Rutaki Passage is a surf spot located near the Rarotongan Resort, known for its left-hand waves that break over a thin coral shelf. The waves here are accessed through a narrow channel that’s about 50 meters wide. The surf can be pretty inconsistent, which means you won’t always find great waves, and it’s usually not crowded, giving you plenty of space to ride. This spot isn’t really suited for intermediate surfers, so it’s best left to the experts who know what they’re doing.

The best conditions for Rutaki Passage happen with a swell from the SouthWest or SouthEast. It can handle swell sizes up to 6 feet (around 1.8 meters). When the tide is high, you’ll get the best waves, kicking out on a left that can really pull you into a nice barrel ride. If you’re looking for a right, there's one on the opposite side that works better when there’s more west in the swell. Just keep in mind that any wind that's not from the northeast can mess things up, so check the conditions before you paddle out.

If you’re keen on chasing some more waves nearby, you can check out Papua Passage just to the east when conditions are small and clean. It offers a different vibe but can be a decent option when Rutaki isn’t firing. Make sure you bring a fast, sleek board to navigate the waves, especially to outrun those lefts!