly calm and clear, enclosed by an outer reef that keeps the heavy ocean swells at bay.

The sandy bottom is dotted with massive coral heads that act as bustling high-rises for sea life, where you can swim alongside schools of bluefin trevally, butterflyfish, and resident moray eels.

To get the best clarity and avoid surface chop, plan your swim around high tide when the water is deep enough to float effortlessly over the shallow coral gardens.