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

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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