5 Best Eco-Resorts in Samoa 🌏 [2024]

1. Salani Surf Resort

Nestled in an enclave on the south coast of Upolu yet moments away from quality waves, Salani Surf Resort is not only an immediate go-to for a surf stay in Samoa, but is one of the islands’ most environmentally friendly resorts. Some of its environmental initiatives include a saltwater pool (which is still pretty rare in Samoa), a restaurant specialising in responsibly sourced food, solar-powered hot water, filtered drinking water and an encouraged plastic-free environment.

As for accommodation, each of the eight elevated units boasts estuary views from its private deck, while air-conditioning and an attractive ensuite bathroom with a waterfall shower are also part of the parcel. Not only does the resort have surf boats and guides to make the most of the waves just a short ride away, but it also hosts yoga retreats with an emphasis on vegan meals, meditation and yoga for more low-impact activities during your stay.

Learn more about the resort’s surf and yoga offerings in the 7 Best Surf Resorts in Samoa and 5 Best Yoga Resorts in Samoa.

© Samoa Tourism Authority

2. Dave Parker Eco Lodge

Boasting a unique location nestled on the bush-clad hillside of Apia‘s rugged interior, yet only a 15-minute drive from the city, Dave Parker Eco Lodge Hotel is an affordable hotel with a sustainable ethos. Formerly known as the “Cloud 9 Resort”, the accommodation claims to have changed its name with the desire to preserve the natural rainforest that surrounds the property. The accommodation utilises the natural resources available to it to incorporate environmentally friendly products and sustainably sourced food for guests.

For your stay, choose either a lodge room with or without air-conditioning (go without for the more sustainable and cheaper option), rainforest or sea views, but all with an ensuite shower. Your time here couldn’t be easier with airport transfers, 24-hour reception, an on-site bar and restaurant, car rental arrangements and even a complimentary return shuttle to town (except Sundays). Have a dip in the tiny swimming pool, play a game of pool and explore the grounds with a picturesque stream and cascades. Get more of the lodge vibe with the 10 Best Lodges in Samoa.

Check Dave Parker Eco Lodge out:

• Dave Parker Eco Lodge on Booking.com
• Dave Parker Eco Lodge on Expedia
• Dave Parker Eco Lodge on Trip.com

© SamoaPocketGuide.com

3. Sinalei Reef Resort & Spa

There’s only so far a luxury resort with around 30 rooms and a golf course can go to provide a low-impact stay, but Sinalei Reef Resort & Spa does claim an extensive list of environment and community initiatives. Some items include solar panels, using natural fresh spring water from a reservoir beneath the resort, respecting the marine-protected area just outside of the resort, initiating the occasional roadside rubbish clean-up days, and has signed up for the Pacific Sustainability Monitoring Program. Their community contributions are much more impressive, from providing linen and beds to the local village hospital to sourcing a majority of their fruits, vegetables and seafood from the surrounding villages.

As for facilities at this resort, you can really design your own getaway, whether it’s private dinner setups on the beach or indulging in treatments available at the Tui–I–Lagi Spa. Dining here is quite the event as you make your way down the lantern-lit pathway to the lagoon-edge Ava I Toga Restaurant for fresh seafood and South Pacific fusion dining. Meanwhile, any one of the villas decorated with soothing tones and island-inspired interiors is sure to impress, whether it’s among the lush tropical grounds or basking in the absolute beachfront. Discover more of Samoa’s upscale stays in the 10 Best Luxury Accommodations in Samoa.

Check Sinalei Reef Resort & Spa out:

• Sinalei Reef Resort & Spa on Booking.com
• Sinalei Reef Resort & Spa on Expedia
• Sinalei Reef Resort & Spa on Trip.com

© Samoa Tourism Authority

4. Samoan Highland Retreat

Certainly the most striking holiday home on Upolu, Samoan Highland Retreat wows with its fale-inspired architecture. The three-bedroom three-bathroom holiday home provides the ultimate retreat in the verdant interior of Samoa’s main island, yet is still a manageable drive from Apia. Cook up meals in a spacious open-plan kitchen using produce from the on-site plantation and relax on the furniture made from materials reflecting the brilliant nature of Samoa. What’s more, the accommodation is semi-off-grid with solar power (and mains backup) and rainwater tanks. For more unique stays, check out the 20 Most Unique Accommodations in Samoa.

Check Samoan Highland Retreat out:

• Samoan Highland Retreat on Expedia

© Samoan Highland Retreat

5. Alternative Low-Impact Accommodations: Beach Fales

Finally, we can’t talk about sustainable stays and eco-resorts in Samoa without mentioning the country’s most iconic style of accommodations, beach fales.

Beach fales are traditionally constructed huts raised on the beach, which use natural materials such as local timber and palm fronds (although, metal nails/screw and a tin joint at the top of the roof helps maintain fales for longer than traditional sennit ropes). There is usually only one modern building, which is typically a shared toilet and shower block with cold water. What’s more, beach fale accommodations are at a much smaller scale than resorts or hotels, taking up less space and having a lower impact on that space.

As for cultural preservation, beach fales help preserve a more traditional architecture type, while the food sourced is mostly local. All of Samoa’s beach fales are locally owned and run, with funds going back to local communities.

Check out some of the country’s best beach fales in the 20 BEST Beach Fale Accommodations in Samoa to get started on choosing your ideal fale stay.

© SamoaPocketGuide.com