The Top Upolu Family Accommodations and Resorts
What We Learned from Actual Stays and Visits
Your dream Upolu family getaway is so close and so easy to experience with kids. All you need is a place to stay that the whole family can enjoy.
Whether you’re seeking the ease and conveniences of a family resort or want to enjoy an authentic Samoan experience in a beach fale or hotel in Apia, we go over a wide range of options right here in the best family resorts and accommodations on Upolu.
Before we begin, how about opening The Complete Travel Guide to Upolu for Families and 10 Things to Do on Upolu with Kids for more Upolu wisdom?
Side note: Our insights come from experienced travel writers who have either stayed in or visited these resorts. Scroll to the bottom of the page to learn more about us.
Table of Contents
Family-Friendly Accommodations in Upolu: Overview
| 🏝️ Accommodation | 🌟 Highlights | 💰 Price |
|---|---|---|
| Saletoga Sands Resort & Spa | Spacious family villas, beachfront location, on-site activities, and organised island tours. | $$$ |
| Taumeasina Island Resort | Private island, family-friendly facilities, multiple pools, and spacious two- and three-bedroom villas. | $$$ |
| Le Uaina Beach Resort | Family-friendly resort with snorkeling, kayaking, and a pool near Piula Cave Pool. | $ |
| Survivor Samoa Beach Resort | Beachfront resort with spacious family villas and a filming location for Survivor. | $$ |
| Tanoa Tusitala Hotel | Large outdoor pool, kids’ pool, playground, and central Apia location. | $$ |
| Return to Paradise Resort & Spa | Four pools, beachfront location, weekly fiafia nights, and family-friendly villas. | $$ |
| Litia Sini Beach Resort | Beachfront bungalows with shared bathrooms, home-cooked meals, and stunning views on Lalomanu Beach. | $ |
| Samoana Boutique Hotel | Family-friendly apartments with a pool, kitchen facilities, and an on-site cafe. | $$ |
| Vaiula Beach Fales | Traditional fales on Tafatafa Beach with lava rock showers and family-style meals. | $ |
| Orator Hotel Samoa | Lush gardens, inviting pool, tropical breakfast, and villas with unique rock-lined bathrooms. | $$ |
1. Saletoga Sands Resort & Spa
Saletoga Sands Resort & Spa offers a quintessential South Pacific holiday experience with its pristine beach, inviting pool, and range of accommodations to suit every budget. From luxurious holiday villas to more affordable hotel rooms, you’ll find your perfect island retreat here.
Families will love the spacious villas with separate bedrooms for the kids, while budget-conscious travellers can opt for the convenient hotel rooms. The resort caters to all ages, with kids’ clubs available on request, ensuring everyone in your tribe stays entertained.
What sets Saletoga apart is its exclusive offerings for guests. Fancy exploring the island? Take advantage of their car and scooter rentals or join one of the guided island excursions organised by the resort. It’s the perfect way to make your Samoan adventure effortless and unforgettable.
Like the sound of a resort holiday? Be sure to also check out the 15 Best Resorts in Upolu.
Book Saletoga Sands Resort & Spa:
- Saletoga Sands Resort & Spa on Booking.com
- Saletoga Sands Resort & Spa on Expedia
- Saletoga Sands Resort & Spa on Trip.com
© SamoaPocketGuide.com2. Taumeasina Island Resort
Its own private island yet moments away from Apia‘s bustling city centre, Taumeasina Island Resort is the perfect go-to for families who want to be close to the action.
It is also one of Upolu’s largest resorts so you won’t be stuck for things to do between the two resort pools, Fofo Spa & Sauna, tennis courts, a cultural activities schedule, watersports equipment, children’s playground and very popular fiafia nights (see the 10 Best Cultural Shows (Fiafia) in Samoa).
There are three restaurants on-site to choose from, although they’re not our favourite at least you’re never too far from Apia’s finest places to wine and dine.
As for rooms, the “Oceanview” and “Deluxe Oceanview” hotel rooms will meet the requirements of most families, boasting contemporary interiors of what you would expect of an international-style hotel.
Alternatively, treat yourself to the full home-away-from-home experience in one of the two- or three-bedroom villas complete with a modern kitchen and plenty of space for your group.
For more places to stay in Apia, check out the 25 Best Hotels & Places to Stay in Apia.
Book Taumeasina Island Resort:
- Taumeasina Island Resort on Booking.com
- Taumeasina Island Resort on Expedia
- Taumeasina Island Resort on Trip.com
© SamoaPocketGuide.com3. 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. As long as you’re not expecting luxury, you’ll find that Le Uaina is ideal for the price.
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 small families up to large tribes. Find this resort in Faleapuna village, right by the Piula Cave Pool and approximately 20 minutes from Apia.
As one of the best-priced resorts, we also list this one in the 20 Best Budget Accommodations in 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 Resort4. Survivor Samoa Beach Resort
Experience paradise with the whole family at the Survivor Samoa Beach Resort, nestled on the pristine beach of Falelatai on Upolu’s southwestern coast. This 4-star resort offers 40 elegant rooms and two spacious villas.
Spread across 240 acres (97 ha) of unspoiled forests and dramatic landscapes, the resort promises a unique experience in a true island paradise. Enjoy complimentary breakfast at the beachfront restaurant, where you can savour your meal with your toes in the sand.
Surrounded by wildlife and bush, provides a serene backdrop for your stay. We recommend renting a car to explore the island’s attractions. To add to the relaxation, the resort boasts a spa, while those keen to get active have the option of watersports equipment, including kayaks and snorkelling gear. Additional recreational facilities are on their way – watch this space!
For an extended Samoan adventure, consider combining your stay with a visit to the sister property, Tradewinds Hotel in American Samoa.
Discover more about Samoa’s brush with Hollywood in our guide to the 5 TV Shows & Movies Filmed in Samoa.
Book Survivor Samoa Beach Resort:
© SamoaPocketGuide.com5. Tanoa Tusitala Hotel
The magnificent dome rooves along the Mulinuu Peninsula are a striking introduction to this family-friendly hotel. Boasting a convenient yet attractive location in Apia, Tanoa Tusitala Hotel offers a superb base for your Upolu exploits.
Dive into the hotel’s two pools, an adult pool for tranquil relaxation and a family pool where the kids can splash to their hearts’ content. For the more active guests, there’s even a tennis court to perfect your serve!
Foodies will appreciate the hotel’s farm-to-table initiative, featuring an organic garden tended by staff. Enjoy fresh, locally-sourced ingredients in your meals at the Fala Restaurant or dine al fresco at the Deck Restaurant by the pool.
Rooms offer a comfortable hotel-style experience, each with air-conditioning, an ensuite and either a private balcony or patio. With its blend of leisure facilities and culinary delights, Tanoa Tusitala Hotel promises a memorable stay in Samoa’s capital.
Book Tanoa Tusitala Hotel:
- Tanoa Tusitala Hotel on Booking.com
- Tanoa Tusitala Hotel on Expedia
- Tanoa Tusitala Hotel on Trip.com
© SamoaPocketGuide.com6. Return to Paradise Resort & Spa
Return to Paradise Resort & Spa offers a secluded retreat on Upolu’s southwest coast, nestled on the island’s most famous beach. This family-friendly resort boasts multiple swimming options, including four individual pools and a sheltered Samoan-style concrete pool on the coast.
The resort is part of a marine reserve and actively engages in its own coral planting initiatives, showcasing its commitment to environmental conservation. Families will love the weekly fiafia nights, table tennis, and garden walks.
For fitness enthusiasts, the resort now features a state-of-the-art gym both inside and outside. The attractive waterfront restaurant offers a kids’ menu, and dining under the rockpool cabana is always a hit with the little ones.
Accommodation options range from beachfront suites to three-bedroom villas with self-catering facilities. For relaxation, don’t miss the Lomi Spa & Wellness centre for some pampering.
Book Return to Paradise Resort & Spa:
- Return to Paradise Resort & Spa on Booking.com
- Return to Paradise Resort & Spa on Expedia
- Return to Paradise Resort & Spa on Trip.com
© SamoaPocketGuide.com7. Litia Sini Beach Resort
Escape to one of Upolu’s most sought-after beaches, especially with the locals, Lalomanu Beach. While traditional beach fales make up the majority of accommodation lining this idyllic stretch of white sand and turquoise lagoon, Litia Sini Beach Resort offers a slight step up in their fully enclosed bungalows.
Choose from either a garden bungalow or on the beachfront with direct access down the steps to Lalomanu’s white sands.
Family rooms are compact, fitting beds for four or five people, with each equipped with a mosquito net. You can easily get a bit more space, however, on your private deck, where watching the sunrise or sunset is simply magical.
Like most beach fales in Samoa, guests share a bathroom with cold water. That said, families will appreciate the good-quality kayaks available for exploring the lagoon and the convenience of free Starlink WiFi to stay connected.
Home-cooked Samoan-style cuisine is served for both breakfast and dinner, all included in the rate.
Book Litia Sini Beach Resort:
© SamoaPocketGuide.com8. Samoana Boutique Hotel
Samoana Boutique Hotel offers a range of family-friendly accommodation options. Choose from two grades of hotel-style rooms with two double beds, or opt for the convenience of a fully-equipped kitchen in their two- or three-bedroom apartments.
The hotel’s attractive albeit small swimming pool is sure to keep the kids entertained during your Apia stay. The hotel’s location just outside of town offers a peaceful retreat, and car rental is easily arranged through their sister company, Samoana Rentals.
For those looking to explore, check out the 10 Best Car Rentals on Upolu to make the most of your stay in Samoa’s capital.
Book Samoana Boutique Hotel:
- Samoana Boutique Hotel on Booking.com
- Samoana Boutique Hotel on Expedia
- Samoana Boutique Hotel on Trip.com
© SamoaPocketGuide.com9. Vaiula Beach Fales
If the family is feeling adventurous, why not book a night or two in one of Upolu’s traditional 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 three-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.
Oh, and Tafatafa Beach is one of the safest swimming beaches for families, as long as you stick to its shallow depths.
See how this beach fale compares to the 10 Best Beach Fale Accommodations on Upolu.
Book Vaiula Beach Fales:
© Samoa Tourism Authority10. Orator Hotel Samoa
Nestled on the tranquil outskirts of the city, surrounded by charming villages and lush plantations, Orator Hotel Samoa welcomes families with open arms. As you drive down the palm-lined driveway, you’ll be greeted by beautiful gardens, the hotel’s standout feature, and the warm melodies of a traditional Samoan song upon check-in.
This Samoan-owned gem offers a variety of accommodations, with the poolside villas being the cream of the crop. The hotel boasts an inviting swimming pool, lush gardens, and a billiard table for entertainment. Families will love the Wednesday buffets and karaoke nights, while the Sunday to’onai lunch is a cultural treat not to be missed.
Orator Hotel is popular for events, particularly weddings, and implements impressive sustainability practices. These include a robust recycling scheme and a partnership with Sleepwell to refurbish old mattresses. Guests can enjoy free Starlink WiFi and a complimentary minibar in their rooms.
(Don’t miss the chance to experience true Samoan hospitality at this family-friendly oasis!)
Book Orator Hotel Samoa:
© SamoaPocketGuide.com11. Moatoga Hotel
A charming three-star family-run hotel opposite Apia‘s vibrant Fugalei Market, Moatoga Hotel offers plenty of options for families.
Their “Deluxe Suite” sleeps four, while the “Family Room” sleeps five in a renovated open-plan space with a breakfast bar and an ensuite bathroom.
Rooms are equipped with air-conditioning, a fridge and cooking facilities, should you want to self-cater, while breakfast can also be provided. Otherwise, you’re right in the heart of Apia to try out its restaurants. While WiFi is unavailable, SIM cards can be supplied, which is just as convenient!
Book Moatoga Hotel:
© SamoaPocketGuide.com12. The Samoan Outrigger Hotel
A cute and quintessentially Samoan hotel on the outskirts of Apia, The Samoan Outrigger Hotel provides affordable rates, family rooms and Samoan smiles.
Rooms are well-maintained, better so than some of Samoa’s more premium hotels, and come in a range of layouts.
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?
Choose from more self-catering options in the 10 Best Self-Catering Accommodations in Samoa.
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.com13. 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.
All family rooms each have 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 for families 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.com14. Le Vasa Resort
For a low-key resort holiday offering an idyllic balance of relaxation and adventure, choose Le Vasa Resort. Looking out to the Apolima Strait islands of Manono, Nu’ulopa and Apolima, the resort offers experiences to visit the uninhabited Nu’ulopa island, not to mention accommodations that bask in front-row views of the islands.
The boutique resort boasts just 13 bungalows uniquely decorated with their own colour scheme and traditional materials.
When you’re not relaxing in your bungalow, retreat to the generously sized swimming pool or Cocolin’s by the Sea Restaurant which, according to our very own editor-in-chief, Laura, offers some of the best resort food on the island (see The 10 Best Restaurants on Upolu).
Book Le Vasa Resort:
© SamoaPocketGuide.com15. Ifiele’ele Plantation
For something completely out of the ordinary, set your sights on Ifiele’ele Plantation. Their two-bedroom two-bathroom villa plus a child-enticing mezzanine bedroom sleeps up to eight people, ideal for large families or a couple of families travelling together.
With an open-plan kitchen and lots of open space for kids to roam, the holiday home provides the perfect space for entertaining.
Should you need more entertainment, your hosts provide plantation tours with lots of tasty treats and animals to meet, while the large outdoor pool offers a welcome respite from Samoa’s hot temperatures.
Book Ifiele’ele Plantation:
- Ifiele’ele Plantation on Booking.com
- Ifiele’ele Plantation on Expedia
- Ifiele’ele Plantation on Trip.com
© SamoaPocketGuide.com16. Lynn’s Getaway Hotel
Lynn’s Getaway Hotel offers a true “home away from home” experience in Apia. This family-friendly accommodation caters to holidaymakers, solo travellers, and short- to mid-term workers alike with its 19 diverse rooms.
Choose from budget-friendly options with shared or ensuite bathrooms, or opt for one of the 14 non-budget ensuite rooms for added comfort. After a day of exploring, cool off in the inviting swimming pool or unwind in the welcoming lounge area.
Guests can enjoy free WiFi and breakfast, perfect for starting your day right. The hotel also offers convenient laundry facilities and car rentals for those looking to explore further afield. For adventure seekers, guided tours are available, primarily showcasing the beauty of Upolu.
For a self-catering option, consider Lynn’s Getaway Apartments nearby.
Book Lynn’s Getaway Hotel:
© SamoaPocketGuide.com17. Amanaki Hotel
While most in Apia know Amanaki Hotel as one of the top seafood dining spots in the city, families may also want to consider staying here. If not for the rock garden swimming pool that kids love playing in, then for the attractive location on the Mulinuu Peninsula just a short stroll from town and Friendship Park.
With 21 rooms spread across two levels, Amanaki Hotel offers two room types to suit families: “Standard Rooms” with one king-size bed and “Deluxe Rooms” with two double beds.
All rooms come with air-conditioning, TV and tea/coffee-making facilities, with upper floor rooms featuring private balconies and lower rooms opening onto patios.
Continental breakfast is included, and WiFi is available via a wireless router or you can grab a 5 tala SIM card with top-up credit.
Book Amanaki Hotel:
© 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/kitchen area has air-conditioning.
Find this home in Vaivase-uta on the southern outskirts of Apia.
If a holiday home sounds like your thing, you might also like to check out the 10 Best Holiday Homes in Samoa.
Book Kuini’s Guesthouse:
© Kuinis Guesthouse19. Hotel Elisa
Hotel Elisa, a four-storey gem on Apia‘s Mulinuu Peninsula, offers a delightful surprise for families seeking budget-friendly accommodation in an attractive part of town.
This family-run hotel caters to all, with five spacious room types including executive and honeymoon suites. The corridors, adorned with traditional canoes, lead to very roomy air-conditioned units with ensuites.
On-site facilities include the Turtle Lounge, a swim-up bar, and a restaurant. The shady outdoor pool, complete with a paddling section, is perfect for the little ones. Guests can start their day with a complimentary breakfast before exploring Apia’s charms.
When we visited, Hotel Elisa took us by surprise, offering more than we expected from a budget option. It’s a great choice for families looking for comfort without breaking the bank.
Book Hotel Elisa:
© SamoaPocketGuide.com20. Samoa Beach Resort
Offering a convenient location near the airport and wharf with ferry connections to Savai’i, Samoa Beach Resort is an ideal choice for families seeking an easy escape to Upolu.
Set on the turquoise waters of Mulifanua with secluded beaches on either side, the resort boasts a lagoon-style pool, beach umbrellas and plenty of activities to keep the whole family entertained.
The upscale accommodations feature private balconies overlooking the ocean, plush bedding, complimentary WiFi and flat-screen TVs. Parents can unwind at the full-service spa whilst the kids enjoy the pool.
With four on-site restaurants serving authentic local cuisine and handcrafted cocktails, plus a world-class fitness centre, the resort provides everything needed for a relaxing family holiday. The resort offers two fully accessible rooms for wheelchair users and provides regular shuttles to Faleolo Airport and Apia.
© SamoaPocketGuide.com21. Agamalū Beach Resort
Tucked away on Mulivai Beach on Upolu’s south coast, this hidden gem offers modern, minimalist villas that open onto private patios leading straight to the sand.
Choose from spacious one- and two-bedroom villas with air conditioning and tea/coffee-making facilities, or opt for the three-bedroom house complete with a full kitchen, living room and garage, perfect for families seeking extra space.
The on-site restaurant serves up a tempting menu of fish and chips, fresh sashimi, oka, burgers and breakfast, alongside cocktails, local beer and soft drinks. Don’t miss the Friday happy hour from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm for a relaxed evening by the beach.
Location: Mulivai Beach, near Maninoa, south coast of Upolu.
© SamoaPocketGuide.comMore Family Resorts and Accommodations on Upolu
We find it hard to believe that you didn’t find anything suitable in this list of the best family resorts and accommodations on Upolu! But, if that should be the case, you might find something more to your liking in the following recommendations:
- How to Pick the Best Family-Friendly Accommodation in Samoa
- 10 Best Boutique Resorts & Accommodations on Upolu
- 20 Most Unique Accommodations in Samoa
Finally, if there’s anything we’ve missed, you’ll likely find it in The Complete Travel Guide to Samoa for Families and 25 Tips for Your Family Samoa Vacation with Kids.
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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