The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium
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Summary of reviewsThe Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium is celebrated for its exceptional beachfront location by Aroa Lagoon, providing guests with stunning views and direct access to a vibrant marine environment. This prime spot offers magnificent opportunities for snorkeling, swimming and breathtaking sunset views. The location is also convenient, being close to public transport and essential amenities, while maintaining a secluded and peaceful atmosphere, making it a standout choice for families with children.
The breakfast receives mixed reviews with some guests enjoying the selection of fresh fruit and pancakes, while others find it underwhelming and suggest more hot options to improve the experience. Guests appreciate fresh, delicious food for dinner, especially seafood and island-style dishes, but note issues with high prices, limited menu variety and inconsistent service quality.
The rooms are praised for their comfort, spaciousness and pleasant views, especially the grand beachfront suites. However, some guests report that the rooms feel dated and in need of maintenance. Cleanliness reviews are mixed with some guests satisfied with the upkeep and others pointing out issues with thoroughness and maintenance.
The resort staff typically receive high marks for their friendliness and helpfulness, creating a welcoming atmosphere. However, there are occasional mentions of inconsistent service quality and slow or inadequate service, likely due to understaffing.
The resort's Wi-Fi has received frequent complaints about it not being included in the room rate and its overall inconsistent quality. This could be a drawback for those requiring reliable internet access.
The spa services are generally well-received, providing a relaxing experience despite the need for upgrades in the spa facilities. The pool facilities are attractive, especially for families with well-maintained pools and a nice, clean space for relaxation. Nonetheless, some concerns about pool maintenance and freezing water temperatures are noted.
The beach is a standout feature, consistently praised for its beauty and suitability for water activities with excellent snorkeling opportunities right off the shore. Despite occasional crowding, the beach's white coral sand and clear waters make it a popular choice for guests.
Tennis courts at the resort are also highly appreciated, offering a peaceful and enjoyable environment for players.
Overall, The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium provides an idyllic setting for a memorable vacation with its prime beach location, family-friendly atmosphere and generally commendable service, although there are areas for improvement in room maintenance, food variety and quality and Wi-Fi services.
Categories
The breakfast receives mixed reviews with some guests enjoying the selection of fresh fruit and pancakes, while others find it underwhelming and suggest more hot options to improve the experience. Guests appreciate fresh, delicious food for dinner, especially seafood and island-style dishes, but note issues with high prices, limited menu variety and inconsistent service quality.
The rooms are praised for their comfort, spaciousness and pleasant views, especially the grand beachfront suites. However, some guests report that the rooms feel dated and in need of maintenance. Cleanliness reviews are mixed with some guests satisfied with the upkeep and others pointing out issues with thoroughness and maintenance.
The resort staff typically receive high marks for their friendliness and helpfulness, creating a welcoming atmosphere. However, there are occasional mentions of inconsistent service quality and slow or inadequate service, likely due to understaffing.
The resort's Wi-Fi has received frequent complaints about it not being included in the room rate and its overall inconsistent quality. This could be a drawback for those requiring reliable internet access.
The spa services are generally well-received, providing a relaxing experience despite the need for upgrades in the spa facilities. The pool facilities are attractive, especially for families with well-maintained pools and a nice, clean space for relaxation. Nonetheless, some concerns about pool maintenance and freezing water temperatures are noted.
The beach is a standout feature, consistently praised for its beauty and suitability for water activities with excellent snorkeling opportunities right off the shore. Despite occasional crowding, the beach's white coral sand and clear waters make it a popular choice for guests.
Tennis courts at the resort are also highly appreciated, offering a peaceful and enjoyable environment for players.
Overall, The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium provides an idyllic setting for a memorable vacation with its prime beach location, family-friendly atmosphere and generally commendable service, although there are areas for improvement in room maintenance, food variety and quality and Wi-Fi services.
Resort near Golf Courses
This resort is located within 2 miles of a golf course. It features a wide range of activities including snorkeling, tennis, and access to a golf course, making it suitable for golf enthusiasts.
Beachfront Resort
Located on Aroa Beach in Rarotonga, offers beachfront rooms and suites with lagoon views. Features a lagoonarium, multiple dining options, and a spa. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and stunning beachfront location.
Resort near The Beach
Located directly on Aroa Beach, this family-friendly resort provides direct access to the island's best beach and all-tide snorkeling Lagoonarium Marine Sanctuary. It ensures easy enjoyment of prolific marine life away from crowded hotel areas.
Resort Taking Steps Towards Sustainability
A Platinum Member of the Te Ipukarea Society, supporting environmental projects. The resort overlooks the Aroa Lagoonarium, an area dedicated to marine conservation and a coral nursery. It also educates guests on coral reef protection.
Resort with Spa
Located on Aroa Beach, this resort features a spa, offers a lagoonarium, providing a family-friendly experience with beach access and various water activities.
Resort with Swimming Pool
Located on Aroa Beach, offering lagoonarium access. It is a family-friendly resort. It provides a range of water activities.
Private Pool Outdoor Pool
Business Resort
Offers event space and is suitable for conferences. It is one of the largest hotels in Avarua by the amount of meeting space.
Resort with Parking
This resort offers parking. Known for its family-friendly environment and lagoonarium, it provides a variety of activities and services.
Resort with All Inclusive Packages
Located on Rarotonga, Cook Islands, this resort offers an all-inclusive experience with a focus on family-friendly activities and lagoon exploration. Guests can enjoy comfortable accommodations, multiple dining options, and a range of activities for all ages.
4-Star Resort
A family-friendly resort on Aroa Lagoonarium, known for snorkeling. It offers free activities and a kids club. It provides a range of accommodation options, including suites and villas, some with kitchenettes and private pools.
Resort with Rooms With Jacuzzi / Hot-tub
Luxury Resort
Resort for Honeymoon
Family Friendly Resort
Romantic Resort
Resort with Gym
Resort with Tennis Courts
Resort with Outdoor Pool
Resort with Private Pool Rooms
Guest Reviews
The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium boasts an exceptional location that has received widespread acclaim from its guests. Nestled right on the beach and Aroa Lagoon, the resort is celebrated as one of the best spots on the island, offering magnificent views and direct access to a stunning marine environment.
The beach and lagoon setting are frequently highlighted for their beauty, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling, swimming and other water activities. The proximity to the lagoon means guests can effortlessly enjoy the vibrant underwater life with some of the best snorkeling right at their doorstep. The waterfront access is not only perfect for water sports but also offers breathtaking sunset views, creating a picturesque environment for a relaxing vacation.
The resort is conveniently located near public transport options, making it easy for guests to explore the surrounding area. Its central position is handy for accessing nearby amenities, including supermarkets and other local attractions, while still providing a secluded, peaceful environment away from busy towns.
Families, in particular, find the location ideal with a variety of activities and facilities available to keep children entertained. The beachfront is safe and enjoyable for kids, adding to the resort's appeal as a family-friendly destination.
Overall, 'The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium' wins high marks for its prime beachfront setting, excellent snorkeling opportunities and the convenience of being close to essential services. The combination of a beautiful lagoon, outstanding views and accessible location makes it a standout choice for visitors to Rarotonga.
The breakfast experience at The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium receives mixed reviews from guests. While some appreciated the good selection and variety, describing it as great, pleasant and a daily highlight, others found it underwhelming and disappointing. The continental buffet breakfast is often noted as being basic, mostly consisting of toast, cereals and fruit. Multiple guests suggested that adding hot options like eggs, sausages and baked beans would improve the experience.
Some reviewers highlighted that the breakfast was enjoyable with fresh fruit and delightful pancakes. However, long wait times and limited choices, particularly a lack of variety day-to-day, were recurring complaints. Costs also seemed to be a concern, as some felt that the buffet didn't provide good value for the price charged.
On a positive note, some guests found the breakfast nice and the dining facilities commendable with gluten-free options available. Overall, while there were elements of the breakfast experience that guests enjoyed, many felt there was significant room for improvement, especially in terms of variety and freshness.
Guests at The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium have had varied dining experiences with a mixture of both praise and critique. Many guests appreciated the great dinner options, noting the delicious food and the incredible buffet dinner and dessert show. The restaurant was praised for a good selection of island-style food, cultural dishes and excellent lunch and dinner options with reasonable portions. The seafood dishes, particularly the ika mata, were highlighted as exceptional.
However, there were consistent remarks about the high prices and inconsistent quality of meals. Some reviews pointed out that the food was basic, often cold or lukewarm and at times, overcooked or undercooked. Several guests mentioned long waiting times for meals, especially during busy periods and that some food items were unavailable for the majority of their stay.
While the variety of food was generally praised, the menu was seen as limited and repetitive with some guests desiring more healthy and fresh options. Despite these issues, guests found certain items, like the seafood chowder and toasted fish sandwich, to be worth it.
Service at the restaurants received mixed reviews. Some guests appreciated the friendly bar staff and the cultural evening with live music, while others faced slow service, misplaced orders and grumpy reception staff.
In summary, the resort offers an array of dishes that can please many palates, but there are areas for improvement in food quality, service efficiency and menu variety to better meet all guests' expectations.
The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium offers mixed reviews when it comes to their rooms with guests praising certain aspects while criticizing others. Positively noted were the comfortable and spacious rooms along with the appealing views of the garden or beachfront. Many found the rooms to be clean, comfortable and suitable for family stays with some even complimenting the lovely balconies and outside showers. The grand beachfront suites, in particular, received accolades for their size and direct beach access. However, several reviews mentioned the need for significant upgrades, pointing out that many rooms felt dated, dark and in need of maintenance. There were also numerous complaints about room cleanliness and service frequency with some guests experiencing issues such as mildew smells, ants and overall poor upkeep. Despite these drawbacks, the resort's location and proximity to the beach were often highlighted as key positives, offering an attractive natural setting and excellent snorkeling opportunities right at the resort’s front.
The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium offers a mixed experience when it comes to beds. Many guests have praised the hotel for its comfortable beds and fluffy pillows, contributing to a restful night’s sleep. Descriptions such as comfy mattress and pillows, very comfortable bed and comfortable room highlight the positive aspects of staying at this resort. Guests have also appreciated the spaciousness of features like the huge bed and king size bed, even though some found the room a bit cramped due to the size of the bed.
However, the reviews also reveal some areas for improvement. A notable number of guests experienced discomfort due to old and lumpy beds with certain reviews mentioning that the mattresses were too firm or too soft. Specific complaints included springs sticking out, beds in need of an upgrade and some beds being appallingly uncomfortable. There were also instances where bunk beds were described as dodgy and the twin bed request sometimes went unfulfilled.
Despite these issues, service related to bedding received mixed feedback: cleaners consistently replaced linens, yet some guests found the beds not made daily and sand in the bed upon arrival. Overall, while the comfortable beds and pleasant sleep experiences stand out, there is a clear indication from the guests that the beds and mattresses could benefit from an upgrade to ensure a consistently comfortable stay.
Guest reviews of The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium depict mixed experiences, centering around the cleanliness and upkeep of the hotel. While many compliment the cleaning staff as friendly and competent, others cite issues with inconsistent housekeeping. Some guests appreciated the well-maintained and clean rooms, gardens and facilities. However, a significant portion expressed disappointment over rooms not being cleaned thoroughly, sometimes even upon arrival and reported problems like mould, dust and ants.
The property itself is often described as "tired" and "run down," with mentions of missing furniture, dated decor and general need for renovations. While beautiful grounds and enjoyable breakfast and bar facilities give a positive note, the common sentiment suggests that a deep cleaning and refurbishment are overdue.
Despite these issues, the resort's beachfront location and some well-kept areas add appeal. Yet, the inconsistent cleanliness and evident wear and tear throughout the property point to a need for significant improvements to meet guest expectations consistently.
At The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium, the staff often shines with friendliness and helpfulness, creating a welcoming atmosphere for many guests. Housekeeping and bar staff frequently receive praise for their exceptional service and friendliness. Notably, staff members such as Violet, Navi and Jordana are highlighted for their outstanding customer service, making guests' experiences memorable.
Receptionists often extend warm greetings, complete with cold drinks upon arrival, contributing to a pleasant first impression. Additionally, the activity hub's staff and kids club are commended for being cheerful and engaging, ensuring a family-friendly environment.
However, the reviews also indicate some inconsistencies in service quality. Some staff members come across as uninterested or grumpy, particularly at the reception, leading to feelings of unwelcome or dissatisfaction among a few guests. There are also mentions of slow or inadequate service, likely due to understaffing, which seems to affect overall performance, especially in peak times.
Despite these mixed experiences, the majority of the reviews reflect positively on the hotel staff's efforts and attitudes, depicting them as the resort's primary asset, always striving to improve the guests' stay.
The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium offers a picturesque and relaxing vacation experience, but it's important to be aware of some practical considerations regarding their Wi-Fi services. Guests have frequently commented that the Wi-Fi is not included in the room rate and requires an additional payment, often cited as $20 per use or per device. This can quickly add up with some guests mentioning they spent significant sums on internet access during their stay.
The quality of the Wi-Fi connection has been described as inconsistent and patchy with many experiencing frequent dropouts and unreliable service, especially in areas outside the reception. While there were positive mentions of the Wi-Fi working well, these instances seem to be less common. A few guests appreciated the staff's attempts to assist with connectivity issues, although it was noted that problems with the internet have been an ongoing issue at the resort.
Considering these factors, future visitors might want to plan for limited internet access or consider purchasing a local data plan if consistent connectivity is essential during their trip. While the resort excels in other areas, improvements in Wi-Fi service would certainly enhance the overall guest experience.
The spa at The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium offers a mix of experiences for its guests. Many visitors appreciated the relaxing atmosphere and found the spa services to be great with several mentioning it as the best massage they've had in a long time. Despite some limitations in the range of services, the treatments provided were generally well-received. The conducive environment made it easy for families to access the spa facilities amidst a variety of activities offered at the resort. Some feedback highlighted that while the massages were nice and required effort from the therapists, others were more average. However, it’s noted that the room housing the spa could use an upgrade, being described as old and tired. Overall, despite a few areas needing improvement, the spa experience was largely viewed as positive and relaxing.
The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium features a variety of swimming pools that largely impress their guests. There are two pools available, including an adults-only pool, providing a serene environment for those seeking relaxation. The children's pool is particularly well-received with many young guests enjoying their time there.
The main pool area is highlighted as a great spot to relax, boasting lots of outdoor seating and a neat pool bar. Families appreciate that the pool is good for kids, it is well-maintained and it offers a nice, clean space. Unique features like the swim-up bar and the close proximity to the beach enhance the overall pool experience.
However, some areas require attention. The pool usage can be problematic due to long queues, while the pool area sometimes appears run-down. Although the water is generally clear and the pool is clean, occasional issues like unclean decorations and inadequate sand management near the room entrances arise. A significant concern mentioned is the freezing temperature of the water in some pools and sporadic maintenance issues such as a broken waterpark slide.
In conclusion, while the pool facilities at The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium largely provide a refreshing and enjoyable experience — especially for children — some aspects need improvement to enhance guest satisfaction comprehensively.
The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium boasts a stunning beach that is consistently praised by guests for its beauty and accessibility. The beach's close proximity to the living quarters with many rooms situated right on the beachfront, ensures visitors are just steps away from the sand and sea. It’s an idyllic spot for snorkeling, where the crystal-clear waters reveal a vibrant marine reserve abundant with fish. Guests loved the convenience of having snorkeling gear readily available and noted the beach’s suitability for water activities like kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding.
The beach itself is described as amazing, excellent and pristine with white coral sand and clear, warm waters. Many reviews highlight the beach as one of the best on the island, perfect for swimming and family-friendly with plenty of beach loungers available. The lagoon added a delightful dimension to the stay, offering incredible views and a rich snorkeling experience right off the shore.
Despite occasional mentions of crowded areas with kids and a busy atmosphere, visitors appreciated the overall location and the picturesque walk along the shoreline. The resort also provides some adult-only zones for a quieter experience. The combination of a fantastic beach and great snorkeling opportunities sets this resort apart, making it a popular choice for those looking to enjoy the natural beauty and marine life of the Cook Islands.
The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium boasts top-quality tennis courts that offer a serene and enjoyable environment. Guests appreciated the peaceful and safe setting of the courts, which are perfect for quiet sports activities. Those looking for a fun and engaging experience also mentioned the helpful staff members who assist with team sports. Though there was an instance of missing tennis rackets at the activity hut, the resort generally provides tennis gear, ensuring that visitors can partake in tennis or other outfield sports with ease.
The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium offers convenient and ample parking options for its guests. With around 30 spots available, parking generally isn't an issue, providing plenty of spaces nearby. Guests can easily find parking across the street or in the car park nearest the resort, ensuring a stress-free arrival and departure. It's worth noting that while there's no parking directly in front of the entrance, the transitional parking available makes it easy to turn in and out of the resort. Overall, the parking arrangements are well-received, contributing positively to the overall guest experience.
The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium is highly appraised as a wonderful haven for families. The resort boasts an array of amenities designed specifically with families and children in mind. Visitors have highlighted the perfect family rooms and extensive, family-friendly facilities, making it an ideal destination for a family getaway. The atmosphere is notably child-friendly and safe, ensuring parents can relax while their kids enjoy the diverse activities available.
Activities for children are a major highlight with guests praising the great kids club, daily activities and the well-equipped kids area. The resort has a fantastic pool area, a kids waterpark and convenient access to snorkeling, allowing children to rotate between various exciting water activities each day. Tennis gear is available for free use, offering even more opportunities for fun.
The accommodation includes family-centric options, such as 2-bedroom family rooms and family huts, ensuring comfort and suitability for various family sizes and needs. The resort also provides facilities for babies, adding to its appeal for families with young children. Moreover, the environment is wheelchair accessible, broadening its inclusivity for all guests.
Overall, the Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium stands out as a superb, family-friendly retreat where children can make lots of friends and engage in fun activities, while parents can enjoy a worry-free vacation. Despite some suggestions for improved supervision in the kids club, the overwhelming sentiment is one of satisfaction and happiness among family visitors.
The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium offers an impressive all-inclusive experience, especially suitable for families. Stunning views of the lagoon can be admired from rooms with private balconies, enhancing the overall stay. The all-inclusive package encompasses a variety of activities, from sports to kids' club and beach activities, ensuring there is something for everyone without any extra charges. Guests appreciate the convenience of having everything included, including food and entertainment. While many services meet expectations, some have noted that not all promised services were delivered. Despite this, the overall inclusive deal, complete with attentive family activities, upholds the resort's reputation.
The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium offers a delightful experience for those seeking relaxation and comfort. Guests frequently praise the availability of the spa bath and Jacuzzi hot tub, describing the Jacuzzi as awesome and great. Reviews highlight the array of leisure options, including a pool, sauna, outdoor bath and shower, indicating a comprehensive wellness setup. The facilities, including the Jacuzzi, are noted to be clean and well-maintained. The private in-room spa adds a layer of exclusivity and convenience, although it seems that the availability of these outdoor facilities isn't always clearly listed. Overall, the resort's Jacuzzi and hot tub offerings resonate well with guests, contributing significantly to their positive experiences.
The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium offers an impressive outdoor pool area that guests appreciate for its beauty and functionality. Described as both excellent and well-maintained, the pool caters to a variety of needs, making it a great choice for families and couples alike. The large complex includes both indoor and outdoor pools, ensuring plenty of space for everyone. A highlight for many is the deep end space where guests can snorkel. There is also a designated kids' pool, adding to the family-friendly vibe. Adding to the enjoyment, food and drinks are conveniently available poolside, enhancing the overall relaxing experience. Stunning views from the rooms and ample lounging areas around the pool are mentioned, making it a delightful spot to unwind. With snorkel equipment and kayaks easily accessible, the pool at The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium is a central hub of activity and relaxation.
Located within a picturesque beach setting, The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium is particularly praised for its honeymoon offerings. Guests frequently highlight the dedicated honeymoon suites that provide a special experience for couples. These suites allow for stunning views, often overlooking the resort's inviting pool area. The location itself is lauded as both amazing and suitable for honeymooners, combining romance with family-friendly amenities. Beyond the accommodations, the resort provides a great option for those celebrating their new nuptials with the added convenience of modern amenities such as LCD connections. Overall, this resort stands out as an excellent choice for a memorable honeymoon.
The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium provides a serene and romantic atmosphere, perfect for couples looking for an escape from everyday life. The resort features a romantic beachfront villa, lovely honeymoon suites and a positive romantic coastal scene that adds to its appeal. It's an ideal spot for romantic getaways with special settings reserved for beach weddings and locations throughout the resort that create a sanctuary for couples. Evening meals are attentive and add to the overall dreamy environment. However, couples seeking a quieter holiday might want to consider adults-only options for a more peaceful experience. Despite a few mixed experiences, most agree that the resort offers a romantic location suited for spending quality time with a partner.
The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium receives widespread praise for its exceptional beachfront location, offering guests perfect beachfront rooms with breathtaking views. The resort is perfectly situated right on a beautiful beach with clear blue waters and white sand, providing an idyllic setting for relaxation and enjoyment.
Guests appreciate the close proximity to the beach, which allows for easy access to activities such as walking along the shores, snorkeling and simply soaking in the stunning natural scenery. The lagoon, a highlight of the resort, is loved for its beautiful views and great access, making it a haven for beach and lagoon enthusiasts.
Various accommodations, including grand beachfront suites and beachfront honeymoon bungalows with private pools, receive high marks for their excellent views and direct beach access. Beachfront units and deluxe suites offer remarkable ocean views and the convenience of having the beach just steps away from their rooms.
The beachfront bar and restaurant further enhance the beachside experience, allowing guests to enjoy beautiful views while dining or having a drink. The resort's commitment to maintaining a private beach ensures a more exclusive and serene environment for its visitors.
Overall, guests laud The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium for its fantastic location, right on the beach, providing an ideal getaway with magnificent views and excellent beach access. While there are occasional mentions of erosion and challenges with booking beachfront rooms, the overwhelming sentiment highlights the resort's unparalleled beachfront setting and its allure as a top choice for beach lovers.
Location Show Map
Location
The beach and lagoon setting are frequently highlighted for their beauty, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling, swimming and other water activities. The proximity to the lagoon means guests can effortlessly enjoy the vibrant underwater life with some of the best snorkeling right at their doorstep. The waterfront access is not only perfect for water sports but also offers breathtaking sunset views, creating a picturesque environment for a relaxing vacation.
The resort is conveniently located near public transport options, making it easy for guests to explore the surrounding area. Its central position is handy for accessing nearby amenities, including supermarkets and other local attractions, while still providing a secluded, peaceful environment away from busy towns.
Families, in particular, find the location ideal with a variety of activities and facilities available to keep children entertained. The beachfront is safe and enjoyable for kids, adding to the resort's appeal as a family-friendly destination.
Overall, 'The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium' wins high marks for its prime beachfront setting, excellent snorkeling opportunities and the convenience of being close to essential services. The combination of a beautiful lagoon, outstanding views and accessible location makes it a standout choice for visitors to Rarotonga.
Breakfast
Some reviewers highlighted that the breakfast was enjoyable with fresh fruit and delightful pancakes. However, long wait times and limited choices, particularly a lack of variety day-to-day, were recurring complaints. Costs also seemed to be a concern, as some felt that the buffet didn't provide good value for the price charged.
On a positive note, some guests found the breakfast nice and the dining facilities commendable with gluten-free options available. Overall, while there were elements of the breakfast experience that guests enjoyed, many felt there was significant room for improvement, especially in terms of variety and freshness.
Dinner
However, there were consistent remarks about the high prices and inconsistent quality of meals. Some reviews pointed out that the food was basic, often cold or lukewarm and at times, overcooked or undercooked. Several guests mentioned long waiting times for meals, especially during busy periods and that some food items were unavailable for the majority of their stay.
While the variety of food was generally praised, the menu was seen as limited and repetitive with some guests desiring more healthy and fresh options. Despite these issues, guests found certain items, like the seafood chowder and toasted fish sandwich, to be worth it.
Service at the restaurants received mixed reviews. Some guests appreciated the friendly bar staff and the cultural evening with live music, while others faced slow service, misplaced orders and grumpy reception staff.
In summary, the resort offers an array of dishes that can please many palates, but there are areas for improvement in food quality, service efficiency and menu variety to better meet all guests' expectations.
Rooms
Beds
However, the reviews also reveal some areas for improvement. A notable number of guests experienced discomfort due to old and lumpy beds with certain reviews mentioning that the mattresses were too firm or too soft. Specific complaints included springs sticking out, beds in need of an upgrade and some beds being appallingly uncomfortable. There were also instances where bunk beds were described as dodgy and the twin bed request sometimes went unfulfilled.
Despite these issues, service related to bedding received mixed feedback: cleaners consistently replaced linens, yet some guests found the beds not made daily and sand in the bed upon arrival. Overall, while the comfortable beds and pleasant sleep experiences stand out, there is a clear indication from the guests that the beds and mattresses could benefit from an upgrade to ensure a consistently comfortable stay.
Cleanliness
The property itself is often described as "tired" and "run down," with mentions of missing furniture, dated decor and general need for renovations. While beautiful grounds and enjoyable breakfast and bar facilities give a positive note, the common sentiment suggests that a deep cleaning and refurbishment are overdue.
Despite these issues, the resort's beachfront location and some well-kept areas add appeal. Yet, the inconsistent cleanliness and evident wear and tear throughout the property point to a need for significant improvements to meet guest expectations consistently.
Staff
Receptionists often extend warm greetings, complete with cold drinks upon arrival, contributing to a pleasant first impression. Additionally, the activity hub's staff and kids club are commended for being cheerful and engaging, ensuring a family-friendly environment.
However, the reviews also indicate some inconsistencies in service quality. Some staff members come across as uninterested or grumpy, particularly at the reception, leading to feelings of unwelcome or dissatisfaction among a few guests. There are also mentions of slow or inadequate service, likely due to understaffing, which seems to affect overall performance, especially in peak times.
Despite these mixed experiences, the majority of the reviews reflect positively on the hotel staff's efforts and attitudes, depicting them as the resort's primary asset, always striving to improve the guests' stay.
Wi-Fi
The quality of the Wi-Fi connection has been described as inconsistent and patchy with many experiencing frequent dropouts and unreliable service, especially in areas outside the reception. While there were positive mentions of the Wi-Fi working well, these instances seem to be less common. A few guests appreciated the staff's attempts to assist with connectivity issues, although it was noted that problems with the internet have been an ongoing issue at the resort.
Considering these factors, future visitors might want to plan for limited internet access or consider purchasing a local data plan if consistent connectivity is essential during their trip. While the resort excels in other areas, improvements in Wi-Fi service would certainly enhance the overall guest experience.
Spa
Pool
The main pool area is highlighted as a great spot to relax, boasting lots of outdoor seating and a neat pool bar. Families appreciate that the pool is good for kids, it is well-maintained and it offers a nice, clean space. Unique features like the swim-up bar and the close proximity to the beach enhance the overall pool experience.
However, some areas require attention. The pool usage can be problematic due to long queues, while the pool area sometimes appears run-down. Although the water is generally clear and the pool is clean, occasional issues like unclean decorations and inadequate sand management near the room entrances arise. A significant concern mentioned is the freezing temperature of the water in some pools and sporadic maintenance issues such as a broken waterpark slide.
In conclusion, while the pool facilities at The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium largely provide a refreshing and enjoyable experience — especially for children — some aspects need improvement to enhance guest satisfaction comprehensively.
Beach
The beach itself is described as amazing, excellent and pristine with white coral sand and clear, warm waters. Many reviews highlight the beach as one of the best on the island, perfect for swimming and family-friendly with plenty of beach loungers available. The lagoon added a delightful dimension to the stay, offering incredible views and a rich snorkeling experience right off the shore.
Despite occasional mentions of crowded areas with kids and a busy atmosphere, visitors appreciated the overall location and the picturesque walk along the shoreline. The resort also provides some adult-only zones for a quieter experience. The combination of a fantastic beach and great snorkeling opportunities sets this resort apart, making it a popular choice for those looking to enjoy the natural beauty and marine life of the Cook Islands.
Tennis
Parking
Family
Activities for children are a major highlight with guests praising the great kids club, daily activities and the well-equipped kids area. The resort has a fantastic pool area, a kids waterpark and convenient access to snorkeling, allowing children to rotate between various exciting water activities each day. Tennis gear is available for free use, offering even more opportunities for fun.
The accommodation includes family-centric options, such as 2-bedroom family rooms and family huts, ensuring comfort and suitability for various family sizes and needs. The resort also provides facilities for babies, adding to its appeal for families with young children. Moreover, the environment is wheelchair accessible, broadening its inclusivity for all guests.
Overall, the Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium stands out as a superb, family-friendly retreat where children can make lots of friends and engage in fun activities, while parents can enjoy a worry-free vacation. Despite some suggestions for improved supervision in the kids club, the overwhelming sentiment is one of satisfaction and happiness among family visitors.
All-Inclusive Packages
Rooms with Jacuzzi / Hot-Tub
Outdoor Pool
Honeymoon
Romantic
Beachfront
Guests appreciate the close proximity to the beach, which allows for easy access to activities such as walking along the shores, snorkeling and simply soaking in the stunning natural scenery. The lagoon, a highlight of the resort, is loved for its beautiful views and great access, making it a haven for beach and lagoon enthusiasts.
Various accommodations, including grand beachfront suites and beachfront honeymoon bungalows with private pools, receive high marks for their excellent views and direct beach access. Beachfront units and deluxe suites offer remarkable ocean views and the convenience of having the beach just steps away from their rooms.
The beachfront bar and restaurant further enhance the beachside experience, allowing guests to enjoy beautiful views while dining or having a drink. The resort's commitment to maintaining a private beach ensures a more exclusive and serene environment for its visitors.
Overall, guests laud The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium for its fantastic location, right on the beach, providing an ideal getaway with magnificent views and excellent beach access. While there are occasional mentions of erosion and challenges with booking beachfront rooms, the overwhelming sentiment highlights the resort's unparalleled beachfront setting and its allure as a top choice for beach lovers.
Yes, The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium has pool(s) that belong to one or more of the following categories: Private Pool, Outdoor Pool.
Yes, a spa is available at The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium.
No, The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium doesn't allow dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium.
Yes, The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium has a gym.
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