10 Best Resorts for Snorkelling in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands

The Best Resorts for Snorkelling in the Cook Islands: Overview

1. The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium

Nestled on the shores of Aroa Beach, The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium offers a family-friendly haven with a full resort experience. The resort boasts a kids’ pool with slides and provides complimentary reef shoes and snorkelling gear for exploring the marine reserve lagoon. Be sure to check out their exciting night snorkelling activity (for a small fee), where you might spot parrotfish, octopuses, and eels!

Every Monday, the resort hosts a renowned Island Night featuring an umu feast and a captivating dance show by the Akirata Cultural Dancing Team. Daily activities abound, from sarong painting to snorkelling lessons, fish feeding tours, and ukulele lessons. There’s even a beach volleyball competition and a sunset cocktail party with the resort manager.

For dining, Captain Andy’s Restaurant serves up specials like the all-day lunch with lagoon views and Sunday roast dinner. Evening entertainment includes live music, trivia nights, and themed dinners, rounding out your perfect Rarotonga experience.

The resort is not open to non-guests for snorkelling or dining, so all activities and access are reserved for those staying at the resort.

Book The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium:

• The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium on Booking.com
• The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium on Trip.com
• The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium on Expedia

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2. Sanctuary Rarotonga on the Beach

Sanctuary Rarotonga on the Beach is an adults-only paradise nestled on the shores of Aroa Beach. This exclusive resort boasts one of only two swim-up bars in Rarotonga, offering a unique experience for guests. The resort’s policy of not allowing non-guests access ensures a private and serene atmosphere for those staying there.

You’ll love the casual toes-in-the-sand dining at Bluewater Grill, while the airy high-ceiling suites on the beachfront are irresistible. (We recommend opting for a room on the top level for the best beach views!)

From free cultural workshops to marine snorkelling tours, there’s a generous array of in-resort activities to make the most of the awesome snorkelling right on your doorstep. It’s the perfect spot for couples seeking a tranquil getaway with all the perks of a luxury resort.

Check out similar resorts in the 20 Best Adults-Only Resorts in the Cook Islands.

Book Sanctuary Rarotonga on the Beach Resort:

• Sanctuary Rarotonga on the Beach on Booking.com
• Sanctuary Rarotonga on the Beach on Trip.com
• Sanctuary Rarotonga on the Beach on Expedia

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3. Pacific Resort Aitutaki

Home to its own marine reserve and a piece of snorkelling paradise, Pacific Resort Aitutaki is certainly a top contender for the best snorkelling resorts in Aitutaki. Stay on the absolute beachfront or down any one of the winding garden footpaths, with the amazing snorkelling beach never too far away.

The last time we stopped by, we were delighted to learn that the resort has worked with the Pacific Islands Conservation Initiative (PICI) to establish the Aquatic Eco Trail, which has five different marine habitats marked by buoys outside of the resort. Learn more about it in the Top 10 Places to Snorkel in Aitutaki.

Book Pacific Resort Aitutaki:

• Pacific Resort Aitutaki on Booking.com
• Pacific Resort Aitutaki on Trip.com
• Pacific Resort Aitutaki on Expedia

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4. Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort

The five-star Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort offers a truly exclusive experience on its own private motu (islet). This adults-only retreat caters to guests aged 16 and over, boasting the Cook Islands’ only overwater bungalows.

Snorkelling enthusiasts will love the easy access to the lagoon’s crystal-clear waters, with gear provided for each bungalow. The resort also features beachfront private infinity pool villas and an infinity pool dining experience with panoramic views.

Getting there is part of the experience, with the dedicated “Princess Moana” ferry running daily between the main island and the resort from 7 am to 10 pm. Learn more about this romantic resort in the 20 Most Romantic Resorts in the Cook Islands.

Book Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort:

• Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort on Booking.com
• Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort on Trip.com
• Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort on Expedia

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5. Edgewater Resort & Spa

Nestled along the palm-fringed beach of Arorangi, the Edgewater Resort & Spa offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure for couples, families, and groups alike. The resort’s prime location boasts stunning sunsets and direct access to a marine reserve, ideal for safe lagoon swimming, snorkelling, and kayaking.

Guests can borrow snorkelling gear, paddles, and lifejackets from reception, while reef shoes, flippers, and beach towels are available at the Activities Hut (open from 8 am to 5 pm). With its array of activities and the popular Coconut Kids’ Club, Edgewater ensures a memorable stay for all ages.

We personally love how the resort caters to everyone, from water enthusiasts to those seeking a tranquil beachside retreat. Learn more about the best resorts for families in the 20 Best Family Resorts & Accommodations in the Cook Islands.

Book Edgewater Resort & Spa:

• Edgewater Resort & Spa on Booking.com
• Edgewater Resort & Spa on Trip.com
• Edgewater Resort & Spa on Expedia

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6. Tamanu Beach Resort

Tamanu Beach Resort on Aitutaki offers a delightful mix of comfort and tropical charm. The resort’s standout feature is its beach concierge program, perfect for first-time snorkellers or those lacking confidence. Enjoy guided sessions to observe marine life in two coral gardens right in front of the resort.

Water enthusiasts will love the beach hut for water sports, while those seeking relaxation can indulge in private dining experiences or beach massages. The spacious bungalows boast stylish bathrooms and outdoor showers, surrounded by lush tropical plants that enhance the island feel.

With complimentary bike rentals and a swimming pool, Tamanu ensures you’ll never run out of ways to enjoy paradise. The resort features separate wings for families and couples, ensuring a harmonious stay for all guests.

Book Tamanu Beach Resort out:

• Tamanu Beach Resort on Booking.com
• Tamanu Beach Resort on Trip.com
• Tamanu Beach Resort on Expedia

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7. Raela Villas Tikioki

While not on the beach, Raela Villas Tikioki is one of the closest accommodations to the renowned marine reserve and snorkelling hotspot, Tikioki Beach – find out more about the snorkelling spot in The Best Snorkelling in Rarotonga: Top 10 Places to Snorkel.

Three contemporary villas are nestled in tropical gardens and share a swimming pool at this adults-only boutique villa complex. All villas are fully self-contained and include a kitchen with a coffee maker, a covered deck and the opportunity to enjoy spa treatments on-site.

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8. Reefcomber Sunset Beach

A fantastic on-the-beach location for only a fraction of the price of a resort, Reefcomber Sunset Beach (formerly The Reef Motel), is well worth looking at if you want to enjoy some snorkelling from your accommodation.

Nearby the popular snorkelling and scuba diving spot of Black Rock and benefitting from the marine reserve in front of the Edgewater Resort, your stay in one of the garden studios or lagoon-view bungalows couldn’t be closer to the action. Rooms are basic but functional, with a kitchenette, a deck, and even dining furniture on the beach.

Book The Reef Motel:

• The Reef Motel on Booking.com
• The Reef Motel on Trip.com
• The Reef Motel on Expedia

© Reef Motel Rarotonga

9. White House Apartments

Stay close to Aroa Beach without having to stay in a large resort by choosing White House Apartments. Ideal for families and large groups, the two-bedroom apartment and villa offer the complete home-away-from-home experience (but better) with a swimming pool and the marine reserve of Aroa Beach just 100m (110 yards) down the road.

The apartments are light and airy and can sleep up to six or seven adults. Enjoy the use of your own barbecue, as well as free snorkel rental.

Book White House Apartments:

• White House Apartments on Booking.com
• White House Apartments on Trip.com

© White House Apartments

10. Matriki Beach Huts

Matriki Beach Huts offers a laid-back beachfront experience in Aitutaki. This self-catering accommodation features five huts/rooms, including four doubles and one with both a double and single bed, plus an extra unit at the back.

Each hut comes with basic kitchen facilities like a two-burner cooker and fridge, with essentials such as locally-sourced cooking oil provided. The property’s low-key vibe allows guests to enjoy their independence.

Affordable bikes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards are available for exploring. Matriki also operates its own good-value lagoon cruise, primarily for guests but sometimes open to outsiders, which includes lunch and snorkel gear.

These beach huts are also featured in the 10 Best Budget Accommodations in the Cook Islands.

Book Matriki Beach Huts:

• Matriki Beach Huts on Booking.com
• Matriki Beach Huts on Trip.com

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