Palm Grove Resort was a great escape. Reasonably well maintained, given it’s humid tropical climate, the grounds and pool area are beautiful. A new bbq arrived during our stay.
The beach furniture, kayaks, snorkels and fins were all well maintained.
The rooms could use some updating. Some had received partial renovations in the kitchen and bathroom areas and others had not. Some appliances were newer and others were starting to rust. I also found it difficult to cook, unless you just bbq’d. Larger pots and microwave bowls or casseroles would help out here.
AC worked well, but was rigged to go off when you left the room. The beds were very comfortable. Maid daily service included making the bed, a towel change, sometimes a sweep, garbage removal, but not any wipe down of surfaces in the bathroom, shower, vanity, coffee or dining tables during our 9 day stay.
The Sunday BBQ and Friday Happy Hour were great, as was the music supplied. Food at the restaurant was good. An adequate breakfast was included and given this is not the norm on the island, was appreciated.
The front desk did a good job at coordinating airport transfer, wifi purchase, snorkel rental and outings. They also rented scooters. There is a car rental a couple of blocks away along with a reasonably well stocked convenience store.
Rarotonga is very remote, with sporadic wifi only in HOT SPOTS There is one TV channel and life becomes the beach, relaxing and socializing.