9 Best Lodges in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands

Last Updated: 7 June, 2025

Where to Find Lodge Accommodation in Rarotonga, Aitutaki and the Cook Islands

Have your heart set on staying in a lodge in Rarotonga, Aitutaki or perhaps one of the other atolls of the Cook Islands? Well, a “lodge” is a term for accommodation used very loosely in the Cook Islands. It could mean a lavish holiday home for large groups, an ultra-budget holiday home or even boutique resort-style accommodation.

Regardless, we’ve curated all of the accommodations in the Cook Islands that simply contain the word “lodge” in the name to compare the differences and help you establish whether the lodges in Rarotonga and the Cook Islands are the right accommodation for you.

1. Gina’s Garden Lodges (Aitutaki

Gina’s Garden Lodges offers a unique and affordable accommodation experience in Aitutaki. Tucked away inland, these spacious lodges can comfortably house up to five people, making them perfect for families or groups.

Solo travellers will love the per-person pricing, which keeps costs down. Each self-catering lodge features a mezzanine bedroom that kids will adore, while the well-equipped kitchen helps you stick to your holiday budget.

The lovely host, Gina (who happens to be a Cook Islands queen!), ensures a warm welcome. Plus, there’s a fantastic promotion where you’ll get one night free when booking a week-long stay.

With its competitive rates and homely atmosphere, Gina’s Garden Lodges offers excellent value for money in paradise. See how the lodges compare to other affordable stays in Aitutaki in the 10 Best Budget Accommodations on Aitutaki.

Book Gina’s Garden Lodges:

9 Best Lodges in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands

2. GT – Rarotonga Fishing Lodge (Rarotonga)

Looking for your own space for a large group on Rarotonga? GT – Rarotonga Fishing Lodge might be just the place; a six-bedroom holiday rental for up to 12 guests. The modern lodge features a private pool, homely furnishings, expansive gardens, four bathrooms and an extra toilet, a barbecue area and much more.

Just a short drive from Avarua, the lodge is well located for adventures on Rarotonga. Compare it to other holiday homes in the 20 Best Holiday Homes in the Cook Islands.

Book GT – Rarotonga Fishing Lodge:

10 Best Lodges in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands

3. Muri Garden Lodge (Rarotonga)

Nestled in the foothills of the holiday hotspot, Muri, and just a short stroll from Muri Beach, Muri Garden Lodge offers a spacious lodge for up to 14 guests.

Enjoy plunging into the deep swimming pool at the centre of three separate apartments which are available to hire exclusively for your group, i.e. they’re not shared with other guests.

You have multiple lounging areas to relax in, a full kitchen and smaller kitchenettes and a barbecue. If you’re looking for a spacious venue for your wedding party or group, consider this one. The property is managed by Rent Raro.

4. The Tree House Lodge (Rarotonga)

A classic holiday bach (New Zealand-style) awaits by the shores of Arorangi Beach. The Tree House Lodge is an ultra-affordable three-bedroom two-bathroom holiday home that’s a little shabby, but you’ll hardly complain considering the price.

The holiday lodge sits right beside the Edgewater Resort & Spa, with dining options and excellent snorkelling on its doorstep. When you want to get away from the hustle and bustle, you have your own private tropical garden to relax in.

5. Aitutaki Sports & Fly Fishing Lodge (Aitutaki)

If you’re serious about fishing, don’t miss Aitutaki Sports & Fly Fishing Lodge. This is actually the package deal of Popoara Ocean Breeze Villas, which, unlike normal stays at the villas, includes all meals, scooter hire and, of course, fishing trips!

Rooms are among quiet and private gardens with a small kitchenette, air-conditioning and an ensuite shower. Learn more about Popoara in the 10 Best Villas on Aitutaki, as well as the fishing in The Ultimate Guide to Fishing in the Cook Islands.

6. Aitutaki Seaside (Aitutaki)

Aitutaki Seaside offers a small selection of bungalows on the west beach of Aitutaki. Your elevated bungalow has a studio layout with a double bed and a spacious kitchen with plenty of room to prepare meals comfortably.

The boutique accommodation is in the perfect position to lap up the lagoon scenery or go paddling with the kayaks provided.

Book Aitutaki Seaside:

7. Paradise Cove Lodge (Aitutaki)

Elevated over the beach and in the gardens on the sunset coast of Aitutaki are the 10 traditionally thatched bungalows of Paradise Cove Lodge. Couples or a couple of friends have a compact bungalow with basic self-catering facilities and a shaded private deck ideal for watching whales in the season.

On-site, the resort’s Cove Bar is popular for its cocktails. Alternatively, you’re near other resorts on the west coast of the island for further dining and drinking options.

Book Paradise Cove Lodge:

8. Sunny Beach Lodge (Aitutaki)

Everyone is welcome at Sunny Beach Lodge with two beachfront bungalows ideal for couples and adults, while the garden motel units are perfect for families. The budget accommodation in Aitutaki is well located in Amuri, close to grocery stores, should you want to make use of your room’s cooking facilities, as well as the Pacific Resort and its restaurant.

Note that this accommodation only accepts cash or bank transfer. See more stays like this in the 10 Best Budget Accommodations on Aitutaki.

9. Unakea’s Lodge (Atiu)

Discover a peaceful retreat at Unakea’s Lodge, also known as Una’s BnB or Una’s Lodge. This charming accommodation offers two self-contained and spacious cabins near Taunganui Harbour.

While it’s a bit off the beaten path from the villages and beaches, the serene surroundings of lush island vegetation make it worth a stay. You’ll love the timber-lined units with their open-plan layout, featuring a queen and single bed, as well as an ensuite bathroom.

The kitchen facilities are well-equipped with hotplates, a toaster, and a rice cooker, plus tea and coffee amenities are provided. When exploring the island, we recommend renting a vehicle to fully enjoy your stay!

More Lodges in Rarotonga and the Cook Islands

Now that you know about the varied selection of lodges in Rarotonga and the Cook Islands, check out what other accommodations are available in these lists:

Finally, plan the rest of your holiday logistics with The Best Cook Islands Travel Guide and the 30 Tips for Travelling in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands.

Sources:

The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across the Cook Islands and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:

Cook Islands Tourism Corporation (General travel advice - Updated [2025])
Cook Islands Tourism Industry Council (Tourism trade association - Updated [2025])
SPTO (Pacific tourism advice - Updated [2025])
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration (Visa and immigration advice - Updated [2025])
Cook Islands Meteorological Service (Weather forecast and warnings - Updated [2025])
Ministry of Finance & Economic Management (Border restrictions advice - Updated [2025])
Ministry of Agriculture (Biosecurity advice - Updated [2025])
Cook Islands Statistics Office (Statistics and travel data - Updated [2025])
Ministry of Transport (Transport operators and licenses - Updated [2025])
Safe Travel (New Zealand travel advisory for the Cook Islands - Updated [2025])
Smart Traveller (Australia travel advisory for the Cook Islands - Updated [2025])

At Cook Islands Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

About the Author

Robin C.

This article was reviewed and published by Robin, the co-founder of Cook Islands Pocket Guide. He has lived, worked and travelled across 16 different countries before settling in the South Pacific, so he knows a thing or two about planning the perfect trip in this corner of the world. Robin works and consults regularly with Cook Islands Tourism Corporation, a local government body representing the tourism industry. Robin is also the co-founder of several other South Pacific travel guides and is a regular host of webinars with the South Pacific Tourism Organisation.

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