Set up in Avarua Town
As the capital of Raratonga, Avarua is a buzzing little town that continues to grow into a popular destination for travellers hoping to escape without leaving it all behind. The town is small and easily explored on foot, but all amenities are easily found along its one main street. It is also home to a sweep of quality hotels.
Embracing it's beautiful ocean views, the majority of Avarua accommodation sits along the waterfront. Ranging from the 4-star Ocean Spray Villa to the more modest 3-star offerings of Paradise Inn and Rarotonga Villas, there is a staying option to satisfy your pocket size. All are also conveniently located close to the town centre for added convenience.
Get out of Avarua
Seeing as Rarotonga is a reasonably small island, it seems remiss to visit and not get out and about to explore beyond Avarua. Just outside the city, Muri Beach is popular for snorkelling, or head inland to explore the many hiking trails through the verdant interior. Accommodation is available all along the coast, providing a comfortable place to stay no matter where you go.
Novice snorkelers can set up in Muri Beach at the Muri Beach Resort or Muri Beach Club Hotel for easy access to the beach. There are also hiking trails nearby. More experienced divers may want to venture west to the Aroa Lagoon Marine Reserve with hotels such as Castaway Resort positioned close by. The southern entrance to the Cross Island trail is also nearby.
Make a quick getaway
It's near impossible to book a hotel that isn't within minutes of the airport, but if you want to book a night extra close to ensure a quick getaway, there are a couple of hotels positioned moments from the terminal.
The Islander Hotel is a mere four minute drive from the entry to the international airport and provides guests with 3-star amenities and comfortable rooms overlooking the ocean. It is also close to such local highlights as the coral church, Beachcomber Pearl Market and National Museum of the Cook Islands.