'Upolu
Namu’a is only a short boat ride from Mutiatele, but once you’re on this tiny private island, Upolu seems light years away (though it’s clearly visible…
Must-see hotels in Samoa
Apia
Surrounded by rainforest and boasting jaw-dropping views of the coast, this delightful hilltop spot is an excellent escape from the heat of the big smoke…
'Upolu
If you're looking for a (literal) love-nest, grab your bags – and your beloved – and head up the hill to Lupe Sina, home to two extraordinary treehouses…
Savai'i
First you'll be taken by its dramatic location on a solid river of black lava, then you'll be knocked for six by the dazzling turquoise bay it's named for…
'Upolu
Set on a six-hectare working tropical fruit plantation, this self-catering retreat is the definition of intimate, with just one villa and a studio (both…
'Upolu
This the hippest resort in the country. Samoa's only overwater fale are found here, and what a find they are, with huge, luxuriously-appointed bedrooms,…
Savai'i
Long, languid Lano Beach easily rates as one of the best strips of sand on Savai’i, and Joelan’s simple but well-kept thatched fale nab the best bit –…
Apia
Gorgeous grounds, divine digs and five-star service make this resort an absolute stand-out. Accommodation ranges from spanking new hotel rooms all the way…
'Upolu
Set in a black-lava-rock bay lined with palm trees and dotted with tiny islands, this exclusive resort has beautifully built bungalows decorated in…
Sheraton Aggie Grey's Lagoon Resort
'Upolu
The best things about this sprawling resort are its large pool, spacious grounds, proximity to the airport and wharf, and long list of facilities,…
Savai'i
Run by a family of women, this spotless place is loaded with simple and effective touches. Open fale have proper beds and are well maintained, while…
'Upolu
Located on a sweet stretch of coast just before the turn off leading to Aleipata (it's right next door to the Piula Cave Pool), friendly Le Uaina makes…
'Upolu
As uninspiring as its name may be, Airport Lodge actually has a lot going for it. It's close to the airport and wharf, the hotel rooms are huge and clean …
Savai'i
Recently rebranded and given a high-end makeover, this all-inclusive surf resort exploits the beauty of an exquisite little beach and its proximity to…
'Upolu
Yellow and mint-green fale are as bright as the smiles of the owner and staff, and the spectacular Lalomanu beach is steps away. Basic open fale have…
'Upolu
This posh boutique resort, perched over a stunning stretch of water, is one for the luxury lovers: it's stylish, spotless and the staff is exceptional…
Savai'i
Fall asleep to the lullaby of lapping waves at this charming, slightly ramshackle place. Accommodation varies dramatically: the cheapest fale teeter on…
'Upolu
Located at the mouth of the Fupisia River with excellent left- and right-hand breaks in view, Salani caters primarily to experienced surfers with packages…
'Upolu
A millennium ago the Tongans were booted out of Samoa at this grassy headland, but you can expect a warmer welcome at this personable little resort. It's…
Apia
This friendly, family-run spot is an excellent choice for self-caterers and families. While there are clean motel-like rooms on-site, the spacious, fully…
Savai'i
Just off the main road behind a cluster of shops, this is a surprisingly stylish place: the pool and grounds are impeccable, the restaurant serves up…
'Upolu
Sitting smack on the beach that starred in the 1953 Gary Cooper film Return to Paradise, this sparkling, upmarket resort is a destination unto itself:…
Savai'i
The large enclosed fale here are many steps above your average beach hut, with balconies, fans and private bathrooms. The units have amenities including…
Apia
This eccentric, social little spot attracts return visitors and long-term guests by the boatload. The two comfy common rooms, shared kitchen, poolside…
'Upolu
This new resort is more akin to one you'd find in Fiji than far-less-touristed Samoa: it's big, shiny, and draws everyone from honeymooners to families …
Savai'i
Taking the plum spot on one of Savai’i’s best and most protected beaches, these large self-contained units are clean and inviting, but overpriced for…
'Upolu
It’s well worth shelling out for the enclosed beachfront fale, which have terraces right over the outrageous Lalomanu beach and are decorated in bright…
'Upolu
If you like lazing around the pool and being handed cocktails by charming waiters, Sinalei’s the place to do it. This beautifully landscaped plot by the…
'Upolu
Sa'moana has a divine location on a white-sand beach that tumbles past black lava formations into a stunning lagoon. Upscale bungalows sit directly on the…
Savai'i
Quirky Vaisala has a distinct retro charm, with mismatched furnishings and a dated, barracks-like main building. Rooms are slightly oddball but…
Sheraton Samoa Aggie Grey's Hotel & Bungalows
Apia
If you ever wanted to step into a 1940s-era tale of the South Seas, this iconic hotel gives you the chance. Though completely refurbished in 2016, Aggie…
'Upolu
Unmissable in pink and green, Anita's is a longtime Lalomanu favourite: it's fun, friendly and its location can't be beaten. The open fale offer the usual…
'Upolu
This place may be simple, but if you're after a warm welcome, gorgeous views, fresh food and cleanliness (even the shared toilets are spotless, a fale…
Savai'i
This is the most upmarket place in Manase, with accommodation ranging from enormous, super-modern suites and posh beach villas to boutique fale, complete…
Apia
Blocky and nondescript from the outside, this large hotel is surprisingly welcoming and well equipped. All rooms have plenty of space (families should…
'Upolu
Faofao treats guests like family, and their charming, all-natural thatched fale make for a wonderful home away from home (the air-conditioned rooms are…
Apia
One of the swankiest and most professionally run places in town, this hotel – instantly recognisable by its huge, traditional-roofed lobby – is nestled in…
'Upolu
The enclosed fale here are reserved for those on Offshore Adventures' 'surfari' expeditions, personalised surf tours (maximum five) that take in the best…
Apia
This popular, two-storey hotel enjoys an excellent location – and equally excellent ocean breezes – across from the sea wall. The huge, comfortable rooms…
Apia
Set in a high-ceilinged, century-old timber building, this charming place is a bit out of town, but worth the short drive. Accommodation ranges from fale…
