10 Best Resorts for Snorkelling in Samoa 🤿 [2025]

Last Updated: 17 April, 2025

The Resorts and Beach Fales in Samoa with the Best Snorkelling

Our Take on the Places We’ve Stayed or Visited

It’s the dream scenario of a tropical getaway; being able to don your snorkel mask and enter an underwater wonderland straight from your resort’s beach. Samoa offers some of the best resorts and Samoan-style beach fales to do just that, which we compare in this list here as the best resorts for snorkelling in Samoa! In addition, we also offer a couple of resorts that offer amazing snorkelling tours by boat.

Note that it is common to have to pay to hire snorkelling equipment from accommodations in Samoa, typically for ST$15-$20 per day. We have been sure to clearly state where snorkelling gear is provided for free in this list where appropriate.

For more snorkelling advice, take a look at The Best Snorkelling in Samoa: Top 10 Places to Snorkel. Plus, check out our favourite mask and snorkel, should you want to purchase your own, in the 20 Essentials You Need to Pack for Samoa.

Side note: Our insights come from experienced travel writers who have visited these resorts and beach fales, either by staying or visiting. Scroll to the bottom of the page to learn more about us.

🏝️ Resort	🌟 Highlights	💰 Price
Stevensons at Manase (Savai’i)	Eurofales with private decks, snorkelling gear, kayaks, and upscale amenities.	$$
Savaii Lagoon Resort (Savai’i)	Beachfront bungalows with access to Dive Savai’i and glass-bottom boat tours.	$$
Namu’a Island Beach Fales (Upolu)	Private island stay with regenerating coral reefs; breakfast and dinner included.	$
Lauiula Beach Fales (Savai’i)	Affordable beach fales with free snorkelling gear and beachfront dining.	$
Va-i-Moana Seaside Lodge (Savai’i)	Pier-side snorkelling, affordable boat trips, and rustic waterfront fales.	$
Le Uaina Beach Resort (Upolu)	Affordable resort with snorkelling and kayaking gear, plus a large swimming pool.	$$
Le Lagoto Resort (Savai’i)	Luxury bungalows with staghorn coral snorkelling and an infinity pool.	$$$
Falealupo Beach Fales (Savai’i)	Budget fales on a scenic beach with snorkelling tours available.	$
Satuiatua Beach Resort (Savai’i)	Beachfront fales with excellent snorkelling at mid-high tide.	$
Return to Paradise Resort & Spa (Upolu)	Luxurious suites and villas near Savaia Giant Clam Sanctuary.	$$

1. Stevensons at Manase (Savai’i)

One of the many resorts and accommodations on Savai’i with very decent snorkelling, Stevensons at Manase is right in the heart of turtle territory. When we were there last, we were delighted by the most upscale accommodation on the popular stretch of Manase Beach. Stevensons has full snorkelling gear, including fins for hire, as well as kayaks and SUP boards.

As for accommodation, the pride of the resort are its unique “eurofales” giving you the Samoan accommodation experience along with the luxury of a spacious ensuite bathroom and a private deck boasting lagoon views. Should you want to turn the comfort up a notch, choose one of the uniquely styled suites decorated with local art and lava rock walls.

There’s plenty of beach to comb, while the large swimming pool and restaurant brasserie overlooking the lagoon are gorgeous places to unwind.

Book Stevensons at Manase:

10 Best Resorts for Snorkelling in Samoa ???? [2023]

2. Savaii Lagoon Resort (Savai’i)

Dive into a snorkeller’s paradise at Savaii Lagoon Resort, where the underwater world is just a flipper’s kick away. This three-star gem boasts modern beachfront bungalows that cater to all group sizes, from cosy studios to spacious villas with separate bedrooms.

Wake up to a delicious included breakfast before exploring the vibrant marine life. The resort provides UV-filtered tap water, ensuring you stay hydrated during your adventures.

Don’t miss the resort’s glass-bottom boat tour for a unique perspective on the underwater world! When you’re not exploring, the Barefoot Bar and Restaurant offers a picturesque beachside setting for refuelling.

Find this snorkeller’s haven in the village of Fagamalo on Savai’i’s northeastern coast, conveniently located near Dive Savai’i (open from mid-March to October) for more snorkelling tour options.

For more family-friendly options around the island, check out the 10 Best Family Resorts on Savai’i.

Book Savaii Lagoon Resort:

10 Best Resorts for Snorkelling in Samoa 🤿 [2025]

3. Namu’a Island Beach Fales (Upolu)

A private island accommodation, anyone? Surrounded by marine-protected areas and on its own uninhabited island off the shores of Samoa’s main island, Upolu, no wonder Namu’a Island Beach Fales provides an idyllic place to snorkel.

The caveat to this beach fale stay, however, is that they do not have snorkelling gear for hire, so make sure you bring your own to make the most of the awesome pockets of regenerating coral right off its main beach, as well as the opportunity to see turtles.

Your stay here includes breakfast and dinner, while you might want to bring some snacks if you’re sticking around for lunch – we wouldn’t blame you.

Find out more about the accommodation facilities and how to get there in the Aleipata Islands: Namu’a, Nu’utele, Fanuatapa & Nu’uala Full Guide.

4. Lauiula Beach Fales (Savai’i)

Located on the sunrise coast of Savai’i in the village of Lano, Lauiula Beach Fales offers an idyllic setting for their affordable beach fale accommodation. With an extensive lagoon just off the beach, Lauiula Beach Fales offers some of the safest snorkelling with coral to enjoy between a mostly sandy bottom. What’s more, snorkelling gear is free to hire.

The spacious fales can cater to a number of sleeping arrangements, whether you’re a couple or a family, and come with traditionally woven bi-fold walls for privacy. There’s also the option of an ensuite air-conditioned villa, which understandably comes with higher rates.

Enjoy breakfast and dinner at the beachfront dining fale or even choose something for lunch off their menu.

Learn more about snorkelling at Lano, as well as elsewhere on the island, in The Best Snorkelling in Savai’i: Top 10 Places to Snorkel.

5. Va-i-Moana Seaside Lodge (Savai’i)

Offering much more than a bed for the night, Va-i-Moana Seaside Lodge pulls out all of the stops to offer the complete Savai’ian holiday experience, including plenty of opportunities for snorkelling.

Either enjoy the snorkelling around the resort’s pier, with snorkelling gear available to hire for a small fee, while very affordable boat trips can also be organised to explore the depths surrounding a tiny islet just off Va-i-Moana’s shores.

Breakfast is included in the rate and served at the on-site restaurant, which also has an a la carte menu for dinner.

As for the accommodation, choose your level of comfort from the traditional open fale on the waterfront to one of the spacious ensuite bungalows. Either way, it’ll be a charmingly rustic experience.

For more affordable stays, take a look at the 25 Best Budget Accommodations in Samoa.

Book Va-i-Moana Seaside Lodge:

6. Le Uaina Beach Resort (Upolu)

A locally run operation with the best resort rates in Samoa, Le Uaina Beach Resort not only provides an affordable resort experience but also one with great snorkelling.

Enjoy South Pacific cuisine at the on-site restaurant and spend your days snorkelling or kayaking by the excellent reef metres off a beach on Upolu. The resort has all of the snorkelling and kayaking equipment available to hire. There’s also 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 25 Best Family Resorts in Samoa.

Book Le Uaina Beach Resort:

7. Le Lagoto Resort (Savai’i)

Le Lagoto Resort offers a luxurious retreat on Savai’i, boasting an interesting staghorn coral ecosystem just offshore. The resort’s 10 spacious high-ceiling bungalows are nestled among manicured gardens, providing a tranquil tropical escape.

When you’re not exploring the lagoon, unwind at the infinity pool or Hans Poolside Bar. Don’t miss the daily cocktail happy hour from 4 pm to 7 pm – the perfect way to cap off a day in paradise!

Immerse yourself in Samoan culture with village walks and the weekly fiafia night, complete with a BBQ buffet and string band performance. For ultimate relaxation, treat yourself to a pampering session at the onsite spa.

See how Le Lagoto compares to Savai’i’s other resorts in the 10 Best Resorts on Savai’i.

Book Le Lagoto Resort:

8. Falealupo Beach Fales (Savai’i)

Isolated on the western tip of Savai’i, Falealupo Beach Fales spans one of Samoa’s most scenic beaches. The relatively narrow fales at this budget accommodation are kitted out with all the usual bedding, including a mosquito net and woven walls for privacy.

Rates include a generous local breakfast and a buffet dinner (stir-fry, taro, palusami, chop suey and curry with vegetarian options, for example).

Snorkelling gear is available to hire to make the most of the interesting snorkelling off the beach, but we highly recommend you take the operator up on the offer to do a snorkelling tour to go further out to the best stuff.

There are many more amazing beach fales with snorkelling, so check out the 20 Best Beach Fale Accommodations in Samoa for more options.

9. Satuiatua Beach Resort (Savai’i)

Satuiatua Beach Resort offers a unique beach fale experience on Savai’i‘s stunning southern sunset coast. It’s the perfect spot for those seeking a blend of traditional Samoan hospitality and natural beauty.

The lagoon here is a snorkeller’s paradise, especially at mid to high tide. For the best experience, swim out to the channel about 30-50 m (33-55 yards) from shore, where you’ll discover spectacular coral teeming with vibrant fish.

After your underwater adventure, retreat to your traditional open fale with woven panel blinds for privacy. When hunger strikes, head to their popular restaurant, a favourite stop for both locals and tourists alike. Here, you can savour a delightful mix of local fare and international favourites while soaking in the laid-back island atmosphere.

With its idyllic setting and warm Samoan welcome, Satuiatua Beach Resort offers an authentic slice of island life that you won’t want to miss!

10. Return to Paradise Resort & Spa (Upolu)

Return to Paradise Resort & Spa offers a secluded retreat on Upolu‘s most famous beach along the island’s southwest coast. What’s more, the resort is part of a marine reserve and actively engages in its own coral planting initiatives, making it an eco-conscious choice for travellers.

While snorkelling directly off the beach can be challenging due to choppy conditions (best attempted at low tide), the nearby Savaia Giant Clam Sanctuary is a must-visit spot for underwater enthusiasts. It’s one of the Top 10 Places to Snorkel in Upolu.

Accommodation options range from beachfront one-bedroom suites with unique rock-wall bathrooms to spacious three-bedroom villas perfect for families or groups. The resort’s commitment to marine conservation adds an extra layer of appeal for eco-conscious travellers.

Check out more resorts on the main island in the 16 Best Resorts on Upolu.

Book Return to Paradise Resort & Spa:

More About the Best Resorts for Snorkelling in Samoa

That’s it for our list of the best resorts for snorkelling in Samoa, but there are plenty more resorts to choose from, such as the following:

Finally, if you’re still struggling to find the perfect place to stay on the islands, start from scratch with the Where to Stay in Samoa: The 50 Best Accommodations in Samoa.

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

Robin (Robini) C.

This article was reviewed and published by Robin, the co-founder of Samoa Pocket Guide. He has lived, worked and travelled across 16 different countries before settling in the South Pacific, so he knows a thing or two about planning the perfect trip in this corner of the world. Robin works and consults regularly with the Samoa Tourism Authority, a local government body representing the tourism industry. Robin is also the co-founder of several other South Pacific travel guides and is a regular host of webinars with the South Pacific Tourism Organisation.

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