Our family is planning a trip to the Cook Islands this July and we would appreciate any advice regarding accommodations. Since we are traveling with our two daughters, ages 11 and 7, we've discovered several places do not allow children under 12, or they limit you to garden views. Does anybody know anything about the Avana Marina Condominimus north of Muri Beach? They advertise great lagoon views and snorkeling, but apparently it's a rocky beach. Based on what we've read here,we're also considering the Palm Grove, Pacific Resort, Muri Beachcomber, and Lagoon Lodges. We're planning on 8 nights in Rarotonga, and 3 nights on Aitutaki, probably at the Lagoon Resort. Given long travel days from the U.S. , we're wondering if it would be best to split our stay with 4 nights in Rarotonga, 3 in Aitutaki, and then back to Rarotonga for 4 more nights. Any suggestions or recommendations?

I would recommend the Palm Grove. I stayed there and they have canoes on beach and bikes to rent. More for your girls to do. There's not too much to do on Aitutaki. You might want to just do the day trip there and take the lagoon trip. It's very quiet over there. I think your girls would be bored. Just my 2 cents.

Another vote for the Palm Grove. We rented a house just 100 yards or so from there and the water conditions are pretty terrific. In regards to your other choices - the Pacific Resort is usually considered to be the most upscale resort on Rarotonga (the Aitutaki Pacific Resort is even more so), while the Muri Beachcomber is usually considered to be a family-oriented place (as is the Rarotongan Resort). You also might consider renting a house.

In regards to your Rarotonga/Aitutaki split - I like your 4/3/4 stay. A 2 for 1 split of Raro vs Aitutaki is a good choice in my opinion.

Ken

PS: One thing I feel I need to add is that July is the middle of winter in the Cooks. Daytime temps will likely hit the mid-high 70's with lows in the mid to low 60's. If you are coming from California (as I'm guessing from your name) that time of year, you MIGHT find it a bit cool sometimes - not so much because of the temperature, but because of the constant wind (water temps should be pretty decent though). For that reason, you may want to consider a place that will have some protection from the breeze - typically this means either central areas of Muri (near the Pacific resort) where the offshore motus (islets) block the wind, or someplace on the west (leeward) side of the island. Just something to consider.

I've stayed at Avana Condos, actually there are more like we'd consider a townhouse...they are two level. There's not much of a beach there as I recall, there's a pier and onsite pool. Does have a lagoon view and kayaks avail to get out to the motus.

Hi there Sue

Yet another vote for Palm Grove. Very relaxing and laid back place. I do believe however that they do have an age restriction on children staying in the beachfront bures. Probably a safety thing with the sea being right there. However if you are staying in the large familt unit (Which btw is very good) on the garden side you will be just fine. The pool is right there and the sea is literally feet away. less than a minute from closing your front door till you are in the water.

Check them out as an option. Great location not far from Wigmores store for supplies or Vaima restaurant for an evening out.

Have fun planning

Steve