Now that the sun is out are you already dreaming of your next trip to Rarotonga? Does the idea of sipping on cocktails along a palm-studded beach simply scream perfection? No matter who you’re going with, we have you sorted with 7 hotels ideal for a family escape, a luxury getaway, or even a budget retreat.
From modest beachside huts to luxurious ocean-front villas, we can assure you that these type of places are going to make you want to pack your bags toute de suite!
Te Manava is a five-star boutique resort which is located on the shores of the crystal clear Muri Lagoon. The 13 villas come in 1, 2, or 3-bedroom configurations, and all boast a contemporary open-plan. Think minimalist furniture, an abundance of natural light, and wooden sliding doors.
If you’re bringing the little ones along too, Te Manava offers a range of activities at the Kids Club, including sandcastle competitions, basket weaving, and coconut husking. What better way to let them experience a piece of the outdoors?
If decadence is key, book one of the Ultimate Beachfront Villas. As you settle in for the afternoon with a cocktail in hand, appreciate the private deck overlooking the lapping sea. Otherwise, freshen up in your very own private pool in the rear courtyard.
If you’re a Class A kind of traveller, you’re likely to appreciate the “oh so luxurious” Pacific Resort Rarotonga. Marooned beside the Muri Lagoon and enveloped by lush gardens, this four-star resort offers 64 rooms, suites, and villas. Guests are welcomed with modern décor and Polynesian accents, while stunning garden or beach views offer the ideal backdrop.
If you’re travelling with the tots in tow, go for the premium family rooms which come with a relaxing private patio area and outdoor furniture. The open-plan space offers a king-sized bed, two king singles, and a large modern bathroom with a walk-in shower.
There is also a kitchen, but if cooking is not your specialty, grab a bite at the hotel’s restaurant, Sandals. The menu includes fresh fish, vegetables, and tropical fruit. If you’re wanting a little quiet time with your respective other, fear not! The kids can be entertained for hours at the resort’s very own Kids Club.
The rumours are true! When it comes to staying in a luxury thatched-roof villa, Rumours Luxury Villas & Spa in Rarotonga is your ideal solution. Located on the beachfront of Muri Lagoon, Rumours gives guests a holistic experience of peace, relaxation, and romance.
Every villa boasts a gated courtyard and a private swimming pool which is constantly replenished by a trickling waterfall. Wide-opening glass doors bestow spectacular ocean views, and a tasteful blend of wicker and bamboo furnishings maintain a Polynesian feel. The super luxe bathrooms come with glass showers and Italian fittings, while an Italian espresso machine ensures your morning caffeine fix is covered.
If relaxation is your main priority while in Rarotonga, head to the award-winning Waterfall Spa. We all love a good massage, but why not try the Vichy Shower? Seven adjustable shower jets caress your body and work to improve circulation and hydration, and reduce toxins and waste.
Pair bespoke attention to detail with luxury and the result is Te Vakaroa Villas. Situated on the idyllic white sands of Muri Beach, Te Vakaroa is a boutique resort that puts indulgence at the forefront of the guest experience. The six villas reflect contemporary design, while Polynesian furniture and accents of orange and floral print add a local touch.
You can be guaranteed a relaxing slumber thanks to its four-poster beds, which are dressed in Egyptian cotton sheets and feather down pillows. Otherwise, if you’d like to lounge outside, head to your private patio with views over the pool and lagoon.
Designed by leading NZ architect, Lawrence Sumich, Te Vakaroa uses locally grown timber and coral rock to create an authentic island retreat. Thanks to its green approach to hospitality, 50% of Te Vakaroa’s energy is generated by solar. Sounds like a luxurious experience – guilt-free!
Discover the true essence of Polynesia in the peaceful beachside haven of Magic Reef Bungalows. Comprising of nine free-standing wooden bungalows, Magic Reef is a relaxed boutique option for those craving some downtime while in Rarotonga. All bungalows feature four-poster beds, open air showers, and uninterrupted ocean views.
Rattan-lined walls and bamboo furniture reflect traditional Polynesian decor, while coral frangipani-printed linen brings a touch of the garden indoors. To soak up some sea breeze, get comfortable on your very own deck overlooking the ocean, and settle in for the afternoon.
Otherwise, if you’d rather get social with fellow guests, head to the communal pool and barbeque area and start mingling. When in Rarotonga, it’s a given that you should venture out and explore the glistening lagoon. Fortunately, Magic Reef offers a range of sailing and surfing options for the adventurous type.
If you’re seeking that ideal family holiday in Rarotonga, Aroko Bungalows is likely to meet your needs to a T. Situated in the village of Ngatangiia, Aroko sits on the water’s edge of the Muri lagoon and offers guests panoramic views of the three Motus (islands). Located just a short five-minute walk from the centre of Muri, Aroko is conveniently positioned within easy reach of all the essential amenities.
If you’re reluctant to leave the pooch at home, fret not. Aroko is pet-friendly, so your dashing hound can also take part in the festivities. As relaxing as it may be to spend the afternoon lounging in your private bungalow, Aroko also provides free kayak usage if you’d rather paddle around the lagoon and discover Rarotonga’s famed waters.
All of the bungalows feature dreamy queen-sized beds, fully equipped kitchens, and an outdoor deck – arguably the best seat in the house to catch one of Rarotonga’s stunning sunsets. Six of the bungalows boast lagoon views, while four come with garden vistas.
Nestled within a family of draping ferns on the ocean’s edge, Sunrise Beach Bungalows is an idyllic hideaway that puts serenity at the heart of the guest experience. Set across an acre of gardens and beach, you can appreciate the natural essence of Rarotonga from one of your well-appointed bungalows.
Each of the eight bungalows is clean in design, using beach-inspired wicker furniture alongside a fresh palette of navy and tangerine. All feature fully equipped kitchens, but to save any morning hassle, Sunrise delivers a tropical continental breakfast.
Enjoy scenic ocean vistas from your private deck, or otherwise take a dunk in the communal swimming pool and frolic for the afternoon. If you’d rather discover the Muri lagoon, make use of the free snorkelling equipment and discover Rarotonga from below.