Villa Te Arau on Akitua Island The Aitutaki Lagoon Resort

Now imagine staying at Aitutaki’s only luxury private pool villa — on your own charming private isle, Motu Akitua! Just launched, Villa Te Arau – Royal Honeymoon Pool Villa. A stunning secluded retreat fit for a king and his queen. And yet, just a 2-minute journey by small private ferry from the main island of Aitutaki transports you to your exclusive piece of pure paradise. Even jaded travel writers insist Aitutaki Lagoon is a ‘must see’ destination before you die. Now you can truly experience the world’s most beautiful lagoon in the lap of its first luxury private pool villa. Why wait?


13 OF RAROTONGA’S BEST RESORTS REVIEWED


Aro’a Beachside Inn

In an idyllic beachfront location on the western sunset shore of Rarotonga, Aro’a Beachside Inn is the perfect place to relax, unwind and enjoy your Cook Island holiday.

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What we like:
  • The hotel is perfect for a self-catered holiday with all units being fully self-contained with kitchen facilities.
  • Affordable beachfront holiday. Guests are only steps away from the safe and secluded beach.
  • Free use of kayaks and snorkeling gear.

 

What to try:
  • The popular Shipwreck Hut offers a range of drinks and bar meals, with live music Tuesday, Thursday and at the Saturday beach barbecue.
  • Choose from the many Rarotonga tours and activities nearby including fishing charters, hiking or diving.

 

 


Club Raro

On the northern coast of Rarotonga among beautiful shady palms and tropical gardens,Club Raro offers great value for money.

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What we like:
  • Club Raro offers the budget minded travellercheap accommodation in Rarotonga.
  • The resort is conveniently located just 2.5 kilometres from the Rarotonga airport and 1.5 kilometres from Avarua town centre.
  • Modern facilities include a swimming pool, tennis courts, and scooter and bike rental.

 

What to try:
  • There is a tour desk to help you decide what to do in Rarotonga with an exciting selection oftours and excursions.
  • Enjoy a cocktail at the swim-up bar.
  • Discover the nearby Avarua town, its shops, restaurants and bars as well as some intriguing sites, including the National Museum and the Para O Tane Palace.

 

 


Crown Beach Resort & Spa

A top choice for adults-only, luxury accommodation in Rarotonga, Crown Beach Resort & Spa is the ideal holiday destination for those wanting to experience unparalleled privacy and pure indulgence.

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What we like:
  • Rarotonga beach villas and suites are ideal for those seeking an exclusive getaway in the Cook Islands.
  • Pool Villas and Courtyard Pool Suites boast their own private swimming pool.

 

What to try:
  • Some of the many recreational activities available nearby include canoeing, diving and snorkelling.
  • The Oceans Restaurant & Bar offers brasserie-style cuisine, with themed nights and a cocktail menu, right on the beachfront.
  • The friendly reception staff can organise a variety of adventures and help you decide what to do in Rarotonga.
  • Indulge in luxurious treatments at Spa Ariki to restore, replenish and relax both the body and soul.
  • Try bespoke dining options such as romantic candlelit dinners on the beach under the stars.

 

 


Lagoon Breeze Villas

Lagoon Breeze Villas is a tropical sanctuary
on the southwest coast of Rarotonga, across from the white sands and pristine water of the Aroa Lagoon and Marine Reserve.

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What we like:
  • The property offers exceptional value with budget accommodation in Rarotonga
  • Spacious, stand-alone villasare perfect for couples, families and groups seeking self-catering accommodation.
  • Kayaks, snorkels, masks, fins, reef shoes and beach towels are all provided complimentary.

 

What to try:
  • The freshwater swimming pool with a smaller paddling pool for young children provides a quiet spot to relax.
  • Barbecue facilities are onsite. Cooking utensils and gas are provided complimentary for guest use. Reception can advise you where to shop for the best meat and fish at great prices.
  • Complimentary one-hour scuba introductory lessons are held in the pool every Saturday afternoon.

 

 


Little Polynesian Resort

For those seeking ultimate privacy and luxury look no further than the award-winning, 4.5 star, Little Polynesian Resort when you visit Rarotonga.

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What we like:
  • A member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, thisboutique resort is one of the best accommodation options in Rarotongafor honeymoons and romantic breaks.
  • Sophisticated, split-levelbeach bungalows offer uninterrupted views of the turquoise lagoon.

 

What to try:
  • Relax by the infinity pool or on the beach, next to the lagoon. There is free use of kayaks and snorkelling gear for all guests.
  • Experience chic poolside dining at the onsite restaurant and bar.
  • Hire a scooter in Rarotonga. Explore the island and immerse yourself in part of the Cook Island’s way of life, you’ll also have the freedom and flexibility to go places at your own pace.
  • For the more adventurous, the Te Rua Manga (also known as The Needle) hike, offers amazing views across the whole island the peak.

 

 


Moana Sands Beachfront Hotel & Villas

Moana Sands Beachfront Hotel & Villas is located on Rarotonga’s stunning southern coast, directly overlooking the idyllic Titikaveka Beach.

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What we like:
  • A range of rooms and villas across two properties cater to families and couples alike. Many are absolute beachfront and enjoy stunning panoramic views of the lagoon.
  • One of the top resorts in Rarotonga, Moana Sands Beachfront Hotel was voted #1 best value hotel in Rarotonga on TripAdvisor.

 

What to try:
  • Indulge in modern pacific cuisine complemented with a great range of beverages available at Moana Restaurant & Bar.
  • The secluded location is also one of Rarotonga’s premier spots for snorkelling and swimming. Grab the complimentary snorkel gear andexplore beneath the surface, or jump in a kayak and head out to the reef.

 

 


Pacific Resort Rarotonga

Among the best hotels in Rarotonga, Pacific Resort Rarotonga is nestled on the white sands of Muri beach and offers the perfect blend of modern comfort and traditional island hospitality.

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What we like:
  • Accommodation is tastefully decorated in a contemporary Polynesian- style. A collection of 64 studios, suites, family rooms and two or three-bedroom villas cater to all needs.
  • Children can join in the fun at the complimentary Beach Hut & Kids Club, a hands-on program where they can participate
in exciting activities.
  • This is the only resort on the island to offer its own lagoon cruiser. The Moana Roa cruises out into Muri Lagoon
for coral viewing, fish feeding and snorkelling.

 

What to try:
  • Spend
your days swimming, sunbathing, windsurfing, sailing, stand-up paddle boarding and kayaking around the Muri lagoon and its small islets. Or you can dive and snorkel to discover all that the lagoon has to offer.
  • Head out for a spot of reef fishing with an experienced island guide.
  • Scooters and cars are available for hire onsite and are an ideal way to see the island.
  • Mingle with the locals and taste local delicacies at the Muri Night Market
  • Dine beachfront, toes in the sand at Sandals Restaurant, or enjoy a cocktail at the Barefoot Bar.

 

 


Te Manava Luxury Villas & Spa

Set on the white sands of Muri Beach, overlooking the crystal clear lagoon, this five-star villa complex is the perfect location for your next Cook Islands getaway.

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What we like:
  • Rarotonga’s premier villa accommodation provides some of the Cook Island’s most luxurious self-catered accommodation.
  • Expansive, contemporary and exquisitely decorated villas offering fully equipped gourmet kitchens,a private patio with garden or sea views anda private pool.
  • Guests can choose between the options of self-catering or tailor-made holiday experiences.
  • Complimentary return transfers are available to and fromPacific Resort Rarotonga for any dining reservations.

 

What to try:
  • The onsite spa is the perfect way to revitalise with a wide range of massages and pampering treatments
  • Make use of the complimentary kayaks and snorkelling equipment to explore the famous lagoon.

 

 


Palm Grove

Set in the enchanting village of Vaimaanga on the stunning Southern coast, Palm Grove enjoys the peace and tranquillity of one of the best locations in Rarotonga.

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What we like:
  • Great value for affordable self-catering accommodation in Rarotonga.
  • The property has a tranquil atmosphere with an intimate selection of 22 self-contained bungalows scattered over five acres of landscaped beachfront and garden property.
  • There are also two offsite rental holiday homes.
  • The resort offers several wedding packages and an onsite wedding co-ordinator for a destination wedding in paradise.
  • Palm Grove is set alongside one of the most popular beaches on the south coast of Rarotonga. Here the lagoon is at its widest and deepest, so is usable at all tides.

 

What to try:
  • The Yellow Hibiscus Restaurant offers indoor and outdoor dining and is open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
  • Don’t miss the Friday evening happy hour with live music or the popular Sunday barbecue.

 

 


Royale Takitumu

cook islands rarotonga royale takitumu walkway

On the south coast of Rarotonga, Surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens, palm tree lined pathways that lead to the stunning azure lagoon, Royale Takitumu is the epitome of serenity, luxury and intimacy.

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What we like:
  • The authentic Polynesian-styled villas offer a unique and exclusive getaway.
  • The idyllic setting on the stunning Titikaveka beach provides a truly romantic setting.

 

What to try:
  • Enjoy free onsite snorkeling and kayaking. Or choose from a myriad of activities to do in Rarotonga including fishing charters, diving and hiking.
  • Join in the exclusive weekly events and mingle with other guests.
  • Simply relax and enjoy the freshwater swimming pool, lounge around in a hammock or by the lagoon.

 

 


The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa

For a luxury family holiday in Rarotonga, look no further than The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa. Combining family fun and relaxation, discover a resort designed for convenience and comfort with modern luxuries.

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What we like:
  • This Rarotonga resort has incredible facilitiesincluding a restaurant, bar, fitness centre, outdoor pool and luxury day spa. All just minutes from Rarotonga’s airport.
  • The Rarotongan is laid out on a kilometre-long stretch of prime beachfront, perfect for those seeking privacy and exclusivity.
  • Complimentary activities at The Rarotongan include hand feeding the fish, snorkelling, stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking, tennis, learn to dance the hula, lei making and coconut husking.
  • Regularly voted a top 10 family- friendly resort by readers of Holidays With Kids magazine, the resort offers the Moko’s Kids Club where kids 0-11 years play free, Little Dolphins mini waterpark, Teen Zone and Banana Beach Playland Crèche.
  • For couples in love there’s a personal wedding planner to create your dreamRarotonga wedding.

 

What to try:
  • Indulge with a massage or beauty treatment at SpaPolynesia.
  • Discover some of Rarotonga’s best snorkelling at any tide at the Aro’a Lagoon Marine Reserve.
  • Enjoy all-day dinning at Captain Andy’s Beach Bar & Grill or opt for a romantic private candlelit dinner with your loved one.

 

 


Sanctuary Rarotonga – On The Beach

The perfect Rarotonga resort for couples, Sanctuary Rarotonga- On the Beach is a beachfront, adults-only 4.5-star resort.

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What we like:
  • One of the Rarotonga’s most beachfront resorts with 36 Beachfront Suites and 12 Beachside Suites set directly on Aroa Beach.
  • Guests can enjoy the use of all facilities at neighbouring sister resort, The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa.

 

What to try:
  • Enjoy complimentary activities including snorkelling, stand-up paddle boarding, fish feeding, kayaking, try scuba in the pool, guided walks, tennis, and more.
  • Savour a refreshing cocktail at the swim-up barand dine on fine Pacific cuisine with your toes in the sand at the BlueWater Grill.
  • Try a couple’s massage, traditional Cook Islands Romiromi massage and a range of pampering beauty therapies at the spa.
  • For a pairing made in heaven, combine your stay with time at the five-star adults-only sister resort, Aitutaki Lagoon Resort & Spa, complete with over-water bungalows set right on the world’s most beautiful lagoon in Aitutaki.

 

 


Sunset Resort

Sunset Resort delivers all the services you would expect from a large resort but in an intimate location on one of Rarotonga’s premier beaches.

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What we like:
  • The resort offers an unspoiled view of Rarotonga’s crystal clear aqua blue lagoon and breathtaking sunsets.
  • There are two swimming pools, and the warm tropical waters of the lagoon is at your doorstep.
  • The self-catered accommodation is perfect for families and large groups.
  • The helpful staff able to offer local information on sightseeing, activities 
and excursions including safari tours, snorkelling, lagoon cruising and kayaking in Rarotonga.

 

What to try:
  • The Anchorage Restaurant & Bar is surrounded by tropical gardens and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner while the Sunday sunset barbecue offers a relaxed dining option.
  • The Drumbeat bar, with a daily happy hour, is the perfect place to chill out and mingle with other guests.

 

 

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