This two-bedroom bungalow in Titikaveka, Takitumu District, Rarotonga, offers direct beach access to Titikaveka's lagoon, is 0.025km from the beach, and is within easy walking distance of Maire Nui Gardens Cafe and Charlie's Cafe & Bar. The self-contained property sleeps four, features a fully equipped kitchen, a private deck with BBQ, shared kayaks, and a washing machine; nearby attractions include Little Polynesian Resort (0.15km away).
9.6 5 reviews
Vaka Beach Cottage
apartment
Vaka Beach Cottage, a self-contained studio apartment in Rarotonga's Takitumu district, is situated steps from Titikaveka's beach. This air-conditioned unit sleeps two, features a kitchenette with a fridge and microwave, and offers access to swimming, snorkelling, and kayaking in a nearby marine protected area; it's part of the Sands Villas property, allowing for combined bookings.
10 11 reviews
Matutu Beach House - 100m From Beach
apartment
This beachfront property in Takitumu, Rarotonga, is located directly across the road from the beach. The two-bedroom, one-bathroom house, formerly the Matutu Brewing building, offers a fully equipped kitchen, sleeps four guests, and features a mezzanine bedroom accessed by a spiral staircase, boasting a unique local art collection.
This beachfront studio apartment in Matavera, Rarotonga, boasts stunning sunrise views and is located 3km from Muri Beach and Muri Market, with a mini-market and coffee shop a 2-minute walk away. The self-contained unit features a spacious layout with a separate lounge, air-conditioned bedroom, and deck, sleeping two guests and offering amenities including a washing machine, WiFi (voucher required), and a selection of movies.
9.9 187 reviews
Raukura Holiday Homes 2, Free Wifi, A/c
bungalow
This self-catering bungalow in Titikaveka village, Takitumu District, offers easy access to Papaaroa Beach. The one-bedroom property sleeps two, features a well-equipped kitchen, free Wi-Fi, private parking, and a shared laundry, perfect for a relaxing beach holiday.
10 1 review
Kuki Beach Bach
apartment
Kuki Beach Bach offers a self-contained one-bedroom unit in Matavera District, located directly on the oceanfront in the village of Matavera, a short drive from Rarotonga's eastern coast attractions. This beachfront apartment provides direct access to a private stretch of beach, uninterrupted ocean views, a fully equipped kitchen, and complimentary Wi-Fi for up to two guests.
9.8 56 reviews
Summer House Rarotonga
apartment
Summer House Rarotonga, situated in the Avarua District, is a 5-minute (8km) drive from Rarotonga International Airport and a 15-minute (1.2km) walk from Avarua town. This self-catering property sleeps two guests in a king-size or twin beds, boasting a well-equipped kitchenette, air conditioning, a private deck with mountain views, and unlimited high-speed Wi-Fi; nearby car, scooter and bicycle rentals facilitate island exploration.
10 2 reviews
Atiu Villas Family Villa
house
This charming house is located in a peaceful neighbourhood in Areora, just a short walk from the bustling market square and within easy reach of the scenic harbour. The property has one bedroom and one bathroom, comfortably accommodating up to five guests. This home features a kitchen with a fridge and freezer, a swimming pool, a garden, and parking.
10 4 reviews
Red Hibiscus Villa 7
house
Red Hibiscus Villas offer a one-bedroom villa near Rarotonga Airport, providing convenient access to Avarua town centre and its beaches. This self-catering property features a queen-size bed, air conditioning, a kitchenette with fridge and microwave, a private patio, and access to a shared swimming pool and BBQ area; it sleeps two guests.
9.9 226 reviews
Modern Air Conditioned With Free Wi-fi And Netflix
apartment
This apartment is located in Avarua District, just a short distance from the airport, town centre, and parks, offering views of the garden and the ocean. This property has received excellent ratings for cleanliness, location and overall experience from previous guests. The ground floor flat sleeps two guests and has a private deck overlooking the garden and ocean. Amenities include a kitchen with a small fridge freezer, microwave, and hot plate, air conditioning, and a private parking space.
9.9 19 reviews
The Cave Retreats
Unit 1
apartment
This Arorangi self-catering apartment is conveniently located near shops and beaches, offering easy access to Arorangi's attractions. The one-bedroom unit features a king-size bed, a fully equipped kitchen, air conditioning, private parking, and sleeps two guests; a complimentary fishing charter is included for stays of seven nights or more.
9.2 531 reviews
Red Hibiscus Villas
house, Rarotonga
Red Hibiscus Villas is situated in a peaceful area of Rarotonga, just 2.4 kilometres from Nikao Beach and Black Rock Beach, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle. The property enjoys excellent user, location and cleanliness ratings. Each room in the villa has a private entrance and a range of amenities, including a flat-screen TV, a private bathroom with a shower and hairdryer, and a kettle. Guests can enjoy a refreshing dip in the outdoor swimming pool, relax in the jacuzzi, or take advantage of the garden with a barbecue, free bikes, and a picnic area.
Best family friendly Cook Islands vacation rentals
Among the 1027 accommodations in Cook Islands, here are the 4 best family friendly rentals
10 101 reviews
Te Are Anau - The Family Home
apartment
This apartment is located in a peaceful neighbourhood on the north side of Rarotonga, just a short distance from the town centre, shops and the airport. It has received excellent ratings for user experience, location and cleanliness. The apartment offers three bedrooms and two bathrooms, comfortably accommodating up to six guests. Amenities include air conditioning, a swimming pool, a garden, parking, a fully equipped kitchen with a fridge, microwave oven and dishwasher, plus internet access.
9.5 38 reviews
Natura Lagoon 2bm Bungalow 1
bungalow
This beachfront bungalow in Titikaveka, Takitumu District, is situated just 3 metres from Titikaveka's beach, opposite Maire Nui Gardens Cafe, and within 0.15km of Charlie's Cafe & Bar and Little Polynesian Resort. The self-catering property offers two king-size bedrooms, sleeping up to four guests, and features a fully equipped kitchen, open-plan living area, private deck with BBQ, shared kayaks, and a washing machine in the carport; snorkelling is excellent directly from the beach.
9.8 13 reviews
Rainbow Villas -Golf And Ocean View With Pool
house
Rainbow Villas, a one-bedroom villa in Rarotonga, boasts stunning ocean views from its high-western location overlooking the Rarotonga Golf Club, a short drive from Black Rock beach. This self-catering property sleeps three, offering a spacious open-plan layout with a super king-size bed, daybed, kitchen, bathroom, private deck, and access to a shared swimming pool within a tropical garden; unlimited Wi-Fi is also included.
10 46 reviews
The Tree House Cozy Flat
apartment
This apartment is located in Arorangi, just a 1 kilometre walk from a beautiful white sandy beach, with the capital, Avarua, a short 8 kilometre drive away. It has received excellent ratings for location, cleanliness, and overall user experience. The apartment has one bedroom and one bathroom, comfortably accommodating up to three guests. It offers a private entrance, a garden, a covered veranda, a BBQ, and internet access, and is close to restaurants, shops, and a range of activities like golfing, fishing, and exploring the local Polynesian culture.
Best Cook Islands vacation rentals with a pool
Among the 1027 accommodations in Cook Islands, here are the 4 best rentals with a pool
10 20 reviews
Rangiura Retreat
apartment
This three-bedroom, two-bathroom holiday home in Avarua offers stunning panoramic Pacific Ocean views from its deck and is situated close to the coast, though the precise location within Avarua is unspecified. The single-storey property boasts a private pool, lush garden, wheelchair accessibility, and sleeps up to six guests, with additional guests accommodated at an extra cost; features include a kitchen equipped with a fridge, freezer, and microwave.
10 7 reviews
Runway Retreat By The Mountains
apartment
This spacious two-storey residence in Avarua is located a five-minute drive from the airport, placing it conveniently close to local amenities such as a bakery and dairy. This seven-bedroom, two-bathroom villa accommodates up to 16 guests and features air conditioning, Wi-Fi, two fully equipped kitchens, a private swimming pool, and an outdoor barbecue area.
10 1 review
A Modern 5-bedroom Home In The Heart Of Muri Beach
apartment
This modern residence is located in Muri, a short walk from Muri beach, shops, and restaurants. This expansive 250sqm apartment offers accommodation for 10 guests, featuring three bathrooms, a well-equipped kitchen, air conditioning, a swimming pool, and a garden.
9.8 113 reviews
Arcadia Retreat Rarotonga
house, Rarotonga
Arcadia Retreat Rarotonga is located in Arorangi, just 200 metres from the white sandy beach and a 3-minute walk from the Pacific Fish & Chip Shop, offering a convenient and relaxing stay. The property has consistently received excellent ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience. The two-bedroom house features a fully equipped kitchen and a private bathroom with complimentary toiletries. Guests can enjoy the lagoon-style swimming pool, tropical gardens, BBQ facilities, and easy access to local eateries and Rarotonga International Airport.
Frequently Asked Questions about vacation rentals in Cook Islands
What are the must-see places in the Cook Islands?
For must-see places, Rarotonga is a great starting point. Check out Muri Lagoon with its iconic white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The dramatic needle-like rock formations at the Aroa Marine Reserve are stunning. Aitutaki is another highlight, boasting the breathtaking lagoon and One Foot Island, a tiny islet famed for its picturesque beauty. On Atiu, the ancient caves and lush landscapes are a must-see.
What are the best Airbnb and vacation rentals in Cook Islands?
What type of vacation rentals am I likely to find on the Cook Islands?
You can find your own private paradise in the Cook Islands with the perfect vacation rental. Whether you want your own home to rent, villa, studio with ocean views, a bungalow right on the beach, or a cute cottage, you can find the right vacation rental for your South Pacific dream trip.
What are the typical activities to do in the Cook Islands?
The Cook Islands offer a range of activities. Lagoon cruises and snorkeling or diving trips are popular, showcasing the vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Hiking trails wind through lush rainforests, offering breathtaking views. Exploring the local villages and markets provides a glimpse into the island culture. For relaxation, simply unwind on the pristine beaches or enjoy a traditional island massage.
What are the most popular Airbnbs in Cook Islands?
Where is the best place in the Cook Islands to book a vacation rental?
Most of the vacation rentals are located on the main island of Rarotonga, but you can find vacation rentals on the Aitutaki, Atiu, Mauke, and Mangaia islands. You'd need to take a flight from Rarotonga to reach the other island, but if you want to avoid the crowds of the main island and prefer something a little more offbeat, they could be a good choice.
Which part of the Cook Islands offers the most pleasant climate?
The climate is generally pleasant year-round, but the islands in the southern group, like Rarotonga and Aitutaki, experience a slightly milder climate than those further north. However, all the islands enjoy warm temperatures and sunshine.
What are the best vacation rentals with a pool in Cook Islands?
April and November are the driest months in the Cook Islands, making this the best time to visit. The Cook Islands have a tropical climate, but they have steady humidity levels and temperatures, making it just right to visit this time of year.
What airport options are there for reaching the Cook Islands?
The main airport is Rarotonga International Airport (RAR), which receives international flights. From there, inter-island flights connect to other islands in the group.
What are the best rentals for families and kids in Cook Islands?
What dishes should I try when visiting the Cook Islands?
Ika Mata is one of the Cook Islands' top delicacies. It's a Polynesian salad made with a base of coconut cream, topped with chopped vegetables and raw fish, usually flying fish (Marora). You may also want to try Banana Poke, made from overripe bananas, coconut cream and served with plenty of sugar. Another delicacy to try is Rukau, young Taro leaves cooked in coconut cream and caramelized onions. Also, try Rori, sea cucumber, which is often cooked with garlic, butter, and herbs.
Are there specific challenges to driving in the Cook Islands that visitors should know?
Driving in the Cook Islands is generally straightforward, but it's important to remember that the roads can be narrow and winding, especially in the more rural areas. Driving on the left side of the road is standard. Rental cars are readily available, but it's advisable to obtain a local driving permit.
What are the best rentals or Airbnbs with a jacuzzi in Cook Islands?
Even if you're staying on Rarotonga, make sure you take a day trip to Aitutaki to visit the stunning Aitutaki Lagoon, one of the most beautiful in the South Pacific. Rarotonga also has its own stunning lagoons, like Muri. If you make it over to Mauke, don't miss the Motuanga caves! This complex set of tunnels and caverns go out under the reef and out to sea.
What are the top festivals to experience in the Cook Islands?
The Cook Islands hosts various cultural events. The annual Te Maeva Nui festival in Rarotonga is a significant celebration of Cook Islands culture, showcasing music, dance, and traditional crafts. Smaller local festivals are held throughout the year on different islands.
What is the best time of year to visit the Cook Islands?
The best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. The dry season (May-October) offers generally sunny skies.
What are some local dishes to try in the Cook Islands?
You should definitely try Ika Mata (marinated raw fish), a refreshing and flavorful dish. Poi, a starchy side dish made from taro, is a staple, as is Rumaki, grilled seafood wrapped in banana leaves. The local fruits, like mangoes and pineapples, are also delicious.
What emergency numbers should you know in case of a medical or security issue in the Cook Islands?
For medical emergencies, dial 999. For police emergencies, also dial 999.
What etiquette tips are important when visiting the Cook Islands?
Respectful behavior is appreciated. It's customary to greet people with a 'Kia Orana' (hello). Modest attire is appropriate when visiting churches or cultural sites. Asking permission before taking photos of people is polite.
What are the best areas to spend a week in the Cook Islands?
A week allows for exploring multiple islands. Consider spending a few days in Rarotonga, exploring Muri Lagoon and its surrounding areas. Then, fly to Aitutaki for a few days of relaxation in its stunning lagoon. Atiu is another great option for those seeking a more tranquil experience.
What are the best areas to spend a weekend in the Cook Islands?
For a weekend getaway, Rarotonga is ideal. Focus on Muri Lagoon, enjoying its beaches and watersports. A quick trip to a local village might also be possible, offering a cultural experience.
What are the top shopping destinations in the Cook Islands?
Rarotonga offers the best shopping options. The Punanga Nui Market is a great place to find local crafts, pearls, and clothing. Smaller shops and boutiques are scattered throughout the island's main towns.
What are some off-the-beaten-path places to explore in the Cook Islands?
For off-the-beaten-path adventures, consider exploring the less-visited islands like Mangaia, known for its dramatic cliffs and caves, or Palmerston Atoll, a remote coral atoll offering exceptional snorkeling and diving.
Top regions
Cook Islands
Best Cook Islands vacation rentals with parking
9.8 48 reviews
Ardi Escape 2 Bedroom Unit
apartment
This Arorangi District holiday home boasts stunning mountain views and sunsets, situated minutes from Aroa Marine Reserve and local bush walks. The two-bedroom, one-bathroom property sleeps four, offering a fully equipped kitchen (fridge, freezer, microwave), a large deck with Weber BBQ, free unlimited WiFi, and a spacious lawn with coconut trees; guests can enjoy outdoor living and access to nearby activities.
9.7 73 reviews
Beach House With Wifi & Car - Nikao.
apartment
This Island Shabby chic property in CK offers a 4-door manual car included with your booking, ideal for exploring the island; precise location details within CK are not specified in the listing. The self-catering house, sleeping four in two bedrooms and one bathroom, features a full kitchen, washing machine, private verandah, ceiling fans, fly screens, and access to gardens with banana and pawpaw trees.
10 60 reviews
Manta-ray Beach Unit 2
apartment
This beachfront studio apartment in Arorangi District, Rarotonga, offers direct beach access and stunning sunset views. Each self-contained unit features a king-size bed, sofa bed, fully equipped kitchen including fridge, freezer and microwave, private plunge pool, in-unit laundry, air conditioning and parking for a maximum of two guests.
9.9 117 reviews
Avana Valley Heights Apt. 4
apartment
This one-bedroom apartment is situated in the Avana Valley, just minutes from Muri Beach and its attractions, offering a peaceful retreat in the Ngatangiia District. The apartment enjoys excellent user, location, and cleanliness ratings, making it a popular choice for travellers. The apartment is fully furnished and self-contained, comfortably accommodating two guests. It comes equipped with a microwave, fridge/freezer, full gas stove top and oven, satellite TV, filtered water, and a WIFI hotspot, alongside a garden and parking.