Where to Stay in Upolu: The BEST Accommodations & Locations

Last Updated: 17 February, 2026

Where is the Best Place to Stay on Upolu?

Welcome to your ultimate guide on where to stay on Upolu! Here, we’re not just covering the best side of Upolu to stay, including Apia, the East Coast, the Southwest Coast and the Northwest Coast, but we’re also listing the best Upolu accommodations in each area.

What is the Best Side of Upolu to Stay on?

For urban vibes, culture and proximity to multiple dining options, stay in Apia. For resorts and beach fales on gorgeous beaches, stay in Lalomanu, Salepeaga and more along the east coast.

For surfing, ruggedly beautiful beaches and getting away from it all, stay around Maninoa, Matautu and the southwest coast.

Finally, for easy access to off-shore islands, village life and plantation stays, stay around Apolima-uta, Manono-uta and the northwest coast.

In this guide on where to stay on Upolu, we go into further detail about these places to stay by splitting them by location, as well as accommodation categories (resort, budget, beach fale, etc.) to help you choose the best place to stay on Upolu for you!

A Note About Us: Written by Real Travellers, Not Algorithms

Our recommendations come from on-the-ground research in Samoa – no AI-generated fluff here! Scroll to the bottom of the page to learn more about us.

The Top 10 Accommodations on Upolu

Before we dive into this complete guide on where to stay on Upolu, we thought you’d find it helpful for us to list our top 10 Upolu accommodations and where to find them.

Seabreeze Resort – Aufaga (east coast)
Sinalei Reef Resort & Spa – Maninoa (southwest coast)
Le Vasa Resort – Apolima-uta (northwest coast)
Faofao Beach Fales – Saleapaga (east coast)
Taufua Beach Fales – Lalomanu (east coast)
Coconuts Beach Club Resort & Spa – Maninoa (southwest coast)
Saletoga Sands Resort & Spa – Matatufu (east coast)
Aga Reef Resort – Saleapaga (east coast)
The Samoan Outrigger Hotel – Apia (north coast)
Taumeasina Island Resort – Apia (north coast)

The list continues in the 20 Best Resorts on Upolu, 10 Best Beach Fale Accommodations on Upolu and The Top 25 Resorts in Samoa.

Where to Stay on Upolu: The BEST Upolu Accommodations [2023]

Upolu Accommodation in Apia

An easy place to start when looking for accommodation on Upolu, Apia is the capital and most developed part of the island. With that, Apia also has the largest choice when it comes to accommodation.

There’s so much to unpack when it comes to staying in Apia that we have a full accommodation guide in Where to Stay in Apia.You might also want to check out The Complete Travel Guide to Apia to learn more about its attractions.

More About Staying in Apia

What’s Apia good for? Culture, markets, museums and dining.

What to do there? Samoa Cultural Village, Museum of Samoa, Robert Louis Stevenson Museum, Palolo Deep Marine Reserve, Papase’ea Sliding Rocks, Mt Vaea Tomb Walk, Friendship Park and more – see 25 Best Things to Do in Apia.

Where to eat? Paddles Restaurant, Nourish Cafe, RiVaiv Cafe, Giordano’s Pizzeria, Cornwall Cafe, Milani Caffe, Sails Restaurant, Amanaki Restaurant, 1905 Eatery, Pacific Jewell Garden Cafe, Scalini’s Restaurant, Kokobanana Bar & Grill and more – see The Food Guide to Apia.

🏨 Accommodation	🌟 Highlights
💰 The Best Budget Accommodation in Apia
The Samoan Outrigger Hotel	Well-kept budget hotel
Vaea Hotel Samoa	Boutique child-free hotel
Talofa Inn	Budget B&B with free WiFi
Olivia’s Accommodation	Cheap guesthouse with a garden
Dave Parker Eco Lodge	Cheap lodge rooms surrounded by lush forest
White House Hotel	Modern boutique budget hotel
Ulalei Lodge	Budget rooms with shared bathrooms and a cafe
Aniva’s Place	Guesthouse with a homely ambience
Lynn’s Getaway	Budget hotel with a pool and free WiFi
Apaula Heights Lounge	Rustic units on the slopes of Mt Vaea
🏨 The Best Mid-Range Accommodation in Apia
Samoana Boutique Hotel	Hotel rooms and apartments
Insel Fehmarn Hotel	3-star hotel with self-catering
Orator Hotel	Affordable resort with gardens, pool, and restaurant
Moanalisa Hotel	Cute boutique hotel with a pool
Alec’s Hotel	Hotel rooms and self-contained units
Travellers Point Hotel	Low-key boutique hotel
Amanaki Hotel	Hotel with a reputable restaurant
Hotel Elisa	Family-run hotel with self-contained units
Moatoga Hotel	Affordable rooms near Fugalei Market
Eden’s Edge Hotel	Garden hotel with a pool
🌟 The Best Upscale Accommodation in Apia
Taumeasina Island Resort	Samoa’s largest resort
Lava Hotel	Upscale contemporary hotel with free WiFi
Tanoa Tusitala Hotel	Polynesian hotel with a pool and free WiFi
Le Manumea Hotel	Boutique hotel with fiafia nights
Sheraton Samoa Aggie Grey’s Hotel & Bungalows	Famous historical hotel with resort-like facilities

Check out the 25 Best Hotels in Apia & Upolu for more on these more upscale accommodations.

Upolu Accommodation on the East Coast

Scattered along the dreamy white-sand beaches of the southeast coast of Upolu are a number of beach resorts and beach fales completing your beachside getaway. When we were there last, we couldn’t get enough of the stunning coastal views and laid-back atmosphere.

You’ll mostly find beach fales along the coast of Lalomanu and Saleapaga, while the odd resort provides a more remote retreat near the villages of Aufaga and Matatufu.

On the other hand, there’s only one accommodation on the northeast coast, providing easy access to Apia and nearby waterfalls and cave pools.

More About Staying on the East Coast of Upolu

What’s the East Coast good for? Beaches, islands, rugged inland landscapes and waterfalls.

What to do there? To Sua Ocean Trench, Namu’a Island, O Le Pupu-Pue National Park and Coastal Walk, Piula Cave Pool, Sauniatu Waterfall, Falefa Waterfall, Le Mafa Pass, Vavau Beach, Fuipisia Waterfall, Spopaga Waterfall, Togitogia Waterfall, Aganoa Black Sand Beach, swimming, snorkelling, surfing and more – see the 50 Best Things to Do on Upolu.

Where to eat? Waterfront Restaurant & Bar @ Seabreeze, Saletoga Restaurant, Anita’s Beach Bungalow’s Restaurant, Lululosa Restaurant & Bar and more – see the 10 Best Restaurants on Upolu.

🏨 Accommodation	🌟 Highlights
🌴 The Best Resorts on the East Coast of Upolu
Seabreeze Resort (Aufaga)	Adults-only luxury boutique resort
Saletoga Sands Resort & Spa (Matatufu)	Family-friendly beach resort
Aga Reef Resort (Saleapaga)	Boutique resort with islet bungalows
Le Uaina Seaside Resort (Faleapuna)	Cheap resort with a pool
Litia Sini Beach Resort (Lalomanu)	Low-key units with beach fale-style hospitality
Salani Surf Resort (Salani)	Eco surf resort with air-conditioned units
🏝️ The Best Beach Fales on the East Coast of Upolu
Faofao Beach Fales (Saleapaga)	Traditional beach fales with fiafia nights
Taufua Beach Fales (Lalomanu)	Beach fales, ensuite beach fales, and air-conditioned units with restaurant
Anita’s Beach Bungalows (Lalomanu)	Beach fales, ensuite units, and air-conditioned units with restaurant
Manusina Beach Fales (Saleapaga)	Spacious beach fales with a bar
Namu’a Island Beach Fales (Aleipata)	Fales on an uninhabited island
Vaiula Beach Fales (Tafatafa)	Beach fales with bar and cafe, surf, and snorkeling
Jaymy Beach Fales (Saleapaga)	Traditional beach fales with culture and island tours
Moegaamanaia Beach Fales (Tafatafa)	Fales among beach and garden with a legendary host

Learn more about these accommodations in the 20 Best Resorts on Upolu and 10 Best Beach Fale Accommodations on Upolu.

Upolu Accommodation on the Southwest Coast

More endearing beach resorts and beach fales entice you to the southwestern shores of Upolu.

This side of the island is particularly good for its surf, while those who love to snorkel and experience village life will find value here. We personally love the laid-back atmosphere and stunning sunsets in this part of Upolu.

Some of these accommodations are relatively remote, so bear this in mind when considering dining options (i.e. they are limited in these parts). From what we’ve experienced, it’s a good idea to stock up on snacks and drinks before heading to your accommodation.

More About Staying on the Southwest Coast of Upolu

What’s the Southwest Coast good for? Beaches, surfing and village life.
What to do there? Savaia Giant Clam Sanctuary, Lalotalie ECAT Ventures, Return to Paradise Beach, surfing and more – see the 50 Best Things to Do on Upolu.
Where to eat? Ocean Club Beach Bar, Ava I Toga Restaurant @ Sinalei, Paradise Kitchen and Rock Pool Bar @ Return to Paradise and Mika’s Restaurant @ Coconuts – see the 10 Best Restaurants on Upolu.

🏨 Accommodation	🌟 Highlights
🌴 The Best Resorts on the Southwest Coast of Upolu
Sinalei Reef Resort & Spa (Maninoa)	Luxury resort best suited to couples
Coconuts Beach Club Resort & Spa (Maninoa)	Upscale resort with overwater bungalows
Return to Paradise Resort (Matautu)	Beach resort with beachfront bungalows and self-catering villas
Survivor Samoa Beach Resort (Samai)	Secluded beach resort at a Survivor filming location
🏝️ The Best Beach Fales on the Southwest Coast of Upolu
Ocean Club (Maninoa)	Modern beach fales with a cafe and beach bar
Sina PJ Beach Fales and Surf (Tafitoala)	Beach fale on a black sand beach

Learn more about these resorts in the 15 Best Resorts on Upolu and fales in the 10 Best Beach Fale Accommodations in Upolu.

Upolu Accommodation on the Northwest Coast and Manono

Despite its proximity to Faleolo International Airport, the northwest coast is one of the lesser-stayed destinations on Upolu. Nevertheless, there is still a small number of underrated accommodations providing an alternative experience of the island, as well as easy access to the island of Savai’i.

The northwest coast also provides easy access to Samoa’s lesser-visited islands making for epic day or overnight trips.

According to our very own editor-in-chief, Laura, these hidden gems offer a truly authentic Samoan experience away from the well-trodden tourist paths.

More About Staying on the Northwest Coast of Upolu

What’s the Northwest Coast good for? Lesser-visited islands, transport to Savai’i, cycling and village life.

What to do there? Outdoor Samoa, trips to Manono, Nu’ulopa and Apolima islands, Ifiele’ele Plantation tours, EFKS Museum and more – see the 50 Best Things to Do on Upolu.

Where to eat? Cocolini’s by the Sea Restaurant @ Le Vasa and South Pacific Restaurant @ Sheraton – see the 10 Best Restaurants on Upolu.

The Best Resorts on the Northwest Coast of Upolu

Le Vasa Resort (Apolima-uta) – Good-value boutique resort with a pool, restaurant and island boat tours
Samoa Beach Resort (Mulifanua) – Beach resort near the airport with a reputable spa

The Best Mid-Range Accommodations on the Northwest Coast of Upolu

Ifiele’ele Plantation (Fasito’outa) – Self-catering plantation rooms and villas with a pool and food tours

🏨 Accommodation	🌟 Highlights
🌴 The Best Resorts on the Northwest Coast of Upolu
Le Vasa Resort (Apolima-uta)	Good-value boutique resort with a pool, restaurant and island boat tours
Samoa Beach Resort (Mulifanua)	Beach resort near the airport with a reputable spa
🏡 The Best Mid-Range Accommodations on the Northwest Coast of Upolu
Ifiele’ele Plantation (Fasito’outa)	Self-catering plantation rooms and villas with a pool and food tours
💰 The Best Budget Accommodations on the Northwest Coast and Manono
Sunset View Fales (Manono Island)	Simple garden fales elevated on the coast
Transit Motel (Faleolo)	Cheap airport accommodation with a restaurant
The St Therese Samoa Retreat and Accommodation (Tuana’i)	Basic rooms with an oceanfront pool

Find out more about the above accommodations in The Travel Guide to Manono, 20 Best Resorts on Upolu and 10 Best Boutique Accommodations on Upolu.

The Best Accommodation on Upolu: Accommodation Categories

By now, you’ve probably realised that Upolu has accommodations appealing to all types of travellers and that here, at Samoa Pocket Guide, we’ve ranked all the best! Browse Upolu accommodation by category using the following links:

Plan more of your trip according to different travel styles using The Complete Travel Guide to Upolu.

More About Where to Stay on Upolu + The Best Upolu Accommodations

Woah! Well done for making it this far in our guide to the best Upolu accommodations. By now, you probably have a good idea of where to stay on Upolu, so plan the rest of your trip with these guides:

Finally, if you’re still unsure where to stay, go back to square one with our guide, Where to Stay in Samoa: The 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

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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