My partner and I are flying to Samoa for a week, and so far haven't booked any accommodation. Is it sensible to just turn up and find fales to stay in, or should we book in advance?
We are looking for basic places on the beach, not big resorts. Ideally not too touristy. Any suggestions of good places / areas would be much appreciated.
Thanks!
I had no trouble finding cheap beach fales anywhere in Samoa.
Only once did I find a very popular place full, and even then there were other fales available on the same beach.
In any case, most of the cheapies can't be booked in advance.
Saleopaga was my favourite, much less busy than nearby Lalomanu, and it had plenty of cheap fales to choose from.
Ditto #1. I did book everything in advance, but upon arrival it became clear it really wasn't necessary.
Saleopaga was also my favourite area, though at that time there was only one option since the tsunami had wiped out most places. I don't know what it's like now.
I liked Saleapaga - Faofao and Manusina Fales, neither was booked out in June/July /August.this year. I preferred Tafatafa along the South coast on Upolu,further from the traffic and a nicer beach, my favourite there Moeaga Manaia is not on the internet phone (685)41736 but is mainly only busy on the weekend. there are 4 places in a row at Tafatafa, Vaiula is on the internet and popular with surfers but I found Moega Manaia cleaner
Over all I prefer Savaii, the only places I found booked out there were Lauiula at Lano and Satuiatua beach fales at Satuiatua.At Lano there are only 2 fale accommodations (Joelans & Lauiula) and Satuiatua just the one- Lauiula is my favourite fale in Samoa for value (70 tala inc breakfast & dinner ) and a great beach for swimming at all tides.
Manase has a strip off about 5 fale operators Tanus ,Janes and vacations are probably the most popular but seldom booked out - in fact Janes was very quiet this winter, there is normally room on the strip somewhere