The Rarotongan Beach Rsrt & Lagoonarium, AvaruaThe Rarotongan Beach Rsrt & Lagoonarium in Avarua, Cook Islands has a corrected score of 2.7 ± 0.3 (fair evidence, 2 of 4 platforms), ranked 5 of 5 hotels we score in Avarua. Its platform ratings, normalised to 0-5, average 2.4 before correction: Booking.com 2.8, Tripadvisor 2.1. Rooms from about $614 a night (cached, not a live quote).The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium is a four-star property located on the southwest coast of Rarotonga. It sits directly on Aroa Beach and borders the Aroa Lagoonarium marine sanctuary. The resort features 109 Polynesian-style rooms surrounded by palm trees and tropical gardens. Guests have direct access to the lagoon for snorkelling with sea turtles and tropical fish. On-site facilities include a swimming pool, a restaurant, a bar, and a day spa. This location suits families and those interested in marine life. While the setting is scenic, some guests have reported issues with food quality during evening meals.What stands out

Direct lagoon snorkelling access

Polynesian style accommodation

On-site spa and pool

Family friendly atmosphere

Watch out for

Occasional food quality issues

Expensive cocktails

Better-scored in Avarua

Te Manava Luxury Villas And Spa, Avarua: 4.4 ± 0.2 (solid evidence, 3 of 4 platforms). Te Manava Luxury Villas And Spa is a five-star beachfront resort situated at the quiet end of Muri Beach on Rarotonga.

Little Polynesian Resort, Avarua: 4.0 ± 0.2 (fair evidence, 2 of 4 platforms). Little Polynesian Resort is a five-star boutique hotel located on a private white-sand beach and lagoon in Rarotonga.

Pacific Resort Rarotonga, Avarua: 3.9 ± 0.2 (fair evidence, 2 of 4 platforms), from $449 a night. Pacific Resort Rarotonga is a 4.5-star boutique property situated on the white sands of Muri Beach.