The 10 best Villas in Cook Islands,

May 5, 2023 Vivienne Hutton

If you're sitting at your desk having Robinson Crusoe daydreams, the Cook Islands might be a great vacation place for you. It doesn't get much more remote or more beautiful—what with the perfect beaches, deep jungle and coral lagoons. Each of the 15 islands seems more breathtaking than the last.
Things to do in Cook Islands

1. Castaway Resort

Ara Tapu, Arorangi Cook Islands
Excellent
76%
Good
19%
Satisfactory
2%
Poor
2%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 359 reviews

Castaway Resort

Set in the enchanting western village of Arorangi, Castaway is the favourite farewell point of so many of our islands’ most stunning sunsets. Enjoy peace and relaxation at this lush adults-only oasis, where guests can enjoy the freedom of their self-catering rooms or dine at the on-property beach restaurant & bar. Castaway offers comfortable accommodation with rooms perfect for solo travelers, couples, families and small groups (Minimum age is 16 years and above) And if you’re looking for a little more, Castaway offers accommodation at their Beach House that’s right next door. All rooms are tastefully furnished and guests can enjoy kitchen facilities, air-conditioning, and TV in case of those tropical rainy days. Wilson’s Beach bar & restaurant is Castaway Resorts’ on-property restaurant and is considered one of Rarotonga’s Top 5 Restaurant & Bars (As per Tripadvisor) For good reason! The restaurants gourmet menu is diverse with themed nights every night of the week. From Monday: Pasta, Tuesday: A la carte, Wednesday: Mexican, Thursday: Pizza, Friday: Seafood, and Saturday: Curry. Sunday BBQs are special at Castaway, when live music is played all evening by local musicians Freddy and Pascale, and guitar talent Anania Browne. Specialty dishes like Mr Paul’s Crayfish and Papa D’s Crayfish platter are both very popular amongst the local community. An absolute must try if you want to know what all the local enthusiasm is about! Many returnees rave about the fantastic location, quirky character, relaxed ambience and the friendly, welcoming staff. Guests will enjoy personable service, as staff take the utmost care to remember your name! The resort is also close to many of Rarotonga’s best snorkeling spots, only 20 minutes from the town center, has a bus stop and convenience store across the road. The resort is also home to many unique attributes. Whale watching can be enjoyed right from the restaurant deck. Expect a free bevvy from the bar if you’re first to ring the Whale Bell! Their crayfish dishes are large, fresh and delicious – there’s nothing like it anywhere else on the island. And if that wasn’t enough, Cuban Havana Cigars can also be purchased and pairs well with their signature cocktail “The Big Kahuna” – exclusively available at Castaway. Castaway Resort is the perfect accommodation choice for travelers wanting independence of a self-catered room, or to enjoy a cocktail and delicious dinner without leaving the property.

Beautiful place, friendly crew

Reviewed By kiwichicky40

Beautiful place, staff were awesome and friendly, we had crayfish platter absolutely beautiful, it was my birthday and my daughter asked them as a surprise to put candle in cheesecake which they did and added words on the plate with chocolate. The view with the sunset was so amazing and I couldn't think of a better place to spend my birthday

2. The Black Pearl at Puaikura

Kavera, Arorangi Cook Islands
Excellent
100%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 4 reviews

The Black Pearl at Puaikura

Located on the sheltered sunset side of the island, the Black Pearl at Puaikura enjoys an enviable location with a pristine beach across the road, safe for swimming and snorkeling; a magical spot to watch the sunset. A mere 15 minutes to downtown Avarua, 10 minutes to the airport and 20 minutes to the eclectic hustle and bustle of Muri. Intimately set in tropical gardens around a central salt water swimming pool The Black Pearl’s 12 apartment are spacious with high vaulted ceilings. Apartments are decorated in an ocean colour palette and are all on the ground level. Each apartment has a private patio with a view of either the lush garden or sparkling pool (or both). Our self catering apartments allow you to prepare breakfast, a light lunch or dinner in between dining at a great choice of cafes or restaurants, many of whom offer a free pick up and drop off service. Alternatively you can use the poolside BBQ. The Black Pearl at Puaikura is a haven for those not wanting a large hotel with multiple bars and restaurants but rather an intimate environment where the emphasis is on friendly personal service, a place where you can lose yourself in a tropical paradise, at an affordable price

If you want to relax….

Reviewed By SMP51

Cruisy relaxed resort. A quiet ,immaculately laid out and clean resort with excellent facilities. The saltwater pool was well used by us, as was the beach across the road for snorkeling. Mini food market and great burger shop right next door. Snorkeling gear and reef shoes provided. BBQ at the ready and a large gazebo to catch up with others in, in the evening. Paul us a wonderful host… nothing is too much trouble. Thanks Paul

3. Cooks Bay Villas

Vaimaanga Beach, Vaimaanga Cook Islands
Excellent
99%
Good
1%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 159 reviews

Cooks Bay Villas

Cooks Bay Villas (CBV) nightly tariff ranges between: NZD$449 - NZD$599per night - Cooks Bay Villas is situated on the unspoiled white sandy beach of Vaimaanga, Rarotonga Cook Islands. We offer a wonderful opportunity to indulge yourself in a little luxury, while being able to enjoy the serenity and seclusion of one of the most beautiful locations in the Pacific. Cooks Bay Villas embraces modern polynesian architecture and styling with all villas being absolute beach front, with spectacular views across the lagoon to distance ocean wave breaks. Our Villas include the following:~ Two separate bedrooms with ceiling fans, air-conditioning and separate walk-in en-suites, a King Split Beds in each room that can be set into single beds~ Spacious living area opens onto expansive private balcony with outdoor teak dinning furniture, teak loungers and day-bed~ Fully self contained and well equipped with all modern amenities with Full kitchen facilities including an electric oven, gas top stove, full fridge/freezer, microwave and each villa has its own (Ultra Violet) treatment water system~ Entertainment embraces a 40inch LED TV, Stereo/Hard drive consisting of movies, documentaries, tv series, cartoons, music etc. Telephone and WIFI-Internet connection~ Each villa has a Private outdoor courtyard, accessible from both bedrooms and en-suites, outdoor shower, sitting area, clothes line and a small laundry with washing machine and tub~ Another fantastic feature of this property is that Villas 2, 3 & 4, having full wheelchair access and being disability friendly. Relation should be a way of life, so at Cooks Bay Villas we also offer guests a selection of on-site facilities and services to help you relax and recharge. We understand these little extras go a long way in helping you really enjoy your island experience.

Wow! Found or new favourite holiday place!

Reviewed By stevefr1972

After having 7 nights with the teenagers then them returning back to NZ - the wife and I were supposed to have 3 nights in Aitutaki. However - due to a storm we decided to stay locally and CBV was suggested as a good alternative to Aitutaki. They were right! CBV is fantastic. If you've been to Rarotonga before and know the typical accommodation - this is above that - but not pretentious and 5 star or anything - just really nice. Most importantly - the beach is perfect. Close to handy amenities like Wigmores (grocery and cheap ice creams!) and Vaima restaurant. Village eatery next door makes good breakfasts (although the coffee could be better). While we didnt get to meet all the staff - Angel the maintenance chap was super chilled and helpful. He delivered the fresh fruit snacks each morning... Fair to say the wife was not happy when we had to leave and I can categorically say we will be back again in 2022...and we can't wait. Thanks Shine and the team at CBV.

4. Amuri Sands, Aitutaki

Main Rd Cook Islands
Excellent
87%
Good
13%
Satisfactory
1%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 152 reviews

Amuri Sands, Aitutaki

Kia Orana, and welcome to Amuri Sands, Aitutaki. We are a family-run business with 2 chalets on the beachfront on the west coast of Aitutaki, Cook Islands. We provide budget accommodation for your self-catering needs and are positioned near dining outlets and shops. The beach we are positioned on has some of the best snorkeling on the island. We look forward to you staying with us. Kia Manuia.

Very Comfortable chalet with stunning location

Reviewed By Mary A

Stayed 8 nights and it was not long enough. Mark is a brilliant host with a wealth of information and daily help with bookings. The beach has great snorkeling and is right there! Wonderful to sit on the porch and watch the waves. Mark’s recommended lagoon trips were amazing with a huge variety of fish and birds. Swimming with large Giant Trevally and a monster Hump Headed Wrass ( called The Emperor) was awesome. Also saw Eagle Rays and a huge Moray Eel. Loved the lively singing at the Christian Church on Sunday. Zipping around on a scooter was easy transport. Thanks to Mark for enhancing our visit.

5. Aroko Bungalows

Ara Tapu, Ngatangiia Cook Islands
Excellent
55%
Good
34%
Satisfactory
6%
Poor
3%
Terrible
2%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 148 reviews

Aroko Bungalows

Aroko Bungalows are snugly nestled amidst swaying palms and fragrant tropical flowers beside the peaceful waters of Muri Lagoon. Overlooking historic Avana Passage where the seven canoes set sail for Aotearoa(New Zealand) in the 1300's, Aroko Bungalows take full advantage of this magical South Pacific location. Our self-contained Open studio style(Basic kitchen, shower/toilet with Hot water) bungalows offer peace & quiet for the discerning traveler. We are located within walking distance from grocery, dive shop, restaurants, and world famous Muri Lagoon. Enjoy a romantic getaway or celebrate your family event with us! We offer affordability..because you deserve only the best!

Excellent stay

Reviewed By marieandrews108

Totally recommend staying here, Sonny was such a great host, nothing is a problem, we checked in early and checked out late, as we spent a month here during COVID, so no other guests around. A real highlight for me was watching the turtles coming to feed directly out the front of the bungalows on high tide each day. No where else on the island you can see this. They eat the sea grass from the bottom of the lagoon. The location is perfect, quiet but close to everything you need. The bungalows are well loved, gardens immaculate and Sonny is always adding improvements. It really felt like home and we are very, very sad to leave but we will be back ! Thank you Sonny for a perfect stay in every way !

6. Manea On Muri

Muri Beach, Ngatangiia District, Muri Cook Islands
Excellent
57%
Good
25%
Satisfactory
10%
Poor
5%
Terrible
2%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 169 reviews

Manea On Muri

Manea on Muri offers 3 x 1 bedroom Lagoon View Villas and 1 x 1 bedroom Garden View Villa. For families or bigger groups we also offer 1 x 3 bedroom River Side Villa. Convenient location in the heart of Muri Beach and walking distance to Island Nights, Lagoon Cruises and restaurants.

Think hard before you book

Reviewed By andreamN4158VZ

There are a couple of good points with this property, but they don’t outweigh the downsides. I’ve written many reviews over the years and try to always be objective to help others decide. By way of context we booked this accomodation last minute (2 days out) as our travel agent stuffed up our original booking so we didn’t really do enough research before confirming this place. The Location The property has direct access to the upper end of Muri beach (just around the corner past the rugby ground) and they provide a couple of stand up paddle boards and kayaks to explore the lagoon with. It gets quite shallow at this end of the lagoon so you really need to check when high tide is if you want to snorkel or swim. It was nice to be able to walk down the beach and back each day to get food, but you will need footwear for the first part as it is quite stony. The Accomodation Because of the location being on the end of Muri beach, you are more in amongst residential homes, and it is quite noisy. There are many roosters which crow throughout the day and night, the chickens sleep under the villa and next door they are building a restaurant so there is a skill saw and hammering going from about 8 in the morning at the moment. We stayed in the 3 bedroom unit (Unit 5) which definitely does not have the advertised specs of the other units and which the website and the travel agents confirmation mentions, e.g there is no rain shower, safe or TV (not that we usually want one on holiday). It said that it was renovated a month prior, but this still seems to be mid rennovation as it is very run down. The balcony and outdoor furniture especially are in need of serious repairs. Inside the furniture is also outdoor in nature and somewhat damaged. The kitchen cupboards are water damaged and sometimes nearly off their hinges. Unlike the other villas, this unit has glass louvre windows and some of the mosquito covers were broken or missing. Whilst the sheets were clean, the beds and pillows were very uncomfortable and one of the Kings was 2 singles pushed together. There are fans in most rooms and an aircon unit in one bedroom upstairs but it is broken. Shared Areas The photos of the shared areas on websites are quite out of date as these are also now quite run down, sometimes hazardous with holes in the decking surrounding the pool. The photos of the pool do not emphasise how small it is, it’s more a plunge pool. There are four loungers, with no padding and they are also somewhat broken. It is not really enough for the 7 units that they service. There is also no shady areas near the pool. Services Don’t expect much customer service. There was no transfer pick up from the airport so we had to pay additional $20 cash per person for a taxi. The room was supposed to be serviced on week days. It was serviced whilst we were out, but only twice about 4 days apart and this was just to drop off a couple of towels (not enough for everyone), make beds and empty kitchen rubbish bins (not the bathroom ones). Other than that we were pretty much left alone. We saw the manager when we arrived and she was leaving at the time and did not see us to our room, just pointed to the direction we needed to go and said that the key was under the doormat. We also saw her when on our check out day where she kindly let us store our bags and keep using the beach towels for one last swim. Wifi across the island is pretty unreliable, but it seemed more stable further down Muri beach than it was at this accomodation. Overall, as the title says, think hard before you book, even if its last minute like us. We chose this place for the access to Muri Lagoon, but if the accom itself is important to you, you may be better off going further out and hiring a car.

7. Aitutaki Seaside

Amuri Cook Islands
Excellent
63%
Good
29%
Satisfactory
3%
Poor
4%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 102 reviews

Aitutaki Seaside

AITUTAKI SEASIDE: Aitutaki Seaside is an accommodation made up of three absolute beachfront bungalows situated in a private setting on the north western side of Aitutaki. They are self catering, self servicing bungalows that are equipped with all of the essentials required to cater for your stay. As all three bungalows are ABSOLUTE BEACHFRONT they have excellent views to the lagoon straight from your veranda and being situated on the western side of the Island they all look out to the sunset side of the Island. From your bungalow walk on the white sandy beach and within seconds dip your toes in the stunning Turquoise lagoon. You will be greeted at the Airport and the managers will meet you at Aitutaki Seaside Lodges to welcome you and provide a brief orientation. Return airport transfers can be arranged. Please note a surcharge may apply. please contact us to request airport transfers. Each Bungalow has a simple open plan design with kitchenette and en-suite. They are fully insect screened and have air conditioning. There is a phone available to all guests in the guest laundry which will allow for making local calls to assist in booking restaurants, lagoon tours, rental vehicles and also to contact the managers if required. BBQ facilities are available for guests use. There is a wifi hotspot available from your room. Please note surcharges apply. Aitutaki Seaside provides good value and we are sue they will cater well to your stay in Aitutaki.

Stunning!

Reviewed By jackandmike

A beautiful spot right on the beach. Our host was great even gave us a very generous late check out time. Great unit especially for couples. Great sunset and views of the lagoon with good snorkeling. Would definitely come again

8. Etu Moana

Amuri Road, 12345 Cook Islands
Excellent
93%
Good
5%
Satisfactory
1%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 1119 reviews

Etu Moana

Etu Moana Beach Villas offers ten Polynesian style villas with thatched roofing. The Villas are situated on a beautiful white sandy beach and you have a mesmerizing view of the turquoise lagoon from each Villa. The Villas are all self contained and have a kingsize bed, large covered verandas, and Tasmanian oak floors. The style is crisp and modern. We offer complimentary Tropical breakfast, kayaks, SUP, snorkel equipment, and bicycles. In the rooms are smart TVs with 40+ movies on a hard drive. You are also able to listen to your own music by connecting your phone via bluetooth with a sound bar. In addition we also offer a gift USB card, coconut drink, ei's and airport transfers. The lovely Cook Island staff at Etu Moana are waiting for you!

Aitutaki’s Best

Reviewed By Trek28383548528

This was our second stay at Etu Moana. We have stayed at several other nice accommodations in Aitutaki, but Etu Moana reigns supreme! We were greeted warmly and treated with genuine kindness and hospitality during both visits. The management and staff are fantastic. The grounds of the property are gorgeous, and the spacious villas are casually elegant, truly comfortable, and immaculate. So many thoughtful extras too… Their exquisite location on the lagoon is perfect for a snorkel, or take advantage of their kayaks and stand up paddle-boards. We also loved the poolside honor bar and delicious island breakfast. Simply put, Etu Moana is that dreamy paradise you’ve been looking for. Can’t wait for our next visit!

9. Muri Beachcomber

Ara Tapu Rd, Muri Beach Village, Muri 2000 Cook Islands
Excellent
71%
Good
23%
Satisfactory
5%
Poor
1%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 695 reviews

Muri Beachcomber

Muri Beachcomber is a small, intimate property in prime position on the shores of beautiful Muri Lagoon - 22 units ensuring a truly relaxing holiday atmosphere. Our stylish rooms offer separate air-conditioned bedrooms, spacious living/dining area, well-equipped kitchen and modern bathroom. Perfect for long stays. The Seaview Units and Watergarden Villas are ideal for couples seeking a peaceful retreat, the poolside Garden Units are wonderful for families seeking quality time together. Facilities include a swimming pool, barbecues, wifi plus guest computer, petanque , guest laundry, tour desk, snorkeling equipment, kayaks, paddle boards, bicycles & guest lounge. Shops, pharmacy, hairdresser, cafes & restaurants within easy walking distance. Offering a moderately priced, quality experience in a prime location. Includes Airport Transfers, Free use of kayaks, paddle boards, BBQ's, bicycles, snorkel gear, Daily Breakfast pack, Tea, coffee & sugar supplied daily plus Free local calls.

Slice if Paradise

Reviewed By 332ering

Couldn't fault Muri Beachcomber. It was a wonderful place to stay, the position, the staff, the accommodation were all top notch. We would definitely book again when we return to the Cook Islands. A resort that would be very hard to beat. Erin & Ken

10. MOTU Beachfront Art Villas

Main Road Ara Tapu, Titikaveka 0001 Cook Islands 011 682 24 682
Excellent
91%
Good
8%
Satisfactory
1%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 444 reviews

MOTU Beachfront Art Villas

Welcome to MOTU, formerly Royale Takitumu. We are Rarotonga’s newest boutique resort. Tucked away on the shores of the lagoon, MOTU (meaning island) is a stylish haven for tranquillity and relaxation. Offering ten self-contained villas, each is secluded within tropical gardens laden with colourful native plants and flowers. The newly modernised villas invite sophisticated relaxation, with designer interiors and a collection of artworks from across the Pacific. Each villa is air-conditioned and features a spacious bedroom, living area, kitchenette and bathroom, as well as a shaded balcony. You can look forward to exploring the colourful sea life of the lagoon with snorkelling and kayaking gear included with each stay, as well as electric bicycles for discovering the beauty of this tiny nation and its people. Or recline by the fresh-water pool and enjoy a local beer on tap. In high summer you will experience blazing sunrises and sunsets beyond the reef. Our intimate size allows for personalised care for all our guests and is perfect for romantic getaways. We give our environment and our iti tangata (our people) the same care as our guests. We use environmentally friendly products, state of the art wastewater management, and electric vehicles to help preserve our piece of paradise. The majority of our profits support our island community through healthcare, education and the arts, and every stay at MOTU contributes to this. We look forward to welcoming you to MOTU – our island within an island.

Fabulous place to stay

Reviewed By cecilia l

Our gorgeous villa was in a very tranquil setting - it had everything we needed. Beautiful pristine beach in front of the villas. All of the staff were very friendly and helpful. Nothing was overlooked. We cannot wait to return.

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