Title: Southern Cook Islands Travel Guide: Best of Southern Cook Islands, Australia - New Zealand and the South Pacific Travel 2026 | Expedia.co.uk [Hotels in Southern Cook Islands](https://expedia.co.uk/Southern-Cook-Islands-Hotels.d3000423530.Travel-Guide-Hotels)[Holiday Rentals in Southern Cook Islands](https://expedia.co.uk/Southern-Cook-Islands-Holiday-Rentals.d3000423530.Travel-Guide-HolidayRentals)[Flights to Southern Cook Islands](https://expedia.co.uk/Cheap-Flights-To-Southern-Cook-Islands.d3000423530.Travel-Guide-Flights)[Southern Cook Islands Car Hire](https://expedia.co.uk/Compare-Cheap-Car-Hire-In-Southern-Cook-Islands.d3000423530.Car-Hire-Guide)[Southern Cook Islands Holidays](https://expedia.co.uk/Southern-Cook-Islands.d3000423530.Holidays-City-Breaks) # Southern Cook Islands Travel Guide ## Tourist Guide ![The most picture perfect beach I had ever seen was on Aitutaki in the Cook Islands. We rode our old rented bicycles down a narrow sand road, and there was nobody around so we got the beach to ourselves! ](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6055270/a3591153-fc5c-46d6-8024-9df525bb505d.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![The most picture perfect beach I had ever seen was on Aitutaki in the Cook Islands. We rode our old rented bicycles down a narrow sand road, and there was nobody around so we got the beach to ourselves! ](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6055270/a3591153-fc5c-46d6-8024-9df525bb505d.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![If you ask me what is my dream accommodation, it is something like this: A wooden bungalow directly on a white beach with a view to a turquoise sea lagoon. I spent a couple of unforgettable nights here, and I'm hoping to be back someday!](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6055270/3d43468b-ddb2-453a-8f30-bc69a93bf622.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Aitutaki is one of the most perfect places I've ever seen. Inside the surrounding coral reefs there is a picture perfect turquoise lagoon with sand dunes rising above the water level. This is the first view of the atoll when arriving by air. Aitutaki is the second most visited island of the Cook Islands and the flight from the capital island of Rarotonga takes only 45 minutes.](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6055270/31ac935f-bb97-4dc5-b628-2c474f4c6db9.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![If you're looking for a perfect beach in Rarotonga, head to Muri Beach to the East coast. There are a couple of sand motus in the lagoon, which you can swim or kayak to when the conditions are alright. ](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6055267/b3d8c044-9acb-4202-97e4-ed5b8b6c6013.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ## Visit Southern Cook Islands Where to stay Things to do ### Where to stay in Southern Cook Islands ![Arorangi featuring kayaking or canoeing and general coastal views](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6055265/0d66cf3a-caff-4aac-a8e5-b238d83b97ef.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Arorangi 4.5/5(4 area reviews) Arorangi is beloved for its stunning beaches. Take some time to explore sights in the area like Aroa Beach and Black Rock. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Rarotonga-Arorangi.dx6055265) ![After husking and grilling coconuts following amazing recipes I promised I won't disclose, we wanted some rest by the lagoon to enjoy the surroundings and incredible locals](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/553248635975856248/1178ea06-2961-4485-a120-4e415f84947c.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Muri While visiting Muri, you might make a stop by sights like Muri Beach and Muri Night Markets. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Muri.dx553248635975438227) ![Titikaveka featuring tranquil scenes](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6055269/ff5eef36-9be9-4923-90be-55d3376fffdc.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Tapere of Titikaveka 5/5(4 area reviews) Tapere of Titikaveka is known for its beaches, and you can plan a trip to Muri Beach and Tikioki Marine Sanctuary while you're in town. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Cook-Islands-Tapere-Of-Titikaveka.dx6055269) ![If you're looking for a perfect beach in Rarotonga, head to Muri Beach to the East coast. There are a couple of sand motus in the lagoon, which you can swim or kayak to when the conditions are alright. ](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6055267/b3d8c044-9acb-4202-97e4-ed5b8b6c6013.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Takitumu District While visiting Takitumu District, you might make a stop by sights like Muri Beach and Muri Night Markets. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Rarotonga-Takitumu-District.dx553248635975856248) ![#LifeAtExpedia](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6055262/3097b48c-047e-4352-bc60-b71f571c0232.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Takuvaine Tapere While visiting Takuvaine Tapere, you might make a stop by sights like Cook Islands Library and Museum and Arai-Te-Tonga. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Rarotonga-Takuvaine-Tapere.dx553248635975750017) ![Avarua showing a bay or harbour and mountains](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6142569/884e8335-0670-4cef-8fd5-18d0e3bb27bd.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Avarua 4/5(1 area review) Beaches, snorkelling and bars are just a few things travellers enjoy about Avarua. Check out Cook Islands Library and Museum or Punanga Nui Market while you're exploring the area. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Rarotonga-Avarua.dx6142569) - Top hotels in Southern Cook Islands - Top Holiday Rentals in Southern Cook Islands ![The Edgewater Resort & Spa](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/2000000/1590000/1583400/1583329/8e785258_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### The Edgewater Resort & Spa Avarua Rarotonga £113 13 Feb - 14 Feb includes taxes & fees Stay at this beach resort in Rarotonga. Enjoy free breakfast, free Wi-Fi and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in their reviews. ... 8.4/10 Very Good! (1,004 reviews) Had a lovely time at Edgewater Resort. The staff were friendly and always greeted us with a smile. The grounds and rooms were immaculate. The staff that catered for my sister's birthday did a fantastic job as well✨ Would highly recommend to anyone visiting Rarotonga ☺️ Reviewed on 29 Jan 2026 [](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=13%2F02%2F2026&endDate=14%2F02%2F2026&selected=1583329&PinnedHotelID=1583329&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=3000423530) ![Club Raro Resort – Adults Only](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/3000000/2440000/2434100/2434054/b8d2a3f9_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Club Raro Resort – Adults Only Ara Tapu Rarotonga £96 23 Feb - 24 Feb includes taxes & fees Stay at this beach resort in Rarotonga. Enjoy free breakfast, free Wi-Fi and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in their reviews. ... 8/10 Very Good! (1,001 reviews) Great staff Reviewed on 28 Jan 2026 [](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=23%2F02%2F2026&endDate=24%2F02%2F2026&selected=2434054&PinnedHotelID=2434054&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=3000423530) ![The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/1000000/810000/801800/801791/dd647014_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium Aroa Beach Marine Reserve, Arorangi Rarotonga Stay at this beach hotel in Rarotonga. Enjoy free parking, 2 restaurants and a private beach. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the family amenities in ... 8/10 Very Good! (508 reviews) courteous staff Reviewed on 28 Jan 2026 [Get rates](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=18%2F02%2F2026&endDate=19%2F02%2F2026&selected=801791&PinnedHotelID=801791&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=3000423530) [](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=18%2F02%2F2026&endDate=19%2F02%2F2026&selected=801791&PinnedHotelID=801791&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=3000423530) [See all 382 properties in Southern Cook Islands](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.Hotels.DestinationExperience&startDate=05%2F02%2F2026&endDate=06%2F02%2F2026®ionId=3000423530) Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply. ![Kia Orana Villas and Spa](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/20000000/19820000/19812700/19812663/941b8315_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Kia Orana Villas and Spa 2 Ariki Road Rarotonga Stay at this business-friendly aparthotel in Rarotonga. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in their ... 9.4/10 Exceptional! (98 reviews) Room was great. Staff was amazing and Joe was kind allowing us to have breakfast earlier thank opening time on our first morning. Reviewed on 18 Nov 2025 [](https://expedia.co.uk/Rarotonga-Hotels-Kia-Orana-Villas-And-Spa.h19812663.Hotel-Information) ![Tropical Sands](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/6000000/5390000/5388600/5388600/959a35fc_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Tropical Sands Muri Village (4 minutes away) Rarotonga Stay at this beach apartment in Rarotonga. Enjoy free parking, a beach locale and Wi-Fi (surcharge). Popular attractions Muri Beach and Avana Harbour are located ... 9.2/10 Wonderful! (126 reviews) We can't fault the attention and excellent service Kanoe & Rudy gave us. The room was spotless and very well equipped and the deck was huge which we found a real bonus. Reviewed on 31 Dec 2025 [](https://expedia.co.uk/Rarotonga-Hotels-Tropical-Sands.h5388600.Hotel-Information) ![Te Manava Luxury Villas](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/10000000/9110000/9103100/9103026/18da3749_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Te Manava Luxury Villas Avarua Rarotonga Stay at this beach aparthotel in Rarotonga. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and private pools. Popular attractions Muri Beach and Matutu Brewing Company are located ... 9.6/10 Exceptional! (72 reviews) Amazing villa Reviewed on 27 Jan 2026 [](https://expedia.co.uk/Rarotonga-Hotels-Te-Manava-Luxury-Villas-Spa.h9103026.Hotel-Information) [See all properties in Southern Cook Islands](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.Hotels.DestinationExperience®ionId=3000423530&sort=VACATION_RENTAL) Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply. ## Check Southern Cook Islands hotel availability [Tonight ](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=3000423530&startDate=2026-02-04&endDate=2026-02-05)[4 Feb - 5 Feb](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=3000423530&startDate=2026-02-04&endDate=2026-02-05) [Tomorrow night ](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=3000423530&startDate=2026-02-05&endDate=2026-02-06)[5 Feb - 6 Feb](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=3000423530&startDate=2026-02-05&endDate=2026-02-06) [This weekend ](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=3000423530&startDate=06%2F02%2F2026&endDate=08%2F02%2F2026)[6 Feb - 8 Feb](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=3000423530&startDate=06%2F02%2F2026&endDate=08%2F02%2F2026) [Next weekend ](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=3000423530&startDate=13%2F02%2F2026&endDate=15%2F02%2F2026)[13 Feb - 15 Feb](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=3000423530&startDate=13%2F02%2F2026&endDate=15%2F02%2F2026) ### Popular places to visit ![Muri Beach which includes tropical scenes](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6055267/2a662e9a-fcb0-4422-924d-ae96403bf801.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Muri Beach 4.5/5(5 reviews) Stretch out comfortably on the bone-white beach while watching the sunrise over Rarotonga’s popular lagoon. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Muri-Beach-Muri.d6055267.Attraction) ![Aro\'a Beach featuring a sandy beach as well as a couple](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6142568/aace02c5-a329-4887-8b3c-8f38072990ba.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Aroa Beach 5/5(2 reviews) Leave the bustle of the modern world behind and lounge on stretches of powdery white sand with the transparent Pacific Ocean at your fingertips. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Aroa-Beach-Arorangi.d6142568.Attraction) ![Sunrise at Cape Tourville, Freycinet Peninsula, Tasmania, Shutterstock ID 439005910, Purchase Order: -](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/553248621532611404/ed7788f5-79e7-418f-8bad-24f64fde8e9e.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Muri Lagoon 5/5(5 reviews) Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Muri Lagoon during your travels in Rarotonga. While you're in the area, stroll along the beaches. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Muri-Lagoon-Cook-Islands.d553248621532611404.Attraction) ![Tikioki Marine Sanctuary which includes tropical scenes and a sandy beach](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6127390/f015973f-482b-49a9-82cd-0ef3610282f3.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Tikioki Marine Sanctuary 4/5(1 review) Swim with multi-colored fish or spend hours on a stretch of powdery white beach at one of Rarotonga's best coastal spots. Dive around nearby shipwrecks. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Tikioki-Marine-Sanctuary-Tapere-of-Titikaveka.d6127390.Attraction) ![Rarotonga which includes interior views](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6101154/d511a9e2-028a-421c-95a8-dfe69dfcb646.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Cook Islands Library and Museum 5/5(1 review) Through art and literature, learn about the history and traditions of the Cook Islands in a library and museum run by friendly local residents. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Cook-Islands-Library-And-Museum-Takuvaine-Tapere.d6101154.Attraction) ![One Foot Island Beach which includes tropical scenes and a sandy beach as well as a small group of people](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6101144/e35eb542-d659-483e-8cce-f42d7f40af83.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### One Foot Island Beach 5/5(1 review) Escape from the modern world to a tropical beach that has been identified as one of the best in Australasia. [](https://expedia.co.uk/One-Foot-Island-Beach-Tekopua.d6101144.Attraction) ## Cities near Southern Cook Islands ![Atiu featuring rocky coastline as well as a family](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/553248635922901434/ecfe6b42-f992-4422-bcb9-396e05e30be3.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium) ### Atiu ![Gorgeous Mangaia sunset near Babe’s Place. Cook Islands.](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/2284/c76d01b9-1667-41ee-b94f-b5523b1fa253.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium) ### Mangaia ![Ngatangiia](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6046161/7c1bf207-7931-4d04-9f48-220a6f467e2f.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium) ### Ngatangiia ![Arutanga showing fishing and general coastal views as well as a small group of people](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6055272/35c360c2-8039-43ad-936b-e8c57e6f4470.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium) ### Arutanga - Cities near Southern Cook Islands [Atiu](https://expedia.co.uk/Atiu.dx332)[Mangaia](https://expedia.co.uk/Mangaia.dx2284)[Ngatangiia](https://expedia.co.uk/Ngatangiia.dx6046161)[Arutanga](https://expedia.co.uk/Arutanga.dx6055272)[Tekopua](https://expedia.co.uk/Tekopua.dx6199153)[Palmerston Island](https://expedia.co.uk/Palmerston-Island.dx3000423527) ![](https://a.travel-assets.com/mad-service/footer/bnaBanners/BEX_Footer.jpg) ## Go further with the Expedia app Save on select hotels when you book in the app. Our app deals help you to save on trips so you can travel more and manage it all on the go. 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