The 4-bedroom villa features a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher, an oven and a microwave. 671. and Marine Reserve, (Rarotongan) and Marine Reserve, (Rarotongan) Here is a teaser of some of Rarotonga’s best beaches. 2 Reviews . Titikaveka is a much quieter area than Muri, the lagoon in this area isn't as effected by pollution to the extent that Muri is. Location. Serenity Villas offer four very spacious, well appointed villas featuring all the modern comforts of home to make for an easy self service stay. A perfect location on the island. THE 10 BEST Rarotonga Resorts. Bask in views from the beachfront suites or save a little by choosing a suite among the tropical gardens. 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. Go Scuba Diving with Pacific Divers. Brighton is a brilliant mish-mash of. Rarotonga. This property offers access to a balcony and free private parking. Little Polynesian Resort. These villas each. drops 4-5 degrees after 5pm and it gets windy. Black Rock Beach, Rarotonga. The SE trade-winds (April to October) affect the southern and eastern parts of the island, including Muri, Tikioki, and Titikaveka and to a lesser extent Vaimaanga through to Aroa. Beach. BTW Lagoon Lodges isn't beachfront being situated on the inland side of the main road. Best Rarotonga Resorts on Tripadvisor: Find traveller reviews, candid photos, and prices for 18 resorts in Rarotonga, Cook Islands. 8. Rarotonga fish and chip shop. Abel Tasman Great Walk, where to camp & short day walks. We are very active and want to hike, bike, swim, and explore the island. We heard that the east side can be cool and windy, and the west side more protected. With the potential for limited shade in the mornings in Muri and afternoon in Arorangi / Black Rock areas, you must protect yourself from the sun’s rays. 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. Maire Nui Gardens & Cafe. Pool . How to get there from London: The train from London Victoria takes 1 hour 34 minutes. Best place to stay in Rarotonga " Great room with everything you need and we were lucky enough to get a lovely ocean view. Table of Contents: The Best Rarotonga Resorts for Families. Pacific Resort Rarotonga. 00 NZD for an adult or $246. 10. Castaway Resort. Rarotonga. Everywhere around Rarotonga is tidal. Best Family Hotels in Rarotonga on Tripadvisor: Find traveler reviews, candid photos, and prices for 36 family hotels in Rarotonga, Cook Islands. Hello, as we had been to Rarotonga before, we chose to stay for six nights on Aitutaki. My dilemma is. Nice, appointed rooms right on the beach front with a peaceful atmosphere. August this year has been a mix of strong winds, heavy rain, hot days, cool nights, still air, blue. Tuoro Tapas Bar: Always fantastic for lunch! - See 471 traveler reviews, 222 candid photos, and great deals for Rarotonga, Cook Islands, at Tripadvisor. We heard that the east side can be cool and windy, and the west side more protected. Budget: Rarotonga Backpackers– 4 different locations on the. drops 4-5 degrees after 5pm and it gets windy. . Licenced restaurant onsite, and a pool-side bar. Will be travelling in Dec/Jan. Located on western sunset side of Rarotonga, on a stunning white sandy beach with great swimming and snorkeling. . We are undecided where to stay. Aroa Marine Reserve took my breath away. 1. In this area, check out Motu Art Villas - simply stunning, and also Little Polynesian Resort, which has one of the best restaurants on Rarotonga. Make a splash in Ocean Escape Resort & Spa’s unique swimming pool. The east side and Muri Lagoon is a hub for watersports, the west side offers the best sunsets and places to eat, the north side is close to Rarotonga’s main shops and services, while th e south side is the most. Muri. Perched on the hillside of Black Rock, the Mediterranean-inspired villa with three levels of dining area basks in wonderful views and sunsets. Waikato camping grounds. Share. Have an Awesome Night at the Highland Paradise Cultural Show. Swimwear. Approximately 1. The majority of travelers stay on Rarotonga (affectionately nicknamed Raro), the largest of the Cook Islands, which itself is still really small: it takes less than an hour to drive around the island's perimeter road! Competitions are held at the national auditorium in Avarua. This is only one of two backpacker hostels I know on the island, and it’s the better one. . Hawke's Bay camping grounds. It would need to have a pool and very importantly a hammock strung between two palm trees, with the ocean in the background. We are very active and want to hike, bike, swim, and explore the island. This is not the case with the west coast. Te Rua Manga (The Needle) One of the most prominent sights on Rarotonga, Te Rua Manga, otherwise known as The Needle, is an exposed breccia structure reaching 413m (1,355ft) high. There are plenty of options when it comes to accommodation in Rarotonga. Answer 11 of 19: My family is planning on visiting Rarotonga from May 28-June 4, 2005. Walking out the depth of your kneecap brings visions of colorful fish poking in and out of blue, orange and yellow corals. 140 reviews. We realize this is the winter season. Hotels near the sights. Rarotonga. " It was such a relaxing stay, though a bit on the pricey side,. Table of Contents. Muri Vista Villas. We scuba dive most days so don’t do much lagoon swimming but many people do swim and snorkel on the west side. drops 4-5 degrees after 5pm and it gets windy. Luxury villas, resorts, hotels and holiday homes & apartments. This is not the case with the west coast. We are undecided where to stay. An awesome sheltered pool for when windy was magic and bar and dining. Answer 11 of 19: My family is planning on visiting Rarotonga from May 28-June 4, 2005. Hi jamzey49. THE 10 BEST Hotels in Rarotonga 2023. Could anyone be more specific as to where the BEST of the foregoing (other than sunsets) are to. Rarotonga's main island and Aitutaki's smaller island offer a multitude of enchanting locations. Avana Passage north of Muri Beach. Approximately 1. Wellesley Hotel Rarotonga. 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. The Top Adults-Only Accommodations in the Cook Islands. Or go with an organised hiking tour with Bruce, for transport and guidance. Snorkeling at Aroa Beach (Aroa Marine Reserve) Snorkeling in Tikioki Beach (Marine Reserve) – Opposite Fruit of Rarotonga. Bright abode with tropical gardens; Tapere of Titikaveka (from USD 190) Show all photos. To qualify for the mileage offer, you must be the primary. THE 5 BEST Rarotonga Adults Only and Adult Friendly Hotels. Tuoro Tapas Bar: Holiday Rarotonga - See 471 traveler reviews, 222 candid photos, and great deals for Rarotonga, Cook Islands, at Tripadvisor. Much of the time, Arorangi & Black Rock through to Matavera wont notice the same strength of cool breeze, and certainly. 1,503 Reviews . Please note: While the gardens are Open 7 Days a week. We heard that the east side can be cool and windy, and the west side more protected. #3 of 47 villas in Rarotonga. Rarotonga. If you prefer smaller hotels and resorts, there are multiple properties that cater for families. Muri is 1. Excellent spot for winter whale watching though, at the Edgewater !Do any family resorts in Rarotonga have a spa on-site? Family Resorts in Rarotonga: Find 8161 traveller reviews, candid photos, and the top ranked Family Resorts in Rarotonga on Tripadvisor. While The Needle can be admired all the way from shore on the northern side of the island, those who want a closer look will have to do a portion of the Cross. Lovely pool and beautiful surrounds. 00 per day for backpacking Rarotonga to stay on the safe side. As you move eastward, the lagoon narrows dramatically, until the reef is essentially up against the shoreline, resulting in rougher waters, unswimmable in parts due to corl heads with somewhat. Rarotonga. From small hostels, apartments on the beach, luxury resorts, and everything in between. Located near The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium on the South-Western part of the island, this beach is great for snorkelling as well as sunbathing. Arorangi beach is a beautiful spot to relax and offers some of the best sunsets on the island. Our List of the Best Things to Do in Rarotonga. 702 Reviews . We heard that the east side can be cool and windy, and the west side more protected. Maire Nui Gardens is located on the South side of the island, and encompasses 7 acres of colourful and. Rarotonga Tourism Rarotonga Hotels Rarotonga Bed and Breakfast Rarotonga Vacation Rentals Flights to Rarotonga Rarotonga Restaurants Things to Do in Rarotonga Rarotonga Travel Forum Rarotonga Photos Rarotonga Map Rarotonga Travel Guide All Rarotonga Hotels; Rarotonga Hotel Deals; Last Minute Hotels in RarotongaOh, and if you like chai lattes, make sure to try the iced chai latte, it is one of the best drinks ever! Opening Hours: Seven days a week. Table of Content hide. The beach is beautiful with pristine white sands and is located in the sheltered lagoon on the eastern side of Rarotonga. Rumours Luxury Villas and Spa is the ultimate in luxury set a little farther south on the Muri Beach Lagoon. #15 of 24 hotels in Rarotonga. BlueOrange Studio/Shutterstock. Muri beach seems to be the consensus, but wondering if there are some other good (potentially less expensive) alternatives. Value. Book a villa with two or three bedrooms, complete with full kitchen and laundry facilities and plenty of space for everyone. Rarotonga Tourism Rarotonga Hotels Bed and Breakfast Rarotonga Rarotonga Holiday Rentals Flights to Rarotonga Rarotonga. Arorangi is a small village on the island’s western coast with a few shops and restaurants. Rarotonga Hotels and Places to Stay. Our trip highlight. 25 mi. Muri beach is on the windy side of the island, therefore expect some wind. Could anyone be more specific as to where the BEST of the foregoing (other than sunsets) are to. Answer 1 of 5: Am looking at staying at Crown beach which is on the west side and apparently has fantastic sunsets, that sounds nice and all. Our Cafe currently operates from Monday - Friday 10am - 3pm. A three-night package at Nautilus Resort includes transfers, breakfast, limited free internet, and a kids’ concierge. 2 kms east of Sunhaven and the Aroa Beachside is the Aroa marine reserve which has excellent swimming and snorkelling. 2023. We realize this is the winter season. Each side of the island has its benefits, but you really can’t go wrong. Pacific Resort Rarotonga. Advertisement. com and holiday homes and I'm trying to narrow it down. Would we be better to stay half the time in one area, and then move to another, or just do day trips from the original destination? (Don't want to get caught with. Like Sunhaven and Murivai beach in the west. Sunset Resort is a 3. # 2 Best Value of 18 Rarotonga Beach Resorts. 5 star property and is idyllically situated on the sheltered western side of the island only minutes from Avarua township. Rarotonga. Costing $5 to enter the museum, this makes a great first day stop so you can learn more about the history of the island. South Pacific ; Cook Islands ;. Answer 1 of 7: Many seem to feel Muri has the best beaches, while other say it is too crowded, but yet lots of restaurants. " 9. To book, phone Spacifica Travel, 1800 800 722. Rarotonga Hotels and Places to Stay. Antipodes – The Best Fine Dining on Rarotonga. 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. Approximately 1. This vacation rental will make your holiday in Rarotonga one for the books, offering an unforgettable setting surrounded by tropical. Accommodations Photos. . Sipping coconut milk while bargaining for handmade jewelry and swaying your hips to live music—just another Saturday morning in Rarotonga. Choose between the garden suites which include a living area and furnished patio or the beachfront suites overlooking the lagoon. Castaway Resort. Kids and teens activities, and kids club. Please note: While the gardens are Open 7 Days a week. Answer 1 of 12: Hi, I have been doing some research about where to stay in rarotonga and I am a bit confused. 3. Raro Tours provides island tours, and the taxis and Tuku-tuks pick up fares at the wharf. Flight to Aitutaki with Air Rarotonga: Make sure you get a window seat for this 30-minute flight! Stay 3-6 nights on Aitutaki: For a longer stay on Aitutaki, I suggest switching hotels from one side of the island to the other, so you can get the best of both worlds. Re: Best time & nicest part of island for snorkeling. Rarotonga’s newest oceanfront resort is also the island’s only place to stay with its own mini-coral reef in the swimming pool. Kia Orana Sarah, welcome to the Rarotonga forum. The majority of budget accommodations are located on Rarotonga. After a few hours of checking out the wharf-side Punanga Nui Market, hit the beaches of this reef-protected volcanic island. Things to Know When Backpacking Rarotonga. 8. Central location. 5/5. This is not the case with the west coast. The apartment was spotless clean and equipped with everything you need to self accommodate. We realize this is the winter season. Rehab is the club of choice on the weekend if you really want to let your hair down. By Alexia Santamaria. " Best Seller. The best day trip from London for: blasting the cobwebs away by the sea. Personally, I love to stay in Rarotonga for 10-14 days. It's set down in the very centre of Muri, alongside the Muri night-market site. Any ideas on best places to stay with them? Where To Stay In Rarotonga. We realize this is the winter season. . 809 reviews. Visitors staying here will be close to all the amenities, including banks, supermarkets and museums. Day 6 - Sunday mass and Paddle boarding. I have heard that the. View Hotel. Three dwellings each housing 4 people. Packages include 3 nights accommodation, return airfares from Rarotonga to Aitutaki to Rarotonga, transfers to and from property, and a full day Lagoon Cruise. See the ‘best beaches in Rarotonga’ section for more info. security. Vaima’s & Wigmores. We have a great beach bar & restaurant, the Shipwreck Hut, on property which offers a menu with variety for all & local dishes. 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. . This is not the case with the west coast. We realize this is the winter season. 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. Snorkeling at Titikaveka Beach is one of the best things to do in Rarotonga and is honestly one of my personal favorites as well. Take your pick! © CookIslandsPocketGuide. This is not the case with the west coast. For budget travelers, Rarotonga offers a couple of hostels, but camping is not possible on any of the Cook Islands. Banks Peninsula, Akaroa camping grounds. #1 of 10 apartments in Rarotonga. This means you can get the most of your vacation while creating lasting memories. Walking Tour Of Avarua. Re: Rarontonga in November - Where to stay. My dilemma is. Answer 21 of 40: Hello, My husband and I will be visiting Rarotonga for 12 nights in October. The south of Rarotonga is home to the best beaches on the island, with deep lagoons perfect for snorkelling and non-motorised watersports. Location and service excellent. Licenced restaurant onsite, and a pool-side bar. Most visitors can stay in the Cook Islands for up to 31 days; although, New Zealand citizens can stay for up to 90 days. Could anyone be more specific as to where the BEST of the foregoing (other than sunsets) are to. For breakfast, grab one of the outdoor tables at The Lucky Rooster (formerly Cafe Salsa) and do a bit of people watching. THE 10 BEST Accommodation in Rarotonga, Cook Islands Rarotonga Hotels and Places to Stay Enter dates to find the best prices Check In — / — / — Check Out — / — / — Guests 1 room, 2 adults, 0 children Popular. 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. " Read all reviews. The western side provides the best sunsets, and is generally more sheltered compared with the east and south sides of the island. Rarotonga. For an October stay I prefer to stay in either the Vaimaanga or Titikaveka area. 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. . Answer 11 of 19: My family is planning on visiting Rarotonga from May 28-June 4, 2005. Panther: Look to Costco for some remarkable bargains that include airfare from LAX to Raro and Aitutaki, if you are interested in splitting your time in the Cooks. Vaka Rua is set right over the golden sand facing the lagoon, Rainbow Villas, MM Batch South Side, Rarotonga's Fishing Lodge - GT's, Te Moana Nui Villa 3: More places to stay in Rarotonga. Which restaurants are open over Christmas and NYE, and the festive season? Mosquitoes and vector-borne diseases in the Cook Islands. Rarotonga. The stunning pool at Te Vakaroa Villas. It can be a bit murky in the shadows unless it is a super calm day. 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. Rarotonga Hotels and Places to Stay. If you do decide to come in July, your best bet would be to stay on the western side of the island rather than the east side, it's more sheltered from the winds. Aitutaki Seaside Lodges is located in Amuri, 5 minutes' drive from Aitutaki Airport. Save. Smathers Beach. . Best place to stay in Rarotonga. On Aitutaki, the Amuri Guest House is located next door to the Amuri hall is a good place to stay, and which is affordable. . Villa. Show prices. Safety: The Cook Islands are an extremely safe country, but always use common sense. Only seven villas furnished with elegance and indulgence in mind cater to the honeymooner or other discerning adults. We love the space the facilities and the safety of the pool for kids. The latter is a working harbor with a charming Colonial-era ambiance. Review. Sea Change Villas is nestled discreetly on the southern side of Rarotonga, on its own secluded white sandy. Start your first day in Rarotonga in the island’s main town. The Rarotonga sits on the famed Aroa marine reserve well suited to snorkelling, kayaking, swimming and SUP. The back-packer hostels are decent places for single travellers to Rarotonga. Kavera Beach is 1. Rarotonga Tourism Rarotonga Hotels Rarotonga Bed and Breakfast Rarotonga Vacation Rentals Flights to Rarotonga Rarotonga Restaurants Things to Do in Rarotonga Rarotonga Travel Forum Rarotonga Photos Rarotonga MapRarotonga Backpackers have the widest options in accommodation ranging from singles and couples to families and group bookings at any of their four properties located on the Island. Could anyone be more specific as to where the BEST of the foregoing (other than sunsets) are to. recommend going early to check-in and drop your bags and then leavego across the road to Vaianas. I have read that on the east coast the temp. Hotel in Muri, Rarotonga. For entry to the Cook Islands, visitors need a valid passport with at least six months remaining on it and an exit ticket. Our stay at the Nautilus was perfect and made especially special by the wonderful staff. Cleanliness. 2. 809 reviews. I have been doing some research about where to stay in rarotonga and I am a bit confused. 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. The western side provides the best sunsets, and is generally more sheltered compared with the east and south sides of the island. Experience a Rarotonga “Island Night”. Aitutaki Day tour. Cons: Located far from many of Key West’s top attractions, lacks the charm of the Old Town. Are Renga Motel. Snorkeling at Black Rock. The location is perfect as there are restaurants nearby, Muri Night Markets, beaches are clean and. We heard that the east side can be cool and windy, and the west side more protected. View Hotel. Whatever your ideal South Pacific holiday consists of, it becomes reality in our islands, with. Please note: While. West wins hands down, we stayed on the northern side for the first time last year (previously stayed Muri and South). Atlas & Boots One of our Rarotonga tips is to stay near Muri Beach. drops 4-5 degrees after 5pm and it gets windy. . As you will see from reading through other posts the western side is very favorable for a winter trip as is the North. Titikaveka is a much quieter area than Muri, the lagoon in this area isn't as effected by pollution to the extent that Muri is. Panther: Look to Costco for some remarkable bargains that include airfare from LAX to Raro and Aitutaki, if you are interested in splitting your time in the Cooks. Answer 1 of 12: Hi, I have been doing some research about where to stay in rarotonga and I am a bit confused. Could anyone be more specific as to where the BEST of the foregoing (other than sunsets) are to. Visas and entry. The tram takes you from the Upper East Side to Roosevelt Island for the price of a subway ride ($2. Maire Nui Gardens is located on the South side of the island, and encompasses 7 acres of colourful and unique plants. Which is the best side of Rarotonga to stay on? The north coast of Rarotonga is the best part of the island for proximity to the airport and the capital, Avarua. In many places, you must stay a minimum of three nights. View on map. into a tropical oasis loved by both visitors and locals alike. This is actually the place we decided to stay when we visited Rarotonga. 3. Maybe one day will be spent. 671. It's a three bedroom with pool. The latter is a working harbor with a charming Colonial-era ambiance. Answer 21 of 40: Hello, My husband and I will be visiting Rarotonga for 12 nights in October. Located the Western side of Rarotonga, Black Rock is a local favourite for relaxing, swimming, snorkelling and catching. Please note: While the gardens are Open 7 Days a week. Show all. Edited: 26 May 2023,. We have heard that the western side is less windy! We are more mature - 2 couples 60+. Aorangi District is also on the west side of Rarotonga, so it’s also where to stay in Rarotonga for an amazing sunset. . The contemporary villas overlook the infinity pool and jacuzzi, giving you an ideal place to sip a tropical cocktail and take in the views. 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. What advice can you. We are thinking of booking a place called kia orana beach bungalows in Arorangi for the week. Muri Lagoon Water Quality; Water filter stations; Crime is increasing around Rarotonga; Sunblock can kill coral - choose carefully; 2021 Dengue Fever on Rarotonga; 2020. Location: Ara Tapu, Muri Beach, Rarotonga. Koka Lagoon Cruises. Visas and entry. Cook Islands Church. Our Cafe currently operates from Monday - Friday 10am - 3pm. 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. South Pacific ; Cook Islands ; Southern Cook Islands ; Rarotonga ;. Maire Nui Gardens is located on the South side of the island, and encompasses 7 acres of colourful and unique plants. I have read that on the east coast the temp. The South Pacific tropics are recreated at this Deluxe resort, with two- and three-story Hawaiian longhouses set among some of Disney's best landscaping. One of the best ways to explore the Cook Islands is by water, and a lagoon cruise in Muri is the way to go. 75) and the views of NYC from the tram are some of the best in the city. Language: English is widely spoken, but technically the official language is Cook. 1. 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. Cook Island Christian Church (CICC) 359. 3. Te Vara Nui Village. This is not the case with the west coast. . Arorangi – The Best Resorts for Whale Watching on Rarotonga. drops 4-5 degrees after 5pm and it gets windy. Hang Out at the Punanga Nui Morning Markets. This beautiful beachfront property includes stunning views of the sea and mountains. Get a phone SIM on arrival for cheaper net accessBecomes difficult to arrange how to return to the car if you exit down the Papua stream side in Vaimaanga. Boasting 10 bedrooms and 8 bathrooms, Iro Luxury Retreat offers luxury accommodation in Rarotonga, 10 km from Muri. . . Aroa Beach and Marine Reserve, Rarotonga. There is no difference in temperature, but the south can be windier. We have 8 self catering villas nestled within tropical gardens. Celebrated my birthday with my family by travelling to the Cook Islands and staying at the Muri Beach Club Hotel which was fantastic. Answer 21 of 33: We, (couple late 40's) are planning a trip to Rarotonga for 7-10 nights. Naming the best beach in Rarotonga would be impossible, but you can pick the best one for you depending on the type of trip you have in mind. Aitutaki. About. Answer 1 of 12: Hi, I have been doing some research about where to stay in rarotonga and I am a bit confused. At 32km in circumference it's relatively small, and you can drive the flat, coastal road in around 45 minutes. Hotels near the sights. Anna and Rob are fabulous hosts and have lots of helpful hints so you get the best from your stay. Silty and shallow beach across the road, but within walking distance to the lovely lagoon area heading north from Pacific Resort. Enter dates to see prices. Where would you recommend to stay? We are indecisive between Muri Beach and the West coach, close to the Edgewarter Resort. Capital: Avarua on Rarotonga. #6 of 24 hotels in Rarotonga. Choose your preferred destination airport. gather one side of island has good/nice beaches and other side doesn't? Got good flights CHC/Raro return. We don't want to be too removed. Tips on Departing Rarotonga. It’s where many of Rarotonga’s most popular resorts are located, each offering stunning spots to watch whales, whether. Museum Tour. ThanksAnswer 11 of 40: Hello, My husband and I will be visiting Rarotonga for 12 nights in October. Rarotonga.