If I was heading to the Cook Islands on a week’s holiday with my partner and I decided to spend it on Rarotonga, I’d either rent a house on the beach with some friends or I’d stay here (above) at Little Polynesian – a charming, boutique property nestled between palm trees on the south coast of the island. The view out across the pool from the restaurant or the rooms says it all. To be able to open the door of your bungalow (I think there’s only 12 in the property, all stylishly appointed, with air con) and take a few steps across a sandy white beach into this incredible lagoon is about as good as its gets if you’re looking for a comfortable, relaxing, island paradise holiday.
Highly recommended (www.littlepolynesian.com).