Sunhaven Beach Bungalows
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#5 of 20 Specialty lodging in Arorangi
Location
4.8
Cleanliness
5.0
Service
4.8
Value
4.6
Absolute beachfront. A private secluded boutique property hidden amongst mature tropical palms on a pure white sand beach on the west sunset side of Rarotonga. Superbly equipped modern self contained bungalows, suites & studios. See breathtaking views from your verandah of the lagoon and the Pacific Ocean beyond with tropical sunset backdrops. Huge freshwater pool with BBQ area. Catering mostly for couples looking for total relaxation. Our NO CHILDREN policy ensures peace & quiet. Good old fashioned friendly personal service by owner hosts.
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Property amenities
Free parking
Wifi
Pool
Beach
Bicycle rental
Airport transportation
Adults only
BBQ facilities
Paid wifi
Pool / beach towels
Adult pool
Outdoor pool
Canoeing
Hiking
Snorkeling
Car hire
Baggage storage
Mosquito net
Non-smoking hotel
Outdoor furniture
Sun loungers / beach chairs
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Room features
Air conditioning
Private beach
Housekeeping
Private balcony
Coffee / tea maker
Kitchenette
Flatscreen TV
Walk-in shower
Safe
Seating area
Laptop safe
Private bathrooms
Tile / marble floor
Wake-up service / alarm clock
Microwave
Refrigerator
Electric kettle
Kitchenware
Hair dryer
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Room types
Ocean view
Pool view
Non-smoking rooms
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
HOTEL STYLE
Mid-range
Great View
Location
Aretuna Rd, Arorangi Cook Islands
Sunhaven Beach Bungalows
Getting there
Car recommended
Grade: 45 out of 100
45
Rarotonga Airport
3.4 mi•
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Rental Cars
48 Restaurants
within 5 miles
See what other travelers are saying
- Tammy JBangor, United Kingdom12 contributionsHad to cancel due to lockdown in new Zealand but I wanted to re assure other travellersI was looking forward to a week in this motel but due to the coronavirus and no flights to Rarotonga I had to cancel but these lovely people gave me a complete refund without question. Unlike other motels in New Zealand. Thank you Sunhaven. I hope to see you again when the world gets back to normal. HelenKia Orana Helen, Many thanks for your kind words. We at Sunhaven Beach Bungalows fully understand the current difficulties associated with overseas travel. We are therefore assessing all cancellations on their individual merit. If travel is disrupted due to flight/border restrictions, or boarding is refused due to passengers ill health due to Covid 19, we will happily hold prepayments in credit and re book for a later date when travel is possible. We have done this for many of our guests who have had their travel plans interrupted. Kia Manuia, Dennis Hogan.Written August 5, 2021This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Date of stay: April 2020Written May 2, 2020
- Navigator551444935761 contributionTotal RelaxationHaving tried the get back to Raro and Sunhaven we eventually managed the COVID bypass and got to heaven. 20 days of total relaxation....flopping into pool, snorkling in lagoon, walking to get great food, gazing at stars, friendly and helpful hosts, utter cleanliness, .....I could go on. I can't praise Sunhaven enough. Can't wait to return.Date of stay: March 2022Traveled as a coupleWritten March 16, 2022
- SimpleSue1 contributionSunhaven and its hosts were greatWe spent a month in 2005 at the Sunhaven in Raratonga, and it was great. We were met promptly at the airport in the early morning hours after a VERY long flight. Dennis and Patti own Sunhaven. Dennis greeted us personally when we arrived at Sunhaven (still in the very early hours of the morning), and was very helpful in helping us get settled and oriented. Sunhaven itself is beautiful, with several bungalows just yards from the beach. Our bungalow was nicely furnished with a small kitchen, a dining area, living room, bedroom, and bath, and best of all a furnished front porch facing the ocean. It was immaculate,was cleaned every day, and fresh flowers were abundant inside. The outdoor pool and barbeque area were frequently used by guests and again very clean. The grounds and gardens were beautiful. We faced some challenges on our trip to Raratonga. My husband had a motor bike accident, and Patti was very helpful in working through the red tape and medical issues. She also helped us rent a car economically. We also got to experience two cyclones during our trip, one of which resulted in our flight home being canceled. Dennis and Patti were amazing in helping allay the fears of their guests (most of whom were experiencing cyclones for the first time), in getting things cleaned up after the cyclones, and in assisting guests who had to stay past their reservation times. I would stay at Sunhaven again, and recommend it to any of our friends who were going to be in Raratonga. P.S. Patti was also great about directing shoppers to the best deals and hungry guests to really good meals. She also took care of our personal laundry which was much appreciated given the length of our stay.Written March 21, 2006
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Having tried the get back to Raro and Sunhaven we eventually managed the COVID bypass and got to heaven. 20 days of total relaxation....flopping into pool, snorkling in lagoon, walking to get great food, gazing at stars, friendly and helpful hosts, utter cleanliness, .....I could go on. I can't praise Sunhaven enough. Can't wait to return.
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Date of stay: March 2022Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
I was looking forward to a week in this motel but due to the coronavirus and no flights to Rarotonga I had to cancel but these lovely people gave me a complete refund without question. Unlike other motels in New Zealand. Thank you Sunhaven. I hope to see you again when the world gets back to normal. Helen
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Date of stay: April 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
1 Helpful vote
Helpful
Response from Dennis Hogan, Owner at Sunhaven Beach Bungalows
Responded Aug 5, 2021
Kia Orana Helen, Many thanks for your kind words. We at Sunhaven Beach Bungalows fully understand the current difficulties associated with overseas travel. We are therefore assessing all cancellations on their individual merit. If travel is disrupted due to flight/border restrictions, or boarding is refused due to passengers ill health due to Covid 19, we will happily hold prepayments in credit and re book for a later date when travel is possible. We have done this for many of our guests who have had their travel plans interrupted. Kia Manuia, Dennis Hogan.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Thinking about Cook Islands? Look absolutely no further than Sunhaven on the island of Rarotonga! They are a quick to respond to emails, and so easy to work with. The bungalows are are quick cab or bus ride from the airport. We had pre-arranged round-trip transport with Cheryl at the desk, and was greeted warmly by our driver and "lei-d" at the small airport. Upon arrival we found the grounds to be green and lush, and very well tended. Our bungalow itself (#4) was bright and airy. Vaulted ceilings and strategic fans provided nice airflow. We opted for a unit without air conditioning, as we knew this season isn't terribly hot, and we did just fine. Maybe during their summer we might have made another decision. Our bed was comfortable and the bathroom was well-lit. I borrowed a hair dryer from the reception desk, which was a full-size dryer. Not one of those little cheap ones you find in so many hotels nowadays.The kitchen had all we needed to fix our breakfast every morning. And we were welcomed by a fresh fruit basket of papaya and bananas on the table. YUM! Although there is a large dining table, we preferred to eat on the lanai out front. There was a book of information about both the property and the island on the coffee table. All was very useful! We had a peek-a-boo view of the beach and ocean. We had little hermit crabs visit us one morning, and a mama hen with her little babies on another. The pool is about 1.4 meters deep and lovely if you're yearning for calmer waters than the ocean (which is truly right there!). The barbecue is near the pool area and perfect for cooking any fish you may have caught whist fishing during the day. There are plenty of loungers around the pool and on the beach. I loved the hammocks that were put out daily. We opted to use the public bus system. It stops right out front of the property and circles the island regularly. It was so easy and quite reasonably priced, as we purchased a 10-ride punch card on our first day. The gent who usually drives the evening shift was a fun local man who was personable and engaging and always happy to answer any questions. In the immediate area there were stores and restaurants to chose from. We walked about 3 minutes to the local market to buy our breakfast supplies. They were always very kind there, and they accept credit cards. The restaurants nearby are also good, ready with a tropical drink or a lovely meal. I cannot say enough good about Sunhaven. It's what Hawaii used to be, with a true warm spirit and a lovely laid-back lifestyle. I would absolutely go back in a heartbeat.…
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Date of stay: November 2019
Location
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
1 Helpful vote
Helpful
Response from sunhaven1, Manager at Sunhaven Beach Bungalows
Responded Nov 26, 2019
Kia Orana Trixie, Thank you so much for your awesome and informative review! We truly enjoy welcoming guests to our quiet resort right on the beach and we are so pleased you loved Sunhaven and Rarotonga as much as we do. Rarotonga really does have a lovely laid-back lifestyle that can be hard to find in today’s busy world. It was an absolute pleasure having you stay with us and we would love to see you back in the future. Meitaki Ma’ata Cheryl and John Resort Managers
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
I absolutely loved this little place, right on beach beautiful view every morning and private and quiet, Cheryl and John are the most lovely managers couldn't do enough for you. Sunset was gorgeous too, will def be back some day
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Date of stay: November 2019
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Room Tip: go with the bungalow
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from sunhaven1, Manager at Sunhaven Beach Bungalows
Responded Nov 15, 2019
Kia Orana, Thank you so much for your excellent review. We are so happy you enjoyed your stay at Sunhaven and got to experience relaxation and sunsets in our little piece of paradise. It was a pleasure having you stay with us and we are looking forward to seeing you both again. Meitaki Ma’ata John and Cheryl
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Sunhaven is the perfect place to relax and unwind, and literally do nothing! We spent six nights in our lovely, clean, super comfortable room where we could step out the door onto our deck, another few steps to the pool and yet another few steps to the beach. We saw some beautiful sunsets and some whales swimming by. We ate and drank, swam, read books, ate and drank, played Scrabble and cards, ate and drank, went for walks down the beach, ate and drank....Cheryl and John were fabulous hosts, available when we needed anything and ready with advice on the best places to eat. We didn't hire a car or a scooter, using the bus when we felt the need to venture out. There are several great restaurants within walking distance, as well as Beluga Cafe for coffee/brunch and the most tasty, generous serving of fish and chips ever across the road at the Pacific Fish and Chip Shop. With just a few bungalows, Sunhaven is boutique and child-free so you are ensured peace and quiet. If we didn't promise the kids we'll take them to Rarotonga with us next time, we'd be back in a flash!…
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Date of stay: September 2019
Value
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
1 Helpful vote
Helpful
Response from sunhaven1, Manager at Sunhaven Beach Bungalows
Responded Sep 24, 2019
Kia Orana, Thank you so much for your wonderful review. We are so happy you both had such a lovely, relaxing time at Sunhaven. We are in the perfect spot for gorgeous sunsets and watching whales and it was a pleasure to be able to share it with you. We hope to see you again in our little piece of paradise. Meitaki Ma’ata Cheryl and John
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We spent nine nights at Sunhaven. Our Bungalow was well presented and spotlessly clean. The beech was literally 30 paces away,golden coral sand and the waters of the lagoon creating a very relaxing view in any direction.The pool is well placed, close to all of the units and looks over the lagoon. The managers were welcoming and helpful and were able to answer any queries, backed by the owners Patti and Dennis who have been there for 30 years and who between them filled us in on points of history and interest. We absolutely recommend Sunhaven for a quiet relaxing break away from daily stress and worry
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Date of stay: August 2019
Rooms
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from sunhaven1, Manager at Sunhaven Beach Bungalows
Responded Aug 27, 2019
Kia Orana, Thank you so much for your lovely review. We are glad you like our gorgeous beachfront location as much as we do and we are so happy you both had a relaxing and enjoyable stay! We hope to see you back at Sunhaven soon. Meitaki Ma'ata!
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
What an absolute gem - this place has it all. The location is perfect and within walking distance of numerous restaurants and bars. The room was spotlessly clean and had lounge, dining & kitchen facilities. The view from our room overlooked the pool and the beach and both were just a few steps away. With free use of canoes, snorkels, flippers and reef shoes you couldn’t ask for more. The owners are simply delightful and we will definitely be staying there next time. A huge thumbs up to Patti & Dennis - your place is AWESOME
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Date of stay: July 2019Trip type: Traveled with friends
Value
Location
Service
Room Tip: Room 7 was large and sunny.
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
1 Helpful vote
Helpful
Response from sunhaven1, Manager at Sunhaven Beach Bungalows
Responded Aug 8, 2019
Kia Orana Sueboo7, Thank you so much for your wonderful review! It was a pleasure having you stay with us and we are very happy you enjoyed your stay here. Our absolute beachfront location ensures you will always have a lovely, uninterrupted view of the lagoon and most nights a stunning sunset. It’s always nice to know that our guests love it here as much as we do. We look forward to welcoming you back to Sunhaven soon!
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We're not into big bust resorts and Sunhaven is an ideal "boutique" place. The 7 or so chalets are nestled together but retain some privacy, with a beach/sea view and large decks to sit out on and enjoy island life. They keep the place spotless clean. The owner, Patti, is a character and has some odd rules, which I guess have stood them in good stead over the years that they have run this place. The reception is only open between 9 and 11am and then 4pm to 5, which is weird but there is a local phone for calling taxis etc. They have free to use canoes but the life vests need to be borrowed from reception. Check out is at 10!!! as we were reminded!!! and although you can only check in after 4, Patti did show us to our rooms around 2.30 when we got there as they were ready to go... Warning - beach towels (a bit worn) were available but you need a $25 each returnable deposit!! Also - the laundry is NOT for the use of guests! We made new friends with fellow guests and had fun in the evening sharing a plate of nibbles and drinks!…
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Date of stay: July 2019Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Rooms
Cleanliness
Service
Room Tip: most have a sea view
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
1 Helpful vote
Helpful
Response from sunhaven1, Manager at Sunhaven Beach Bungalows
Responded Aug 8, 2019
Kia Orana 563simonb, Thank you for your very nice review. We really enjoyed having you stay at Sunhaven. The refundable deposit for the beach towels you mentioned was an initiative we were trialing due to the number of towels being taken off the premises and being lost. We have reviewed the policy and I’m happy to tell you that we no longer charge this. Our 4pm check in time, that you queried, is to give us enough time to make sure your room is cleaned to the spotless standard that we are very proud of, prior to your arrival. Sometimes we might have 2 – 3 rooms to get ready for same day arrivals. However, when our transfers are booked, we endeavor to prioritize those arrivals and have their rooms ready earlier if possible so our driver can take them directly to their room on arrival rather than waiting until 4pm. If own transfer arrangements are made, reception needs to be open to enable check in. This is why we advise our guests of the check in time when we confirm their booking and offer transfers. Being a small resort, with only 9 rooms, we do not have 24/7 reception hours. We have however now extended reception hours to open daily from 9am to midday and 3pm to 5pm Mon – Sat. Sundays 10am – 11am and 4pm – 5pm. We hope you loved being in Rarotonga and we hope to see you back again.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
This was our second trip to Rarotonga and of course we stayed at Sunhaven Beach Bungalows. It’s a perfect place for quiet relaxation. The view from Bungalow #1 is beautiful. We loved hearing the constant sound of the surf and watching the spectacular sunsets as we sat on our front porch. Sunhaven was the perfect place for us to call “home” for our six week stay on the island. The beach area was clean and quiet. No crowds on this beach! Lovely swimming pool setting, we especially liked looking up to the sky from the pool. The view of palm trees, white clouds and very clear blue sky was always pleasing. The property is beautifully landscaped and the bungalows are spotless, with lovely personal touches that feel like you are in your own little island home, like fresh flowers and bananas to enjoy. Sunhaven is a perfect retreat for adult travelers who want a tranquil beach setting. Thank you, Dennis and Patti for your kindness and another wonderful stay at Sunhaven. Looking forward to our next visit.…
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Date of stay: September 2018Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Value
Cleanliness
Service
Room Tip: All rooms are good, but our first choice is bungalow #1 (bungalow #2 and #3 are excellent as well.)
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
1 Helpful vote
Helpful
Response from sunhaven1, Owner at Sunhaven Beach Bungalows
Responded Nov 30, 2018
Kia Orana WorldTeach23, What can I say? You have said it all. Thank you, thank you for your amazing feedback. I am humbled by your comments. You don’t know how much it means to us. See you next time. Kia Manuia, Dennis, Patti and staff.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Denis and Patti are such lovely hosts. The property is immaculate, the bungalows are beachfront and it's just so quiet and relaxing. This was our third visit and we'll be back. There are kayaks, snorkelling gear and a very swish new barbecue. The round-island bus stops right outside. Perfect.
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Date of stay: September 2018Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Room Tip: The system doesn't let me rate service, cleanliness and sleep quality but they were all...
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from sunhaven1, Owner at Sunhaven Beach Bungalows
Responded Nov 30, 2018
Kia Orana DLM48, Thanks very much for your super review. We’re really rapt you consider Sunhaven ‘always a winner’ especially after your third stay. I trust you made full use of our ‘swish’ new BBQ and had fun paddling our kayaks - for which we now provide life vests. Having the bus stop at our gate is certainly convenient and inexpensive for those who prefer not to hire a vehicle. Again many thanks and we look forward to your fourth quiet and relaxing holiday at Sunhaven. Kia Manuia, Dennis, Patti and staff.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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PRICE RANGE
$142 - $171 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
ALSO KNOWN AS
sunhaven beach bungalows hotel arorangi
LOCATION
Cook IslandsSouthern Cook IslandsRarotongaArorangi
NUMBER OF ROOMS
9
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Claim Your ListingSUNHAVEN BEACH BUNGALOWS - Prices & Villa Reviews (Arorangi, Cook Islands)
Frequently Asked Questions about Sunhaven Beach Bungalows
Which popular attractions are close to Sunhaven Beach Bungalows?
Nearby attractions include Tik-e Tours (1.5 miles), Aroa Marine Reserve (1.2 miles), and Cook Island Christian Church (CICC) (0.7 miles).
What are some of the property amenities at Sunhaven Beach Bungalows?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include a pool, free parking, and airport transportation.
Which room amenities are available at Sunhaven Beach Bungalows?
Top room amenities include a kitchenette, air conditioning, and a flat screen TV.
What food & drink options are available at Sunhaven Beach Bungalows?
Guests can enjoy barbeque facilities during their stay.
Is parking available at Sunhaven Beach Bungalows?
Yes, free parking is available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to Sunhaven Beach Bungalows?
Conveniently located restaurants include Beluga, The Waffle Shack, and Wilson's Beach Bar & Restaurant - Castaway Resort.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Sunhaven Beach Bungalows?
Yes, guests have access to a pool during their stay.
Does Sunhaven Beach Bungalows have airport transportation?
Yes, Sunhaven Beach Bungalows offers airport transportation for guests. We recommend calling ahead to confirm details.
Are there any historical sites close to Sunhaven Beach Bungalows?
Many travelers enjoy visiting Wreck of the Matai (4.2 miles).
Does Sunhaven Beach Bungalows have any great views?
Yes, guests often enjoy the ocean view available here.