Tongatapu
This chilled-out open-air place down by the wharves is a long-time locals’ haunt. There are hefty pub-style meals (mains T$14 to T$38: try the fish curry…
Must-see nightlife in Rarotonga, Samoa & Tonga
Apia
Apia's waterfront is well supplied with drinking options, though few open their doors on a Sunday and some of the dodgier pool halls aren't pleasant…
Avarua
Who’d have thought – an open-air bar on a disused rooftop? Just out of Avarua, this place attracts trendy young things and gets very lively on Friday and…
Apia
Hitch your fancy threads on for Apia's newest and classiest nightclub. Laser-lit and loud, it attracts an enthusiastic crowd with pumping dance hits, good…
Rarotonga
The Shipwreck Hut is a wonderfully rustic spot with an absolute waterfront location. There’s regular live music, great pub meals and barbecue dinners, and…
Avarua
Fast track into an island state of mind with loping Pacific reggae, shimmering sunsets, and cold beer at this relaxed beachside bar that's a favourite of…
Aitutaki
Puffy’s is a tiny bar popular with both locals and visitors from nearby Paradise Cove. Simple meals – mainly burgers and fish and chips – and cheap booze…
Rarotonga
Twelve-buck happy-hour cocktails and regular 3pm to 6pm DJ sets from Wednesday to Saturday make this a top lagoon-side spot to ease into another Raro…
Tongatapu
You can order a bang-up steak, chicken, lobster or swordfish meal at Ngutulei (mains T$18 to T$45), but most folks are here for a cold beer overlooking…
Apia
Ask anyone of any age where to go for a drink in Apia and this is always the enthusiastic answer. It’s no wonder. Looking over the Apia Harbour with deck…
Apia
This down'n'dirty – but characterful – place is a top spot for meeting locals and checking out some live music (Thursday to Saturday). If you're after…
Apia
One of the classiest bars in Apia – all chandeliers and fancy wallpaper – Sheesha's has a fantastic cocktail menu that attracts a slightly older (25 and…
Vava'u Group
Run by the unflappable Lawrence, Bounty Bar is as laid-back as it comes; ice-cold beers, harbour views and a highly entertaining fakaleiti show every…
Vava'u Group
On the waterfront below Bellavista Cafe & Restaurant, this prancing chicken is usually full of sea-salty expats, washed up on the tide and in need of a…
Avarua
Upstairs behind the Topshape Health & Fitness Centre building, the Staircase is always popular. The bar’s decked out with atmospheric island decor and has…
Apia
Its private-club status makes it one of the few sure-fire places for a drink on a Sunday evening. Its location on the sea wall – and resultant breezes –…
Apia
Also known as ‘Cocks on the Rocks’ and 'The Hole in the Wall', this small bar is much loved by tourists, expats and locals for its mellow vibe, sea…
The Cook Islands
Liquid refreshment is available at this humble spot opposite Ma’uke College. Opening nights vary, so ask Ma’uke locals for the latest. Tuesday night is…
Apia
This waterside club is a local institution for all the right reasons: blaring pop hits, cheap drinks, good bartenders and a sociable – if young – crowd…
Tongatapu
'Probably the best bar in Tonga' says the sign. We're not sure why it lacks confidence: the Ikale Lager is cold, the reggae is mellow and the upstairs…
Avarua
On busy weekend nights everyone crams into Hidie’s to check out the live bands, and there are usually DJs a couple of nights a week. The courtyard garden…
Avarua
House and electro grooves thump ‘n’ bump under ultraviolet and stroboscopic lights. Rehab offers occasional drinks specials if you arrive before 10pm.
The Cook Islands
Another option for a relaxed beer with the locals, Tua’s is near the island’s rugby field and normally open on a Friday and Saturday night.
