The Cook Islands might well be Earth’s best-kept secret. It is the island paradise everyone dreams of, but few people actually know about it. Imagine Hawaii or Tahiti’s less-known sister who has skipped the fame and has kept its beaches blissfully uncrowded.
It is a place where you can soak up the sun on pristine beaches, trek through wild tropical mountains, ride the rolling waves, and swim with the turtles. The only “rush hour” you’ll find on the Cook Islands is under the sea as you watch flurries of fish swim past.
This picturesque island nation is made up of 15 tiny islands scattered across the South Pacific. The majority of the islands are extremely remote and only reachable by boat.
You’d think this would make deciding where to stay in the Cook Islands a hefty task, but you’ll be happy to know there are just two islands that steal the show when it comes to tourism. These are Rarotonga and Aitutaki; both are a haven for travellers ready to swap out their heavy packs for snorkels and sarongs.
I’ve explored both of these wonderful islands and compiled the best places to stay and things to do on each to make your decision-making a heck of a lot easier.
So, let’s dive into it and figure out which Cook Island is best for you.
Photo: @harveypike_
- Where Is the Best Place to Stay in the Cook Islands?
- The Cook Islands Neighbourhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in The Cook Islands
- The Cook Island’s Two Best Islands to Stay On
- FAQs About Finding a Place to Stay in the Cook Islands
- What To Pack For Cook Islands
- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for the Cook Islands
- Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in the Cook Islands
Where Is the Best Place to Stay in the Cook Islands?
If you’re travelling in the Cook Islands and looking for a place to stay, I’m happy to tell you that you’ve come to the right place! In this guide, I’m going to take you through everything you need to know to decide which island is best for you.
However, if you’re short on time, below you’ll find my three top picks for the best hotel, hostel and Airbnb in the Cook Islands.
The Edgewater Resort & Spa | Best Hotel in the Cook Islands
The Edgewater Resort & Spa is your ultimate tropical island escape and the ideal place to relax and unwind. Whether you want to dive headfirst into the sparkling lagoon-style pool or indulge yourself in rejuvenating spa treatments, this resort has everything you need to recharge.
Plus, this place also has an awesome kid club… so if you’re on a family holiday with kids in tow, hand them over for the day and enjoy some you time!
The rooms are a cosy place to rest up with a beautiful blend of traditional Polynesian decor and all the modern comforts you need. With an on-site restaurant tempting your taste buds, tearing yourself away to explore the rest of the island will be the hardest thing you’ll have to do here.
Muri Beach Resort | Best Luxury Hotel in the Cook Islands
Muri Beach Resort is one of the best luxury hotels in the Cook Islands. It’s nestled into a prime location with DAZZLING beachfront views. It’s within walking distance from the beach and has loads of delicious restaurants nearby. You’ll find a beautiful lagoon to enjoy that’s safe and calm for water sports.
The beach resort itself is beautiful with gorgeous villas and a pool to splash around in. It’s a sister resort to The Nautilus, so guests are able to use their spa and restaurants too. It’s an ideal beach resort for families travelling with kids in tow, but even if you don’t, you’ll love this spot.
Tai Marino – Beach Bungalow | Best Villa in the Cook Islands
If you are on the hunt for a luxury beachfront bungalow, then Tavake Villa is the spot for you. Located only steps from the beach, this is an unrivalled place to relax and live on island time.
You can find many delicious restaurants just a few minutes away in town, as well as car rentals, grocery stores, and whatever else you may need. One of the cutest parts about staying here is that you will be greeted at the airport with a FREE return transfer including a short tour! So kind.
Without a doubt, this is one of the coolest places to stay on one of the best tropical islands in the world.
The Cook Islands Neighbourhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in The Cook Islands
Rarotonga
Rarotonga is home to the only international airport in the region, so unless you are one of the very few people traveling by boat, it is almost certainly where your Cook Island adventures will begin.
Aitutaki
Aitutaki is the second most visited island in the Cook Islands, after Rarotonga, and the only other home to a wide variety of accommodation options. Only 50 minutes from Rarotonga by plane, it is most commonly visited by day trippers, but we think that is huge mistake!
Rarotonga is the largest and most accessible island to visit when backpacking in the Cook Islands. Almost all of the incoming and outgoing flights are with Air New Zealand via Aukland, but you can occasionally find a direct flight from Sydney.
If you are dreaming of a place that has outstanding beaches, lush tropical gardens, and top-notch mountains, look no further! Obviously, you are here for the beaches and the island life, but if you are feeling up to it, try your luck at the famous coast-to-coast cross-island trek. It’s a challenge but it’s bloody worth it.
Aitutaki, also known as “Heaven on Earth, is pure paradise, and the ultimate place to relax. This secluded island is smaller and quieter than Rarotonga, and a must-visit on any holiday to the Cook Islands!
You could easily spend days and days lounging in hammocks and sipping on coconuts… Don’t spend the whole time relaxing though. Be sure to explore the incredible turquoise lagoon! Oh, and don’t forget to bring your waterproof camera to take some EPIC underwater shots. My go-to is the OCLU Action Camera.
The Cook Island’s Two Best Islands to Stay On
Ahh, the tropic oasis of the Cook Islands is calling! I can hear it like the bellow of a conch horn in the wind. But which island shall you visit? The bustling but beautiful island of Rarotonga or the quiet tranquillity of Aitutaki. Let’s dive in and find out which is best for you.
1. Rarotonga – Where to Stay in the Cook Islands for Your First Visit
Rarotonga is the main island and home to the only international airport in the region. Unless you are one of the very few people travelling by boat, it is almost certainly where your Cook Island adventures will begin. Luckily for you, it is also the best area to start your trip!
You will be surprised by just how much you can see and do on Rarotonga – I’m certain, no matter how long you stay, you will leave wishing you had more time. Snorkelling, diving and hiking are just a few of the can’t-miss activities.
Exploring is a piece of cake, thanks to the 32-kilometre road that circumnavigates the island, and connects all of the top sites. No matter where you want to go, you will never be more than 30 minutes away by car.
Muri Beach, Aroa Beach, and the town of Avarua are some of the most popular spots for tourists. Thanks to its accessibility, Rarotonga would definitely be my top recommendation for where to stay in the Cook Islands on your first trip.
Magic Reef Bungalows | Best Hotel in Rarotonga
This beach resort is home to nine fully equipped beachfront bungalows, all of which have beautiful beach views. The bungalows are made in a traditional Polynesian style, so you can feel like you are living like a local during your stay.
All the bungalows come with their own private balconies, which are ideal for hiding from the sun, or taking in the sunset. The swimming pool is in the shape of an old pirate ship for a fun and creative flare. The hotel also provides bikes and snorkelling equipment free of charge.
Muri Beach Resort | Best Luxury Hotel in Rarotonga
If you’re travelling with kids in tow, this is the pick of the bunch. The beach resort is within a short walk of the beach and has loads of delicious restaurants nearby. You’ll find a beautiful lagoon to enjoy nearby that’s safe and calm for water sports.
The beach resort itself is beautiful with gorgeous villas and a swimming pool to splash around in. It’s a sister resort to The Nautilus, so guests are able to use their spa and restaurants too.
Bayview Bliss in Nikao | Best Bungalow in Rarotonga
Nestled into Nikao Beach (the only bay on the island), you’ll find this sweet escape. This Airbnb is the perfect home away from home, it’s a bright and open studio that will make you feel comfortable from the moment you arrive. This spot has a kitchen AND washing machine, so it really gives that homely vibe.
With a beautiful open-air deck to enjoy the warm sunshine or bask in the starry night sky, it’s the perfect place to chill out. There is also an outdoor shower for a good ol’ rinse after a dip in the sea.
Beachfront with pool handy to Muri | Best Luxury Villa in Rarotonga
This beachfront Vila is insanely beautiful from the inside out. Home to a deck that runs directly out from the living area with an infinity pool that overlooks the sea… yep, this is where you’ll find me. All. day. long.
As soon as you step inside this not-so-humble abode, you’ll sense the luxury. With an open-plan, designer kitchen, outside shower and Italian tiles throughout, it’s hard not to fall in love with this home away from home.
Things to See and Do on Rarotonga
Photo: @amandaadraper
- Scuba dive in world-class locations.
- Snorkel the magnificent reefs.
- Enjoy learning more about the Cook Islands culture at Highland Paradise.
- Hike one of the many mountain trails.
- Grab a local bight at the Muri Night Market.
- Jump on a cruise to explore and snorkel at Muri Lagoon and enjoy a BBQ Lunch.
- Catch some waves and surf at one of the local breaks.
- Enjoy cocktails at sunset on the beach.
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Aitutaki – Where to Stay in the Cook Islands for Diving
Aitutaki is the second most visited island in the Cook Islands and the only other spot with a wide variety of accommodation options. Only 50 minutes from Rarotonga by plane, it is popular with day trippers, but I think it deserves a longer stay.
Even though it’s a small island, it has so much more to offer than can be seen in one day. With a nickname like “Heaven on Earth,” why would you only want to stay for one day?! You will find some of the coolest places to stay in the Cook Islands here!
Aitutaki is made up of the main island, a handful of small islands, a lagoon and a reef. The lagoon is the star attraction, and has past been voted “the most beautiful lagoon in the world.”
In the lagoon, they have world-class snorkelling and diving, where you are sure to find coral reefs, hundreds of species of fish, and giant sea turtles! No matter if you’re a diving pro or learning to snorkel – there is something for everyone under the sea.
Want to impress your friends with a passport stamp nobody else has? Head over to One Foot Island, and get your passport stamped in the world’s tiniest post office.
Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort (Adults Only) | Best Hotel on Aitutaki
Ok, my friend. Settle in for this one. This private island resort is like one of those incredible resorts that you marvel at in movies. Oh and did I mention… it’s on its own private island! It’s got everything you could ever need.
The resort offers front-row views across the beautiful Aitutaki Lagoon… only one of the most beautiful lagoons in the world. You get to use the stand-up paddle boards, kayaks and snorkels for FREE. Plus, the resort puts on cultural activities and shows for you to enjoy. Breakfast is included and delicious.
Gina’s Garden Lodges | Best Lodge on Aitutaki
Gina’s Garden Lodges is my top-budget accommodation recommendation on Aitutaki. Instead of dorm rooms, this hostel offers charming individual lodges. They vary in size and can sleep anywhere between one to four people.
Every lodge includes its own private bathroom and private kitchen. There is a large pool with wooden sundecks that is open year-round. Gina’s is great for longer-term guests, as they have a running promotion of one night free out of every 7 days you book with them.
Peaceful Bungalow with Sea Views | Best Bungalow on Aitutaki
This tranquil bungalow is located on the east coast of the island and is a marvellous home base for any stay on Aitutaki. The outside deck has a spectacular ocean view and is an amazing spot to take in the sunrise (I’m a sucker for a good sunrise spot).
This cosy one-bedroom bungalow is ideal for couples or solo travellers who are looking for a private beach getaway in an exceptional location.
Tai Marino – Beach Bungalow | Best Luxury Villa on Aitutaki
If you are on the hunt for a luxury beachfront bungalow, then Tavake Villa is the spot for you. Located only steps from the beach, this is an unrivalled place to relax and live on island time.
You can find many delicious restaurants just a few minutes away in town, as well as car rentals, grocery stores, and whatever else you may need. One of the kindest parts about staying here is that you will be greeted at the airport with a FREE return transfer including a short tour!
Without a doubt, this is one of the coolest places to stay in the Cook Islands.
Things to See and Do on Aitutaki
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short.
- Snorkel or dive in the coral reefs.
- Go on a lagoon cruise.
- Rent a bike and explore every nook and cranny of the island.
- Kayak in the crystal clear lagoon waters.
- Relax on the beaches and soak up the sun.
- Visit the lookout points around the island for spectacular views.
- Get your passport stamped at One Foot Island.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs About Finding a Place to Stay in the Cook Islands
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Cook Island and where to stay.
Where is the best place to stay in the Cook Islands on a budget?
Gina’s Garden Lodges is the best place to stay if you’re visiting the Cook Islands on a budget. Gina’s provided cosy lodges with a private bathroom and kitchen in each, plus you’ll have direct access to a pool too! Not too bad for a budget-friendly spot.
What area is best to stay in if I want to go diving in the Cook Islands?
Aitutaki is the place to be if you want to dive head-first into the underwater world. Head to the lagoon for some of the best snorkelling around. Turtles, coral and hundreds of fish await!
Where is the best area to stay with family in the Cook Islands?
The Edgewater Resort & Spa is the perfect place to stay if you’re travelling with kids. They have an epic kids club where you can hand over the young ones for the day! And for you, parents, you can head to the lagoon-style pool, indulge in a spa treatment or take your taste buds for a ride through the on-site restaurant.
What To Pack For Cook Islands
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for the Cook Islands
Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to the Cook Islands.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in the Cook Islands
The Cook Islands are one of the most beautiful places on the planet. I guarantee you will not regret visiting this island utopia, and will remember your time here forever. It’s a special place.
I hope after reading through this article, you’ve got a better idea of which island is best suited for you… or maybe you’ve decided you’re destined to explore both! If you’re still unsure, I’ll recap my top picks for you.
If you’re craving a luxury escape, Muri Beach Resort is where you’ll want to park up. Location right on the beach, you’ll be steps away from the sand and be able to enjoy sea views all day long.
For those of you on a tighter budget, Gina’s Garden Lodges is my top pick. At a pretty affordable rate, you can nab yourself a lodge at Gina’s with a private bathroom in the kitchen. Plus, she’s even got a pool for you to splash around in.
Wherever you choose to stay, I hope you have an incredible time exploring these South Pacific islands. Let me know in the comment where you end up, I’d love to hear about it.
Photo: @amandaadraper
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Cook Islands.
- Wanna go snorkelling but don’t know where to start? This snorkelling 101 guide will help.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Oceania backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
