10 Best Lodges in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands© GT - Rarotonga Fishing Lodge
10 Best Lodges in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands

10 Best Lodges in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands

© GT – Rarotonga Fishing Lodge

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 difference and help you establish whether the lodges in Rarotonga and the Cook Islands are the right accommodation for you.

1. Gina’s Garden Lodges

An unconventional location inland and to the south of Aitutaki’s main island, Gina’s Garden Lodges at least boast very competitive prices. Each lodge sleeps four adults or a family of five, but there are no penalties if you want to stay here solo. In fact, it’s one of the most affordable solo rates on the island! Kids love the mezzanine bedroom, while the cooking facilities help keep the holiday costs to a minimum. Oh, and this accommodation is actually owned by a Cook Islands queen! See how the lodges compare to other affordable stays in Aitutaki in the 10 Best Budget Accommodations on Aitutaki.

Check Gina’s Garden Lodges out:

10 Best Lodges in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands© Ginas Garden Lodges

2. GT – Rarotonga Fishing Lodge

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.

Check GT – Rarotonga Fishing Lodge out:

10 Best Lodges in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands© GT - Rarotonga Fishing Lodge

3. Muri Garden Lodge

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. So if you’re looking for a large space for your wedding party or group, consider this one. The property is managed by Rent Raro.

10 Best Lodges in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands© CookIslandsPocketGuide.com

4. Airport Lodge

Whether you need a place to stay between flights to the outer islands or want to be close to AvaruaAirport Lodge will provide a cheap stay, no matter the reason. Operated by the guys at the Rarotonga Backpackers – see the 10 Best Backpacker Hostels in the Cook Islands – Airport Lodge offers minimalistic yet modern double/twin, triple and family rooms with ensuite bathrooms. The lodge is just opposite The Islander Hotel and its restaurant, as well as other cafes and services.

10 Best Lodges in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands© CookIslandsPocketGuide.com

5. The Tree House Lodge

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.

10 Best Lodges in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands© CookIslandsPocketGuide.com

6. Aitutaki Sports & Fly Fishing Lodge

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.

10 Best Lodges in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands© CookIslandsPocketGuide.com

7. Aitutaki Seaside Lodge

Aitutaki Seaside Lodge 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.

Check Aitutaki Seaside Lodge out:

10 Best Lodges in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands© CookIslandsPocketGuide.com

8. Paradise Cove Lodge

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

Check Paradise Cove Lodge out:

10 Best Lodges in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands© CookIslandsPocketGuide.com

9. Sunny Beach Lodge

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 8 Best Budget Accommodations on Aitutaki.

10 Best Lodges in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands© CookIslandsPocketGuide.com

10. Atiu Kopeka Lodge

On the island of Atiu, enjoy an independent stay at one of the three individual holiday homes at Atiu Kopeka Lodge. While the plywood lodges are a little basic (you can’t expect luxury on Aitu), they are mostly functional with a full kitchen, lounge, bathroom and bedrooms with a twin or double set-up. The lodge offers a few generous inclusions, such as airport transfers, a continental breakfast on your first morning and babysitting services. They can also arrange vehicle rentals, shuttle services and tours. See what other stays are available on the islands in our guide, Where to Stay on Atiu: The Best Atiu Accommodations.

10 Best Lodges in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands© Daniel Fisher - Cook Islands Tourism

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.

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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