Booking.com · 15 May 2026 · 9/10
Alan · New Zealand
“Comfortable, quiet, value for money, exactly what I needed.”
Guest stories
What previous guests have said
Detailed feedback from travellers who chose Muri Retreat as their Rarotonga base.
4.9out of 5
★★★★★
Guests feel at home here
Thoughtful hosts, peaceful gardens and well-equipped private apartments are mentioned again and again.
22 detailed storiesGoogleBooking.comExpedia
Google Reviews · 18 April 2026 · 10/10
Wez · New Zealand & South Africa
“Our stay at Muri Retreat was truly unforgettable. From the moment we arrived, we could feel the care and thought that Simon and Denise pour into this place. The self-catering unit was absolutely perfect — spotless, beautifully set up, and stocked with everything we could possibly need. Every detail had been considered, right down to the small touches that make you feel instantly at home. It is rare to find a place where you do not have to ask for a single thing because it is already there waiting for you. What made our stay even more special were Simon and Denise themselves. They are the kind of hosts who make you feel genuinely welcomed, not just as guests but as people they truly want to look after. Warm, kind, and incredibly thoughtful, they strike the perfect balance of being available when you need them while giving you complete space to relax and unwind. Their knowledge of the island, their generosity, and their genuine passion for what they do shine through in every interaction. Muri Retreat is more than just accommodation — it is a place created with heart. We left feeling rested, grateful, and already talking about when we can come back. Simon and Denise have built something really special here, and we feel lucky to have experienced it.”
Google Reviews · 27 March 2026 · 10/10
Karin · Germany
“We had a truly wonderful stay at Muri Retreat. The view from the balcony of our lovely room was phenomenal, and we felt completely at ease. The room was spotless, everything we needed was provided, we could borrow snorkeling equipment, and Simon was always available for us. He and his wife Denise take wonderful care of their guests. The short walk to the beach was lovely, and the lagoon in Muri is fantastic for snorkeling. There are plenty of restaurants nearby, a good little supermarket, the night market with delicious street food is just a stone's throw away, and the bus stops regularly down the road. Muri Retreat also offers car rentals. Book your holiday here; you will love it!”
Booking.com · 6 March 2026 · 10/10
Heidi · Germany
“The apartment offers a beautiful view of the sea and a great sunrise every morning. It has everything you need, and the pool is super refreshing. Simon gave me some very good tips and even went snorkelling with me. I would love to come back. The climb to the accommodation is a bit strenuous, so I would rent a car on my next visit.”
Expedia Reviews · 24 January 2026 · 10/10
John · USA & Overseas Various
“Living space: The area is compact and organized, with an efficient kitchen joining a large room with bed. The lofted ceilings make it roomier and uncrowded. The kitchen was well equipped. The patio area is spacious with a nice view. Sunrises are gorgeous. Bathroom: Large space with walk-in shower. No tub. Large mirror above sink. Water pressure was excellent and hot water was plentiful. Towels are large and soft. Cleanliness and amenities: My unit was spotless and well equipped. The large TV has Netflix, Prime, etc. You use your own login. The overhead fan made air conditioning unnecessary. Tap water is filtered, so there is no need to buy bottled water. Expect some insects; this is the South Pacific. You will find geckos all over, but they eat most of the annoying pests. All windows and patio doors are screened. The area is quiet. Free-range chickens are common in the South Pacific, so if early morning roosters bother you, cheap earplugs can fix that. Overall: Highly recommend Muri Retreat. The hosts go out of their way to orient you and make sure everything goes smoothly.”
Google Reviews · 8 November 2025 · 5/5
Erika · Australia
“So glad that I stayed here instead of one of the resorts or hotels on the main road. I visited many of them for dinner, lunch and drinks throughout my stay and each time I was happy to be going back to my Muri Retreat oasis. It is serene, quiet when the roosters are not calling, and this little piece of paradise feels like home. Simon and Denise have put a lot of love into this place and you can feel it. They are very responsive and thoughtful, and even brought me a few things from their garden that they knew I liked. The view from the balcony is great, the breeze is refreshing, the TV is pre-loaded with good movies, and the kitchen is stocked with the necessities. The bed is the main character though. I have not had a sleep that great in a long time! It is located about a half-kilometre walk down a side street from the main road, super easy to get to using the island bus, and they offer airport transfers too if you prefer. Book directly and you get unlimited Wi-Fi access, plus avoid all those other platform booking fees. The place has everything you need for your Rarotonga getaway and I hope I will be able to make it back soon.”
Google Reviews · 12 September 2025 · 5/5
Molly · New Zealand
“We had the most amazing five-day visit to Raro in August! Muri Retreat was exceptional, and had absolutely everything we needed to enjoy our stay. One of our highlights was our stand-up paddleboard lesson and adventure with Simon. It was my partner's first time paddleboarding, and Simon made us feel really confident on the water and let us know all of the good spots to go snorkelling and turtle spotting. We then ended up spending most of our time after this out paddleboarding! Will 100% be back. Thanks so much Simon and Denise for such an amazing Raro experience.”
Google Reviews · 15 June 2025 · 5/5
David · England, UK
“Wow! That was the word used by myself and my girlfriend as soon as we arrived at our room, Kaute. With an amazing setting and stunning view, we instantly settled into our fabulous apartment. The facilities in our apartment were fabulous, with a kitchen perfect for self-catering and a spacious bathroom. We very quickly made ourselves at home. Denise and Simon were the perfect hosts. Their vast knowledge of the island and ‘nothing is too much trouble’ attitude meant we were looked after as if part of their family. We cannot thank you guys enough for a fabulous stay. We will be back soon.”
Expedia · 10 June 2025 · 5/5
Erica · Canada
“We arranged an airport transfer and were provided with very detailed instructions on when and where to meet. The apartment was clean and spacious, and the kitchen was fully stocked with utensils for cooking. Great location, very close to the beach. Would absolutely stay again.”
Booking.com · 4 June 2025 · 5/5
Anja · Germany
“Communication before the stay was very informative and comprehensive, with information and pick-up options. Simon's airport transfer worked out great. Both when we were picked up and on the way back, we received useful information about the island and our stay. The room was large and spacious and equipped with everything you need. Simon and his wife were very helpful and friendly hosts. The accommodation was clean and centrally located a few minutes' walk from Muri centre and the beach.”
Google Reviews · 14 March 2025 · 5/5
Laurent · France
“Excellent stay and a very warm welcome. Denise and Simon do everything they can to make sure we have a wonderful time. The house is magnificent, nestling in the countryside and overlooking the lagoon. Everything is very well maintained, simple and refined, and the garden has a refreshing little swimming pool. We were welcomed like friends. We hired a scooter, which enabled us to explore the island.”
Google Reviews · 5 March 2025 · 5/5
Yves · Germany
“Simon is a very funny guy and the accommodation is very nice. Make sure you book the apartments on top — the view is fantastic!”
Booking.com · 15 February 2025 · 10/10
Nittsy · Chile & New Zealand
“Comfy, clean and private. Perfect location very close to Muri Beach and the night market. The place was clean and had everything that we needed to keep the place tidy.”
Booking.com · 19 December 2024 · 10/10
Ines · Germany
“It is so relaxing and quiet here. The hosts, Denise and Simon, are very helpful.”
Google Reviews · 23 November 2024 · 5/5
Bronwyn · New Zealand
“Had a wonderful time at Muri Retreat. Simon and Denise were amazing hosts who could not do enough for us. We would recommend this accommodation to anyone. The units were clean and well cared for. The outdoor area was lovely, as there was a gorgeous tropical garden, pool and sun loungers. A lovely place to stay when you want a home away from home.”
Booking.com · 12 October 2024 · 10/10
Oscar · Spain
“Fantastic apartment in Muri. An excellent apartment that does not lack detail: full kitchen, ceiling fan, fridge and more. My stay was fantastic. They helped me at all times with any need, lent me snorkel equipment and helped me with the transfer. Without a doubt, a 10/10.”
Google Business Reviews & Maps · 19 June 2024 · 5/5
Jess · United Kingdom
“We had an absolutely amazing stay at Muri Retreat and would 100% recommend it. Communication from the very beginning was outstanding, and Simon and Denise go above and beyond to make your stay the best. They have thought of everything! We felt so at home as soon as we arrived. The apartment was perfect — spotless and so comfortable, with a bed at five-star hotel level in comfort. The location is brilliant, super close to Muri Beach and in the middle of everything we wanted to explore on the island. If we go back to Rarotonga we will 100% return to Muri Retreat!”
Booking.com · 17 June 2024 · 9/10
Wendy · New Zealand & China
“This is a superb place for a holiday. All you need to do is chill out and enjoy. It has a great location and easy access to the beach, shops and bus stops. It is an excellent and quiet place with a sea view.”
Google Business Review & Booking.com · 9 June 2024 · 5/5
Francesca · Italy
“Amazing location and well-equipped apartment. The hosts are very responsive and helpful. A cosy retreat a few steps away from Muri Lagoon.”
Booking.com · 14 May 2024 · 10/10
João · Portugal
“Peaceful location with an exceptional host. Muri Retreat was everything I hoped for: well located near Muri Beach, comfortable, with everything I needed, and a 24-hour supermarket about a 10-minute walk away. Simon was an exceptional host and very helpful. He even got me reef shoes and fins to use during my stay. My bag did not arrive, and Simon went above and beyond to help me retrieve it and have everything I needed during my stay.”
Google Business Review · 17 May 2024 · 5/5
Kathy · Australia
“Muri Retreat is fabulous. Quiet, private and off the main road of Muri Lagoon. Walking distance to local restaurants, bakery, night food markets and shops. The units are fully self-contained and you want for nothing. Your hosts, Denise and Simon, are amazing and only too ready to help you find the best snorkelling spots, restaurants and more. We have thoroughly enjoyed our stay, and we will be back. I forgot to mention Simon and Denise's dog Jimmy — he just loves cheese.”
Booking.com · 19 February 2024 · 10/10
Rick · Netherlands
“Perfect accommodation on Rarotonga. Beautiful view towards the lagoon and sea even though you are a bit off the main road. Beautiful layout of the apartment, with a nice view outside from the kitchen and bed. The owners are very helpful and have good advice.”