We realize this is the winter season. 4. Enjoy our fresh water cool-off pool and other great complimentary facilities including snorkelling gear, sun lounges, kayaks and beach towels. 10. Where would you recommend to stay? We are indecisive between Muri Beach and the West coach, close to the Edgewarter Resort. Started in 1996 by Hinano Macquarie, Maire Nui Gardens has evolved from what was originally swampland, into a tropical oasis loved by both visitors and locals alike. Discover Marine and Wildlife Eco Centre. Free parking . Start your first day in Rarotonga in the island’s main town. View. Arorangi, Rarotonga. Aroa Beach and Marine Reserve, Rarotonga. And it was much warmer on this side of the Island especially in Winter. Fully refundable Reserve now, pay when you stay. Get a phone SIM on arrival for cheaper net accessHiring baby equipment on Rarotonga. The south of Rarotonga is home to the best beaches on the island, with deep lagoons perfect for snorkelling and non-motorised watersports. When it comes to getting around Rarotonga, the public bus is an easy and cheap option. It also avoids the peak holiday seasons allowing for a much more relaxing escape. Types of rooms and prices range from. 9. The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium. Rarotonga Tourism Rarotonga Hotels Bed and Breakfast Rarotonga Rarotonga Holiday Rentals Flights to Rarotonga Rarotonga. Rumours Luxury Villas and Spa is the ultimate in luxury set a little farther south on the Muri Beach. Answer 1 of 3: We are going to Rarotonga for the first time. Discover jaw-dropping coconut crabs, astonishing stonefish, stunning aquarium fish, inspiring natural history, cinema and so much more in this unique Cook Island Marine and Wildlife Centre. On sunset side of the island and only. . . A reef encircles the island and in parts the water is clear, the sand golden and. Religious Sites. I have read that on the east coast the temp. Families traveling in Rarotonga enjoyed their stay at the following beach resorts: Little Polynesian Resort - Traveler rating: 4. This is one of the most booked hotels in Rarotonga over the last 60. Whether you prefer to exchange vows barefoot on a secluded beach at sunset, surrounded by a heart-shaped arrangement of shells, inside a serene whitewashed coral church accompanied by a soul-stirring gospel choir, on a private islet adorned with. For budget travelers, Rarotonga offers a couple of hostels, but camping is not possible on any of the Cook Islands. Could anyone be more specific as to where the BEST of the foregoing (other than sunsets) are to. You will not find one place that fits all your requirements. Rarotonga. Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand16 contributions. Whatever your ideal South Pacific holiday consists of, it becomes reality in our islands, with. 5. Thanks in advance!It has been said that the water, snorkeling, and fish watching are better on the Western side of the island, and I suppose the sunsets are better too. We heard that the east side can be cool and windy, and the west side more protected. 697 Reviews . 21 Nov - 22 Nov. Re: Best place for a family. For entry to the Cook Islands, visitors need a valid passport with at least six months remaining on it and an exit ticket. 2023. The latter is a working harbor with a charming Colonial-era ambiance. If you consider doing a tour, it would be best to prebook to be assured of pick-up and drop-off. With your stay, you’ll get a private, air-conditioned room with free wifi and a private bathroom. We love the space the facilities and the safety of the pool for kids. Best place to stay in Rarotonga. Traffic causes parking to be very difficult. Captain Tamas runs tours of the lagoon ($89) and is the highest rated tour company on the island. We visited in the 1990s multiple times. Location. Answer 1 of 12: Hi, I have been doing some research about where to stay in rarotonga and I am a bit confused. Pacific Resort Rarotonga: Best staff, best accomodation. Safety: The Cook Islands are an extremely safe country, but always use common sense. . Rarotonga is only small so if you hire a car you can have the best of both worlds and travel to other beaches depending on the weather. Answer 1 of 11: Hi there, we're planning to visit Rarotonga for a few days in early June. Sitting side-by-side, Te Etu Villas are tucked away on the quiet backroads of Tupapa. Some approximate prices are as follows (but are subject to change): Rarotonga to one island in the Southern Group – NZ$250 per person return. Best place to stay in Rarotonga. I have been doing some research about where to stay in rarotonga and I am a bit confused. drops 4-5 degrees after 5pm and it gets windy. My dilemma is. 2 kms east of Sunhaven and the Aroa Beachside is the Aroa marine reserve which has excellent swimming and snorkelling. Package purchases must include a round-trip flight and a hotel stay purchased together on the same transaction for the same length of stay. 3 grocery stores, numerous licenced restaurants, coffee shops, rental vehicles, tours and attractions. We were there last month and snorkeled at a few spots and thought the Fruits of Rarotonga definitely the best, bigger fish and huge clams. Save. Rarotonga. From £318 per night. Beachfront rooms have stunning views over the lagoon and off-shore islands. 809 reviews. These rankings are informed by traveler reviews—we consider the quality, quantity, recency, consistency of reviews, and the number of page views over time. This means you can get the most of your vacation while creating lasting memories. Vaima’s & Wigmores. . 1. I guess I could be accused of promoting certain establishments because we know the owners - but such is life in the Cooks. Thanks in advance! Rarotonga. We realize this is the winter season. . Resorts (12) Extended. This part of the beach is well away from the main action, but you can easily walk along the beach to activities on the water and inland. Share. Go Scuba Diving with Pacific Divers. No not possible at Muri - get on a bus or drive around the island. To help you choose a suitable stay, browse through this list of the best long-term rentals in Rarotonga, Cook Islands. Packages include 3 nights accommodation, return airfares from Rarotonga to Aitutaki to Rarotonga, transfers to and from property, and a full day Lagoon Cruise. Little Polynesian Resort. My wife and I (60s) wish to visit Rarotonga for the first time in July for 5 nights. Celebrated my birthday with my family by travelling to the Cook Islands and staying at the Muri Beach Club Hotel which was fantastic. However. It’s hard to go wrong on the Cook Islands, no matter where you stay. As Rarotonga is the largest of the Cook Islands, you might want to dive deeper into the subject of “where to stay” in A Guide on the Best Side of Rarotonga to Stay. Sunset Quay Rarotonga is located in Arorangi Village, 15 minutes’ drive from Avarua. Maire Nui Gardens is located on the South side of the island, and encompasses 7 acres of colourful and unique plants, walkways, rock formations, bridges, water features, lily ponds, compost stations. Black Rock Beach. Titikaveka, Rarotonga . Answer 1 of 12: Hi, I have been doing some research about where to stay in rarotonga and I am a bit confused. Answer 1 of 4: I'm not sure I'm spelling "Aitutaki" correctly, but in January my fiancee and I will be honeymooning in Rarotonga. I have read that on the east coast the temp. Use SPF 50+ or 30+ sunscreen and consider SPF. The north coast of Rarotonga is the best part of the island for proximity to the airport and the capital, Avarua. What places to stay in. South Pacific ; Cook Islands ; Southern Cook Islands ; Rarotonga ;. October/November is a great time to visit Rarotonga. . Answer 1 of 8: Does anyone know which hotel in Raro allow one night stay or at the most 2 nights? We only have 6 nights total :Either 5 in Aitutaki and one in Raro or 4 in Aitutakui and 2 in Raro We had Palm Grove in mind but their minimum is 3. Location. . from 7. Service. One of the most popular things to do in Rarotonga is join one of the glass bottom boat trips. And the restaurant serve you right on the beach, which is perfect to enjoy the sun and relax. One of Rarotonga's newest must see attractions, featuring amazing live exhibits and interactive displays. 5. . Pacific Resort Rarotonga. When I say best I mean nicest swimming beaches, least windy, most sheltered, best sunsets. Most Romantic: The Lodge at Kukui’ula – 9. Apr 2023. Beaches. Villa. This vacation rental will make your holiday in Rarotonga one for the books, offering an unforgettable setting surrounded by tropical. Visas and entry. Flea & Street Markets. Just park up opposite fruits of Rarotonga and take the plunge into the waters. Little. Good To Know Language: Cook Islands Maori (15 dialects spoken over the 15 islands that make up the Cook Islands), English is widely spoken. However when were had 6 of us on Raro in early 2020 ( Pre-Covid) we stayed just down the beach at Natura Beach pool villa 2. Answer 21 of 40: Hello, My husband and I will be visiting Rarotonga for 12 nights in October. Banks Peninsula, Akaroa camping grounds. Rarotonga Hotels and Places to Stay. Aro'a Beachside Resort: great location - See 224 traveler reviews, 304 candid photos, and great deals for Aro'a Beachside Resort at Tripadvisor. It can be a bit murky in the shadows unless it is a super calm day. Answer 1 of 5: My husband and I will be on Rarotonga for 1 week in Feb 07 on our way to Christchurch . I have read that on the east coast the temp. After a few hours of checking out the wharf-side Punanga Nui Market, hit the beaches of this reef-protected volcanic island. . Rarotonga, Southern Cook Islands . Museum Tour. Most visitors can stay in the Cook Islands for up to 31 days; although, New Zealand citizens can stay for up to 90 days. Rarotonga. We are sure to have something to suit you. The back-packer hostels are decent places for single travellers to Rarotonga. Please note: While the gardens are Open 7 Days a week. Rarotonga Tourism Rarotonga Hotels Rarotonga Bed and Breakfast Rarotonga Vacation Rentals Flights to Rarotonga Rarotonga Restaurants Things to Do in Rarotonga Rarotonga. Best Rarotonga, Southern Cook Islands Hotel Specials & Deals. Answer 11 of 12: Hi, I have been doing some research about where to stay in rarotonga and I am a bit confused. The beach at this hotel is amazing, best one I saw in Rarotonga. There are other areas around the island, which have better snorkeling, but as suggested by Lacey02, hire a car and ten minutes west you will find Tikioki Marine Reserve and ten minutes to the. Rumours Luxury Villa and Spa (Best Adults-Only Rarotonga Resort) Photo Credit: Rumours. 5. Love sunsets but also love snorkelling and swimming. We had reef shoes. Answer 11 of 19: We are travelling to Rarotonga in March/April next year. Re: Best Area to Stay. Your enclosed piece of paradise features a private pool, access to the beach, as well as your own spacious contemporary kitchen. Approximately 1. Castaway Resort. Which side of Rarotonga has the best beaches? The south and west coast of Rarotonga have the most beautiful beaches, with many secluded and less-visited beach areas. Villa. What areas are best to stay? We have a bungalow booked. The best snorkelling around Rarotonga truly is alongside the Rarotongan/Sanctuary resorts. The Rarotongan Resort has the nicest beach for snorkelling (in the marine reserve), kayaking and swimming but the food outlets are limited to onsite dining or driving to another village. Answer 1 of 19: My family is planning on visiting Rarotonga from May 28-June 4, 2005. 00 to $130. A part of the Cook Islands culture that has survived through the ages is the energetic dancing of the island’s warriors and princesses. Our Cafe currently operates from Monday - Friday 10am - 3pm. See hotel recommendations below. Rarotonga Hotels and Places to Stay. For beaches and watersports, the best side of the island of Rarotonga to stay on is Muri Beach (east coast) or Titikaveka (southeast coast). Kia manuia. 2. Looking for advice on best accomodation that is not massively expensive for a couple. Rarotonga, Southern Cook Islands . Answer 1 of 19: My family is planning on visiting Rarotonga from May 28-June 4, 2005. "Pacific Resort Rarotonga, what a magical place to stay. Find various hotels in Rarotonga including both cheap discount hostels &inns from USD 111 in suburb area and luxury 5-star hotels in central downtown, most with free cancelation. Best place to stay in Rarotonga 5 replies; There IS a Rainy Season 29 replies; Car or scooter hire on Rarotonga 20. #6 – Take a Snorkel trip at Muri Beach, Rarotonga 2. Rarotonga. There are several hotels with great reviews; we were tempted by Sanctuary Rarotonga (£205), Magic Reef Bungalows (£181) and Sunset Resort (£165). . Most visitors can stay in the Cook Islands for up to 31 days; although, New Zealand citizens can stay for up to 90 days. For budget travelers, Rarotonga offers a couple of hostels, but camping is not possible on any of the Cook Islands. Answer 1 of 6: Hi, my husband and I are planning a trip to Rarotonga in August and I am a little confused on what the best side of the island is. NZ$237. I've mainly been looking at booking. There are plenty of picturesque lagoons that allow peaceful. 2 Reviews . Kavera Beach is 1. Advertisement. Another couple of good resources to add to NzLilibet's that could prove useful: - Heaps of information on the Cook Islands (Rarotonga and Aitutaki) and links for accommodation. Extra coffee grounds for our room never arrived, fresh beach towels had to be requested, food was average at best. Are Renga Motel. Each villa offers a balcony or a patio with outdoor furniture. What advice can you. But the east around Muri has the beautiful motus. A short flight from New Zealand, the 15 main islands of the Cook Islands are spread over 850,000 square miles in the South Pacific Ocean. The average daily high temperature only varies about three degrees - the difference between 28°C in January and 25°C in. 390 reviews # 9 Best Value of 18 Rarotonga Resorts. On average, it costs $149 per night to book a 3-star hotel in Rarotonga for tonight. " Best Seller. Let’s start with the two most affordable and family-friendly villas with a private pool on Rarotonga. A neat little spot to stay on the western side of Raro. Club Raro Resort. This resort catches the southerly and SE winds though, with the Edgewater being more sheltered in its NW location. Maire Nui Gardens & Cafe. October is a delightful time of year to visit Raro. Aroa Beach. i'll be staying a week on both raro and aitutaki on east side and want to spend last three days on raro on. Alternatively, you can visit the motu on. I have heard that the. 2 kms east of Sunhaven and the Aroa Beachside is the Aroa marine reserve which has excellent swimming and snorkelling. . Rarotonga fish and chip shop. A bed in a 4-6 bed dorm costs around 18-28 NZD per night, with rates generally getting cheaper the longer you stay. 20. Below are the best hotels, resorts, and places to stay in Poipu based on guest reviews: Best Luxury Resort: Koloa Landing Resort – 9. Edited: 1. Muri. Rarotonga Tourism Rarotonga Accommodation Rarotonga Bed and BreakfastAnd The Waterline because I know the owners. Perched on the hillside of Black Rock, the Mediterranean-inspired villa with three levels of dining area basks in wonderful views and sunsets. Its spacious, self-catering studios and suites either boast a beachfront location, or overlook the 2 outdoor swimming pools. Answer 1 of 19: My family is planning on visiting Rarotonga from May 28-June 4, 2005. Currency: New Zealand dollar along with Cook. The north coast of Rarotonga is the best part of the island for proximity to the airport and the capital, Avarua. How Much Is The Aitutaki Day Tour. Please note: While the gardens are Open 7 Days a week. The latter is a working harbor with a charming Colonial-era ambiance. Muri Beach Club Hotel, an adults only oasis from 18years and over is ideally located on the beachfront at Muri Lagoon. The latter is a working harbor with a charming Colonial-era ambiance. Main Road, Arorangi Cook Islands. What areas are best to stay? We have a bungalow booked. . We are very active and want to hike, bike, swim, and explore the island. Parking on site. The apartment was spotless clean and equipped with everything you need to self accommodate. We realize this is the winter season. From small hostels, apartments on the beach, luxury resorts, and everything in between. Rarotonga. 158 posts. Hello, as we had been to Rarotonga before, we chose to stay for six nights on Aitutaki. Personally, I love to stay in Rarotonga for 10-14 days. We realize this is the winter season. Best Rarotonga Resorts on Tripadvisor: Find traveller reviews, candid photos, and prices for 18 resorts in Rarotonga, Cook Islands. Though just be aware that even 5-star resorts in Rarotonga don’t actually look too great so adjust your expectations accordingly. Hotel in Muri, Rarotonga. View Hotel. nzlilibet. Aitutaki Seaside Lodges is located in Amuri, 5 minutes' drive from Aitutaki Airport. Rarotonga. Boat Trips. When it comes to getting around Rarotonga, the public bus is an easy and cheap option. Answer 31 of 40: Hello, My husband and I will be visiting Rarotonga for 12 nights in October. Hi all, just curious as to where exactly the sun sets in raro i know its the west side but is that north west, south west or just west. The west side of Rarotonga is generally the best place to go for whale sightings. We scuba dive most days so don’t do much lagoon swimming but many people do swim and snorkel on the west side. About the only part of the island that does not have great/good beaches is the north. What is the best side of Rarotonga to stay on? Rarotonga’s north coast is closest to the airport and the capital, Avarua, where you’ll find shops, museums and outdoor markets. Aroa Beach Marine Reserve, Arorangi, Ara Tapu Rd, Rarotonga. Accommodations Photos. All styles of accommodation can be found at the main beachfront complex on the western side of Rarotonga. Apply for extensions at least two weeks before it is needed. These villas each. 6 Night Package from $2,889 per person. From $216 per night. drops 4-5 degrees after 5pm and it gets windy. There is no difference in temperature, but the south can be windier. Take your pick! © CookIslandsPocketGuide. com $$$ The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium sits right on Aroa Beach, which is where the Aroa Marine. #15 of 24 hotels in Rarotonga. 5/10 ⭐. We loved it. Could anyone be more specific as to where the BEST of the foregoing (other than sunsets) are to. Relax by the pool with a cocktail, soak up the sun, rejuvenate your soul and indulge in. BTW Lagoon Lodges isn't beachfront being situated on the inland side of the main road. This is not the case with the west coast. Children under 2 years old are free. Maire Nui Gardens is located on the South side of the island, and encompasses 7 acres of colourful and unique plants, walkways, rock formations, bridges, water features, lily ponds. . Maire Nui Gardens is located on the South side of the island, and encompasses 7 acres of colourful and unique plants, walkways, rock formations, bridges, water features, lily ponds, compost stations. Snorkel At Titikaveka Beach. Advertisement. Sunset Resort. There are plenty of great options, at all price points, around the island. . Palm Grove. Which side of the island would you advise staying on? We heard that the east side can be cool and windy, and the west side more protected. com prices). Rarotonga Honeymoon Resorts. Sunset Resort is a larger sized resort situated in the NW corner of the island, with nicely presented grounds and accommodation. Muri Lagoon Water Quality; Water filter stations; Crime is increasing around Rarotonga; Sunblock can kill coral - choose carefully; 2021 Dengue Fever on Rarotonga; 2020. Compare prices of all 57+ hotels with real traveler reviews and rating, try one-stop booking and experience excellent customer support on Trip. The very best side is on the west - there are several places you can enjoy the sunset. . Maire Nui Gardens & Cafe. What is the best side of Rarotonga to stay on? Rarotonga’s north coast is closest to the airport and the capital, Avarua, where you’ll find shops, museums and outdoor markets. Muri Lagoon. Here are some of our favorite places to stay in all price points. Which area should we be. Save. Rarotonga. 809 reviews. Edited: 26 May 2023,. Rarotonga Tourism Rarotonga Hotels Rarotonga Bed and Breakfast Rarotonga Vacation Rentals Flights to Rarotonga Rarotonga Restaurants Things to Do. Rarotonga. Sunset Resort is located just 3. The Edgewater Resort & Spa. The best things to see and do in Rarotonga, Cook Islands. The Cooks Oasis Holiday Villas are located in Arorangi, Rarotonga. These may not be clearly signposted so the best way to avoid these is to only snorkel in the recommended locations. Rarotonga. Answer 1 of 12: Hi, I have been doing some research about where to stay in rarotonga and I am a bit confused. Rarotonga is only small so if you hire a car you can have the best of both worlds and travel to other beaches depending on the weather. From small hostels, apartments on the beach, luxury resorts, and everything in between. 50 NZD for a child aged 2-11 years of age. Arorangi beach is a beautiful spot to relax and offers some of the best sunsets on the island. into a tropical oasis loved by both visitors and locals alike. Pacific Resort Aitutaki. Lots of wonderful fish to see - make sure you take snorkel gear. Choose from a range of accommodation options. 6 km from the villa, while Albertos is 12 km away. Overall I would budget approximately $100. Check out this interactive map of Raro, you can see the various beaches & properties, it may give you some idea of where things are located and where the various properties are. August this year has been a mix of strong winds, heavy rain, hot days, cool nights, still air, blue. The south of Rarotonga is home to the best beaches on the island, with deep lagoons perfect for snorkelling and non-motorised watersports. Kia Orana Sarah, welcome to the Rarotonga forum. Everywhere around Rarotonga is tidal. Aitutaki Day tour. Boasting 10 bedrooms and 8 bathrooms, Iro Luxury Retreat offers luxury accommodation in Rarotonga, 10 km from Muri. You’ll find gently, lapping waves and shallow, sandy bottoms. This is only one of two backpacker hostels I know on the island, and it’s the better one. A fabulous option on the western side of Rarotonga, Castaway Resort is the resort of the hugely popular Wilson’s Beach Bar & Restaurant, yet only guests aged 16 and over can stay, ensuring a tranquil setting throughout the day. Hi there, We have just booked our trip - very excited! I'm just trying to work out what area I should be looking at for a place to stay. Save. The latter is a working harbor with a charming Colonial-era ambiance. It’s a great beach for swimming. . 1. We also have deals for flights, and Rarotonga car. 2 Reviews . Hotel in Muri, Rarotonga. Best lagoon in Rarotonga.