'Upolu
Namu’a is only a short boat ride from Mutiatele, but once you’re on this tiny private island, Upolu seems light years away (though it’s clearly visible…
Must-see hotels in Rarotonga, Samoa & Tonga
Rarotonga
Glamping style comes to Rarotonga at Ikurangi Eco Retreat. Accommodation is either in luxury safari-style tents – each with their own spacious deck and…
Rarotonga
With an absolute beachfront location, this spacious heritage villa has wooden floors, wraparound decks, and a winning combination of a well-equipped…
Apia
Surrounded by rainforest and boasting jaw-dropping views of the coast, this delightful hilltop spot is an excellent escape from the heat of the big smoke…
'Upolu
If you're looking for a (literal) love-nest, grab your bags – and your beloved – and head up the hill to Lupe Sina, home to two extraordinary treehouses…
Savai'i
First you'll be taken by its dramatic location on a solid river of black lava, then you'll be knocked for six by the dazzling turquoise bay it's named for…
'Upolu
Set on a six-hectare working tropical fruit plantation, this self-catering retreat is the definition of intimate, with just one villa and a studio (both…
'Upolu
This the hippest resort in the country. Samoa's only overwater fale are found here, and what a find they are, with huge, luxuriously-appointed bedrooms,…
The Cook Islands
These six one-bedroom villas are hands-down the Cook Islands’ finest accommodation beyond Rarotonga and Aitutaki. Spacious verandahs showcase ocean views,…
Aitutaki
These boutique beach villas have thatched roofs and luxurious furnishings showcasing gleaming Tasmanian oak floors, loft ceilings, king-sized beds,…
American Samoa
This elegant seaside B&B makes for a stylish getaway, with gorgeous grounds and well-appointed, Polynesian-inspired rooms. The owners have made the most…
Tonga
Right on the sandy northern tip of Foa, gazing across at Nukunamo island, family-friendly Matafonua was hammered by Tropical Cyclone Ian in 2014 but has…
Vava'u Group
For a cheery Tongan family experience, head to smart-looking Port Wine, run by Lu’isa Tuiniua and her son Tai. Sleeping options include original…
Vava'u Group
Moas were flightless, weren't they? Regardless, this newish B&B soars above most Neiafu accommodation. It's immaculately clean for starters, without a…
Rarotonga
Many of Rarotonga’s boutique hotels look to this place as a benchmark. The impeccably appointed free-standing thatched villas have fabulously appointed…
Tonga
Arguably Tonga’s best resort, Sandy Beach really delivers (this is where the king stays when he's in Ha'apai). A row of elegant bungalows are oriented for…
Savai'i
Long, languid Lano Beach easily rates as one of the best strips of sand on Savai’i, and Joelan’s simple but well-kept thatched fale nab the best bit –…
Apia
Gorgeous grounds, divine digs and five-star service make this resort an absolute stand-out. Accommodation ranges from spanking new hotel rooms all the way…
'Upolu
Set in a black-lava-rock bay lined with palm trees and dotted with tiny islands, this exclusive resort has beautifully built bungalows decorated in…
American Samoa
Tisa's is possibly the most popular place on Tutuila, and rightfully so. It's one of the rare spots to offer traditional fale (though these have proper…
Tongatapu
Simple, quiet, clean, friendly and a short walk to town – just how any good South Pacific guesthouse should be. Downstairs is a sunny communal lounge and…
Vava'u Group
Just across the causeway a short drive south of Neiafu, this bright white villa is run by an Australian couple (who also runs the vanilla bean processing…
American Samoa
This friendly, family-run place sits pretty at the base of Mt Tumutumu. Its beach – and those nearby – offers sensational snorkelling; it's also within…
Rarotonga
Probably the busiest traditional resort on the island. It's all suitably Polynesian: there are plenty of Tangaroa statues, floral designs and Cook Islands…
Rarotonga
Mixing the best of old and new, the unusually-shaped thatched villas at the Crown Beach combine traditionally inspired architecture with top-drawer decor…
Aitutaki
Aitutaki Lagoon Resort, ensconced on its own Akitua island, has everything glam jet-set patrons would expect. It’s truly beautiful, with great expanses of…
Sheraton Aggie Grey's Lagoon Resort
'Upolu
The best things about this sprawling resort are its large pool, spacious grounds, proximity to the airport and wharf, and long list of facilities,…
Rarotonga
These three modern units share a breezy location a short uphill walk from Muri Lagoon. Each of the three units is decorated in natural wood and bright…
Savai'i
Run by a family of women, this spotless place is loaded with simple and effective touches. Open fale have proper beds and are well maintained, while…
'Upolu
Located on a sweet stretch of coast just before the turn off leading to Aleipata (it's right next door to the Piula Cave Pool), friendly Le Uaina makes…
The Cook Islands
The extra money goes a long way at Atiu Villas, which was built from local materials around 35 years ago by Kiwi expat Roger Malcolm and his ‘Atiuan wife…
The Cook Islands
The garden units are basic, with a main sleeping area and a simple kitchen, toilet and shower tacked on the end. The newer self-contained lodge is more…
Aitutaki
Pacific Resort Aitutaki is a benchmark in luxury Polynesian. From the Oriental lily ponds and enormous carved-timber reception desk of its sumptuous foyer…
Aitutaki
Set amid a peaceful garden of fruit trees and flowers in Tautu, these four large family-friendly lodges are the best value on Aitutaki. Queen Manarangi…
'Upolu
As uninspiring as its name may be, Airport Lodge actually has a lot going for it. It's close to the airport and wharf, the hotel rooms are huge and clean …
Savai'i
Recently rebranded and given a high-end makeover, this all-inclusive surf resort exploits the beauty of an exquisite little beach and its proximity to…
Rarotonga
Set among lawns and coconut palms on one of the south coast's best beaches, Palm Grove has a reputation for being somewhere that regular guests return to…
'Upolu
Yellow and mint-green fale are as bright as the smiles of the owner and staff, and the spectacular Lalomanu beach is steps away. Basic open fale have…
'Upolu
This posh boutique resort, perched over a stunning stretch of water, is one for the luxury lovers: it's stylish, spotless and the staff is exceptional…
The Cook Islands
With all meals included, a terrific location, and four large comfortable motel-style rooms, Babe’s Place is good value for money. Babe is the island’s…
