An overwater stay in the Cook Islands is one of the best ways to experience the breathtaking views of the stunning South Pacific.
Going to break it to you gently here: there’s only one overwater bungalow in the Cook Islands.
But if it’s booked out/too expensive for your budget, take heart because there are plenty of other heavenly waterfront stays that can give you all the overwater feels – but without the price tag. Check them out below.
Overwater bungalows in the Cook Islands
Aitutaki Lagoon Resort and Spa, Aitutaki from Hotels.com
The Cook Islands' only overwater bungalow resort is postcard perfect with swaying palm trees, aquamarine waters and panoramic views of Aitutaki Lagoon.
Live like you are on your very own private island when you book a stay in this exclusive, adults-only resort.
4-star resort
Authentic experience with traditional local artefacts, super king size beds and private verandahs
Each bungalow has steps leading directly to the lagoon
Free water sport activities like paddle boarding, kayaking and snorkelling available for guests
You might not be able to slide plunge into the water from your room, but these villas are so close to the sea you won’t even care.
The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium, Rarotonga from Hotels.com
For a little sun, sand and sea, this iconic beach resort is perfect for couples on honeymoon or families looking for kid-friendly accommodation.
You will never get bored during your vacay here with all the complementary activities such as snorkelling and flower garland making.
4-star resort
Couple and family-sized rooms available
Resort is set right on a stretch of private white-sand beach
Free daily activities including flower garland making, snorkelling and hand-feeding tropical fish
Sanctuary Rarotonga on the Beach, Rarotonga from Hotels.com
Two words: adults-only. Yup, that's right, you might not have that overwater bungalow feeling but you will feel the utter bliss of not hearing screaming kids through the walls or having to share the pool with them and their shenanigans.
Go on, pamper yourself. And while you're there book the beachfront suite for unparalleled views of Aroa Beach.
4-star hotel
Swim-up bar
The beach is steps away from your hotel room
For lovebirds, there's also a personal wedding planner and custom wedding packages available
Go from your private pool to the beach in five minutes when you stay in the little paradise of Sea Change Villas.
When you are tired of lounging by the beach with a cold drink (is that even possible?), take a swim out in Mother Nature’s aquarium right in front of your villa.
4-star hotel
1, 2 or 3 bedroom villas, each with a private pool, courtyard, kayaks, paddle boards and bicycles for hire
The six beachfront villas have private decks that step onto the white sandy beach
Variety of activities to keep you busy – lagoon cruises, kite surfing, jungle trekking and even golf
Little Polynesian Resort, Rarotonga from Hotels.com
Don’t be fooled by this little resort – it's award winning and boasts a stunning location on the beautiful Titikaveka Beach.
This adults-only boutique hotel has an infinity pool that seemingly spills out onto your own strip of private beachfront, and with an on-site restaurant and pool-side bar you really won't have to leave the resort while on holiday. Unless you really want to.
4-star resort
Split-level abodes with spacious bathrooms and private lounge areas
Beachfront bungalows have private patios leading directly to the beach
Salt water infinity pool, restaurant and bars on-site, free use of kayaks and snorkelling gear
Munyee Lau is a travel writer at Finder. Her passions include writing about lifestyle and food and creating viral videos. She was previously the country manager of MGAG for 3 years and has an insatiable love for dogs and breaking the Internet.
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