Nautilus Resort is a luxurious, eco-friendly boutique resort located on Rarotonga, the largest of the Cook Islands. Situated on the gorgeous white sands of Muri Beach, it overlooks the crystal-clear waters of Muri Lagoon. The resort features just 17 Polynesian-style villas (called "ares"), ensuring a private and tranquil experience for guests.
The resort provides a range of high-end facilities to ensure a comfortable and relaxing stay. Guests can unwind by the large beachfront infinity pool, or get pampered at Spa Nautilus, a Thalgo-branded day spa. The resort also offers a full concierge service to assist guests in making the most of their time on the island. Complimentary non-motorized water sports equipment, including kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, and snorkeling gear, is available for guests to explore the lagoon. Other amenities include free daily breakfast and complimentary Wi-Fi access.
Nautilus Resort is family-friendly and well-equipped to cater to guests of all ages. It offers a "Kids' Concierge" service for children aged 5-12. The two- and three-bedroom villas are perfect for families, providing ample space and privacy. The calm waters of Muri Lagoon right on the doorstep are ideal for safe family swimming and water activities. The resort can also help organize family-friendly excursions, such as picnics on a nearby island.
A wide variety of activities are available both on-site and through the resort's concierge. Guests can enjoy complimentary water sports like snorkeling, kayaking, and paddle boarding in the lagoon. The resort can also arrange for a range of off-site adventures, including scuba diving, kite surfing, sailing, hiking, jungle walks, and scenic island tours. For a cultural experience, guests can visit the local markets or an "Island Night" dinner and show.
Nautilus Resort's dining experience is centered around the award-winning Nautilus Restaurant and Bar. This stylish Polynesian beachfront restaurant offers both fine dining and a casual, al fresco experience on the patio, all with stunning views of the lagoon and infinity pool. The menu features a fusion of Polynesian and European cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients, including produce from the resort's own organic market garden. The restaurant also has a sophisticated open bar. In-room dining is also an option for those who wish to enjoy a meal on their private deck.
The resort's accommodation consists of 17 spacious villas, known as "ares." Each villa is a freestanding, luxury unit with its own private saltwater plunge pool and a private deck. All villas are air-conditioned and feature high-pitched ceilings and open-plan living spaces. Room types include:
Garden Are: Set amongst the tropical gardens, these suites are 120 sq m (1,290 sq. ft.) and feature a super king-size four-poster bed, an open-plan living space, and a private plunge pool.
Beachfront Are: Similar in size to the Garden Ares at 120 sq m (1,290 sq. ft.), these villas are located just steps from the beach with stunning views of Muri Lagoon.
Two-Bedroom Ares (Garden and Beachfront): These expansive 220 sq m (2,365 sq. ft.) villas are ideal for families or groups, featuring a full kitchen and two private bedrooms, each with an ensuite bathroom.
Three-Bedroom Beachfront Are: The largest option at 340 sq m (3,655 sq. ft.), this villa is created by interconnecting a two-bedroom and a one-bedroom beachfront villa. It includes three bedrooms, three bathrooms, two plunge pools, and two private decks.
All villas include a kitchenette (full kitchen in multi-bedroom units), an outdoor stone shower, and a large bathroom with a separate stone bath and rain shower.
Nautilus Resort is located on the eastern side of Rarotonga, on Muri Beach. It's approximately a 15-20 minute drive from Rarotonga International Airport (RAR). The most common way to get to the resort is by taxi or shuttle service from the airport. Public buses also run along the island's ring road and are a more budget-friendly option. The resort's convenient location also means it's just a short walk from Muri Village and the popular night market.