Reviews
Comfortable, quiet, value for money, exactly what I needed. 9/10 Source: Booking.com Reviews
Alan | 15th May 2026, New Zealand
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’s rare to find a place where you don’t have to ask for a single thing because it’s 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’s 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. 10/10 Source: Google Reviews
Wez | 18th April 2026, New Zealand and South Africa
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'll love it! 10/10 Source: Google Reviews
Karin | 27th March 2026, 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. 10/10 Source: Booking.com reviews
Heidi | 6th March 2026, Germany
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. Kitchen was well equipped. Patio area is spacious with 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. Large tv has Netflix, Prime, etc. (You use your own login). Overhead fan made a/c unnecessary (I was there in January, summer time). Health and Well Being: Tap water is filtered. No need to buy bottled water. Expect some insects; this is the South Pacific. You'll find geckos all over, including the bed. But they eat most of the annoying pests. All windows and patio doors are screened. Area is quiet. However, free range chickens are common in S. Pacific, so if early morning roosters bother you, cheap earplugs can fix that. Overall: Highly recommend Muri Retreat. Hosts go out of their way to orient you and make sure everything goes smoothly. 10/10 Source: Expedia Reviews
John | 24th Jan 2026, USA and Overseas Various
So glad that I stayed here instead of one of the resorts/hotels on the main road. I visited many of them for dinner/lunch/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 aren’t 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, 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 haven’t had a sleep that great in a long time! It’s located about a half km 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 WiFi access, plus avoid all those other platform booking fees. The place has everything you need for your Rarotonga getaway and I hope I’ll be able to make it back soon. 5/5 Source: Google Reviews
Erika | 8th Nov 2025, Australia
We had the most amazing 5 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 partners 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 :) 5/5 Source: Google Reviews
Molly | 12th September 2025, New Zealand
Wow!! 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 can't thank you guys enough for a fabulous stay. We will be back soon 5/5 Source: Google Review
David | 15th June 2025, England | UK
We arranged for airport transfer, was provided with very detailed instructions on when and where to meet. The apartment was clean, spacious, and kitchen as fully stocked with utensils for cooking. Great location, very close to the beach. Would absolutely stay again. 5/5 Source: Expedia
Erica | 10th June 2025, Canada
Communication before the stay was very informative and comprehensive with information and pick-up options. Simon's airport 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 center and the beach 5/5 Booking.com
Anja | 4th June 2025, Germany
Excellent stay, 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, 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. 5/5 Source: Google Reviews
Laurent | 14th March 2025, France
Simon is a very funny guy and accommodation is very nice, make sure u book the Apartments on top! The view is fantastic! 5/5 Source: Google Reviews
Yves | 5th March 2025, Germany
Comfy, clean and private. Perfect Location very close to Muri beach and night market, the place was clean and had everything that we needed to keep the place tidy. 10/10 Source: Booking.com reviews
Nittsy | 15th Februray 2025, Chile and New Zealand
It is so relaxing and quiet here. The hosts Denise & Simon are very helpful. 10/10 Source: Booking.com reviews
Ines | 19th December 2024, Germany
Had a wonderful time at Muri Retreat. Simon and Denise were amazing hosts who could not do enough for us. We would recommend this accomodation to anyone. The units were clean and well cared for. The outdoor area was lovely as there was a gorgeous tropical garden, pool and sunlounges. A lovely place to stay when you want a home away from home. 5/5 Source: Google Reviews
Bronwyn | 23rd November 2024, New Zealand
Fantastic apartment in Muri. Excellent apartment that does not lack detail, full kitchen, ceiling fan, fridge.....my stay was fantastic, they helped me at all times with any need, left me Snorkel equipment, helped me with the transfer, without a doubt a 10/10 Source: Booking.com reviews
Oscar | 12th October 2024, Spain
We had an absolutely amazing stay at Muri Retreat and would 100% recommend it. Communication from the very beginning was outstanding, and Simon & Denise go above and beyond to make your stay the best. They’ve thought of everything! We felt so at home as soon as we arrived. The apartment was perfect - spotless and so comfortable (the bed is 5-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! 5/5 Source: Google Business Reviews and Maps
Jess | 19th June 2024, United Kingdom
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. 9/10 Source: Booking.com
Wendy | 17th June 2024, New Zealand | China
Amazing location and well equipped apartment. The hosts are very responsive and helpful. A cozy retreat a few steps away from Muri lagoon. 5/5 Source: Google Business Review and Booking.com
Francesca | 9th June 2024, Italy
Peaceful location with an exceptional host Muri retreat was everything I hoped for, well located near Muri beach, comfortable, with everything I needed, and 24hour supermarket about 10min walk away. Simon was an exceptional host, very helpful. He even got me reef shoes and fins to use during my stay. My bag didn't arrive, and Simon went above and beyond to help me retrieve it and have everything I needed during my stay. 10/10 Source: Booking.com
João | 14th May 2024, Portugal
Muri retreat is fabulous. Quiet, private and off the main road,of Muri lagoon. Walking distance to local restaurants and bakery,and night food markets and shops. The units,are fully self contained,and you want for nothing. Your host's Denise and Simon, are amazing,and only to ready to help you find the best, snorkeling spots, restaurants,etc. We have thoroughly enjoyed our stay, and we will be back. I forgot to mention Simon and Denise's dog Jimmy, just love's cheese. Kathy and Lothar. 5/5 Source: Google Business Review
Kathy | 17th May 2024, Australia
Perfect accommodation on Rarotonga. Beautiful view towards the lagoon / sea even though you are a bit off. Beautiful layout of the apartment, also from the kitchen / bed nice view outside. Owners are very helpful and have good advice. 10/10 Source: Booking.com
Rick | 19th Feb 2024, Netherlands