About Cook Islands

A collection of 15 breathtaking islands in the South Pacific, the Cook Islands boast verdant mountains framed by beautiful white sand beaches, and brilliant blue lagoons. Popular with holidaymakers from Australia, New Zealand and the region, the islands have remained less-visited by travellers from further afield. Many of the best places to stay in the Cook Islands are family-owned hotels and resorts, infused with warmth and plenty of laid-back charm.

Water sports enthusiasts will find ample opportunities to kayak, paddle board sail and wind surf. When the wind is blowing, this is also one of the world’s best kite surfing spots. Dive beneath the waves to discover a colourful underwater world, or take the whole family to snorkel at marvellous sites. Guided tours of conservation areas with resident biologists come highly recommended, too. This island nation is also rich in ancient culture — don’t miss the chance to delve into the history and culture of the Cook Islands over the course of your trip.

Rarotonga, the largest of the islands, is home to the country’s international airport. Keen adventurers can cycle around the island, stopping at heritage sites and viewpoints, or trek into the lush mountains, spotting waterfalls and endemic birds on the popular Cross Island Hike. To the north, the smaller island of Aitutaki — home to some of the best hotels in the Cook Islands — is encircled by a tranquil lagoon, little white-sand islets and a reef teeming with fish and coral.

The Best Places to Stay in the Cook Islands

For Families

  • Muri Beachcomber is made up of 22 simple one- and two-bedroom units facing Muri Beach. Families can book two-bedroom apartments with kitchens, sitting rooms and terraces, and direct beach access at relatively affordable rates. Simple, laid-back and welcoming — the ideal family holiday base. 
  • Pacific Resort Rarotonga has rooms, suites and villas set in six acres of verdant gardens on marvellous Muri Lagoon. Interiors are feature earthy tones and natural materials, with lots of space for families in multi-bedroom villas. A fun kids club, dedicated pool and water sports make this a great family holiday pick. 
  • Te Manava Luxury Villas & Spa has three-bedroom villas with plunge pools, sea views and well-equipped kitchens. Kick back together in your villa as a family, or try fishing, snorkelling and hiking. Sister hotel Pacific Resort Rarotonga welcomes little ones at the kids club. 
  • Moana Sands Beachfront Hotel & Villas, on the white sands of Titikaveka Beach, invites guests of all ages to enjoy snorkelling, diving, sailing and kite surfing. Interconnecting Beachfront Studios are ideal for families, who will also adore the hotel's easygoing atmosphere. Lovely. 

For Couples

  • Little Polynesian Resort offers a collection of 14 light-filled, luxe beach bungalows and garden studios set under swaying palms. Expect big beds with crisp white linens under thatched roofs, casual poolside dining and a restorative spa at the nearby sister hotel. Intimate and adult-only. 
  • Crown Beach Resort & Spa has pristine white and cream-decorated private villas with plunge pools for romantics. It's also a wonderful wedding venue, perched on Rarotonga's north-western coast. An adult-only boutique base with a great spa, cracking cocktails and superb seafood cuisine. 
  • Moana Sands Lagoon Resort has just 24 suites surrounding a sea-facing pool, making it a lovely choice for romantic breaks. Think big cosy beds, ocean views, a laid-back eatery and top-notch craft cocktails. For relaxed couples. 

For Groups of Friends

  • Ocean Escape Resort & Spa has 12 whitewashed villas set around a refreshing saltwater pool in Muri. Duplex villas are decorated in bright blue, white and grey tones, with contemporary furniture, double bedrooms, kitchens and sea-facing terraces. Gather at the lively tapas bar with friends and savour sundowners after rejuvenating spa treatments.
  • Muri Beach Club Hotel has been owned and run by the same family for almost two decades. Famed for its warm welcome, this adult-only favourite has a buzzy happy hour, superb South Pacific cuisine and a great vibe. Activities include windsurfing, kayaking, sailing and kite surfing. Very good fun. 

For Absolute Luxury

  • Te Vakaroa Villas offers six sensational one- and two-bedroom villas overlooking glorious Muri Beach. Designed by a leading NZ architect and featuring pieces by Cook Islanders including Reuben Paterson and Ian George, this is a thoughtfully decorated contemporary hideaway with shared landscaped gardens and 15-metre infinity pool. 
  • Pacific Resort Aitutaki, on the island's north-western coast, has 29 suites and bungalows with woven roofs, carved wooden furnishings and original artwork. Swim, snorkel, fish and kite surf before unwinding at the Tiare Spa. A gorgeous escape. 

For Great Value

  • The Passage Villas are stylish and airy, with woven rugs, cane furnishings and pretty patterned bedspreads. Many spaces sleep up to four guests and have simple kitchenettes for self-catering — though there is also a fun, rustic bar onsite. A seaside pool adds to the appeal at this affordable spot. 

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

  • Fly to Rarotonga International Airport, and continue to your hotel by boat or car. Connecting flights to other nearby islands — including to Aitutaki — run fairly regularly. Speak to your resort in advance to arrange an airport transfer.
  • Explore the Cook Islands by car! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • The Cook Islands' climate is warm and tropical, with temperatures of around 25-30°C for much of the year. Travel during the dry season — April to November — for sunshine and pleasant temperatures. You can expect slightly hotter weather and more humidity between December and March. Visit outside the school holidays for great deals and quieter hotels.

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The best hotels in Cook Islands

The Passage Villas

Cook Islands (Rarotonga)

An intimate collection of eight pretty whitewashed villas on Rarotonga's east coast. Interiors feature warm teal-green & light pink textiles, with cosy beds and rattan lampshades. Spaces have simple kitchenettes and sea view balconies. The rustic bar and saltwater pool add to the relaxed ambience.

  • Families - Families will adore airy villas (including kitchenettes) with space for 4 guests — plus a lovely seaside pool and gardens
  • Value chic - A laid-back choice for more affordable Cook Island holidays, with a rustic bar & kitchenettes in pretty villas
  • Local markets - Foodies will love sampling sizzling snacks at the Muri Night Markets, within strolling distance of the villas
  • Wildlife Area - Spot whales from the beach between June and November each year, or swim with turtles in clear waters
from $169 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Moana Sands Beachfront Hotel & Villas

Cook Islands (Rarotonga)

A laid-back seaside hotel on the pristine white sands of Titikaveka Beach. Comfortable studios are set on three levels, all with ocean views, balconies, modern bathrooms and kitchenettes. Pacific fusion cuisine awaits at the relaxed restaurant, and the vibe is appealingly easy going.

  • Beach Life - A simple, beachfront hotel on the pristine white sands of Rarotonga's south coast, perfect for guests of all ages
  • Active Holiday - Close to snorkelling & diving spots, sailing and kite surfing opportunities, as well as hikes and markets
  • Local markets - Sample island specialities and pick up fabulous souvenirs at the Punanga Nui Markets each Saturday
  • Wildlife Area - Spot humpback whales between July and October, or swim with turtles in clear seas
from $199 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Crown Beach Resort & Spa

Cook Islands (Rarotonga)

A lively, adults-only resort on Rarotonga's north-western coast. Overlooking a dazzling stretch of white sand, this collection of comfortable white-and-cream villas — some with plunge pools — promises a real sense of privacy. Relaxed dining, a small spa, lagoon and swimming pool seal the deal!

  • Honeymoons - Private villas with plunge pools & romantic beach dinners are perfect for honeymooners eager to hide away in utter tranquility
  • Weddings - A wonderful venue for weddings and events, with an excellent planning & catering team, plus a stunning seaside setting
  • Local markets - The Saturday morning Punanga Nui Market will delight foodies as well as shoppers in search of handicrafts & souvenirs
  • Great walks - Follow the Cross Island Trek into the island's verdant mountains, or admire dazzling sunsets on the Raemaru Track
from $223 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Muri Beachcomber

Cook Islands (Rarotonga)

A group of 22 simple, one- & two-bedroom units in lush gardens overlooking marvellous Muri Beach. Airy spaces have whitewashed interiors, modern kitchens, sitting rooms & smart bathrooms. There's a swimming pool, plus complimentary bicycles, kayaks & snorkels. A budget-friendly family favourite.

  • Cycling - Hop aboard the hotel's bicycles to ride along the 31km outer ring road which marks points of interest around the island
  • Value chic - An affordable Muri Beach choice for families, couples or groups, with kitchens for budget-friendly holidays
  • Families - Two-bedroom Family Garden Units are ideal for those with older children, who will love the beach & pool
  • Watersports - Free use of kayaks, paddle boards. snorkels & masks, plus nearby kite surfing and sailing opportunities
from $225 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Moana Sands Lagoon Resort

Cook Islands (Cook Islands)

A laid-back beachfront spot with 24 airy guest rooms featuring big cosy beds & sea-facing terraces. Simple & comfortable, this adults-only hotel boasts a lively restaurant-bar, swimming pool and soothing spa, all within sight of the glittering Muri Lagoon. Warm, welcoming & understated.

  • Romantic Break - An adults-only hotel with just 24 suites, this is a lovely spot for those looking to unwind with a superb spa & sea views
  • Value chic - A more affordable, laid-back choice than some of the area's resorts, with attractive studios in a fabulous location
  • Great walks - The nearby Maire Nui Gardens and Cafe are ideal for a scenic stroll — as is glorious Tikioki Beach
  • Trekking - Follow the Cross Island Trek up to the Needle for dramatic views of the island with an expert guide
from $233 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Ocean Escape Resort & Spa

Cook Islands (Rarotonga)

An intimate seaside hotel in Muri, with 12 white-painted villas surrounding a refreshing saltwater pool. Duplex villas have contemporary interiors with bright blue, grey & white tones in sitting rooms, double bedrooms, kitchens & ocean-facing terraces. There's a lively tapas bar & serene spa, too.

  • Groups - A relaxed boutique bolthole for groups of friends who can book multiple villas & gather for tapas & cocktails by the pool
  • Snorkelling - Snorkel in the crystal clear waters of the lagoon, with various striking sites including the famed 'Fruits of Rarotonga'
  • Romantic Break - An adults only choice with just 12 villas, striking ocean views and a rejuvenating spa — very romantic!
  • Fishing - Head out on day-long fishing charters to catch enormous tuna, marlin and mahi-mahi with friends
from $280 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on My Luxury Hotel

Muri Beach Club Hotel

Cook Islands (Rarotonga)

Owned by the same family for almost 20 years, this lively little hotel promises a famously warm welcome. Airy rooms face the refreshing pool and pristine white sands, with modern bathrooms and balconies. Guests gather for happy hour, Polynesian fare and off-the-beaten-track adventures. Adult only.

  • Weddings - Book the whole hotel for a fun-filled wedding or birthday celebration, with a friendly events team & 30 guest rooms
  • Watersports - The plethora of water sports on offer include windsurfing, kayaking, canoeing, kite-surfing and sailing
  • Groups - A fabulous adults-only hotel with a lively buzz, regular cocktail evenings & stacks of activities
  • Great walks - Hike into the lush mountains with the Cross Island Trek, passing waterfalls, fluttering birds & beautiful view points
from $340 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Te Manava Luxury Villas & Spa

Cook Islands (Rarotonga)

A group of 13 luxury villas — some with multiple bedrooms — at the secluded end of Muri beach & lagoon. Draped four-poster beds sit beneath pitched ceilings, with polished wooden French doors framing lush gardens and sea views. Plunge pools, well-equipped kitchens & a soothing spa add to the appeal.

  • Families - Families will adore private villas with up to three bedrooms, plus plunge pools, great kitchens and soothing spa
  • Beach Life - Perched at the tranquil end of Muri Beach, this is an idylic base for luxurious seaside holidays
  • Fishing - Take the whole family out fishing for big tuna, mahi-mahi or marlin, with private charters leaving from the harbour
  • Great walks - The six kilometre Cross Island Trek is wonderful for keen hikers, with lush mountains, waterfalls & dramatic views
from $360 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Pacific Resort Rarotonga

Cook Islands (Cook Islands)

A fantastic family-friendly resort on magical Muri Lagoon. The rooms, suites & villas set on six acres of gardens are decorated in soothing earthy tones, with natural materials inspired by Polynesian traditions. Think dazzling sea views, kayaking & paddle boarding, a relaxed eatery & a sense of fun.

  • Families - A family-friendly favourite, with multi-bedroom villas, a fun kids club, children's pool & water sports
  • Beach Life - Set on the marvellous Muri Lagoon, this is a fabulous choice for a memorable beach break
  • Kids Club - The complimentary Pacific Kids' Club offers interactive cultural & beach focused activities for 6-12 year olds
  • Great walks - Self-guided garden tours are a brilliant way to get a sense of the island's lush native flora
from $374 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Little Polynesian Resort

Cook Islands (Rarotonga)

An indulgent collection of just 14 light-filled beach bungalows & garden studios in palm-fringed gardens. Thatched roofs hide cosy spaces with polished wooden floors & beds topped with white linens, plus sea-facing terraces. An adults-only gem promising a warm welcome & intimate hideaway vibe.

  • Honeymoons - An adults only escape for romantics and honeymooners, with just 14 luxe studios & bungalows facing the sea
  • Snorkelling - The nearby Fruits of Rarotonga is one of the island's best snorkelling spots, teeming with marine life
  • Hideaway - A tranquil hideaway in the southeastern part of Rarotonga, with a laid-back, quiet sense of bliss
  • Great walks - Follow jungle trails and clamber up volcanic peaks on the Cross Island Trek or the Raemaru Track — famed for splendid sunsets
from $387 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Te Vakaroa Villas

Cook Islands (Rarotonga)

Six sensational villas in a gated garden overlooking mesmerising Muri Beach. Designed by a leading NZ architect, contemporary spaces frame dazzling views and reflect a fresh take on Polynesian design. Villas have kitchens, dining spaces & terraces, and there's a shared pool and hot tub. A delight.

  • Groups - Book a two-bedroom villa for a memorable holiday with friends, complete with expansive terrace seating & private chef options
  • Honeymoons - Indulgent one-bedroom villas with big four-posters, private courtyards & superb sea views are ideal for romantic honeymoons
  • Local markets - The Punanga Nui Cultural Market has a lively buzz each Saturday morning, with souvenirs and street food aplenty
  • Fishing - Anglers will be thrilled with day-long charters, catching big-game fish including tuna, marlin and mahi-mahi
from $623 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Pacific Resort Aitutaki

Cook Islands (Aitutaki)

Fans of secluded luxury need look no further than this beautiful boutique escape on Aitutaki's north-western shore. Charming suites & bungalows have a classic feel, with woven roofs, carved wooden furnishings & original artwork. Expect expansive lagoon views & a blissful sense of serenity.

  • Total relaxation - A beautiful boutique escape on Aitutaki, perfect for those dreaming of lazy beach days, marvellous massages & sunshine
  • Honeymoons - Charming bungalows with sea views have traditional roofs & pretty patterns — an idyllic honeymoon hideaway
  • Fishing - Avid anglers will adore bone fishing in the Aitutaki Lagoon, home to some of the largest bone fish in the world
  • Restaurant - Savour delicious fine dining at the elegant Rapae Bay Restaurant and more casual bites at Black Rock Bar
from $698 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees