25 BEST Hotels in Apia & Upolu 🏨 [2024]

The Top Hotel Accommodation Across Apia and Upolu

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.

1. Lava Hotel

If you’re looking for a contemporary stay in the South Pacific, this is it. Free WiFi and 45″ smart TVs with Chromecast in every room; this is practically unheard of in Samoa! The Lava Hotel also 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 interiors and attractive ambient lighting and you’ll find the hotel’s elegant 1905 Restaurant spilling out onto the poolside. The restaurant is well worth sitting down at least once during your stay, as listed in the 10 Best Restaurants in Apia.

Check Lava Hotel out:

2. Le Manumea Hotel

A vibrant family-run boutique hotel radiating Samoan flair, Le Manumea Hotel offers a fun and characterful stay in Apia. Your room is decorated with natural materials, including woven panelling across your kitchenette’s cabinetry and hand-carved doors. Outside is your ensuite shower in a rock garden setting, while shared areas consist of an attractive lagoon-style swimming pool, a bar that has one of the best happy hour deals in town, and an airy fale restaurant where one of Apia’s most popular fiafia nights take place. If boutique hotels are your vibe, also head over to the 10 Best Boutique Resorts & Accommodations on Upolu.

Check Le Manumea Hotel out:

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 Upolu’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 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 Hotel Rooms” will meet the requirements of most guests, 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 family or group. For more resorts to choose from, check out the 16 BEST Resorts on Upolu.

Check Taumeasina Island Resort out:

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 11 and up, making your cocktail from the on-site Bora Bora Garden Bar all the heavenlier. After a day on the town, only a five-minute stroll away, retreat to your garden and mountain-view room complete with an ensuite, air-conditioning, balcony or patio and tea/coffee-making facilities. Learn more about adults-only accommodations in The Best Adults-Only Resorts in Samoa.

Check Vaea Hotel Samoa out:

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.

Check The Samoan Outrigger Hotel out:

6. Insel Fehmarn Hotel

Apia’s middle-of-the-road hotel, Insel Fehmarn Hotel offers super functional hotel rooms with full kitchen facilities and ensuites for a reasonable price. What’s more, you don’t even have to spend your whole time self-catering with a breakfast buffet included in the rate and an on-site restaurant should you want to indulge further. Enjoy the swimming pool on-site, as well as the hotel’s alternative position in town close to some of our favourite dining options. For more self-catering options, take a look at the 10 Best Self-Catering Accommodations in Apia & Upolu.

Check Insel Fehmarn Hotel out:

7. Samoana Boutique Hotel

Particularly good for families, friends or small groups, each room type of the Samoana Boutique Hotel fits no less than 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. Whether you feel like cooking or not, the on-site Black Pepper Cafe makes for an easy option for lunch, while the attractive albeit small swimming pool offers a refreshing place to cool off from Apia’s hot climate. The hotel is a little way out of town, but car rental is easy enough to organise through the hotel’s sister company, Samoana Rentals – see the 10 Best Car Rentals on Upolu. Plus, for more family-friendly suggestions, take a look at the 15 Best Family Accommodations in Apia.

Check Samoana Boutique Hotel out:

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.

Check The White House Hotel out:

9. Dave Parker Eco Lodge Hotel

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 well worth considering. Choose either a lodge room with or without air-conditioning, 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 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 Hotel out:

9. Tanoa Tusitala Hotel

A hotel with a resort ambience and a convenient location in the island’s capital, Tanoa Tusitala Hotel is well worth considering as your hotel in Apia and Upolu. The magnificent dome rooves along the Mulinuu Peninsula are a striking introduction. Just try to pull yourself away from the large outdoor pool or the kids from the shaded toddlers’ pool. In between pool time, enjoy a hot buffet breakfast served each morning in the Fala Restaurant and al fresco dining at the Deck Restaurant by the pool. As for rooms, expect your usual hotel-style offering, each with air-conditioning, an ensuite and either a private balcony or patio. There’s even free (limited) WiFi, which is a rarity in Samoa. Find more stays with free WiFi in the 8 Accommodations in Samoa with Free WiFi.

Check Tanoa Tusitala Hotel out:

10. Eden’s Edge Hotel

Only a short walk from the city centre, yet feeling truly away from it all thanks to the lush gardens, Eden’s Edge Hotel provides an alternative vibe in central Apia. Although the small collection of guest rooms, ranging from economy single to two-bedroom family rooms, are pretty basic, most of your time here will be around the small but usually quiet swimming pool where you can order cocktails or relax with a book. Alternatively, mingle at the bustling bar and restaurant with local beers on tap and a pool table to entice a game or two. Thanks to its lush gardens and boutique ambience, we also list this one in the 10 Most Romantic Honeymoon Accommodations in Apia.

Check Eden’s Edge Hotel out:

11. Talofa Inn

Another affordable hotel/B&B 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.

Check Talofa Inn out:

12. 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 31 Ways to Travel More Sustainably in Samoa.

13. Lynn’s Getaway Hotel

This collection of bright ensuite double and family rooms with air-conditioning makes Lynn’s Getaway Hotel a comfortable and cooling place to unwind after a day’s exploring in the hot sun. Entertainment can be found in the garden swimming pool, while the various lounge and dining areas inside provide free WiFi. Enjoy a freshly baked breakfast with local fruit each day. Otherwise, try Lynn’s Getaway Apartments nearby for self-catering accommodation.

Check Lynn’s Getaway Hotel out:

14. Hotel Elisa

A four-storey building on the Mulinuu Peninsula, Hotel Elisa provides affordable accommodation in an attractive part of town. The family-run hotel is neatly maintained with soothing rose-garden tones throughout the double/twin rooms and four-person self-catering units. All rooms have air-conditioning and an ensuite, as well as some slightly dated appliances. There’s a shady outdoor pool with a paddling section suitable for kids, while, inside, is the Beachcomber bar and restaurant open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Note that breakfast is not included in the cheapest rates. For more family-friendly stays across the island, take a look at the 20 Best Family Resorts & Accommodations on Upolu.

Check Hotel Elisa out:

15. 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.

Check Travellers Point Hotel out:

16. Moatoga Hotel

A three-star 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 enough, while the “Family Room” sleeps five in a renovated open-plan space with a breakfast bar and an ensuite bathroom. You can opt for a portable stove, should you want to self-cater. Otherwise, you’re right in the heart of Apia to try out its restaurants.

Check Moatoga Hotel out:

17. Orator Hotel Samoa

On the quiet village and plantation outskirts of the city, Orator Hotel Samoa might have an unassuming sign at its entrance, but once you go down the palm-lined driveway to the gorgeous gardens and the greetings of a Samoan song upon checking in, you’re instantly made to feel special. Between the garden pathways and surrounding a deck-lined pool are a number of villas that, although need a facelift, have endearing features like tiled floors and rock-lined ensuite bathrooms. Enjoy a tropical breakfast included in the rate and more Samoan delights available to order at the restaurant.

Check Orator Hotel Samoa out:

18. 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.

Check Karl’s Getaway Hotel and Tours out:

Karl’s Getaway Hotel and Tours on Booking.com

19. 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 family. Not to mention, one of the highlights of the resort is its famed fiafia night every Thursday.

20. 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.

Check Moanalisa Hotel out:

21. 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 the 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.

Check Amanaki Hotel out:

22. 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 even suit 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.

Check Alec’s Hotel out:

23. 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.

Check Le Alaimoana Hotel out:

Le Alaimoana Hotel on Expedia

24. Hotel Millenia Samoa

A low-key stay along the Mulinuu Peninsula, Hotel Millenia Samoa has rooms and rates for couples and families alike. While the basic rooms are a little dark and aren’t winning any style points, most agree that the price is good considering breakfast is included. If that’s not enough, stay for the decent swimming pool to relax with a cocktail in hand.

Check Hotel Millenia Samoa out:

25. Sheraton Samoa Beach Resort

As we come toward the end of our list of the best hotels in Apia and Upolu, we’d like to direct you to some of Upolu’s resorts across the greater island. For those seeking a more “hotel-like” stay but in a resort setting, Sheraton Samoa Beach Resort will at least be a brand you’re familiar with. Offering the convenience of its location near the airport and wharf with ferry connections to Savai’i, the Sheraton offers plenty of room for relaxation along the beach and the lagoon-style pool. The elegant outdoor settings of the Apolima Fale is open for breakfast (one of the best breakfast buffets on the island, might we add) and the evening venue of the South Pacific Restaurant make dining as easy as an island breeze. Guests also can’t miss a rejuvenating spa session at the Manaia Polynesian Spa. Dive into more of Samoa’s resort offerings in the Top 25 Resorts in Samoa.

Check Sheraton Samoa Beach Resort out:

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 [2024])
Samoa Tourism Authority Corporate (Tourism news - Updated [2024])
SPTO (Pacific tourism advice - Updated [2024])
Samoa Hotels Association (Tourism trade association - Updated [2024])
Samoa Meteorological Division (Weather forecast and warnings - Updated [2024])
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (Visa and immigration advice - Updated [2024])
Ministry of Customs & Revenue (Border restrictions advice - Updated [2024])
Ministry of Agriculture & Fisheries (Biosecurity advice - Updated [2024])
Samoa Bureau of Statistics (Statistics and travel data - Updated [2024])
Land Transport Authority (Tourist driver’s license info - Updated [2024])
Safe Travel (New Zealand travel advisory for Samoa - Updated [2024])
Smart Traveller (Australia travel advisory for Samoa - Updated [2024])
Travel.State.Gov (U.S. travel advisory for Samoa - Updated [2024])

Our editorial standards: At Samoa Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

Author

Laura 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.

Contact Laura via our contact page