Prices have dropped significantly from the west coast to the South Pacific, as Air New Zealand and AIr France/Delta compete for business. Rarotonga, the largest of the Cook Islands, is known for lagoon diving and snorkeling, as well as the volcanic peaks. It also boasts the “cursed” Rarotonga Hilton, a unique attraction for travel buffs. And of course Tahiti is Tahiti, with great resorts and Polynesian culture. These fares are for select dates this fall fares on 6 day trips with Air New Zealand, and 6 or 8 days with Air France. The San Francisco and Los Angeles prices also show up for 1 departure date only in summer, June 8th. Departures include:
- San Francisco to Tahiti from $671 (Delta/Air France), Raratonga from $808 (Air New Zealand)
- Los Angeles to Raratonga from $696 (Air New Zealand)
- Seattle to Raratonga from $811 (Air New Zealand)
Tahiti sunset by Pixabay user psaudio
All fares are main cabin economy, which includes a checked bag in addition to carry-on. Air France charges for seat selection until 30 hours before departure, when standard seats are no charge; Air New Zealand provides seat choice for free. Booking direct seems to provide the best prices for Air France, while OTAs will give the same prices as Air New Zealand’s website.
Sample Route
- Departure: LAX
- Stops: None
- Arrival: RAR
How to Book
- Follow link for sample dates or search your favorite OTA / Google Flights for departure and destination
Travel Dates
- June 8th departure, and select dates September and October
- 6 or 8 day stay required
Where to Stay on Tahiti or Rarotonga
- Manava Suite Resort Tahiti
- Tahiti’s Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort
- Ikurangi Eco Retreat Rarotonga
- Club Raro Resort on Rarotonga
Things to Do on Tahiti or Rarotonga
- Aremiti Ferry in Tahiti
- Tahiti’s Municipal Market
- Rarotonga’s Muri Lagoon
- Te Rura Manga Mountain on Rarotonga
Good luck and happy flying!
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Dan Miller travels with his wife and 6 (SIX!) children. He loves to help families travel for free / cheap, especially larger families. If you are looking for help, drop him an email at 
Bring your own coconut bras.
Presumably they fit in checked luggage.