The Top Boutique Accommodations on Rarotonga
Spoiler: Almost all of Rarotonga‘s accommodations are boutique. That’s right, the “large resorts” at this tropical destination in the South Pacific can be counted on one hand. Chances are, whatever you choose you’ll get that “boutique” experience. Nevertheless, if you want to go for the smallest of the small or the accommodations with the most tranquil vibes, then this list of the best boutique accommodations on Rarotonga will show you the way.
Before we begin, however, be sure to bookmark The Complete Travel Guide to Rarotonga and 50 Best Things to Do on Rarotonga for more holiday-planning wisdom.
1. Magic Reef Beachfront Bungalows
Stay in one of the island-inspired boutique Magic Reef Beachfront Bungalows with touches like carved four-poster beds and classic tivaevae linens that are a tasteful reminder of the island’s unique culture. Feel the balmy island breeze passing through to your outdoor bathroom complete with an in-the-ground bathtub and make use of the self-catering facilities where the reusable takeaway coffee mugs, a tote bag and water bottles make exploring the island a little easier on you and the planet. What’s more, guests get exclusive rental of the resort’s EVs. Learn more about this eco-friendly boutique resort in the 10 Best Eco Resorts on Rarotonga.
Check Magic Reef Beachfront Bungalows out:
- Magic Reef Beachfront Bungalows on Booking.com
- Magic Reef Beachfront Bungalows on Trip.com
- Magic Reef Beachfront Bungalows on Expedia
© CookIslandsPocketGuide.com2. Manuia Beach Resort
On the western side of Rarotonga, Manuia Beach Resort captures some of the most breathtaking sunsets from its beachfront suites and acclaimed On The Beach (OTB) Restaurant. Alternatively, save a little by choosing a suite set privately among the tropical gardens. All in all, any one of the 24 modern units at Manuia provides a relaxed yet beautiful adults-only stay without pretentiousness. See how Manuia Beach Resort compares with the 10 Best Adults-Only Resorts on Rarotonga.
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© CookIslandsPocketGuide.com3. Little Polynesian
A five-star boutique resort set on the sandy shores of southern Rarotonga, Little Polynesian provides an idyllic escape for couples. Indulge in a delightful breakfast around the chic infinity pool which reflects the beach’s swaying coconut palms. Each of the 14 intimate studios feels private enough between the tropical gardens and the beachfront. The interiors are modern with subtle Polynesian touches to remind you that you’re on island time. See how the resort compares to the 20 Best Resorts in Rarotonga.
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© CookIslandsPocketGuide.com4. Rendezvous Villas
Two luxury villas sit on the shores of the Muri Lagoon, yet offer absolute privacy for couples among the tropical gardens, at Rendezvous Villas. The well-appointed boutique duplex villas include luxurious touches, such as a private plunge pool, snorkelling gear, kayaks, a hard drive with movies, and wonderful spaces for both indoor and outdoor dining. Other inclusions are the complimentary transfers, a fruit basket on arrival, a starter pack for breakfast and a starter voucher for the WiFi. See more stays like this in the 20 Best Villas on Rarotonga.
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© Rendezvous Villas5. Sea Change Villas
Stay in one of only 15 villas scattered along the sands of Titikaveka Beach at Sea Change Villas. A collection of villas designed for romantic getaways, each features a king-size four-poster bed, a shower in your spacious bathroom with showerheads for two, a lounge in front of your private pool, and complimentary use of your villa’s assigned kayaks, snorkelling gear and SUP boards. Also offering an array of romance packages, Sea Change Villas makes an appearance in the 10 Most Romantic Wedding & Honeymoon Resorts on Rarotonga.
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© CookIslandsPocketGuide.com6. Motu Beachfront Art Villas
Working in harmony with the locals and environment, Motu Beachfront Art Villas or simply “MOTU” gives back to the local community with proceeds from your stay going toward healthcare, education and the arts. Speaking of the arts, the 10 “art villas” have a fresh and minimalistic design to emphasise the collection of works in your villa and the surrounding premises. Everything is here for a self-sustaining stay between your villa’s sleek kitchenette and the complimentary use of e-bikes to explore the island. See more stays with bikes included in the 10 Accommodations in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands with Bike Hire.
Check Motu Beachfront Art Villas out:
- Motu Beachfront Art Villas on Booking.com
- Motu Beachfront Art Villas on Trip.com
- Motu Beachfront Art Villas on Expedia
© Motu Beachfront Art Villas7. Rainbow Villas
Tucked on the back hills of Nikao, Rainbow Villas offers just two boutique villas nestled among permaculture gardens. Pick whatever is in season in the lush gardens surrounding the outdoor pool and cook up a storm in your luxury self-catering villa, beautifully designed for couples. Enjoy an alternative view of the islands as you unwind on your elevated deck overlooking the golf course. Of course, with the villas providing a supermarket in the garden, they also feature in the 10 Best Self-Catering Accommodations on Rarotonga.
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© CookIslandsPocketGuide.com8. Manea Beach Villas
A boutique resort on Rarotonga especially for families and groups, there are just two gorgeous villas at Manea Beach Villas. Choose between beachfront or nestled in the gardens, with each villa featuring three bedrooms sleeping up to six friends and family. You have full flexibility to use the space as you please with a fully-equipped kitchen, elevated balcony with dining furniture and excellent views of the Muri Lagoon, as well as a shared swimming pool just off Muri Beach. See more stays suitable for families in the 20 Best Family Resorts & Accommodations on Rarotonga
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© Manea on Muri9. Serenity Villas Rarotonga
As the name suggests, Serenity Villas Rarotonga is the place to be for a tranquil getaway. The tone is set just right with an adults-only policy, while each villa offers its own spaces to relax, such as a balcony or decking with prime sunset-viewing position. Rooms are kitted out with sleek decor and a four-poster king bed, while shared spaces include a swimming pool, barbecue area, hammocks and watersports equipment.
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© CookIslandsPocketGuide.com10. Nautilus Resort
Finally, indulge in absolute privacy and design choices that can’t help but “wow” at the Nautilus Resort. Each ‘are (bungalow) here features a private saltwater plunge pool, high ceilings and a spacious layout, as well as a bathroom with “his and hers” basins and a deep freestanding bathtub. On-site at this luxury boutique resort on Rarotonga is a large infinity pool, the popular Nautilus Restaurant, as well as the indulgent Spa Nautilis. See how the resort compares to the 10 Best Luxury Accommodations & Resorts on Rarotonga.
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© CookIslandsPocketGuide.comMore Boutique Resorts on Rarotonga
That’s it for the best boutique resorts on Rarotonga, but as we mentioned, most of Rarotonga’s resorts are boutique! If you didn’t gel with any of the recommendations, then it’s likely that you’ll find the perfect boutique stay in one of the following listings instead:
- 5 Best Luxury Villas on Rarotonga
- 20 Best Holiday Homes in Rarotonga
- Where to Stay on Rarotonga: The Best Rarotonga Accommodations
Finally, if there’s anything that we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in The Best Cook Islands Travel Guide and 30 Tips for Travelling in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands.
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