Mangaia is the most southerly island of the Cook Islands and is the second largest of the southern group (after Rarotonga). It is also one of the more populated islands in the Southern Cooks (after Rarotonga and Aitutaki). But don’t get too carried away with that thought – the population of Mangaia is only around 500 and this tight knit island community is what makes Mangaia so special.
As the oldest island in the Pacific—estimated at roughly 18 million years old—it offers a rugged, authentic landscape far removed from the manicured resorts of Rarotonga. Formed by a massive uplift of fossilized coral known as makatea, the island is a honeycomb of caves, secluded coves, and deep-seated Polynesian traditions.
If you are looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure in 2026, here are eight essential things to do on Mangaia.
1. Explore the Te Rua Rere Cave
Mangaia is world-renowned for its extensive cave systems, and Te Rua Rere is perhaps the most legendary. Stretching for over three kilometers toward the reef, this cave is filled with dramatic stalactites, stalagmites, and crystalline floors that sparkle in torchlight.
Because many of these caves were historically used as burial sites, you do need to go with a guide. (As you may encounter ancestral remains!). It is essential to hire a local guide to navigate the complex tunnels and respect the sacred nature of the site.
2. Swim in the Tua’ati Rock Pools
On the island’s western coast, the Tua’ati Rock Pools are a natural masterpiece. These beautifully clear basins are tucked away within the jagged Makatea (rock) and are best visited at low tide.
The pools are deep enough for a refreshing swim – or supposedly even a snorkel! It is a serene, secluded spot perfect for a quiet afternoon.
3. Hike to the Summit of Rangimotia
For the best panoramic view of the island, take the trek up to Rangimotia, the highest point on Mangaia at 169 metres.
The hike takes you through a mix of lush rainforest and pine groves. Then from the summit, you can see the unique concentric structure of the island: the central volcanic plateau, the lush taro swamps, and the formidable ring of the Makatea cliffs stretching toward the ocean.
4. Visit the Saragossa Shipwreck
On the southern tip of the island lies the remains of the Saragossa, a ship that struck the reef in 1904.
At low tide, you can walk out to see the rusted anchor and fragments of machinery that have been reclaimed by the coral. It is quite the coastal adventure!
5. Attend a Sunday Service at Tamarua CICC
Even if you aren’t religious, attending a service at the Cook Islands Christian Church (CICC) in Tamarua is an awesome cultural experience.
Built in 1863, the church features intricate wood carvings and ancient coconut fibre rope weaving. The highlight, however, is like with any church service in Cook Islands, the incredible singing.
6. Discover Secluded Ara’oa Beach
While Mangaia isn’t known for the long, sandy stretches of Aitutaki, Ara’oa Beach is a bit of a local gem. This small beach is framed by dramatic limestone boulders and the contrast between the white sand, the dark grey coral cliffs, and the blue of the sea makes it one of the most photogenic spots on the island.
7. Join the Mangaia Golden Shells Tour
Mangaia is famous for its Ei Pupu—intricate necklaces made from tiny yellow land snails that only emerge after it rains. The process of gathering, cleaning, and piercing these shells is a painstaking traditional art.
We were lucky to visit and learn about the Ei Pupu on our Island Hopper Tour. It is the best way to see how these “golden shells” are crafted and learn about the island’s unique biodiversity and the legends associated with these prized ornaments.
8. Experience the Friday Morning Market
To see the heart of the community, head to the Oneroa Market very early on a Friday morning (around 5:30AM).
Here, you can sample local delicacies like Tiromi (pounded taro with coconut cream) or Poke (baked fruit pudding).
But do get there early! I had heard about the famous Pineapple Pie that is made only in Mangaia and we went before sunrise. Though I almost had to go into battle with a local Mama over the last pie! (Don’t worry; I let her have it) 🙂
Want to know more about Moving to and Living in Rarotonga, Cook Islands? We’ve done it twice! Read all about it.
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Links For Your Travels in Pacific & Beyond
These are the companies we use and can recommend for planning and booking travel.
- Booking.com – The best all-around accommodation booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. It is easy to filter and sort into price and availability with all the extras you are looking for personally.
- 12GoAsia – Book trains anywhere online.
- Skyscanner– This is by far our favourite flight search engine. They are able to search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites often miss. We book all our flights through Skyscanner.
- GetYourGuide– Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions offered all around the world. Everything from walking tours, to street-food tours, cooking classes, desert safari’s and more!
- SafetyWing – A global travel insurance that covers people from all over the world while outside their home country. You can buy it short or longterm; and even if you are out of the country.
- World Nomads – Make sure you have insurance before embarking on travel anywhere in the world!