The Top Cheap Accommodations on Upolu
No Bots, Just Boots on the Ground
Well done, you’ve chosen to stay in Samoa’s best category of accommodation; its budget accommodation! There are no superficial resort vibes here; just pure unadulterated Samoan hospitality that offers something likely very different from what you’re used to at home. But that’s why we travel, right?
From simple open-air fales on remote beaches to tidy boutique hotels in the nation’s capital, Apia, there are plenty of cheap accommodations to suit a range of comfort levels.
Let’s take a look at them in this list of the best budget accommodations in Upolu!
While you’re here, you might want to also bookmark The Complete Travel Guide to Upolu on a Budget and 25 Free & Cheap Things to Do in Upolu.
Side note: Our insights come from experienced travel writers who have visited these accommodations, either by staying or visiting. Scroll to the bottom of the page to learn more about us.
Table of Contents
Budget Accommodation in Upolu: Overview
| 🏝️ Accommodation | 🌟 Highlights | 💰 Price |
|---|---|---|
| Faofao Beach Fales | Traditional beach fales on Saleapaga Beach with simple amenities, shared bathrooms, and authentic Samoan meals including fiafia nights. | $ |
| The Samoan Outrigger Hotel | Quintessential Samoan hotel with air-conditioned rooms, garden fales, a communal kitchen, and a swimming pool, located near Apia. | $ |
| Vaiula Beach Fales | Beachfront fales on Tafatafa Beach with shared outdoor lava rock showers, family-style meals, and a cafe and bar on-site. | $ |
| Dave Parker Eco Lodge Hotel | Hillside lodge with ensuite rooms, a swimming pool, and complimentary town shuttle, located 15 minutes from Apia. | $ |
| Sina PJ Beach Fales and Surf | Secluded beach fales on a black-sand beach in Tafitoala village with opportunities for swimming, snorkelling, and surfing guidance. | $ |
| Le Uaina Beach Resort | Family-friendly beach resort with South Pacific cuisine, a swimming pool, and reef snorkelling, located in Faleapuna village. | $$ |
| Taufua Beach Fales | Colourful fales on Lalomanu Beach with ensuite options, generous meals, and kayak/snorkel rentals. | $ |
| Manusina Beach Fales | Serene beach fales near Lalomanu with traditional umu meals, occasional fiafia nights, and beautiful ocean views. | $ |
| Talanoa Fales Accommodation | Garden fales with self-catering facilities, ensuite, and Sunday lunch, located in Moamoa near Mt Vaea. | $ |
| The White House Hotel | Modern hotel in Apia with air-conditioned rooms, on-site restaurant, and a 15-minute walk to the city centre. | $ |
1. Faofao Beach Fales
If you’re thinking of “budget” on Upolu, make sure at least one of your nights is the awesome village experience of a beach fale. Located on one of the best beaches on the island, Saleapaga, Faofao Beach Fales offers traditional fales on the sands with woven bi-fold blinds for privacy and a simple mattress and mosquito net set-up.
If you crave a little bit of air-conditioning comfort, simple yet colourfully decorated rooms are also available. The basic bathroom facilities are shared.
As for your food and entertainment needs, the hospitality here is excellent between the authentic Samoan cooking (sometimes including an umu) and the occasional impromptu fiafia night.
Staying in a beach fale is a unique experience, so make sure you’re prepared with the Essential Tips for Staying in a Beach Fale in Samoa.
Book Faofao Beach Fales:
© SamoaPocketGuide.com2. The Samoan Outrigger Hotel
A cute and quintessentially Samoan hotel on the outskirts of Apia, The Samoan Outrigger Hotel provides affordable rates and Samoan smiles.
According to our very own editor-in-chief, Laura, rooms are well-maintained, better so than some of Samoa’s more premium hotels, and come in a range of layouts for solo travellers up to families.
Choose from air-conditioning, ensuite and shared bathroom facilities. Otherwise, there are open fales in the garden should you want to get the real Samoan experience!
With a well-equipped communal kitchen, swimming pool and gorgeous gardens to relax in, what else could you need in Apia?
Speaking of, see how this accommodation compares to the 25 Best Hotels & Places to Stay in Apia.
Book The Samoan Outrigger Hotel:
- The Samoan Outrigger Hotel on Booking.com
- The Samoan Outrigger Hotel on Expedia
- The Samoan Outrigger Hotel on Trip.com
© SamoaPocketGuide.com3. Vaiula Beach Fales
22 beach fales sit on the absolute beachfront of Tafatafa Beach at Vaiula Beach Fales.
There’s room here for most group sizes, from two-person fales to six-person to even a two-storey fale; the only one in Samoa! If you want to camp, you’re even welcome to do that for a small fee – see The Best Accommodations for Camping in Samoa.
Like all fale accommodations, bathrooms are shared, but this one comes with the fun feature of an outdoor lava rock shower.
Enjoy your included breakfast and dinner family-style and even stick around for lunch at the accommodation’s very own cafe and bar.
With surf guides also available, we also list these guys in the 10 Best Surf Resorts in Samoa.
Book Vaiula Beach Fales:
© SamoaPocketGuide.com4. Dave Parker Eco Lodge Hotel
Perched on the bush-clad hillside of Upolu’s rugged interior, Dave Parker Eco Lodge Hotel offers a unique mountain-side retreat just 15 minutes from Apia. This budget-friendly accommodation is perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape (though not recommended if you’re afraid of heights!).
Choose from lodge rooms with or without air-conditioning, all featuring ensuite showers and either rainforest or sea views. The cheapest rooms come with fans, while larger A/C options are available for extra comfort.
Sundays here are a social delight, with a traditional umu lunch and waterfall walks with fellow guests. When you don’t fancy the trip into town, enjoy meals from the à la carte menu on-site.
Take advantage of the complimentary shuttle to and from Apia at set times, or relax by the swimming pool, play a game of pool, and explore the picturesque grounds with its stream and cascades.
For more lodge options, check out the 10 Best Lodges in Samoa.
Book Dave Parker Eco Lodge Hotel:
- Dave Parker Eco Lodge Hotel on Booking.com
- Dave Parker Eco Lodge Hotel on Expedia
- Dave Parker Eco Lodge Hotel on Trip.com
© SamoaPocketGuide.com5. Sina PJ Beach Fales and Surf
Like all beach fales, Sina PJ Beach Fales and Surf are pretty basic, but the hospitality and authentic Samoan stay are unmatched.
Secluded on a coconut-filled peninsula in Tafitoala village on the south coast, you truly feel away from the world at Sina PJ’s.
The local family owners will treat you to real Samoan meals and provide lots of opportunities to discover what village life is like in Samoa.
Outside is a black-sand beach suitable for swimming, snorkelling and even surfing if you ask for advice from your hosts – see the 10 Best Places to Surf in Upolu.
Book Sina PJ Beach Fales and Surf:
© SamoaPocketGuide.com6. Le Uaina Beach Resort
Swap international resort chains for a locally run operation with the best resort rates in Samoa at the Le Uaina Beach Resort.
Enjoy South Pacific cuisine at the on-site restaurant and spend your days snorkelling or kayaking by the excellent reef just off the beach. There’s a substantial swimming pool surrounded by sun loungers if you’re looking for a more relaxing aspect to your holiday.
Rooms all have an ensuite, while layouts fit couples up to large families. Find this resort in Faleapuna village, right by the Piula Cave Pool and approximately 20 minutes from Apia.
As one of the best resorts for families, we also list this one in the 20 Best Family Resorts on Upolu.
Book Le Uaina Beach Resort:
- Le Uaina Beach Resort on Booking.com
- Le Uaina Beach Resort on Expedia
- Le Uaina Beach Resort on Trip.com
© Le Uaina Beach Resort7. Taufua Beach Fales
This tidy collection of traditionally thatched beach fales painted in vibrant greens and yellows can’t help but put a smile on your face – but that might also be the fact that you’re staying directly on one of Upolu’s most sought-after beaches, Lalomanu. We personally love the impressive array of accommodation styles to choose from at Taufua Beach Fales.
There are open beach fales, enclosed fales for full privacy, enclosed fales with an ensuite (a rare room type in Samoa), and even air-conditioned ensuite rooms nestled in the cliffs behind the beach and on top of the cliffs at “Ocean View Lodge”.
You’ll be treated to a generous breakfast and dinner in the dining fale, which also has an a la carte menu for lunch.
Kayaks and snorkelling gear are available to hire for a fee.
Book Taufua Beach Fales:
© SamoaPocketGuide.com8. Manusina Beach Fales
On the underrated but no less beautiful stretches of sand next to Lalomanu Beach, Manusina Beach Fales is a boutique fale operation with just six open fales and two closed fales on Saleapaga Beach. When we visited on our last trip, we were delighted by the serene atmosphere and stunning ocean views.
Notably, the fales here have a power outlet. In addition, the fales include all your expected fale amenities, including woven blinds for privacy, mosquito net, bedding, etc.
Breakfast and dinner are usually included, but just be sure to double-check on booking. Some nights of the week are umu nights, where food is cooked in a traditional hot-rock oven, while there are sometimes fiafia nights with cultural dancing.
There’s a shop and restaurant on the premises for your other basic needs/drinking needs.
See how this beach fale compares to the 10 Best Beach Fale Accommodations on Upolu.
© SamoaPocketGuide.com9. Talanoa Fales Accommodation
For something a little different without sacrificing true Samoan hospitality, escape to lush gardens nestled in mountain views at Talanoa Fales Accommodation.
On the quiet foothills of Mt Vaea in the village of Moamoa, approximately 10 minutes from Apia, the accommodation is abundant in fruit and vegetable plants ideal for cooking using your fale’s very own self-catering facilities.
Your garden fale is vibrantly decorated and also features an ensuite, a living area and a verandah to enjoy watching the birds.
Fales are for four people maximum. A free lunch is served on a Sunday.
For more options with kitchens, check out the 10 Best Self-Catering Accommodations in Samoa.
© SamoaPocketGuide.com10. The White House Hotel
A little different from your usual Samoan family-owned accommodation, The White House Hotel boasts crowd-pleasing sleek yet minimalistic decor from the crisp-white sheets to the tiled floors.
Choose from king, queen and family rooms, each with an ensuite, air-conditioning, fridge and tea/coffee-making facilities.
There’s an attractive restaurant on-site, as well as free parking, not that you’ll need it when Apia city centre is only a 15-minute walk away.
All in all, The White House provides a comfortable and contemporary stay on a budget.
Discover things to do nearby using the 25 Best Things to Do in Apia.
Book The White House Hotel:
- The White House Hotel on Booking.com
- The White House Hotel on Expedia
- The White House Hotel on Trip.com
© SamoaPocketGuide.com11. Talofa Inn
Another affordable hotel in Apia well worth considering is Talofa Inn. Offering an ultra-convenient location in the heart of Apia, as well as irresistible prices, there’s not much reason not to choose Talofa.
Rooms are compact but are all uniquely styled with characterful bedding and furniture. Most have an ensuite, but be sure to double-check on booking.
Choose from single rooms or double/twin rooms each with air-conditioning. There are two lounges, as well as a communal kitchen with a fridge and microwave/convection oven. You also have laundry facilities and free WiFi!
See more places with free internet in the 8 Accommodations in Samoa with Free WiFi.
Book Talofa Inn:
© SamoaPocketGuide.com12. Olivia’s Accommodation
Olivia’s Accommodation offers a unique and comfortable stay on the outskirts of Apia. This family-operated bed and breakfast boasts an innovative family accommodation in refurbished containers, providing a blend of eco-friendly design and modern comfort.
The air-conditioned rooms come in various layouts, including one with one double bed and two single beds. You’ll appreciate the private bathrooms, hot water, and comfortable beds that ensure a restful night’s sleep.
Mingle with fellow travellers in the inviting courtyard communal area, perfect for sharing stories or simply relaxing. When you’re not out exploring Apia, you can whip up a meal in the shared kitchen or enjoy the included tropical breakfast.
For more B&B stays, check out the 10 Best Guesthouses & B&Bs in Samoa.
Book Olivia’s Accommodation:
© SamoaPocketGuide.com13. Anita’s Beach Bungalows
On the popular sandy stretch of Lalomano, Anita’s Beach Bungalows offers respite from the classic “beach fale” experience with her enclosed beach units – although, as always, there are open fales if you prefer.
The open and closed fales are your most affordable options with shared bathroom facilities, while the ensuite room with a double bed, fan and bathroom is perhaps a little costly for what you get.
Either way, a homely Samoan breakfast and dinner are included in the price, served in Anita’s Bar & Restaurant which also has a Samoan food menu and serves all your favourite Samoan drinks.
Book Anita’s Beach Bungalows:
© SamoaPocketGuide.com14. Lynn’s Getaway Hotel
Lynn’s Getaway Hotel offers a true “home away from home” experience in Apia. This charming accommodation is ideal for holidaymakers, solo travellers, and short- or mid-term workers alike.
With 19 rooms to choose from, you’ll find options to suit every budget. Some rooms offer shared bathrooms for the cost-conscious, while 14 non-budget ensuite rooms provide added comfort and privacy.
After a day of exploring, take a refreshing dip in the swimming pool or unwind in the cosy lounge. Stay connected with free WiFi and start your day right with a complimentary breakfast.
Convenience is key at Lynn’s, with on-site laundry facilities and car rentals available for guests. For those keen to explore, the hotel offers guided tours, primarily around Upolu (we recommend checking these out for local insights).
Book Lynn’s Getaway Hotel:
© SamoaPocketGuide.com15. Moegaamanaia Beach Fales
One of several fale accommodations lining Tafatafa Beach, Moegaamanaia Beach Fales offers 10 beachfront fales and six garden rooms among tidy and attractive beach gardens.
You’ll be well looked after by the Aunty Mago running this classic Samoan establishment, with plenty of smiles and homemade food for a true island experience.
The beach right on your doorstep is one of the 10 Best Beaches on Upolu.
© SamoaPocketGuide.com16. Jaymy Beach Fales
Head to the white sands of Saleapaga Beach and stay at the budget-friendly Jaymy Beach Fales.
Not only do they provide the usual beach fale set-up with breakfast and dinner included, but the team can arrange airport transfers, island tours, umu and coconut demonstrations, primary school visits and more cultural experiences.
If you’re not staying in one of the open fales, the enclosed fales offer more privacy along with an ensuite bathroom and verandah.
© SamoaPocketGuide.com17. Karl’s Getaway Hotel and Tours
Offering more of the “student accommodation” vibe than the holiday vibe with its predominantly single rooms and communal areas featuring table tennis and a kitchen, Karl’s Getaway Hotel and Tours is a shamelessly appealing option for budget travellers. Nevertheless, the place is well-kept and features hotel-like facilities like ensuite bathrooms and tea/coffee-making facilities, as well as an outdoor pool.
There are also double rooms/family rooms should you be travelling as a group. Take Karl up on the offer for tours around Upolu, including free shuttles to some of the island’s top attractions. What’s more, WiFi is free in some of the shared spaces.
Find Karl’s on the Cross Island Road south of Apia.
Book Karl’s Getaway Hotel and Tours:
© SamoaPocketGuide.com18. Kuini’s Guesthouse
For that suburban stay in Apia, take a look at Kuini’s Guesthouse. More of a holiday home than a guesthouse, Kuini’s is a simple yet modern two-bedroom house kitted out with all your home-away-from-home essentials, including kitchen and laundry facilities.
Each bedroom has one double bed with stand fans, while the open-plan lounge and kitchen area have air-conditioning.
Find this home in Vaivase-uta on the southern outskirts of Apia.
This is certainly your cheapest holiday home in the area, but there are more to choose from in the 10 Best Holiday Homes in Samoa.
Book Kuini’s Guesthouse:
© Kuinis GuesthouseMore About Budget Accommodations on Upolu
That’s it for our list of the best cheap budget accommodations on Upolu. If they weren’t quite your vibe, check out these other listings for more recommendations:
- 25 Best Budget Accommodations in Samoa
- How to Pick the Best Budget Accommodation in Samoa for You
- Where to Stay on Upolu: The Best Upolu Accommodations
Finally, anything you might have missed in your holiday planning you can probably find in The Complete Backpacking Guide to Samoa on a Budget.
Sources:
The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across Samoa and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:
- Samoa Tourism Authority (General travel advice - Updated [2025])
- Samoa Tourism Authority Corporate (Tourism news - Updated [2025])
- SPTO (Pacific tourism advice - Updated [2025])
- Samoa Hotels Association (Tourism trade association - Updated [2025])
- Samoa Meteorological Division (Weather forecast and warnings - Updated [2025])
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (Visa and immigration advice - Updated [2025])
- Ministry of Customs & Revenue (Border restrictions advice - Updated [2025])
- Ministry of Agriculture & Fisheries (Biosecurity advice - Updated [2025])
- Samoa Bureau of Statistics (Statistics and travel data - Updated [2025])
- Land Transport Authority (Tourist driver’s license info - Updated [2025])
- Safe Travel (New Zealand travel advisory for Samoa - Updated [2025])
- Smart Traveller (Australia travel advisory for Samoa - Updated [2025])
- Travel.State.Gov (U.S. travel advisory for Samoa - Updated [2025])
Our editorial standards: At Samoa Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.
About The Author
Laura (Lora) S.
This article was reviewed and published by Laura, editor-in-chief and co-founder of Samoa Pocket Guide. Since arriving solo in the South Pacific over 10 years ago with nothing but a backpack and a background in journalism, her mission has been to show the world how easy (and awesome) it is to explore a paradise such as Samoa. She knows the islands inside out and loves sharing tips on how best to experience Upolu and Savai’i’s must-dos and hidden gems. Laura is also the editor of several other South Pacific travel guides.


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