Our Honest Take on the 27 BEST Hotels in Apia & Upolu

Last Updated: 11 September, 2025

The Top Hotel Accommodation Across Apia and Upolu

What We Learned from Actual Stays and Visits

Treat yourself to one of the boutique and delightfully Samoan hotels of Samoa‘s capital and main island.

Apia and Upolu are certainly not where you’ll find a sea of massive hotel chains like elsewhere in the South Pacific (although, there are one or two).

Here, most hotels are only just a handful of rooms with a Polynesian flair and Samoan smiles. Admittedly, hotels on Upolu are mainly contained within the confines of Apia city; as you’re going to have to opt for a resort or beach fale if you want to stay along the island’s magnificent beaches.

Regardless, this list of the best hotels in Apia and Upolu is precisely that: hotels for the complete holiday experience in Samoa’s more developed hub.

Before we begin, be sure to fill your time with amazing experiences too by having a look at the 25 Best Things to Do in Apia and 50 Best Things to Do on Upolu.

Side note: Our insights come from experienced travel writers who have either stayed in or visited these hotels. Scroll to the bottom of the page to learn more about us.

Hotels in Apia and Upolu: Overview

🏨 Hotel	🌟 Highlights	💰 Price
Lava Hotel	Contemporary stay with smart TVs, ocean views, and an elegant poolside restaurant.	$$
Le Manumea Hotel	Samoan flair, rock garden showers, and popular happy hour deals.	$$
Taumeasina Island Resort	Private island resort with pools, spa, tennis courts, and cultural activities.	$$$
Vaea Hotel Samoa	Adults-only boutique hotel with a garden pool and mountain views.	$
The Samoan Outrigger Hotel	Traditional fales, communal kitchen, swimming pool, and gardens.	$
Insel Fehmarn Hotel	Functional rooms with kitchens, swimming pool, and breakfast buffet.	$$
Samoana Boutique Hotel	Family-friendly rooms, on-site cafe, and small refreshing pool.	$$
The White House Hotel	Minimalistic decor, air-conditioned rooms, and a convenient location.	$$
Dave Parker Eco Lodge Hotel	Unique hillside location, swimming pool, and complimentary shuttle to town.	$
Tanoa Tusitala Hotel	Resort ambience with large outdoor pool, buffet breakfast, and free WiFi.	$$

1. Lava Hotel

If you’re looking for a contemporary stay in Samoa, this is it. Free WiFi and 45″ smart TVs with Chromecast in every room; this is otherwise practically unheard of!

The Lava Hotel boasts an enviable location on the Mulinuu Peninsula with ocean views, best seen from the “Superior Ocean View Rooms”, yet is only a short walk from town.

Head down into the industrial-style foyer designed with timber, iron and attractive ambient lighting, and you’ll find the hotel’s elegant 1905 Restaurant spilling out onto the “residents-only” poolside, ensuring a peaceful experience.

The restaurant is well worth sitting down at least once during your stay, not just for its cuisine but for captivating fiafia nights featuring a BBQ buffet. Do note that the rooms are a bit cosier than the Samoa average, but with complimentary car parking, you’ll have more reasons to explore!

Book Lava Hotel:

25 BEST Hotels in Apia & Upolu ???? [2023]

2. Le Manumea Hotel

Experience Samoan hospitality at its finest at Le Manumea Hotel, a vibrant family-run boutique hotel in Apia. This charming retreat boasts 12 ultra-spacious rooms, each adorned with natural materials and hand-carved doors.

Outside, you’ll find attractive volcanic rock wall outdoor showers and beautiful gardens that rival the nearby Robert Louis Stevenson Museum and Vailima Gardens. The hotel’s lagoon-style swimming pool and bar with one of Apia’s best happy hour deals provide perfect spots to unwind.

Don’t miss the famous weekly fiafia night held in the airy fale restaurant. With Starlink WiFi available in communal areas and enhanced security features like an electric gate in the car park and a lockable front gate, Le Manumea offers both comfort and peace of mind.

If boutique hotels are your vibe, also check out the 10 Best Boutique Accommodations in Samoa.

Book Le Manumea Hotel:

3. 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 travellers who want a resort holiday that is close to the action.

It is also Samoa’s largest resort so you won’t be stuck for things to do between the two resort pools, Fofo Spa & Sauna, tennis courts, watersports equipment, cultural activity schedule, three restaurants and very popular fiafia nights.

As for rooms, the “Oceanview Hotel Rooms” will meet the requirements of most guests, boasting contemporary interiors of what you would expect of an international-style hotel.

For more resorts to choose from, check out the 15 Best Resorts on Upolu.

Book Taumeasina Island Resort:

4. Vaea Hotel Samoa

Perfect for that boutique hotel vibe in Apia, Vaea Hotel Samoa provides excellent value for money from their stylish rooms to the garden swimming pool.

You don’t have to worry about rowdy families here, as the hotel is exclusively for guests aged 18 and up, making your cocktail from the on-site Bora Bora Garden Bar all the heavenlier.

It’s only a five-minute stroll into Apia town centre, located in the Togafuafua/Lalovaea suburb.

After a day on the town, retreat to your garden and mountain-view room complete with an ensuite, air-conditioning, balcony or patio and tea/coffee-making facilities.

Book Vaea Hotel Samoa:

5. The Samoan Outrigger Hotel

A cute and quintessentially Samoan hotel on the outskirts of Apia, The Samoan Outrigger Hotel provides affordable rates and friendly Samoan hospitality.

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?

See more affordable stays in the 20 Best Budget Accommodations in Apia.

Book The Samoan Outrigger Hotel:

6. Insel Fehmarn Hotel

Insel Fehmarn Hotel offers a comfortable stay in Apia with a range of amenities to suit various travellers. The hotel boasts two restaurants, including the main Peleulu Restaurant, perfect for those who don’t fancy self-catering in their fully-equipped kitchenettes.

Enjoy a refreshing dip in the swimming pool or challenge your travel companions to a game of tennis. For weekend relaxation, head to the poolside bar, open on Fridays and Saturdays. Adventure seekers can rent kayaks and boards (you’ll need to transport them to the sea) or hire an SUV or van exclusively available for guests.

Don’t forget to browse the on-site gift shop for souvenirs. For the best experience, we recommend asking for a renovated room. With its central location, you’re also close to some of our favourite dining options in town.

Book Insel Fehmarn Hotel:

7. Samoana Boutique Hotel

The Samoana Boutique Hotel is an excellent choice for families, friends, or small groups, with each room type accommodating at least four guests.

Choose from two grades of hotel-style rooms or enjoy the convenience of your own kitchen in the two- or three-bedroom apartment. The attractive albeit small swimming pool offers a refreshing respite from Apia‘s hot climate.

While the hotel is a little way out of town, car rental is easily arranged through the hotel’s sister company, Samoana Rentals. For more options, check out the 10 Best Car Rentals in Samoa.

Book Samoana Boutique Hotel:

8. The White House Hotel

A little different from the usual Samoan family-owned accommodation in Apia, 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 the city centre is only a 15-minute walk away.

All in all, The White House provides a comfortable and contemporary stay on a budget. For more budget stays across the island, take a look at the 20 Best Budget Accommodations on Upolu.

Book The White House Hotel:

9. 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 the city. This affordable gem boasts peaceful surroundings that nature lovers will adore (though it might not suit those with a fear of heights).

Choose from a range of accommodation options, including the cheapest rooms with fans, air-conditioned rooms, and larger air-conditioned rooms – all with ensuite facilities.

The lodge excels in creating a social atmosphere, especially on Sundays with their traditional umu lunch and waterfall walks. When you’re not up for the trip into town, enjoy meals from the à la carte menu on-site.

Take advantage of the complimentary shuttle to and from town at set times, making exploration a breeze. With its serene setting and convenient amenities, Dave Parker Eco Lodge Hotel offers a perfect blend of nature and comfort.

Get more of the lodge vibe with the 10 Best Lodges in Samoa.

Book Dave Parker Eco Lodge Hotel:

9. Tanoa Tusitala Hotel

A hotel with a resort ambience and a convenient location in the island’s capital, Tanoa Tusitala Hotel offers a delightful Samoan experience. The magnificent dome rooves along the Mulinuu Peninsula are a striking introduction to this charming retreat.

You’ll find it hard to choose between the two inviting pools – an adult pool for peaceful relaxation and a family pool for splashing fun. When you’re not lounging poolside, enjoy a game of tennis on the hotel’s court or explore the on-site organic garden, part of the hotel’s farm-to-table initiative.

Start your day with a hot buffet breakfast at the Fala Restaurant, then savour al fresco dining at the Deck Restaurant by the pool. Rooms offer air-conditioning, ensuite bathrooms, and private balconies or patios. Plus, there’s even free (limited) WiFi – a rarity in Samoa!

Find more stays with free WiFi in the 10 Accommodations in Samoa with Free WiFi.

Book Tanoa Tusitala Hotel:

10. Tauese Seaview Hotel

A three-storey retreat in the heart of Apia, Tauese Seaview Hotel is perfect for travellers seeking comfort and convenience. This gem on the Apia Harbour boasts 25 rooms, offering you a choice between spacious double rooms with king-sized beds and ensuite bathrooms, or twin rooms with two single beds (perfect for friends travelling together!)

Start your day right with a complimentary breakfast included in your room rate. The on-site Chinese restaurant also serves up delicious meals.

Stay connected with free WiFi throughout the hotel, and don’t worry about your laundry piling up – laundry services are available for ST$30, which is cheaper than most hotels in Samoa.

Getting to and from the airport is a breeze with their transfer service. Need wheels? Tauese Hotel has got you covered with rental options ranging from small vehicles to 7-seater minibuses – perfect for group adventures around the island!

Book Tauese Seaview Hotel:

11. Eagle Wings Hotel

Eagle Wings Hotel has a lush garden setting, complete with a year-round outdoor swimming pool and inviting sun terrace.

Air-conditioned rooms boast private balconies with garden or pool views, work desks, TVs, and en-suite bathrooms with free toiletries. Guests enjoy private check-in/out services and complimentary on-site parking.

The family-friendly restaurant, a hit with locals and tourists alike, serves a mouth-watering array of Italian, seafood, steakhouse, local, European, and barbecue grill cuisines. Don’t miss their famous seafood boil, it’s a local favourite!

Start your day with a continental breakfast before exploring Apia or relaxing in the outdoor seating area.

Book Eagle Wings Hotel:

Eagle Wings Hotel on Booking.com

12. Talofa Inn

Another affordable hotel 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!

You’ll also see this one listed in the 10 Best Guesthouses & B&Bs in Samoa.

Book Talofa Inn:

13. Tivoli Aparthotel

Surrounding a Mediterranean-esque pool area with ornate iron furniture under cute gazebos, Tivoli Aparthotel offers an alternative ambience in Apia. Your ultra-spacious unit has colourful modern fixtures, as well as useful amenities like cooking facilities for a true home away from home.

You are also supplied with reusable glass bottles so you can keep hydrated using the hotel’s filtered water and reduce your plastic water bottle impact – yay!

Note that there is a security bond to pay upon check-in (so return those bottles!) For more ways to travel more sustainably, check out the 30 Ways to Travel More Sustainably in Samoa.

Book Tivoli Aparthotel:

Tivoli Aparthotel on Booking.com

14. Lynn’s Getaway Hotel

Lynn’s Getaway Hotel offers a true “home away from home” experience, ideal for holidaymakers, solo travellers, and short- or mid-term workers alike. With 19 rooms ranging from budget options with shared or ensuite bathrooms to 14 non-budget ensuite rooms, there’s something for every traveller.

Cool off in the garden swimming pool or relax in the lounge areas with free WiFi. Start your day right with a complimentary breakfast before exploring Upolu on one of the hotel’s guided tours.

Convenient amenities include laundry facilities and car rentals for guests. For a self-catering option, check out Lynn’s Getaway Apartments nearby.

Book Lynn’s Getaway Hotel:

15. Hotel Elisa

Nestled on the Mulinuu Peninsula, Hotel Elisa is a delightful surprise that offers more than just affordable accommodation. This family-run gem boasts five spacious room types, including executive and honeymoon suites, all with breakfast included.

The hotel’s corridors are uniquely decorated with traditional canoes, adding a touch of Samoan culture to your stay. On-site facilities include the inviting Turtle Lounge, a refreshing swim-up bar, and a restaurant to satisfy your culinary cravings.

Take a dip in the swimming pool or relax in your very spacious room. With its unexpected charm and comfortable amenities, Hotel Elisa is sure to be a pleasant surprise for your Apia adventure.

Book Hotel Elisa:

16. Travellers Point Hotel

A compact but perfectly comfortable hotel just a 15-minute walk from the town centre, Travellers Point Hotel is a worthwhile consideration for staying in Apia.

While you won’t be getting the best views in town, you still have an attractive deck-lined pool to enjoy.

There are usually weekly goings-on at the on-site restaurant, from “curry night” to “Sunday brunch”, which is also where your included breakfast is served.

As for room types, there’s something for everyone between the double and family rooms available.

Book Travellers Point Hotel:

17. Moatoga Hotel

A charming three-star family-run hotel opposite the vibrant Fugalei Market, Moatoga Hotel offers plenty of options for groups of one to five on a budget.

Solo travellers and couples will find the “Standard Double Room” comfortable and tidy, 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:

18. Orator Hotel Samoa

Nestled in the quiet outskirts of Apia, Orator Hotel Samoa welcomes you with a melodious Samoan song upon arrival. This Samoan-owned gem boasts lush gardens, its unique selling point, surrounding an inviting swimming pool.

The poolside villas are the cream of the crop, while other rooms await renovation. All accommodations include a minibar in the rate, and you’ll enjoy free Starlink WiFi throughout the property.

Orator Hotel is a popular venue for events, particularly weddings. Don’t miss their Wednesday buffets and karaoke nights or the traditional to’onai lunch on Sundays.

Sustainability is at the heart of Orator’s operations, with a robust recycling scheme and a partnership with Sleepwell to refurbish old mattresses. For entertainment, try your hand at billiards or take a dip in the pool.

Book Orator Hotel Samoa:

19. 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.

Book Karl’s Getaway Hotel and Tours:

Karl’s Getaway Hotel and Tours on Booking.com

20. Samoa Tradition Resort

A favourite with the locals who have family visiting from overseas (and want to impress), Samoa Tradition Resort is all about family: family-owned, family-run and you’re sure to feel like family too by the end of your stay.

Choose between hotel rooms with breakfast included and affordable rates or upgrade to one of the villas decorated with hand-carved poles and exposed rock walls complementing the nature embraced from your forest balcony.

There are full apartments with cooking facilities should you want to add your family to the Samoa Tradition Resort aiga. Not to mention, one of the highlights of the resort is its famed fiafia night every Thursday.

21. Moanalisa Hotel

Another neat little hotel on the outskirts of Apia, Moanalisa Hotel shines in its garden and nautical-themed decor to really reflect your South Seas holiday.

The three-star hotel’s villas are nestled in gardens with carved posts, a decorative bar and restaurant, as well as a swimming pool, truly setting the right tone for couples seeking romance or families looking for something quaint, quiet and affordable.

Book Moanalisa Hotel:

22. Amanaki Hotel

While most in Apia know Amanaki Hotel as one of the top seafood dining spots in the city, travellers may also want to consider staying here. If not for the rock garden swimming pool, then for the attractive location on the Mulinuu Peninsula just a short stroll from town.

Choose between a “Standard Double Room” or the “Deluxe Room”; the latter has two double beds as well as standard air-conditioning, an ensuite bathroom, a fridge and tea/coffee-making facilities.

The rooms are pretty basic but modernised enough for a comfortable and clean stay.

Book Amanaki Hotel:

23. Alec’s Hotel

Located near the hospital and popular dining options in Apia, Alec’s Hotel provides a three-star hotel with a pool, as well as eight newer self-contained units surrounding a separate pool.

The more affordable hotel rooms each have air-conditioning and an ensuite, with various room layouts to suit even larger families.

Breakfast is served by the pool each morning and limited WiFi is also included during your stay. To complement the nearby health services, there’s also a health specialist centre on-site.

Book Alec’s Hotel:

24. Le Alaimoana Hotel

Whether you’re seeking accommodation close to Apia Park for the latest rugby game, Palolo Deep for snorkelling, or Pacific Jewell for shopping, Le Alaimona Hotel is a top choice of hotel in this area of Apia.

Although rooms are a little compact and not exactly brimming with natural light, they are each thoughtfully decorated with kava hardwood headboards depicting Samoan themes, woven handicrafts and siapo (tapa) artwork.

Each room has at least basic cooking facilities, like a microwave, but some even have an oven for your convenience.

Book Le Alaimoana Hotel:

25. Hotel Millenia Samoa (Apia)

Locally family-owned Hotel Millenia Samoa offers a prime oceanfront location in Sogi, Apia, with stunning views of Apia Harbour. You’ll love the convenience of being just a one-minute walk from swimming and snorkelling spots, and a mere five-minute stroll to Apia Central.

The hotel boasts 61 ensuite, air-conditioned rooms, perfect for couples and families alike. With breakfast included and free WiFi throughout, it’s excellent value for money. Don’t miss the swimming pool and kids’ pool – ideal for a refreshing dip!

Popular with locals, Hotel Millenia Samoa also features a restaurant and bar, conference venues, and even car rental onsite for guests. With 24/7 reception and security, free onsite parking, and laundry services, you’ll have everything you need for a comfortable stay in Samoa’s capital.

Book Hotel Millenia Samoa:

26. Sheraton Samoa Aggie Grey’s Hotel & Bungalows

Sheraton Samoa Aggie Grey’s Hotel & Bungalows offers a luxurious blend of Samoan culture and modern comfort. With 175 rooms, including garden bungalows and suites with balconies overlooking Apia Harbour, there’s something for every discerning traveller.

The crowning jewel is undoubtedly the Presidential suite, where even King Charles has laid his head! (Talk about a royal seal of approval!)

Accessibility is a priority here, with excellent disabled rooms and facilities available. Two inviting pools and a minimalist spa provide ample opportunities for relaxation.

Whether you’re lounging in your bungalow or sipping cocktails by the pool, you’ll experience a perfect harmony of Samoan hospitality and world-class luxury. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking a taste of paradise with all the modern trimmings.

Book Sheraton Samoa Aggie Grey’s Hotel & Bungalows:

27. Salty Lodge

Salty Lodge offers a charming retreat on the quiet west coast of Upolu, conveniently located near the ferry wharf at Mulifanua and not too far from the airport. You’ll find a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets and group sizes.

The property features a block of hotel-style rooms at the front, perfect for groups, school grounds, and budget travellers. Behind, in attractive gardens, you’ll discover standalone garden bungalows with ensuite bathrooms, ideal for couples and families.

Colourful buildings set against lush greenery create an inviting atmosphere. While breakfast, lunch, and dinner are available upon request for an additional fee, you can always relax in the guest lounge with complimentary tea, coffee, and free WiFi.

Whether you’re looking for an affordable stay or a peaceful garden retreat, Salty Lodge provides a comfortable base for your Samoan adventure.

More About Hotels in Apia and Upolu

That’s it for our list of the best hotels across Apia and Upolu, but we have much more advice to plan the perfect Samoa holiday in the guides below:

And if you’re still having trouble finding the perfect place to stay, be sure to also check out Where to Stay in Apia: The Best Accommodations in Apia and Where to Stay on Upolu: The Best Upolu Accommodations.

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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27 BEST Hotels in Apia & Upolu