We can confirm Etu Moana is the best hidden gem in the South Pacific! My husband and I enjoyed six magic days at this wonderful resort. Everyone has already gone to great lengths to tell the world how wonderful this resort, the staff, the beautiful lagoon are. We thought it would be useful if we passed on a couple of tips to intending travellers.

There are mosquitoes, and if it has been raining, they are diabolical! How to deal with them - before you come mix a bottle of dettol with baby oil and keep yourself plastered with this potion - it really does work (what the Cook Islanders use).

We flew out of Aitutaki on the last flight back to Rarotonga, departing at 7 pm. We incurred a fee of $150 to cover the storage for the day of our two suitcases and the use of a shower. We shared this facility with another couple and didn't use the shower. We would recommend would be travellers catch the 10.30 am flight out rather than find themselves in this situation.

We did enjoy the Thursday night happy hour Liz organised. A delightful Cook Islander named David came in and gave us instruction on surviving in the tropics by eating the coconut. He taught us how to climb a coconut tree to pick a coconut, how to husk it and then how to open it. The gentlemen in the group had much fun learning the art of husking and opening a coconut. Liz made us all a pina colada and while we sipped on this we all attempted to make ourselves a beautiful head dress to wear to the island night at the neighbouring resort. The guys showed us girls how to do it - they all discovered an unknown talent. We really all did have a lot a fun and the pina colada was awesome Liz - thanks.

I had the most wonderful time in Aitutaki staying at the Etu Moana bungalow #5. I was one of the very few single travelers there, but Jo-Anne, the girls and her husband Jim made my stay the most perfect experience I ever had.
The bungalows are just wonderful, spacious and the bathroom is just too good to be true. I especially liked the outdoor shower. Another great feature is the terrace lounge where I spent the evenings reading.
The breakfast is very personal and good, the ambiance of the whole property is very comfortable and there are a lot of activities to choose from.
Plan your stay longer on Aitutaki then on Rarotonga - just a personal advice ;-)

Etu Moana is truly a lovely hotel. The staff are brilliant and the owners are truly lovely. The rooms are clean and spacious with great facilities. Be aware Aitutaki suffers badly from Mosquitoes day & night. Take plenty of spray and do not stay on any of the outer islands as you will get eaten alive!!!!

We spent a week in Villa 1 at Etu Moana, and loved every second of it. The villas are perfectly designed and well-kept, with lots of thoughtful details and everything you need for a comfortable stay. We especially loved the shower. It's great - sometimes bathrooms leave much to be desired in overseas hotels.

Jim and Jo, the owners, are the best. In fact, all of the staff members were considerate, very helpful, and extremely pleasant. They helped us make reservations for dinner each night and recommended lots of fun things to do. They really know the ins and outs of the island and make your stay easy and comfortable.

They cultivate a friendly community atmosphere - other travellers at Etu Moana were outgoing and fun to be around. The beach in front is great, and you can hop into a complimentary kayak and roam around the coral reef in the water. There's even fairly good snorkeling in the area (snorkeling equipment is also provided).

We found the whole experience relaxing, pampering, and just perfect for a secluded getaway on the other side of the world. We also visited or stayed at other properties on Aitutaki, and I can tell you without a doubt, you won't find anywhere better than Etu Moana! We would definitely recommend Etu Moana to anyone.