Te Manava Luxury Villa and Spa

The Cook Islands, with lush mountains framed by gorgeous white sand beaches and dazzling blue lagoons, have long been a favourite holiday destination. Far from being solely a honeymoon spot, the islands are brilliant for active families with young children or adventurous teenagers. 

Many of the best family-friendly hotels & resorts in the Cook Islands are on Rarotonga, the largest of the islands. Cycle along beachside paths, hike into the mountains to dramatic waterfalls whilst spotting fluttering birds, or head out onto the water for days of snorkelling, diving, sailing, windsurfing and waterskiing on Muri Lagoon. The islands are amongst the world's best kite surfing destinations when the wind is righ— a fabulous activity for teenagers. 

Don't miss discovering the Cook Islands' rich culture over the course of your trip, with workshops, community tours and culinary feasts in striking settings. Warm and welcoming, many of the Cook Islands' hotels and resorts are ideal for family holidays — guests return again and again with good reason!

For Simple Style

The Passage Villas

  • The Passage Villas, on Rarotonga's tranquil east coast, are simple and airy, with woven rugs, cane furnishings and pretty patterned bedspreads in warm greens and dusky pinks. Many of the eight whitewashed villas sleep up to four guests, making them well-suited to families. Simple kitchenettes encourage self-catering, though there's also a rustic bar onsite. Splash around in the saltwater pool or venture along the beach for water sports. 
  • Muri Beachcomber is a brilliant family holiday base. Families can book relaxed two-bedroom apartments with kitchens, sitting rooms and terraces, plus direct beach access at relatively affordable rates. Simple, laid-back and welcoming, this has long been one of the top spots on Muri Beach.  
  • Moana Sands Beachfront Hotel & Villas welcomes guests of all ages for snorkelling, diving, sailing and kite surfing. Interconnecting Beachfront Studios with kitchenettes are ideal for families, who will love the hotel's easygoing atmosphere and the dazzling views towards the white sands of Titikaveka Beach. 

For a Luxury Villa

Pacific Resort Rarotonga

  • Pacific Resort Rarotonga's six acres of verdant gardens overlook marvellous Muri Lagoon. Interiors have a beautiful traditional feel, with earthy tones, natural materials and lovely beamed ceilings. Multi-bedroom villas area ideal for families, and little ones will adore the kids' club and dedicated swimming pool. Teens can hone their water sports skills with expert instructors. 
  • Te Manava Luxury Villas & Spa has three-bedroom villas with plunge pools, sea views and well-equipped kitchens at the secluded end of Muri Lagoon. Relax in your villa as a family, or head out on fishing, snorkelling and hiking excursions. Sister hotel Pacific Resort Rarotonga welcomes little ones at the kids' club. A luxurious experience in a magical setting. 

STILL NOT SURE?

Five Family Friendly Hotels in the Cook islands

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
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
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
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 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

Written by Saskia Walker

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