Cook Islands
Search the best hotels in Cook Islands
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.
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.
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 rich in ancient culture, too — don’t miss the chance to delve into the history and culture of the Cook Islands over the course of your trip.
The Best Places to Stay in the Cook Islands
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 expert slightly hotter weather and more humidity between December and March. Visit outside the school holidays for great deals and quieter hotels.
STILL NOT SURE?
- Browse through our list of all the best places to stay in French Polynesia.
- Alternatively, widen the net and see our pick of the best places to stay in Fiji.
- Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.
Best Hotels in Cook Islands
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The Passage Villas Cook Islands 8 rooms from AU$250
Families - Families will adore airy villas (including kitchenettes) with space for 4 guests — plus a lovely seaside pool and gardensValue chic - A laid-back choice for more affordable Cook Island holidays, with a rustic bar & kitchenettes in pretty villasLocal markets - Foodies will love sampling sizzling snacks at the Muri Night Markets, within strolling distance of the villasWildlife Area - Spot whales from the beach between June and November each year, or swim with turtles in clear waters
Check AvailabilityAn 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. See More
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Moana Sands Beachfront Hotel & Villas Titikaveka, Rarotonga, Cook Islands 17 rooms from AU$295
Beach Life - A simple, beachfront hotel on the pristine white sands of Rarotonga's south coast, perfect for guests of all agesActive Holiday - Close to snorkelling & diving spots, sailing and kite surfing opportunities, as well as hikes and marketsLocal markets - Sample island specialities and pick up fabulous souvenirs at the Punanga Nui Markets each SaturdayWildlife Area - Spot humpback whales between July and October, or swim with turtles in clear seas
Check AvailabilityA 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. See More
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Crown Beach Resort & Spa Arorangi, Cook Islands 36 rooms from AU$331
Honeymoons - Private villas with plunge pools & romantic beach dinners are perfect for honeymooners eager to hide away in utter tranquilityWeddings - A wonderful venue for weddings and events, with an excellent planning & catering team, plus a stunning seaside settingLocal markets - The Saturday morning Punanga Nui Market will delight foodies as well as shoppers in search of handicrafts & souvenirsGreat walks - Follow the Cross Island Trek into the island's verdant mountains, or admire dazzling sunsets on the Raemaru Track
Check AvailabilityA 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! See More
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Muri Beachcomber Muri, Rarotonga, Cook Islands 22 rooms from AU$332
Cycling - Hop aboard the hotel's bicycles to ride along the 31km outer ring road which marks points of interest around the islandValue chic - An affordable Muri Beach choice for families, couples or groups, with kitchens for budget-friendly holidaysFamilies - Two-bedroom Family Garden Units are ideal for those with older children, who will love the beach & poolWatersports - Free use of kayaks, paddle boards. snorkels & masks, plus nearby kite surfing and sailing opportunities
Check AvailabilityA 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. See More
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Moana Sands Lagoon Resort Rarotonga, Cook Islands 24 rooms from AU$346
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 viewsValue chic - A more affordable, laid-back choice than some of the area's resorts, with attractive studios in a fabulous locationGreat walks - The nearby Maire Nui Gardens and Cafe are ideal for a scenic stroll — as is glorious Tikioki BeachTrekking - Follow the Cross Island Trek up to the Needle for dramatic views of the island with an expert guide
Check AvailabilityA 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. See More
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Ocean Escape Resort & Spa Muri, Rarotonga, Cook Islands 12 rooms from AU$415
Groups - A relaxed boutique bolthole for groups of friends who can book multiple villas & gather for tapas & cocktails by the poolSnorkelling - 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
Check AvailabilityAn 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. See More
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Muri Beach Club Hotel Muri, Cook Islands 30 rooms from AU$503
Weddings - Book the whole hotel for a fun-filled wedding or birthday celebration, with a friendly events team & 30 guest roomsWatersports - The plethora of water sports on offer include windsurfing, kayaking, canoeing, kite-surfing and sailingGroups - A fabulous adults-only hotel with a lively buzz, regular cocktail evenings & stacks of activitiesGreat walks - Hike into the lush mountains with the Cross Island Trek, passing waterfalls, fluttering birds & beautiful view points
Check AvailabilityOwned 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. See More
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Te Manava Luxury Villas & Spa Muri, Rarotonga, Cook Islands 13 rooms from AU$533
Families - Families will adore private villas with up to three bedrooms, plus plunge pools, great kitchens and soothing spaBeach Life - Perched at the tranquil end of Muri Beach, this is an idylic base for luxurious seaside holidaysFishing - Take the whole family out fishing for big tuna, mahi-mahi or marlin, with private charters leaving from the harbourGreat walks - The six kilometre Cross Island Trek is wonderful for keen hikers, with lush mountains, waterfalls & dramatic views
Check AvailabilityA 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. See More
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Pacific Resort Rarotonga Muri, Cook Islands 64 rooms from AU$554
Families - A family-friendly favourite, with multi-bedroom villas, a fun kids club, children's pool & water sportsBeach Life - Set on the marvellous Muri Lagoon, this is a fabulous choice for a memorable beach breakKids Club - The complimentary Pacific Kids' Club offers interactive cultural & beach focused activities for 6-12 year oldsGreat walks - Self-guided garden tours are a brilliant way to get a sense of the island's lush native flora
Check AvailabilityA fantastic family-friendly resort on magical Muri Lagoon. Therooms, 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. See More
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Little Polynesian Resort Titikaveka, Cook Islands 14 rooms from AU$573
Honeymoons - An adults only escape for romantics and honeymooners, with just 14 luxe studios & bungalows facing the seaSnorkelling - The nearby Fruits of Rarotonga is one of the island's best snorkelling spots, teeming with marine lifeHideaway - A tranquil hideaway in the southeastern part of Rarotonga, with a laid-back, quiet sense of blissGreat walks - Follow jungle trails and clamber up volcanic peaks on the Cross Island Trek or the Raemaru Track — famed for splendid sunsetsRecommended by - Small Luxury HotelsCheck AvailabilityAn 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. See More
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Te Vakaroa Villas Muri, Rarotonga, Cook Islands 6 rooms from AU$922
Groups - Book a two-bedroom villa for a memorable holiday with friends, complete with expansive terrace seating & private chef optionsHoneymoons - Indulgent one-bedroom villas with big four-posters, private courtyards & superb sea views are ideal for romantic honeymoonsLocal markets - The Punanga Nui Cultural Market has a lively buzz each Saturday morning, with souvenirs and street food aplentyFishing - Anglers will be thrilled with day-long charters, catching big-game fish including tuna, marlin and mahi-mahi
Check AvailabilitySix 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. See More
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Pacific Resort Aitutaki Cook Islands 29 rooms from AU$1033
Total relaxation - A beautiful boutique escape on Aitutaki, perfect for those dreaming of lazy beach days, marvellous massages & sunshineHoneymoons - Charming bungalows with sea views have traditional roofs & pretty patterns — an idyllic honeymoon hideawayFishing - Avid anglers will adore bone fishing in the Aitutaki Lagoon, home to some of the largest bone fish in the worldRestaurant - Savour delicious fine dining at the elegant Rapae Bay Restaurant and more casual bites at Black Rock BarRecommended by - Small Luxury HotelsCheck AvailabilityFans 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. See More
