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Little Polynesian, Rarotonga

Little Polynesian

Rarotonga, The Cook Islands

Set on a palm-fringed beach overlooking Titikaveka Lagoon, Little Polynesian is an intimate resort offering great service and attention to detail. The friendly, local staff greet you as old friends on arrival, and the facilities on offer are reminiscent of those of a far larger hotel.

Guests can choose between Garden Studios set back from the beach in lush tropical gardens, or Beachfront Bungalows which offer views across the lagoon and out to the ocean. All rooms are quiet and spacious with a classic yet sophisticated 'island' decor, private courtyards, and indoor and outdoor showers.

The small restaurant offers casual poolside dining as well as more formal indoor seating and serves a range of dishes that span from traditional Polynesian to modern European fare.

Resort facilities include a saltwater infinity pool with panoramic views and complimentary use of kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and snorkelling gear.

OUR OPINION:

We love this secluded resort for its beachfront location and serene beauty. The rooms feature hand-carved detailing and offer heavenly views.

OUR RATING: First Class

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Audley Travel specialist Tom

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Rooms

Thatched roofs with a high pitch give the rooms at Little Polynesian a traditional appearance but inside, they are bright, modern and airy. The decor is pale and simple with touches of tropical vibrancy in the cushions. The Garden Studios sit among lush planting a few steps from the beach, while the split-level Beach Bungalows look out over the water. All rooms have a kitchenette, private courtyard and outdoor shower as well as air conditioning, flat-screen TV, and Wi-Fi (at an additional cost). The Beach Bungalows have the addition of dining and lounge areas with views of the lagoon.

Location

The hotel sits at the southern tip of Rarotonga on a stretch of golden sand fringed by palm trees and overlooking the Titikaveka Lagoon. The marine park at Tikioki, renowned as the best snorkelling spot on the island, is just down the road and there are a variety of local cafés within walking distance. The airport is about a 20-minute drive away.

Food and drink

A generous tropical-island breakfast is available in the restaurant or can be delivered to your room. During the day, a range of casual dishes is served by the pool, while in the evening, a full menu of traditional Polynesian and modern European cuisine is served overlooking the Titikaveka Lagoon. Private dining on the beach can also be arranged, or, if you prefer to eat out, there are a variety of local cafés within walking distance.

Families

The hotel is open to over 18s only.

Facilities and activities

Along with a saltwater infinity pool, it’s possible to swim or snorkel in the lagoon at high and low tide. The hotel offers complimentary use of kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and snorkels, and one of the best snorkelling spots on the island is just a short distance away. The hotel can also arrange a lagoon cruise or snorkel cruise.

Tour ideas in Rarotonga

Our itineraries are there to spark ideas for how you could include a stay at Little Polynesian as part of your trip. Treat them simply as suggestions, because every aspect of the trip we create for you will be yours to define.

Location & places nearby

Places & hotels on the map

    Alternative places to stay nearby

    Where possible, we like to offer a range of accommodation for each stop of your trip, chosen by our specialists as some of their favourite places to stay. To help you make the right choice, we give each property a rating based on its facilities and service, but we also look for hotels with distinct character or a location that can't be bettered.

    Experiences while staying here

    The following activities are designed to give you the most authentic experiences of the area where you're staying. We work with local guides, who use their knowledge and often a resident's eye to show you the main sights and more out-of-the-way attractions. Our specialists can also suggest outdoor pursuits and activities, such as cooking classes, that will introduce you to the traditions of the area's inhabitants.

    • Cross Island Trek
      Cross Island Trek with Pa, Rarotonga

      Cross Island Trek

      Cross Island Trek

      This fascinating walk will take you deep into Rarotonga's lush interior to learn about the local flora and fauna, and their uses in ancestral medicine.

      View details
    • Day Trip to Aitutaki
      Aitutaki, The Cook Islands

      Day Trip to Aitutaki

      Day Trip to Aitutaki

      Enjoy a scenic flight over to Aitutaki where you will have a short tour of the island before joining your cruise, enjoying a selection of fresh tropical fruit whilst sailing out into the crystal clear lagoon.

      View details
    • Half Day 4WD Inland Tour
      Mountains of Rarotonga

      Half Day 4WD Inland Tour

      Half Day 4WD Inland Tour

      This jeep tour will take you off the beaten track, away from the circular road around Rarotonga and in among the island's valleys and up its mountain tracks.

      View details

    Rarotonga and nearby places