Rarotonga

Directly on Aroa Beach & Marine Reserve, snorkelling direct from the beach. Daily resort activities, swimming pool, air-conditioned rooms, and a choice of buffet $36, a-la-carte restaurants $18-27 and cafe $5-10. Bar and restaurants open to guests and casual diners. Family friendly with a kids club for young kids, and kids are welcome at the activities. Interconnecting rooms and two bedroom bungalows available.

There are a few backpacker type places, many villas, from large complexes to one or two villas in a group. There is also resort style accommodation.

Consider where on the island you want to stay, and pick a location near a beach or lagoon if you are looking for the beach and snorkelling activities. The accommodation providers are used to people arriving and departing at odd hours, according to the flight schedules. Don't expect any discounts for arriving at accommodation at 2AM, and expect to pay extra to check in early or to get a late checkout. Resorts like the Rarotongan and the Pacific have their rates for early and late checkout by the hour on their website.

Three meters to the beach. A very private setting with spectacular gardens and wildlife.