Hotel Review: Little Polynesian Resort, Rarotonga, Cook Islands
Welcome to Paradise
My first glimpse at Little Polynesian Resort was serendipitous. While browsing through the Small Luxury Hotels platform, my favorite source for handpicked boutique hotels worldwide, I stumbled upon this hidden gem. Little Polynesian Resort instantly caught my attention because of its intimate 14-room setup and its contemporary island design, set against the backdrop of an absolutely pristine beach. This beach, a slender ribbon of white sand and framed by a shimmering blue lagoon dotted with coral reefs, looked like a piece of paradise.
With these idyllic images in mind, I didn’t need much convincing to book, and embarked on my trip to the Cook Islands, brimming with high expectations. Spoiler alert, it did not disappoint! Keep reading for a full hotel review of my entire experience at Little Polynesian Resort.
Arrival and First Impressions
Upon touching down at the airport in Rarotonga, we were greeted with a tropical downpour, and had a bit of adventure in securing a taxi (a valuable tip: always pre-book your transportation in the Cook Islands). Fortunately, a friendly family shared their taxi, and after a 20-minute drive, we reached the hotel.
The resort's manager welcomed us warmly and guided us through the intimate and lush property, which exuded an unmistakable vibe of barefoot luxury. The resort design seamlessly blends sophistication with contemporary Pacific elements, creating a warm, airy, inviting atmosphere. Despite the less-than-ideal weather on arrival, I could already sense the resort's beauty.
Accommodation
Our room choice at Little Polynesian was a Garden Studio room, a haven of privacy with an enclosed patio area. We stepped through the gate into an oasis of serenity, complete with two inviting lounge chairs. Opening the French doors into the room, we were greeted by a flawless fusion of contemporary design with distinct island influences. The room featured an indulgently comfortable king-sized bed and a sitting area adjacent to a well-appointed kitchenette, complete with a Nespresso machine and a selection of herbal teas.
The bathroom combined modern aesthetics with a comforting spa-like atmosphere, with concrete tiles gracing both the floors and walls. A delightful outdoor shower, nestled in a lush landscape of tropical plants and palms, added the perfect finishing touch to our accommodation. I’m convinced there is no better feeling than showering outdoors in the rain! Overall, the quality of accommodation alone puts Little Polynesian on the shortlist of best resorts in Cook Islands.
Dining Experience
At Little Polynesian Resort, The Restaurant offers a distinctive fusion of Polynesian and European flavors, complemented by exceptional service. Its prime location overlooking the infinity pool and the beautiful Titikaveka Beach infuses every dining experience with indulgence. Your stay includes a continental breakfast featuring a delightful array of fresh tropical fruits, pastries, tea, coffee, juices, and smoothies. A must-try is the Polynesian Benedict, adorned with creamed rukau (local spinach) for a unique twist on a classic favorite.
Lunch, poolside, offers a treat in the form of the Antipasto platter, which combines traditional elements with Cook Islands specialties like ika mata (fresh raw fish in coconut cream and lime). Don't forget to try the "Little Poly Special" smoothie as a poolside treat, a unique detoxifying blend of flavors.
As evening falls, The Restaurant transforms into a romantic enclave, offering a truly memorable dining experience. I highly recommend trying the Wild Turmeric Seafood Sizzler, a unique and delicious dish that captures the flavors of the South Pacific. After spending nine full days on the island, I can confidently say that The Restaurant at Little Polynesian resort was in my top three for best restaurants on Rarotonga. Don’t forget to make a reservation!
Titikaveka Beach
Titikaveka Beach, situated right in front of Little Polynesian Resort, is an invitation to pure island bliss. As one of Rarotonga's most serene beaches, its long stretch of white sand and crystal-clear waters beckons you to unwind and connect with the energy of peace. You can enjoy leisurely walks in either direction along its pristine shores. The water's mesmerizing turquoise hue reveals a vibrant underwater world.
After spending over a week exploring the island, Titikaveka easily ranks as one of Rarotonga's best beaches due to its idyllic and tranquil ambiance. The best part is that you can enjoy this beach daily when staying at Little Polynesian Resort! The resort provides complimentary snorkeling gear, stand-up paddleboards, and kayaks for guest use, and the lagoon offers a perfect setting for these activities with calm waters at all tides.
Service & Staff
The service at Little Polynesian Resort is exceptional, and is nothing short of the top-notch service you would expect from the best 5 star resorts Cook Islands has to offer. This boutique hotel excels in combining personalized service with luxury, all in a friendly and comfortable manner.
Whether you interact with the front desk or dine at the restaurant, the staff goes out of their way to ensure your stay is nothing short of perfection. Even when we had a late flight back to Honolulu and couldn't arrange a late check-out due to prior bookings, the staff ensured we had a memorable last day by the pool and had a great table for our dinner reservation at the restaurant before our departure.
Overall Impression of Little Polynesian Resort
Little Polynesian Resort epitomizes barefoot luxury with modern Pacific design, attentive and authentic service, and a tranquil location on Titikaveka Beach. This hotel aligned perfectly with the boutique experience I sought in Rarotonga. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply craving an unfussy yet indulgent escape with genuine South Pacific hospitality, this is, without question, the place to be.
Insider Tips for Your Stay:
Book your stay at Little Polynesian Resort well in advance. Given its limited 14-room capacity, and reputation as one of the best luxury hotels in Rarotonga, it tends to book out quickly.
Consider booking through Small Luxury Resorts for valuable perks like priority upgrades and resort credits. Depending on your length of stay, booking directly with Little Polynesian Resort can also offer promotions for free nights. We booked via Chase Reserve points, which offered a great redemption at the time.
Double-check your flight departure time and, if needed, inquire about late check-out or book an extra night for a late evening flight.
Note that beachfront rooms are more spacious (nearly 1,000 sq ft) than garden studios (just under 700 sq ft). Garden studios offer more privacy, while beachfront rooms offer a breathtaking view.
Prearrange car rental to explore the full range of Rarotonga's attractions!
If dining at the resort's restaurant, make dinner reservations in advance, as the restaurant does accept bookings from outside guests.
In Conclusion…
Little Polynesian Resort is a haven of understated luxury. From the pristine shores of Titikaveka Beach to the impeccable service, it's a place where South Pacific paradise truly comes alive. This property is, undoubtedly, one of the best boutique luxury hotels in Rarotonga, Cook Islands.
My stay here was enchanting, filled with unforgettable moments and warm hospitality. The tranquil embrace of Titikaveka Beach, the genuine smiles of the staff, and the captivating ambiance created wonderful memories that I carry with me! The intimate setting is perfect for anyone who appreciates a personalized touch when they travel.
For a getaway that radiates South Pacific charm and beauty and invites you to unwind: consider Little Polynesian Resort! Whether it's a special occasion or a quest for unpretentious indulgence, this boutique gem will not disappoint. Book in advance, savor every little luxury, and let Rarotonga's Little Polynesian Resort transport you to a world where paradise becomes reality.
Looking for more inspiration to plan the perfect trip to Rarotonga? Look no further than my Ultimate Guide to Rarotonga!
