Oravaru Beach
Oravaru
The beach where Captain Cook's crew landed on Atiu in 1777, with white sand and reef flats and a monument recording the event.
In April 1777, crew from Captain Cook's third voyage landed at Oravaru, becoming the first Europeans to visit Atiu. A memorial marks the spot on the beach. The beach is on the west coast, where the lagoon is shallow. At low tide you can walk the reef flats and look at tidepool life, and at high tide it is good for splashing about. Nearby small bays such as Taungaroro can be explored by motorbike along the island's ring road. There are no facilities at the beach, so wear sun protection and reef shoes.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Orongo Marae
- Taunganui Harbour
- Taungaroro Beach
- Lake Tiroto
- Tumunu Bush Beer Club
- Atiu Coffee Factory
- Rimarau Burial Cave
- Anatakitaki Cave