The Cook Islands is a breathtaking island nation located in the South Pacific, consisting of 15 small islands that offer a perfect getaway for those looking for a unique and offbeat travel experience. The country is famous for its turquoise waters, coral reefs, and vibrant marine life, making it a perfect destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. The friendly locals and the laid-back island lifestyle add to the charm of this beautiful destination. In recent years, the Cook Islands has become a popular destination for travelers looking for unique and offbeat accommodations. In this article, we will explore the most unique accommodations in the Cook Islands and why you should add them to your bucket list.
Overwater Bungalows
Overwater bungalows have become synonymous with luxury travel, and the Cook Islands is home to some of the most luxurious overwater bungalows in the world. These bungalows are built on stilts above the lagoon, providing guests with stunning views of the crystal clear waters and marine life below. Most overwater bungalows in the Cook Islands come equipped with modern amenities like air conditioning, a private balcony, and a glass floor panel that allows guests to observe the marine life below. These bungalows are perfect for couples looking for a romantic getaway, as they provide a secluded and intimate retreat. The overwater bungalows in the Cook Islands are often situated in secluded spots, offering privacy and a sense of exclusivity. They are also equipped with a private outdoor shower and a jacuzzi, making it a perfect place to relax and unwind.
Some of the most popular overwater bungalows in the Cook Islands include Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort, Pacific Resort Aitutaki, and Te Manava Luxury Villas & Spa. The Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort, located on a small island in the lagoon, offers 36 luxurious overwater bungalows that are designed to blend in with the natural surroundings. The bungalows are built on stilts and are furnished with modern amenities, including air conditioning, a private balcony, and a glass floor panel. The resort also offers a range of activities, including snorkeling, kayaking, and sunset cruises. The Pacific Resort Aitutaki is another popular choice among travelers, with its stunning overwater bungalows that offer breathtaking views of the lagoon. The bungalows are designed with Polynesian influences and are equipped with modern amenities, including air conditioning and a private balcony. The resort also offers a range of activities, including scuba diving, paddleboarding, and cultural tours.
Treehouses
Treehouses are a childhood dream come true for many travelers, and the Cook Islands has some of the most unique and charming treehouse accommodations in the world. These treehouses are built in the branches of tropical trees and surrounded by lush foliage, providing guests with a peaceful and secluded retreat. These accommodations are perfect for nature lovers who want to disconnect from the world and immerse themselves in the natural surroundings. The treehouses in the Cook Islands offer a unique and offbeat experience that is perfect for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Some of the most popular treehouse accommodations in the Cook Islands include the Tree House at Crystal Blue Lagoon Villas and the Tamanu Beach Resort Tree House. The Tree House at Crystal Blue Lagoon Villas is located on a secluded hillside overlooking the lagoon and is built in the branches of a 400-year-old banyan tree. The treehouse is equipped with modern amenities like air conditioning, a kitchenette, and a private balcony that offers stunning views of the lagoon. The Tamanu Beach Resort Tree House is another popular choice among travelers, with its unique and charming treehouse built on stilts above the trees. The treehouse is designed with Polynesian influences and is equipped with modern amenities, including air conditioning and a private balcony. The resort also offers a range of activities, including snorkeling, kayaking, and cultural tours.
Eco Lodges
Eco lodges are a popular choice among travelers who want to travel responsibly and reduce their impact on the environment. The Cook Islands has some of the most unique and sustainable eco lodges in the world, offering a perfect balance between luxury and sustainability. These eco lodges are built with sustainable materials and designed to blend in with the natural surroundings. They are equipped with modern amenities, including solar-powered electricity, rainwater harvesting systems, and composting toilets.
One of the most popular eco lodges in the Cook Islands is Ikurangi Eco Retreat, located on the main island of Rarotonga. The eco retreat is built with sustainable materials and is powered by solar energy. The retreat offers guests a range of activities, including hiking, cycling, and cultural tours. Another popular eco lodge is the Moana Sands Lagoon Resort, located on the beautiful Muri Beach. The resort is designed with Polynesian influences and is equipped with modern amenities like air conditioning, a private balcony, and a kitchenette. The resort also offers a range of eco-friendly activities, including snorkeling, kayaking, and cultural tours.
Glamping
Glamping, or glamorous camping, has become a popular trend in recent years, offering travelers a unique and offbeat camping experience without sacrificing luxury and comfort. The Cook Islands has some of the most unique and luxurious glamping accommodations in the world, providing guests with a unique and unforgettable experience. These glamping accommodations are often situated in secluded spots, surrounded by lush foliage and providing guests with stunning views of the natural surroundings.
One of the most popular glamping accommodations in the Cook Islands is Te Rito Lagoon Villas, located on the beautiful Muri Beach. The villas are designed with Polynesian influences and are equipped with modern amenities like air conditioning, a private balcony, and a kitchenette. The villas also offer guests a unique glamping experience, with canvas walls and a thatched roof that provides a sense of being one with nature. Another popular glamping accommodation is the Rarotonga Beach Bungalows, located on the main island of Rarotonga. The bungalows are equipped with modern amenities like air conditioning, a private balcony, and a kitchenette, and offer guests a unique glamping experience with canvas walls and a thatched roof.
Homestays
For travelers who want to experience the local culture and immerse themselves in the local lifestyle, homestays are the perfect option. Homestays allow travelers to stay with a local family and experience their daily life, customs, and traditions. The Cook Islands has some of the most welcoming and friendly locals in the world, and staying with a local family is the perfect way to experience their warm hospitality.
One of the most popular homestays in the Cook Islands is the Mangaia Villas, located on the remote island of Mangaia. The villas are owned by a local family and offer guests a unique opportunity to experience the local lifestyle and customs. The villas are equipped with modern amenities like air conditioning, a private balcony, and a kitchenette, and offer guests a unique and authentic experience. Another popular homestay is the Akaiami Beach Lodge, located on the remote island of Akaiami. The lodge is owned by a local family and offers guests a unique opportunity to experience the local lifestyle and customs. The lodge is equipped with modern amenities like air conditioning, a private balcony, and a kitchenette, and offers guests a unique and authentic experience.
Our Top FAQ's
The cost of these unique accommodations can vary depending on the type of accommodation, location, and time of year. However, many of these accommodations are priced competitively and can be affordable for travelers with different budgets. It’s best to check with the individual accommodation for pricing and availability.
Many of these accommodations are suitable for families with children, however, it’s best to check with the individual accommodation to ensure that they can accommodate children and provide any necessary facilities such as cots, high chairs, etc.
Yes, many of these unique accommodations offer a range of activities, including water sports, cultural tours, hiking, and cycling. Some accommodations may also offer spa services, yoga, and other wellness activities.
Yes, many of these accommodations are environmentally friendly and use sustainable materials, renewable energy, and eco-friendly practices. These accommodations aim to minimize their impact on the environment while providing guests with a unique and comfortable experience.