Cook Islands

Five days in Rarotonga.

By Fran McDermott

Exploring Muri Lagoon

It's always a pleasure arriving in Rarotonga, and feeling the warm breeze hit your face. You're greeted with friendly smiles and the welcoming tunes from Jake Numanga - who has been performing on his ukelele at the airport for more than 27 years! Rarotonga is one of those destinations that makes you feel like you are returning home.

Getting around the 32 km island is extremely easy and relaxed with rental car company options aplenty and cars and scooters all readily available.

Most accommodation is dotted along the coast. Some spots overlook the reef, but most sit right on the edge of Rarotonga's various lagoons. Think endless white sand and crystal clear blue waters right on your doorstep!

And whether you want to stay in a boutique adults-only property, a resort with lots of activities for the kids, or your own holiday home or villa, you're sure to find the perfect spot. The standard of the accommodation on offer is second to none. And with a new Accreditation Scheme ensuring the level of service and standards are up to scratch, it is hard to go wrong.

It's no wonder the Cook Islands tourism industry continues to go from strength to strength. As tourist numbers have grown, new properties have opened. But even though some say the island is always 'full', it never feels overcrowded.

A day on Muri Lagoon. There are some stunning beaches in Rarotonga, especially along the southern coastline. But if there's a stretch of the island that stands out, it's the serene waters of Muri Lagoon. This beautiful location is home to a number of beachfront properties, from luxurious boutique offerings through to bigger properties like Pacific Resort Rarotonga. As you might imagine, Muri Lagoon is a fantastic spot for snorkelling, kayaking, paddleboarding and kite surfing. You can also explore the sparkling lagoon waters with two of the island's best-known lagoon tour operators - Captain Tama's Lagoon Cruizes and Koko Lagoon Cruises. These fun-loving (and very knowledgeable) locals will give you one of the most memorable days of your holiday.

Captain Tama's Lagoon Cruizes. For one of the most unforgettable Cook Island experiences, hop on Captain Tama's award-winning cruise around Muri Lagoon. Spy the tropical fish and their homes through the glass-bottom boat or dive off to get up close and personal with them. The captain has you covered for snorkels, life jackets and other gear, even a fresh fish BBQ lunch! You will only need to bring sunscreen, towels, togs and a camera. The crew will have you entertained with hilarious island stories and demonstrations

throughout the cruise – but be warned, there will likely be a flux of dad jokes from spectators during the 100 ways to tie a sarong demonstration.

Koka Lagoon Cruises. 'Muri' is quite literally the backyard of the owners of Koka Lagoon Cruises – Conrad and Bobby Hunter – they grew up here! This lifelong connection to the local area has made Koka Lagoon Cruises more than just a business. They are incredibly passionate about what they do, and they make it their mission to pass on stories about the area, educate guests about their precious marine environment, and of course make it a whole lot of fun! Koka's glass-bottom cruise takes you through Muri Lagoon to a marine reserve site, where you can snorkel amongst giant clams and schools of colourful tropical fish. The delicious bbq feast is also one of the highlights. Make sure you bring a healthy appetite. You can expect fresh fish grilled to perfection, with sides of tropical salads and in-season fruits. Delish! The impressive coconut tree climbing demonstration and show is a sight to see, as is the onboard ukelele playing and singalong by the crew. It's a great day out.

Snorkel Cook Islands. Snorkelling is fairly straightforward. Put on flippers, mask and snorkel and away you go. If you dive under the water, come back up and blow the water out! Simple. What's less straightforward is knowing where the best places to snorkel are. Which is where the team at Snorkel Cook Islands come in. Each day they assess the island's ocean and wind conditions, and from there they pick the best spot to snorkel. The guesswork is taken out and all their 'favourite' spots are home to an abundance of sea life. Safety is also of the utmost importance. Snorkel Cook Islands team are made up of elite local watermen and lifeguards with international experience. They are all first aid certified, and fully equipped with rescue tubes. Plus, they ensure that all snorkellers receive an extensive safety briefing before hitting the water.

Te Vara Nui Village. If you'd like to learn about Cook Islands culture and be thoroughly entertained at the same time, Te Vara Nui Village is a must-see. Considered Rarotonga's leading cultural centre, Te Vara Nui is conveniently located in the heart of Muri Beach and has two main experiences on offer. On the Cultural Village Tour, you'll meet local artisans who will demonstrate age-old arts and crafts – they will carve, weave, prepare local dance costumes and cook traditional foods. Plus you will visit a Cook Island Marae. Along the way, you'll be encouraged to try your hand at some of these activities, which makes it all the more fun. You also get an appreciation of the skills these artisans have mastered over many years. And you'll learn about Cook Islands history, traditional medicines, ancestral navigational techniques and legends.

The other feature experience is the Over-Water Night Show and Buffet. Rarotonga's finest dancers and musicians perform by flaming torchlight on floating and fixed stages against a lush garden backdrop, complete with its own waterfall.

These skilled performers tell the Legend of Tongaiti - a voyaging warrior who set sail from a faraway land with his tribe. Upon discovering "Tumu-Te-Varovaro" (Rarotonga) he and his people find hostile natives, throwing spears and yelling to scare them away from their shores. After days sailing around the island, tired and hungry, Tongaiti calls upon his beautiful daughter to dance for the Chief of Tumu-TeVarovaro, hoping her beauty would soften his heart and allow them to set foot on the land. The costumes, dancing, singing and beautiful backdrop are amazing, plus you'll enjoy the yummy buffet dinner too. Te Vara Nui also gives you the option of a 'Combo Extravaganza' – start with the Cultural Village Tour, which is immediately followed by the Over-Water Night Show and Buffet.

Welcome to Palm Grove your private piece of paradise!

Fall in love with this little paradise.

At Club Raro there’s something for everyone. Take that special someone on a romantic getaway. Or even get married! Bring the kids over for some laid-back Cook Islands family fun. Or get a group of friends together and let your hair down in the warm Rarotongan sun. Good food. Good drink. Good times. Great place. It’s always the right time to join Club Raro.

Beachfront and garden bungalows Onsite restaurant and bar Personal wedding co-ordinator Rarotonga’s quiet southern coast PO Box 23, Rarotonga, Cook Islands p:+682 20002 e: beach@palmgrove.net www.palmgrove.net

Raro Buggy Tours – get dirty! If you don't like getting dirty, this really isn't for you. But if you're more than happy getting splattered with mud, then you've found heaven. Welcome to Raro Buggy Tours! The itinerary is pretty simple. Jump in a nifty four-wheel-drive buggy (one person or two-person) and head inland along dirt tracks that most visitors never see. Part of the tour takes you through the abandoned hotel on the south coast, plus they'll serve you a yummy lunch – remember to wash your hands before you eat.

The amount of mud you fling will depend on the amount of rain that has fallen. If it has rained, you'll be flying through some serious puddles – but that's all part of the fun. Our advice - leave your favourite white t-shirt at home.

Pacific Resort Rarotonga. Overlooking the tranquil waters of Muri Lagoon, Pacific Resort has something everyone. Families will love the beachfront set-up, and the kids will have more than enough to keep them occupied. Their first stop will be the Beach Hut to check out the daily schedule of activities. There, they'll find plenty of watersports equipment to get out on – paddleboards, kayaks and snorkelling gear etc. The resort also has a Kids Club programme for children aged six to 12 years old. Meanwhile, couples will be more than happy relaxing by the pool or lazing on the sand. If some pampering is in order, try a couples massage at the Te Manava Spa. And when it comes time to dine, the resort can create memorable romantic dinners for two on the beach, or you can sit under the stars.

Otherwise, couples (and families) can enjoy the delicious Pacific inspired fare on offer at Pacific Resort's Sandals Restaurant. Sitting right on the sand, this is barefoot dining at its best. Try the chef's signature dish – 'The Pacific Sizzler' which is made up of Cook Islands local fish on a sizzling platter with sautéed vegetables drizzled with coconut lime sauce. There's also a menu for the kids that includes favourites like fish and chips, spaghetti and meatballs, and pizza.

The best of boutique.

Sea Change Villas, Titikaveka Lagoon Sitting on the serene shores of Titikaveka Lagoon, Sea Change Villas has a location that is very hard to match. The white sands and clear blue waters are just a few of steps away. And guests can grab a paddleboard, kayak or snorkelling equipment and explore to their heart's content.

If you're after some much-needed peace and quiet, you've also come to the right place. Sea Change is home to 15 boutique villas, which guarantees a lovely laidback setting for all. Sea Change Villas does not cater for children under 16 years of age, except in their Lagoon View Executive Villas, where kids are welcome – 12 years plus – this also means that decibels are kept to a minimum. Guests have a choice of one, two or three bedroom villas, and each one comes with a private pool and courtyard. The spacious layouts have all the mod cons and the added bonus of a full kitchen, which give guests the option of whipping up their own meals. Guests will make plenty of use of the decks and patio too – soak up the sun, go for a cooling dip and repeat!

Rumours Luxury Villas and Spa Absolute beachfront luxury. Tranquil island vibe. That, in a nutshell, is the wonderful Cook Island experience guests enjoy at Rumours Luxury Villas and Spa. The property has just seven villas – each one is spacious, stylish and comes complete with a private courtyard and swimming pool. Swim in the sea or swim at home – the choice is yours.

Pacific Resort Rarotonga

Sea Change Villas, Titikaveka Lagoon

From quality accommodation – each room with an outdoor shower – to superb island cuisine in our ‘toes-in-the-sand’ restaurant, with cocktails on the beach at sunset... the holiday of your dreams is waiting for you here. For enquiries: phone (682) 22461 | email: rooms@manuia.co.ck | www.manuia.co.ck Experience the magic of Manuia ... in a truly romantic beachside location From quality accommodation – each room with an outdoor shower – to superb island cuisine in our ‘toes-in-the-sand’ restaurant, with cocktails on the beach at sunset... the holiday of your dreams is waiting for you here. For enquiries: phone (682) 22461 | email: rooms@manuia.co.ck | www.manuia.co.ck Experience the magic of Manuia ... in a truly romantic beachside location

E S C A P E TO A LUXURY ECO OASIS IN PARADISE

ABSOLUTE BEACHFRONT Infinity pool overlooking Muri Lagoon LUXURY ARES' Sustainably built All with private plunge pools Climate controlled comfort RELAX & RETREAT Signature Spa Kids Conierge Award-winning dining " E m b r a c e t h e i s l a n d l i f e . A S o u t h P a c i f i c l u x u r y r e t r e a t i m m e r s e d i n c u l t u r e " . RES@NAUTILUSRESORTRAROTONGA.COM NAUTILUSRESORTRAROTONGA.COM

E X P L O R E O U R L I T T L E S L I C E O F H E A V E N O N M U R I B E A C H

RELAX & PLAY

A F F O R D A B L E L U X U R Y

A B S O L U T E B E A C H F R O N T

1 & 2 B E D R O O M V I L L A S

1 2 M E T R E S W I M M I N G P O O L

S A F E L A G O O N S W I M M I N G

F R E E W A T E R S P O R T S

P O O L S I D E C A F E A N D B A R

The villas are also self-contained with a full kitchen at your disposal. If guests prefer someone else do the cooking (who can blame them), dinner can be prepared onsite by a private chef. The other option is to take a stroll to one of many eateries around Muri. Feel like a little pampering? Rumours Waterfall Spa is a multiple-award winning spa with first-class, professional therapists. Their mission – to give guests a new dimension of relaxation and rejuvenation to their tropical island holiday in Rarotonga! The extensive menu has all sorts of lovely treatments to choose from – facials, Polynesian body masks, sugar and salt scrubs, massages, manicures, pedicures and a vichy shower!

Note: Only guests aged 15 years plus are accepted as guests at Rumours Luxury Villas & Spa. However, families with adult children can be comfortably accommodated in some villa categories.

Nautilus Resort Restaurant. The Cook Islands is well-known for its yummy food, and one of the best places to eat on the island is the Nautilus Restaurant at Nautilus Resort on Muri Beach.

You'll love the setting before you have a single bite. It's absolute Muri beachfront – white sand, blue water and swaying palms. Sit inside and enjoy the Polynesian architecture, or you can sit outside on the spacious patio. Either way, you'll be happy. Or if you'd prefer something a little more private - think wedding, family gathering or dinner for two – the restaurant also has a private dining room overlooking Ta'akoka Inlet. This intimate space can seat up to 22 people.

Local ingredients are at the fore, creating a delicious mix of Polynesian influenced fare. For example, you might like to try the Coconut Falafel entree that features falafel made from chickpea and Cook Island's coconut. Or how about New Zealand Lamb Rump served with local root crop gnocchi. There are many clever combinations at work, and you'll enjoy choosing dishes that you'll never see back home. The high standard of food has earned Nautilus Restaurant a string of local awards and not surprisingly it has become a dining destination for visitors staying elsewhere on the island too. They are open for breakfast from 7.30 am to 10 am, lunch runs from 11 am to 3 pm and dinner begins at 6 pm and runs until till late! Reservations are recommended – email: dining@nautilusresortrarotonga.com.

Rumours Luxury Villas and Spa

Nautilus Resort Restaurant

Don’t miss one of Rarotonga’s most popular and enjoyable tours, fun for all ages. Daily 11am to 3pm. Includes: snorkelling gear, BBQ Lunch, island coconut husking and pareu tying show. www.captaintamas.com

Nestled on its own secluded white sand beach, Sea Change Villas offers 15 gorgeous boutique villas, all boasting their own individual private swimming pools, stunning lagoon views and five star service.

Romance, luxury, intimacy.

Snack at Ariki's Shack. Set right on the main road in Muri village, Ariki's Shack is a funky little spot to pop into for a bite to eat or a refreshing drink. They opened the doors in 2016 and set themselves apart by offering Rarotonga's first cold-brewed iced coffee and tea as well as espresso. And not just any old cold-brew flavours either. They are known for their creative concoctions – such as Nutella Noir – cold-brewed coffee with salted hazelnut and chocolate over ice! They are also experts at creating real fruit icecreams with super yummy flavours like Banoffee Banana Caramel Coconut and the special Ariki Espresso. Vegans will love their menu options too – like a vegan-friendly thickshake made from chocolate, almond, banana and coconut. Ariki's Shack is also the booking office for all Ariki's Adventure Tours – this includes mountain bike adventures, turtle safaris, kiteboarding lessons and the famous night standup paddleboard tour on Muri Lagoon.

Promoting sustainable growth - Mana Tiaki Eco Certification. As tourism in the Cook Islands continues to go from strength to strength, protection of the natural environment has become even more critical to the long-term sustainability of the industry. After all, this amazing natural environment is what makes the destination so appealing to visitors. The Mana Tiaki Eco Certification is a joint project between the National Environment Service through the Ridge to Reef project, Te Ipukarea Society (the local environmental NGO), the Cook Islands Tourism Industry Council, and the Cook Islands Tourism Corporation.

The Eco Certification has established a set of standards around biodiversity considerations and conservation efforts in everyday tourism operations. And businesses that achieve Mana Tiaki Eco-Certification are rewarded with the recognition that this type of green accreditation brings. Ariki's Shack

Cook Islands Tourism Accreditation Scheme. It doesn't matter where in the world you travel, when local tourism operators maintain a high standard, it builds the long-term reputation of the entire destination. With this in mind, the Cook Islands Tourism Industry Council have redeveloped the Cook Islands Tourism Accreditation and Quality Assurance Programme. The programme builds on the strength of the previous accreditation. The key outcome is to promote acceptable minimum standards across all types of businesses in the Cook Islands tourism industry. For visitors to the Cook Islands, it's simple - whenever they see this logo, they can be sure that the business establishment meets requirements to ensure good service, good facilities, safe practices, and of course friendly Cook Islands hospitality!

$55 From per day CONVERTIBLES $55 From per day CONVERTIBLES

@islandcarhire | enquiries@islandcarhire.co.ck | www.islandcarhire.co.ck BOOK NOW LOWEST PRICES GUARANTEED! LOWEST PRICES GUARANTEED! $12.50 From per day SCOOTERS SMALL CARS $39.95 From per day CALL +682 22632 CALL +682 22632 @islandcarhire | enquiries@islandcarhire.co.ck | www.islandcarhire.co.ck BOOK NOW LOWEST PRICES GUARANTEED! LOWEST PRICES GUARANTEED! $12.50 From per day SCOOTERS SMALL CARS $39.95 From per day CALL +682 22632 CALL +682 22632 *Conditions apply to the above price

SOAK UP RAROTONGA WITH MOANA SANDS One stunning stretch of coastline. Three perfect places to stay.

Moana Sands Beachfront Hotel - Titikaveka Beach Overlooking the clear blue waters of Titikaveka Beach, this absolute beachfront boutique hotel is home to just 17 rooms – simply sit back, relax, soak up the sun and some genuine Cooks hospitality.

Moana Sands Beachfront Villas - Vaimaanga Beach Sitting on secluded Vaimaanga Beach, here there is something for everyone. Spacious 2-bedroom villas are perfect for families, while couples can enjoy the privacy of the studio apartments.

Moana Sands Lagoon Resort - Muri Lagoon An adults-only oasis on Muri Lagoon, this resort boasts two levels of deluxe lagoon studios, a spectacular swimming pool, sun lounging deck and the contemporary and stylish Laguna restaurant and bar.

Cook Islands Holiday Villas. If you're looking for a tropical home away from home, Cook Island Holiday Villas provide the perfect option – especially if you travelling as a family, a group of families or just a large group in general – such as a wedding party or group of friends. All up, there are nine villas to choose from, spread around four different spots across the island (Arorangi, Turangi, Muri and Black Rock Beach). The largest of the villas offers four and five-bedroom layouts. Each villa has a distinctive South Pacific feel, and all are set-up for a comfortable holiday. All are self-contained, so you can pick up supplies from the local markets and shops, and look after your own eating requirements. A number of them come with their own pool, although the beachfront villas are just steps away from Rarotonga's sparkling waters!

Muri Night Markets. Muri Beach is the most bustling village on the island, with choices of cafés, restaurants, hotels and resorts, and rental companies, as well as the Muri Night Market. Held every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday from 5 pm, it's a pleasant way for everyone to spend a few hours tasting local food from one of the stalls, enjoying some free entertainment and local dancing.

Flying to the Cook Islands with Air New Zealand. With daily flights between Auckland and Rarotonga, Air New Zealand give you plenty of flexibility to book dates that work for your holiday. During February and March, the Monday service drops off, however, that still leaves six flights a week. Cook Islands Holiday Villas

Muri Night Markets

WATERFALL SPA

World Luxury Spa Awards WINNER 2011

World Luxury Spa Awards WINNER 2012

World Luxury Spa Awards WINNER 2013

World Luxury Spa Awards WINNER 2014 World Luxury Spa Awards WINNER 2015

World Luxury Spa Awards WINNER 2016

World Luxury Spa Awards WINNER 2017

World Luxury Spa Awards WINNER 2018

World Luxury Spa Awards WINNER 2019

Look for this symbol...

The Cook Islands Tourism Accreditation Scheme is designed to set minimum standards. Whenever you see this logo, you can be sure that the business establishment meets requirements to ensure good service, good facilities, safe practices, and of course friendly Cook Islands hospitality. We highly recommend you use the services of our many Accredited businesses: 2019

1AAA Taxis 21.3 Vaiana’s Bistro and Bar Adventure Hire Cook Islands Air New Zealand Air Rarotonga Aitutaki Escape Aitutaki Lagoon Resort Aitutaki Village Akura Fishing Charters Anchor Sands Anchor’s Aweigh Anchor’s Rest Antipodes Restaurant Aqua Café Arcadia Retreat Rarotonga Aretai Beach Villas Ariki Adventures Ariki Holidays Aro’a Beachside Inn Aroa Beachfront House Aroa Kainga Bungalows Arorangi Beachfront Bungalow Avana Waterfront Apartments Avis Cook Islands Bank of South Pacific Bella Beach Bungalows Bergman & Sons Betela Beach House Black Rock Villas Blue Lagoon Villas Blue Water Tours Captain Tama’s Lagoon Cruizes Casa Del Sol Castaway Resort Charlotte Piho Weddings Clear Water Lagoon View Villas Club Raro Resort Coast House Studio Coconut Tours Cook Islands Canoeing Association Cook Islands Holiday Villas Cook Islands Sun Cook Islands Tours Cooks Bus Passenger Transport Coral Sands Apartments Crown Beach Resort & Spa Crusoe’s Restaurant Crystal Blue Lagoon Villas Destination Management Cook Islands Dive Rarotonga Dorothy’s Muri Beach Bungalows Dorothy’s Taxi Service Emily’s at Panama Escape Magazine Etu Moana Beach Villas Executive Islands Transfers Experience Cook Islands Explore.com Going Troppo Nightlife Tour Goldmine Heron’s Reef Holiday Apartments Highland Paradise Horra Ltd Ikurangi Eco Retreat Inano Beach Bungalows Inspirations of Raro Island Booth Photo Island Car & Bike Hire Island Discovery Tours Island Harmony Cottage Island Hopper Vacations Jetsave Travel JJ’s Retreat Kaireva Beach House Kia Orana Villas Kikau Hut Restaurant KiteSUP Koka Lagoon Cruises Lagoon Breeze Villas Little Polynesian Resort Magic Reef Bungalows Makayla Palms Mal’s Bar Mama Tara’s Manea on Muri Manuia Beach Resort Marlin Queen Fishing Charters Matriki Beach Huts Moana Cook Islands Adventures Moana Sands Group Motu2Motu Muri Beach Club Hotel Muri Beach Cottages Muri Beach Haven Holiday House Muri Beach Resort Muri Beach Villa Muri Beachcomber Muri Hillside Guest Houses Muri Lagoon View Bungalows Muri Lagoon Villas Muri Lodges Muri Vista Villas Nautilus Resort Nirvana Cottage Ocean Spray Villas OTB On the Beach Restaurant Pacific Cars Pacific Resort Aitutaki Pacific Resort Rarotonga Palm Grove Resort Paradise Holiday Homes Polynesian Rental Cars & Bikes Price Taxis Punarei Cultural Tours Raela Villas Raina Beach Apartments Rapae Bay Restaurant Raro Cars Raro Reef Sub Raro Safari Tours Raro Tours Rarotonga Babysitting Services Rarotonga Beach Bungalows Rarotonga Brewery Rarotonga Daydreamer Resort Rarotonga Rentals Rehab Nightclub Rehab Pub Crawl Rendezvous Villas Rito Cook Islands Rongohiva Watersports Royale Takitumu Ru’s Lagoon Cruise Rumours Luxury Villa’s & Spa Sails Restaurant Sanctuary Rarotonga Sands Villas Sea Change Villas Seaside Beachfront Villas Seaspray Beach Villa Serenity Villas Shipwreck Hut Snorkel Cook Islands South Pacific Publishing Spaghetti House Storytellers Eco Cycle Tours Sunhaven Beach Bungalows Sunset Quay Sunshine Cultural Activities Tamanu Beach Resort Te Manava Luxury Villas & Spa Te Puka Estate Te Vakaroa Villas Te Vara Nui The Anchorage Restaurant & Bar The Black Pearl at Puaikura The Bond Store The Cooks Oasis Holiday Villas The Dive & Surf Shop The Dive Centre The Edgewater Resort & Spa The Islander Hotel The Lazy Trout Café The Lucky Rooster Café The Mooring Fish Café The Palms Holiday House The Rarotongan Beach Resort The Sunset Resort The Vaka Cruise The Yellow Hibiscus Restaurant & Bar Tik-e Tours Tivaevae Collectables Tropical Sands Tuoro Holiday Villas Tumunu Restaurant & Bar Turama Photography Turangi Lagoon Villas Vai Villas Vaikoi Ltd Vaima Lagoon View Holiday House Vaima Restaurant Vibe Café Wahoo Fishing Charters Wedded Bliss Rarotonga Weddings Cook Islands Wellesley Hotel Whitehouse Apartments

MAKE NEW MEMORIES!

Did you know that at the Cook Islands’ leading family-friendly beach resort, The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium, not only do KIDS STAY & PLAY FREE to age 11, but TEENS STAY & PLAY FREE too aged 12-16 years inclusive! Such a wealth of quality FREE activities to enjoy in the clean, clear waters of Aroa Lagoonarium including snorkelling, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking and fish feeding. Sheltered, all-tide lagoon and white sandy beach set on the island’s southwest coast for all-day sun. FREE Moko Kids Club open Mon-Sat, 9am-12noon, 2-5pm + 7-9pm. The Rarotongan. Where the best family holiday memories are made.

Aroa Beach + Lagoon Marine Sanctuary | Rarotonga | COOK ISLANDS Tollfree from NZ: 0800 727 686 | P (+682) 25 800 info@therarotongan.com | www.TheRarotongan.com (Live Chat available)

Dine on the water’s edge

If you'd like to dine so close to the lagoon that the water is directly lapping beneath you, the expanded new Captain Andy’s Beach Bar & Grill at The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium is the place to go.

Thanks to a new extension, guests can enjoy one of Rarotonga's best lagoon front dining locations. You might even spot schools of fish swimming past while you're sipping on a cocktail! If you're a fan of sunsets, secure yourself a table in the early evening. The golden glow over Aroa Lagoon is quite spectacular. Captain Andy’s Beach Bar & Grill offers guests a wide range of cold beers, cocktails, wines and spirits. They also have a casual all-day menu that includes burgers, sandwiches, steaks, pasta, pizzas, salads, small plates, desserts and the Kids Gone Troppo Menu. Each evening Captain Andy's also offers dinner specials along with a la carte large plates. Special diets are also catered to, and there is regular live entertainment in the evenings. Captain Andy's Beach Bar & Grill is open seven days a week from 11am – 9pm.

Secluded within tropical gardens on the shore of the lagoon, Motu offers ten unique self-contained villas styled with furnishings and artworks from across the Pacific – a boutique haven for tranquility and relaxation. Motu Ÿ Beachfront Art Villas Ÿ Ara Tapu, Takitumu District, Cook Islands Ÿ www.motuvillas.com Rarotonga’s Newest Boutique Destination