The Top 50 Resorts in the Cook Islands 🏆 [2024]

The Best Resorts in the Cook Islands (And Not Just on Rarotonga…)

This is it: the ultimate list of the Cook Islands‘ most sensational resorts and holiday accommodations! Of course, Rarotonga, being the island where you first arrive, features the most resorts on this list, but we also list alternatives in Aitutaki, Atiu and even as far as the Northern Group should you want to take your adventure further. But whether you’re seeking a simple resort to fly and flop or a luxury boutique resort on the sands, we present the widest variety of options on the internet in this ultimate list of the top 50 resorts in the Cook Islands!

Before we dive in, be sure to also open The Best Cook Islands Travel Guide and 30 Tips for Travelling in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands – trust us, they’ll make your holiday-planning oh-so-much simpler!

1. Pacific Resort Rarotonga

If you’re not sure where to stay in the Cook Islands – what sort of vibe you want or what kind of crowd you’re looking for, yet want something that’s still going to “wow” – then the Pacific Resort Rarotonga is an excellent go-to. All the boxes are ticked for an effortless vacation where rooms and villas are either nestled among the winding paths of impressively manicured gardens or on the shores of Muri Beach. This resort may be one of the largest on the island but it still manages to keep things classy with tasteful design features and astute attention to detail. Yet, you have all of the benefits of a large resort, such as dining at the on-site Sandals Restaurant serving Pacific delights, making use of the complimentary watersports facilities and activities hut, lounging by the garden pool, and treating kids to the kids’ club. All in all, if you’re specifically looking for a resort stay on Rarotonga, Pacific Resort Rarotonga is certainly a top contender.

Check Pacific Resort Rarotonga out:

The Top 50 Resorts in the Cook Islands 🏆 [2023]

2. Pacific Resort Aitutaki

What about the best resort in Aitutaki, the Cook Islands’ second-most visited island? We tried all we could to put another resort above yet another accommodation from the “Pacific Resort” but Pacific Resort Aitutaki is too stunning and service-driven to not be near the top. Stay on the absolute beachfront or down any one of the winding garden footpaths with botanical displays and even a historical marae in the interesting gardens. All of these you get to enjoy through your villa or bungalow’s outdoor shower and/or glass-panelled garden shower, private deck and more. When you’re not in your stylish island-inspired bungalow, relax at the resort’s infinity pool with a waterfall, make use of the complimentary watersports equipment, and dine in the elevated restaurant overlooking the beach and lagoon.

Check Pacific Resort Aitutaki out:

3. Nautilus Resort

For those seeking a luxury resort on Rarotonga, indulge in absolute privacy and design choices that can’t help but stun 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 is a large lagoon infinity pool, the popular fine dining Nautilus Restaurant, as well as the indulgent Spa Nautilis. See more lavish stays like this in the 10 Best Luxury Resorts in the Cook Islands.

Check Nautilus Resort out:

4. Etu Moana Boutique Beach Villas

An adults-only boutique resort with a sustainable ethos, no wonder Etu Moana Boutique Beach Villas is one of Aitutaki’s most sought-after resorts. There are just eight bungalows at this resort, all lining the picturesque gardens on their way to the beachfront. Whether you want to self-cater in your bungalow or join your friendly hosts for a toes-in-the-sand barbecue or poolside pizza (depending on what day it is), the choice is yours. You also have the option to explore the island guilt-free on the accommodation’s e-scooters or the lagoon using the SUP boards and kayaks available. Oh, and the stargazing is incredible with Etu Moana’s nighttime illumination kept to a minimum. Like the sound of a sustainable stay? See more in the 10 Best Eco Resorts in the Cook Islands.

Check Etu Moana out:

5. Magic Reef Beachfront Bungalows

Speaking of sustainable stays, one of the best boutique eco-resorts on Rarotonga, Magic Reef Beachfront Bungalows is ideal for travellers seeking a lower-impact holiday. Your bungalow with a carved four-poster bed and classic tivaevae linens immerses you in the Cook Islands culture, while the kitchen kitted out with reusable takeaway coffee mugs, a tote bag and water bottles makes 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 boutique stay in the 10 Best Boutique Resorts in the Cook Islands.

Check Magic Reef Beachfront Bungalows out:

6. 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 contemporary units at Manuia provides a relaxed yet beautiful adults-only stay without pretentiousness. If you like the sound of a resort with only adult guests, check out the 20 Best Adults-Only Resorts in the Cook Islands.

Check Manuia Beach Resort out:

7. Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort

The five-star Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort might be the only real resort in the Cook Islands with overwater bungalows but even its lowest tier of accommodation literally sits on the white sands of the resort’s own private island. There’s easy access to Aitutaki’s main island with a short resort ferry, but we’ll forgive you for feeling that the resort, with its included in-house activities and paid extras such as the spa and restaurant with a private dining pavilion, has everything you need. The effortlessly romantic resort also features in our 20 Most Romantic Honeymoon Resorts in the Cook Islands.

Check Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort out:

8. Atiu Villas

It could be described that Atiu Villas is the closest thing to a “resort” on Atiu, but an ultra-boutique one at that. You have everything you need for an effortless stay on this less-visited island: a restaurant and bar, self-catering facilities in your villa, a larder in your room to buy grocery supplies, a tour desk, bicycle, scooter and car hire and even 500 Mb free WiFi a day (trust us, that’s generous in the Cook Islands)! There are also excellent corners of the property to unwind island-style, whether it’s the swimming pool or the tennis court. As for the villas themselves, you have the choice of a spacious studio villa or a two-bedroom villa with one bedroom upstairs and a lounge. See how the accommodation compares to the limited selection on Atiu in The Best Atiu Accommodations.

Check Atiu Villas out:

9. Crown Beach Resort & Spa

A short drive from Rarotonga’s airport, Crown Beach Resort & Spa is the ideal retreat for a fly-and-flop getaway. Transition effortlessly to island time with each villa featuring tasteful design-driven furniture and artwork. Some offer private pools while others circle a courtyard pool or are scattered throughout verdant gardens. For dinner, choose from the relaxed Ocean’s Restaurant, fine dining at Flambé, or a private dinner with your loved one on the beach. Note that Crown Beach is also adults-only.

Check Crown Beach Resort & Spa out:

10. Edgewater Resort & Spa

Welcome to Rarotonga’s (and the Cook Islands’) largest resort! Set along the palm-lined beach of Arorangi, the Edgewater Resort & Spa not only has a prime position for glorious sunsets but it happens to have everything couples, groups and families need for a fun yet relaxing stay in paradise. Rooms are simplistic in their design but airy with service making up for the lack of aesthetic luxury. When it comes to holiday fun, the Activities Hut always has something going on, while the Coconut Kids’ Club gives families room to have their own holidays. Learn more about the best resorts for families in the 20 Best Family Resorts in the Cook Islands.

Check Edgewater Resort & Spa out:

11. Little Polynesian

A five-star adults-only 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, reminding you that you’re on island time. One of the best boutique resorts on Rarotonga, Little Polynesian is also listed in the 10 Best Boutique Resorts on Rarotonga.

Check Little Polynesian out:

12. Motu Beachfront Art Villas

Working in harmony with the natural and social 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 the Cook Islands with Bike Hire.

Check Motu Beachfront Art Villas out:

13. Tai Roto Bay Beach Villas

One of the most upmarket accommodations of the dining and watersport hub of Ootu Beach, Tai Roto Bay Beach Villas offers a convenient location yet a world of its own on white sands backed with coconut palms in Aitutaki. Your modern four-star beachfront, beach-view or garden bungalow best suited to couples (the resort is adults-only) has the self-catering facilities you need to enjoy a quiet night in, while breakfast is included each day. Also included is watersports equipment to make the most of the lagoon on your doorstep. See more intimate stays like this in the 10 Best Boutique Resorts on Aitutaki.

Check Tai Roto Bay Beach Villas out:

14. The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium

Set on the shores of Aroa Beach and a marine reserve, The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium is one of the best resorts for snorkelling. Couples have their own quiet hideaways in the resort with the Honeymoon Suite boasting its own private pool and sauna, while families adore the Moko’s Kids’ Club and the fact that children ages 11 and under can stay for free! There’s no group too big or too small for The Rarotongan, with rooms able to interconnect. Wherever you stay among the vast complex connected by winding garden paths, you’re sure to have a blast at one of Rarotonga’s most popular resorts.

Check The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium out:

15. Sanctuary Rarotonga on the Beach

The sister resort of The Rarotongan (see above) and right next door, the four-star Sanctuary Rarotonga on the Beach is your adults-only side of the popular resort complex. The resort gives you the option of a refreshing dip in the marine reserve lagoon or their pool with a swim-up bar, while their casual toes-in-the-sand restaurant, Bluewater Grill, is another highlight. The airy high-ceiling suites on the beachfront are truly irresistible (just opt for a room on the top level for a “real” beach view). What’s more, choose from a generous array of in-resort activities between free cultural workshops and marine snorkelling tours.

Check Sanctuary Rarotonga on the Beach Resort out:

16. Muri Beach Resort

An intimate resort on the shores of Muri Beach, Muri Beach Resort offers 20 self-contained villas and apartments scattered among spacious gardens. Family and couples’ villas are kept separate ensuring parties are less likely to disturb each other’s fun in the sun, but the central pool, barbecue area and beachfront deck are always there for get-togethers. Muri Beach Resort is also an eco-resort, operating completely off the grid, as well as having other environmental initiatives.

Check Muri Beach Resort out:

17. Kuru Club Aitutaki

Kuru Club Aitutaki brings island living to the 21st Century with a selection of contemporary bungalows with a minimalist design. The beachfront property near the airport has everything you need to enjoy the outdoors from free watersport equipment rental to an infinity pool. Experience activities on the lagoon on the resort’s private boat or rent one of the property’s electric vehicles for a tiki tour around Aitutaki. Either way, you’ll enjoy a more sustainable stay with the accommodation using 100% solar energy and recycled irrigation water.

18. Moana Sands Lagoon Resort

One of three resorts by the Moana Sands Group on Rarotonga, Moana Sands Lagoon Resort is their 18+ offering. This ultra-modern resort treats guests to gorgeous sea views from almost anywhere on the complex at the southern end of Muri Beach. Take a dip in the central pool, be pampered at the Hibiscus Spa, and dine at the charming Laguna Restaurant and Bar. See how the resort compares with other adult-only accommodations on the island in the 10 Best Adults-Only Resorts on Rarotonga.

Check Moana Sands Lagoon Resort out:

19. Moana Sands Beachfront Hotel

The three-star offering from Moana Sands, Moana Sands Beachfront Hotel has an idyllic setting right on the sands of Tikitaveka Beach. While rooms are unimaginative compared to many others on this list of the best resorts in the Cook Islands, they make up for the fact by all being on the beachfront! The hotel caters to just about anyone with deluxe rooms for couples, interconnecting rooms for families, as well s kayaks, barbecue facilities and an on-site restaurant to keep everyone entertained.

Check Moana Sands Beachfront Hotel out:

20. Moana Sands Beachfront Villas & Apartments

Get the experience of a resort with the convenience of a holiday home at Moana Sands Beachfront Villas & Apartments. Situated in the quiet village of Vaimaanga on the south coast of Rarotonga, each of the 10 villas overlooks a deck-lined swimming pool and the lagoon. Villas are modern with a simplistic design that features Polynesian artwork and come equipped with cooking facilities. There’s also room to relax at the on-site Hibiscus Spa. See how it compares to the 10 Best Spa Resorts in the Cook Islands.

Check Moana Sands Beachfront Villas & Apartments out:

21. Club Raro Resort

For a reasonably-priced Rarotonga holiday exclusively for adults, check out Club Raro Resort. Your stay is in minimalistic yet fresh rooms among its gardens, by the pool and on the beachfront. If you need something more functional, opt for a studio apartment with a few extra food preparation facilities. You won’t have to worry about breakfast, however, as it’s included with every room and the Jalapenos restaurant offers an easy dining option. The pool is a popular hangout where you can treat yourself at the poolside bar. Otherwise, Avarua and its vibrant nightlife are just down the road. See more affordable options like Club Raro in the 10 Best Budget Accommodations in the Cook Islands.

Check Club Raro Resort out:

22. Castaway Resort

A fabulous option on the western side of Rarotonga, Castaway Resort is the resort of the hugely popular Wilson’s Beach Bar & Restaurant, yet only guests aged 16 and over can stay, ensuring a tranquil setting throughout the day. The resort is all about the fun with a diverse theme at their restaurant each night, a beach bonfire on Sundays and a “Whale Bell” to ring if you spot a humpback whale from their deck! Villas and studios are modern and inviting, if not a little compact, giving guests the option to also self-cater if they wish. See more accommodations with excellent restaurants in the 10 Best Resorts for Foodies in the Cook Islands.

Check Castaway Resort out:

23. Ocean Escape Resort & Spa

A trendy wee resort on Rarotonga’s east coast, Ocean Escape Resort & Spa is exclusively adults-only and has design features that are sure to impress between the lagoon pool and nautical touches that evoke images of a classy pirate ship! Join friends in the poolside cabana and barbecue area or enjoy tapas plates with your loved one at the on-site bar. Most villas have a view of the pool, each exuding colourful designs. The beachfront villas, however, are the most spacious and luxurious with uninterrupted views of the ocean.

Check Ocean Escape Resort & Spa out:

24. Sunset Resort

As the name suggests, Sunset Resort benefits from the wonderful sunsets captured along Rarotonga’s Arorangi Beach. Choose from an array of suites, studios and two-bedroom apartments, all with at least a kitchenette, plenty of space to keep the rooms airy, and non-objectional decor. There are two generously sized pools at this resort, while the on-site Anchorage Restaurant is not only highly recommended on the island but a complimentary breakfast is served for guests there each morning. Learn more about the restaurant in The Best Places to Eat on Rarotonga: 10 Best Restaurants.

Check Sunset Resort out:

25. Palm Grove

A boutique resort on the absolute beachfront of Rarotonga’s southern shores, Palm Grove welcomes guests of all ages. Children aged five and under stay for free with plenty of facilities to keep them entertained, while couples can escape to the beachfront villas exclusively for older guests. Explore the lagoon with the kayaks and snorkelling gear between relaxing in your self-contained villa or two/three-bedroom house. The on-site Yellow Hibiscus restaurant provides a welcome break from cooking.

Check Palm Grove out:

26. Aitutaki Village

In the heart of the dining and lagoon cruise hub of Ootu Beach, Aitutaki Village offers a selection of garden bungalows, a beachfront lounging area and a beachfront restaurant. Couples and groups of up to three have a choice of a standard or premium bungalow at this three-star accommodation with the premium set a little closer to the beach. There are also family rooms available with a double bed and bunk in a studio room. A continental breakfast is included in your stay. See how the accommodation compares to the 10 Best Family Resorts on Aitutaki.

Check Aitutaki Village out:

27. Sea Change Villas

A collection of villas designed for romantic getaways, Sea Change Villas each feature 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 own kayaks, snorkelling gear and SUP boards. Also offering an array of romance packages, Sea Change Villas makes an appearance in the 10 Most Romantic Honeymoon Resorts on Rarotonga.

Check Sea Change Villas out:

28. Ranginui’s Retreat

With an Aitutaki beachfront location and lagoon views, Ranginui’s Retreat offers a top location for an affordable price. Fisherfolk can cast right from the accommodation, while those looking to relax can make use of the beach loungers and the swimming pool. Choose between bungalows for solo travellers, couples, groups and families kitted out with functional but small kitchens. There are also ultra-budget units available for couples and solo travellers with breakfast-making facilities. Discover more affordable stays on the island in the 10 Best Budget Accommodations on Aitutaki.

Check Ranginui’s Retreat out:

29. Muri Beach Club Hotel

Reserved for guests aged 18 and above, the Muri Beach Club Hotel offers 30 harmless hotel rooms on the shores of Muri Beach, as well as around their courtyard and the large central swimming pool. Play a game of giant chess, enjoy your complimentary breakfast by the pool, and lounge on the beachfront where snorkelling gear is available or you can get a massage on the sands…

Check Muri Beach Club Hotel out:

30. Paradise Cove Lodge

Elevated over the sunset beach of Aitutaki or in the gardens 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 to watch whales in the season. When you don’t feel like cooking, pop into the resort’s Cove Bar for cocktails and a bite to eat, or you’re near other resorts on the west coast of the island for further dining options – see The Best Places to Eat on Aitutaki: 10 Best Restaurants on Aitutaki for ideas.

Check Paradise Cove Lodge out:

31. Te Manava Luxury Villas & Spa

An alternative luxury option for those seeking to treat themselves, Te Manava Luxury Villas & Spa has a small selection of uniquely designed one-, two- and three-bedroom villas. Enjoy entertaining from your elegantly designed kitchen or from the barbecue in front of your private pool. Alternatively, Muri‘s restaurants are just a short walk down the beach or make use of the complimentary transfers to its sister resort, Pacific Resort Rarotonga. See more lavish stays like this in the 5 Best Luxury Villas on Rarotonga.

Check Te Manava Luxury Villas & Spa out:

32. Coral Sands Apartments

A short stroll from Arorangi Beach, Coral Sands Apartments features seven apartments surrounding a central swimming pool, five of which are well-appointed one-bedroom apartments while the other two are three-bedroom apartments. Although there’s everything you need in the self-contained apartments, there are places to socialise with other guests too, such as around the barbecue in the gardens.

Check Coral Sands Apartments out:

33. Muri Beachcomber

Enjoy light and airy self-contained units at a quiet location on Muri Beach. Muri Beachcomber‘s units are scattered among spacious picturesque grounds and also the beach, each boasting a fully-equipped kitchen and separate bedrooms for families and groups. There is a generous number of inclusions with your stay, such as airport transfers, kayaks, SUP boards, snorkelling gear, wet shoes, bicycles and 2.5 Gb of WiFi. The guest lounge also has everything you need to keep entertained before your flight or on a rainy day with movies, a computer and a shower room. For more stays offering internet, check out the 6 Accommodations in the Cook Islands with Free WiFi.

Check Muri Beachcomber out:

34. Ikurangi Eco Retreat

Easily one of the most unique accommodations in the Cook Islands, Ikurangi Eco Retreat not only offers the unusual location of stay inland on Rarotonga but also safari tents for an adults-only glamping experience. Be treated to a different contemporary breakfast delivered to your deck each morning and make use of the garden swimming pool and bikes to explore the Rarotonga backroads. Your outside bathroom has a composting loo, as well as other initiatives to ensure a more sustainable stay – just make sure you have plenty of mosquito repellent! Check out alternative yet adventurous stays in the 7 Most Unique Accommodations in the Cook Islands.

Check Ikurangi Eco Retreat out:

35. Rarotonga Daydreamer Escape

Nestled among gorgeous tropical plants, the privacy more than makes up for the fact that you’re not on the beach at Rarotonga Daydreamer Escape (but don’t worry, it’s a two-minute walk away). Yet you are footsteps away from the boutique resort’s pool and communal barbecue area. Choose from contemporary but budget one, two and three-bedroom apartments or a studio apartment with spacious decks and fantastic self-catering facilities. Check more like this in the 10 Best Self-Catering Accommodations on Rarotonga.

Check Rarotonga Daydreamer Escape out:

36. Mai’i Villa Apartments

Perched on the mountainsides of Muri is the commanding four-level building of Mai’i Villa Apartments. While the crisp-white contemporary building is a sight in itself, the views from here are breathtaking. There are three apartments including a penthouse and a shared swimming pool at this ultra-modern well-appointed accommodation. Guests are provided breakfast condiments to make the most of the large kitchens, while large flat-screen TVs go alongside the artwork adorning the walls should you need additional entertainment.

Check Mai’i Villa Apartments out:

37. Lagoon Breeze Villas

An easy transition into island time, Lagoon Breeze Villas certainly sets the scene with their thatched holiday homes set among spacious tropical gardens. Ideal for families, there’s plenty of room for kids to run around and have a swim in the pool while Aroa Beach is just across the road. All 25 villas have fully-equipped kitchens, while the five-bedroom villa has its own pool. There’s a breakfast area where you don’t have to worry about your first meal of the day, while the bar is open for happy hour each day. Discover alternative villas on the island in the 20 Best Villas on Rarotonga.

Check Lagoon Breeze Villas out:

38. Popoara Ocean Breeze Villas

An alternative option at Ootu Beach in Aitutaki, Popoara Ocean Breeze Villas is well worth considering if you’re on a budget. Their spacious villas rival those of the mid-range villas available on the island in terms of presentation, yet also have the added convenience of vehicle rentals on-site, as well as the popular Boat Shed Bar & Grill (see the 5 Best Bars in Aitutaki). Nestled among gardens away from the bar, however, you won’t hear a peep from the karaoke nights. See more affordable stays on the island in the 10 Best Budget Accommodations on Aitutaki.

39. Tamanu Beach Resort

Although Tamanu Beach Resort is at the higher end of the price scale for resorts on Aitutaki, this is by no means a “luxury” resort. Nevertheless, Tamanu still presents spacious bungalows in two wings set to keep families and couples separate. The stylish bathrooms and outdoor showers, however, are truly where the bungalows shine. Of course, all of the usual watersports equipment is at your disposal to make the most of the lagoon, while complimentary bike rentals and the swimming pool are a welcome addition to their facilities.

Check Tamanu Beach Resort out:

40. Avana Waterfront Apartments

Strewn along the northern edge of the Muri Lagoon at the historic Avana Harbour, Avana Waterfront Apartments is a good go-to for travellers who want to experience some fishing during their stay with charters departing right from the accommodation’s jetty (or just enjoy feeding the fish from there). Couples and small families will find ample room in the studios and two-bedroom apartments, while the three-bedroom apartment is best suited for larger groups and families with an occupancy of up to six. You have a full-size kitchen at your disposal with a dishwasher, as well as kayaks available.

Check Avana Waterfront Apartments out:

41. Ariki Bungalows

With a boutique apartment complex set-up surrounding a swimming pool, Ariki Bungalows offers an excellent yet affordable stay near the beaches of Muri. The compact yet comfortable adults-only accommodation features three studio apartments and a two-bedroom apartment for groups of up to 10. The studios sleep two people and include a kitchen, ensuite and a small deck to relax on with a meal. Otherwise, there’s space to hang out by the small swimming pool.

Check Ariki Bungalows out:

42. Te Vakaroa Villas

Situated on the shores of the popular Muri Beach, Te Vakaroa Villas offers five contemporarily designed luxury villas. Stays here include breakfast delivered to your door each morning, a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher, replenished condiments, oils, etc. for the duration of your stay, as well as a shared space with an infinity pool, a spa pool and lounging pavilion.

Check Te Vakaroa Villas out:

43. Kia Orana Villas and Spa

Kick back in your compact villa for couples and groups of three/four at the Kia Orana Villas and Spa. With a spa, cafe and bike hire on-site, you have a great range of facilities already at your fingertips. Match that with your uber-functional kitchen with a coffee machine and barbecue on the deck and now you’re literally cooking with gas! The design features might not be to everyone’s taste, but the villas are modern and comfortable nonetheless. Find this property on the backroads of Avarua.

Check Kia Orana Villas and Spa out:

44. Crystal Blue Lagoon Villas

Crystal Blue Lagoon Villas is a boutique accommodation featuring four two-bedroom villas ideal for adult groups or families with children over 12 years old. Villas are ultra-modern and spacious and bask in glorious elevated views of Muri Beach. Whether you’re sprucing up your own cuisine in the spacious contemporary kitchen or lounging by the shared infinity pool, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience at these luxury villas in Muri. Like the sound of a luxury villa? Check out the 5 Best Luxury Villas on Rarotonga.

Check Crystal Blue Lagoon Villas out:

45. Vaima Beachfront Apartments

These contemporary boutique apartments in Vaimaanga are right on the beach where you can step out of your apartment and feel your toes in the sand. Each sleek and modern apartment at Vaima Beachfront Apartments is tastefully decorated and fits up to four guests across a large double bed and two singles. Your well-equipped kitchen has a stovetop, microwave and dishwasher, while one of the largest supermarkets, Wigmore’s Superstore, is within walking distance. The only downside is that the room rates are perhaps a little on the “too high” side.

Check Vaima Beachfront Apartments out:

Vaima Beachfront Apartments on Booking.com

46. Rumours Luxury Villas & Spa

When it comes to an indulgent getaway on Rarotonga, Rumours Luxury Villas & Spa pulls out all the stops. The villas are wrapped in luxury, each with uniquely designed private pools, such as waterfall features, while guests are treated to a welcome gift basket and bubbles on arrival. The attention to detail is unmatched, down to the handpainted dinnerware of your fully equipped kitchen, while your villa’s designated kayaks will help you explore more of the lagoon just steps away.

Check Rumours Luxury Villas & Spa out:

47. Rainbow Villas

A bit of the hidden gem on Rarotonga, Rainbow Villas offers two boutique villas nestled among permaculture gardens on the back hills of Nikao. 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, we also list this option in the 10 Best Self-Catering Accommodations on Rarotonga.

Check Rainbow Villas out:

48. Divine Retreat

The most modern guesthouse on Mitiaro, Divine Retreat is hosted by Junior and Cindy who will look after you with a daily tropical breakfast each morning, while airport transfers are also included in your stay. With a convenient position in Mangarei village, the island’s one grocery store is just a two-minute walk down the road, ideal for making use of the guesthouse’s communal kitchen and sprucing up your own meals. Other communal areas include an inside lounge, a spacious deck with more lounging furniture and a communal bathroom. As for rooms, you have one ensuite bedroom, two bedrooms with a double bed and a shared bathroom, as well as three queen-sized beds on the deck with curtains for privacy (yes, you can sleep outside)!

See how Divine Retreat compares to the 10 Best Guesthouses in the Cook Islands, as well as The 4 Best Mitiaro Accommodations.

49. Tiare Cottages

On the island of Mauke, Tiare Cottages consists of three budget bungalows and one clifftop cottage nestled in tropical gardens. Each bungalow is a little basic and has its own bathroom and small kitchenette. Otherwise, the cottage, “O’Kiva” is much newer and boasts an enviable position on the clifftop with stunning sea views. You’ll experience generous hospitality, be treated to a local dinner in the communal kitchen area in the evenings (for an additional fee), and have help organising tours and transport for exploring the island (i.e. they’ll likely guide you themselves!)

And that’s not all! Check out alternative stays on the island in The Best Mauke Accommodations.

50. Manihiki Lagoon Villas

As we come to the end of our top 50 resorts in the Cook Islands, we present you the remotest of the lot: Manihiki Lagoon Villas. A couple of freestanding villas on stilts hover over the sands (and water at high tide) on the Northern Group island of Manihiki. The spacious open-plan bungalows with a balcony have a bathroom and a kitchenette and accommodate two people in a double or twin bed setup. You are provided with breakfast supplies, while lunch and dinner are Cook Islands dishes prepared by the locals.

Learn more about the accommodation and planning a journey to this fascinating island in The Complete Travel Guide to Manihiki.

More About the Best Resorts in the Cook Islands

Woah! That was a long one! Congratulations for making it this far and we hope you found the perfect resort for you among the best resorts in the Cook Islands. If that isn’t the case, then perhaps planning your itinerary might be more helpful:

Finally, you can always start your accommodation research from scratch with Where to Stay in the Cook Islands: The Best Cook Islands Accommodations.

Author

Laura S.

This article was reviewed and published by Laura, editor-in-chief and co-founder of Cook Islands Pocket Guide. Since arriving solo in the South Pacific over 10 years ago with nothing but a backpack and a background in journalism, her mission has been to show the world how easy (and awesome) it is to explore a paradise such as the Cook Islands. She knows the islands inside out and loves sharing tips on how best to experience Raro’s must-dos and hidden gems. Laura is also the editor of several other South Pacific travel guides.

Contact Laura via our contact page