Accommodations on Mangaia

Mangaia is a wonderful destination to spend a quiet few days. Located southeast of Rarotonga, this island lies in the Southern Group of the Cook Islands. Secluded and thinly populated, Mangaia is known for its lush vegetation, green valleys and dramatic caves, which make it a favorite for tourists who are looking for a vacation off the beaten track. Tour the island on foot or by scooter along the meandering forest trails, to explore the rich greenery abound here.

The main settlement on Mangaia is the town of Oneroa, which lies on the west of the island. If you plan on staying here, most accommodations on Mangaia are in Oneroa. To stay here for a long period of time also means you will have to bring your own food supplies, as most of the shops in town have a limited selection of foods to eat. Fresh vegetables in particular are in short supply and are available only during certain times of the year.

One of the best places to stay on Mangaia has to be the Mangaia Lodge located in Temakatea. A colonial styled hotel, this lodge has three spacious bedrooms and a huge common room to enjoy. Breakfast is included in your room rates, while lunch and dinner meals can be arranged for an extra price.

Babe’s Place is near Tauuti Beach and has a large modern two bedroom house for rent as well as four motel style accommodations. Room rates include meals and airport transfer services. There is a bar at Babe’s Place as well, which has dancing on Friday and Saturday night.

In Oneroa, Liz and Tuaine Papatua rent a large bedroom in their home, while for a group of four or more people the Oneroa community hall is available for rent as well.

If you wish to stay near Ivirua, Aramoana Bungalows offers several cabins for rent with arrangements for group activities also on hand. The owners also rent motorbikes to their guests to get around and meals are provided for an extra fee. Children under the age of 6 can stay here for free.