Where is the Best Place to Stay in Pago Pago and Tutuila?

Welcome to your ultimate guide on where to stay in the Manu'a Islands LINK#D012! Here, we're not just covering the best island of the Manu'a Islands to stay, including Ofu, Olosega and Ta'ū, but we're also listing the best Manu'a Islands accommodations on each island.

What is the Best Island of the Manu'a Islands to Stay on?

For pristine beaches, coral reefs for snorkelling and the famous Ofu Beach, choose the bridge-connected Ofu and Olosega. For traditional village life, hiking and cultural experiences, head to Ta'ū, the largest of the Manu'a Islands.

In this guide on where to stay on the Manu'a Islands, we go into further detail about these places to stay by splitting them by island, to help you choose the best place to stay on the Manu'a Islands for you!

Accommodation in Ofu and Olosega

Ofu Olosega Manu'a Snorkel Beach To'aga Beach CREDIT AmericanSamoaPocketGuide.com
© AmericanSamoaPocketGuide.com

Jutting from the Pacific Ocean, Ofu and Olosega are possibly the most dramatic island landscapes in the South Pacific (and not like we've been everywhere, but possibly on Earth!)

The islands feature pristine coastlines with some spectacular beaches, where traditional village life continues along the coastal areas in one village per island.

Sweeping white sand beaches with crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming and snorkelling, while the islands offer an authentic Polynesian experience away from commercial development.

More About Staying on Ofu and Olosega Islands

What are the Ofu and Olosega Islands good for? Remote twin islands connected by a bridge, breathtaking beaches, traditional village life, good hiking trails and incredible snorkelling opportunities.

What to do there? Ofu Beach, Olosega Beach, Oge Beach Trail, Mt Tumu Trail, Sili Village Trail, Mafafa Beach, Sunu'itao Peak Base Trail, Le Loto Beach, swimming at the beach, snorkelling in the coral reefs, exploring villages, bird watching, cycling, kayaking and experiencing authentic Polynesian culture - see the 10 Best Things to Do in the Manu'a Islands LINK#D010.

Where to eat? Limited dining options include local village stores and catering services, as the islands has no restaurants - see Information, Shops & Services in the Manu'a Islands LINK#D013.

1.Va'oto Lodge

Va'oto Lodge Accomm CREDIT AmericanSamoaPocketGuide.com
© AmericanSamoaPocketGuide.com

Tucked on the southern edge of Ofu Island, Va'oto Lodge is a low-key accommodation in a high-end location.

This charming family-run lodge sits within spacious gardens, directly across from the beach and island airstrip. You'll have easy access to excellent snorkelling at Ofu Va'oto Marina Park (and snorkelling gear is available).

The lodge provides transfers from the wharf if you're arriving by boat. All units have a double and single bed with ensuite bathrooms (with hot water, which is worth mentioning for the Manu'as), and the lodge's rooms are equipped with mini-fridges, air conditioning and ceiling fans.

Self-caterers can use the open kitchen and purchase food from the well-stocked pantry and fridge. Otherwise, groups can request meals and even an umu experience with plenty of advanced notice.

We love that guests get complimentary use of bikes, snorkelling gear, books and board games, perfect for exploring or relaxing during quieter moments. They also offer a kayak and a paddleboard, giving you even more ways to make the most of the lodge's stunning beach.

Location:

Route 020, Va'oto, Ofu Island, Manu'a Islands. Right by the airstrip.

Price Range:$

2.Asaga Inn

Asaga Inn Accommodation CREDIT AmericanSamoaPocketGuide.com
© AmericanSamoaPocketGuide.com

Asaga Inn is your alternative stay on Ofu Island, located by the famous bridge that connects Ofu and Olosega Islands.

This charming family-run lodge is surrounded by lush gardens. Just across the road, you'll discover an amazing beach with inviting seating areas beneath swaying coconut palms.

The clean and comfortable rooms feature air conditioning and spacious showers. WiFi is available, although it works best in outdoor areas rather than inside your room. Note that there are a few extra costs, such as accessing the kitchen, WiFi and more.

What truly sets this lodge apart is the highly praised homemade meals prepared by your hosts. For an authentic experience, guests can join family-style dinners for an additional fee, creating memorable connections with the local family.

The inn's prime location places you close to excellent snorkelling spots, making it an ideal base for underwater adventures around Ofu's paradisical waters.

Location:

Route 020, Asaga Beach, Ofu, Manu'a Islands. Eastern tip of Ofu Island.

Price Range:$$

3.M&M Rental

M&M Rental Accommodation CREDIT AmericanSamoaPocketGuide.com
© AmericanSamoaPocketGuide.com

A true home away from home, M&M Rental is a holiday home on Olosega which boasts an irresistible price point even for couples and solo travellers.

The fully air-conditioned house features two bedrooms, each with a double-sized bed, a fully functioning kitchen, and a spacious living room that comfortably sleeps up to six people (with extra mattresses available for larger groups).

When you book, you'll have the entire house to yourself, creating the perfect private retreat. While there's no car on-site, the owners can arrange airport transfers through local contacts (although you might want to pay US$10-$15 as a tip to your driver).

With two small grocery stores nearby and the option to request meal plans or have the kitchen pre-stocked with essentials, you'll have everything you need for a comfortable stay. Free WiFi keeps you connected, though you'll find the peaceful village atmosphere and friendly neighbours make you feel like a true local.

Location:

Main Road, Olosega Village, Olosega Island, Manu'a Islands. A few yards south of the Elementary School.

Price Range:$

Accommodation on Ta'ū Island

Fitiuta Ta'u Landscape Manu'a CREDIT AmericanSamoaPocketGuide.com
© AmericanSamoaPocketGuide.com

Ta'ū is the largest and most remote island in American Samoa, offering visitors a truly authentic South Seas experience far from the crowds.

The island is home to three distinct villages: Faleasao and Ta'ū are located on the west coast where you'll find the main wharf and harbour facilities, while Fitiuta sits on the east coast near the island's small runway and national park.

From what we've experienced, Ta'ū provides an incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in traditional Samoan village life whilst exploring some of the most fascinating historical sites and dramatic coastal scenery in the Pacific.

More About Staying on Ta'ū Island

What's Ta'ū good for? Remote island adventure, historical sites, rugged coastline, traditional village culture and dramatic volcanic landscapes!

What to do there? Saua Trail, Tui Manu'a Graves, Faga Beach, Fagamalo Cove, Big Momma, Lua Ma'a Beach, Pu'a Vai Beach, Aufoto Cove, Laufuti Waterfall, cultural workshops and activities, birdwatching and more - see the 10 Best Things to Do in the Manu'a Islands LINK#D010.

Where to eat? Local village stores for self-catering and homestay meals - see The Food Guide to the Manu'a Islands LINK#D009.

4.Fitiuta Lodge

Fitiuta Lodge Accommodation Room CREDIT AmericanSamoaPocketGuide.com
© AmericanSamoaPocketGuide.com

For such a remote location, Ta'ū is lucky to have such well-developed lodging. Fitiuta Lodge not only has rooms to suit most styles of travellers, but the on-island experiences on offer are the icing on the cake.

You'll have seven affordable "Matai Deluxe Rooms" to choose from in the Maluimauga Fale, with shared bathrooms, or you can treat yourself to one of eight modern and luxurious "Oceanview Ali'i Suites" in the Maluatia Fale (both accommodate one to two guests), each with an ensuite and access to a terrace with views of the runway and coast. There's also a two-bedroom standalone house with a full kitchen and living room that gives you complete independence.

We love that all the essentials come free: air conditioning, high-speed WiFi and those stunning views of the surrounding villages and airport. The lodge takes care of your transfers too, providing complimentary airport and wharf pickups, plus they'll help coordinate alia boat day trips Ofu.

Perhaps the most valuable offering at Fitiuta Lodge, however, is its truck and bicycle rental, as well as the ability to arrange guides to Ta'ū's more challenging attractions, like the Luifuta Waterfall.

Every morning starts with a continental breakfast, but here's something special we discovered—if you're staying in the Maluatia Fale and your visit falls on a Sunday, you'll get to witness an authentic umu cooking demonstration followed by a traditional to'ona'i meal (it's an experience you won't forget).

The lodge also offers laundry services, a spacious lanai and living room for relaxing, plus an on-site convenience store, ATM and rental vehicles. Lunch and dinner are available upon request if you don't feel like venturing out.

Location:

Fitiuta, Ta'u, Manu'a Islands

Price Range:$$$

5.Eseta's Homestay

Eseta's Homestay Accomm CREDIT AmericanSamoaPocketGuide.com 1
© AmericanSamoaPocketGuide.com

Also in Fitiuta, Eseta's Homestay provides an authentic Manu'an experience and will make you feel like you're home the moment you land.

This authentic homestay experience offers the perfect introduction to genuine Manu'a hospitality, with Eseta serving as your local guide and host extraordinaire. The accommodation features three clean and comfortable ground-floor rooms with air conditioning, tiled floors and comfortable beds, with two rooms sharing a bathroom.

What truly sets this place apart is Eseta's genuine warmth and home-cooked Samoan fare, prepared by her or family members to fill your stomach true Samoan style. If you're not satisfied with the daily offerings (though we can't imagine why), she always stocks the communal area with noodles, snacks and hot drinks for guests to help themselves.

The affordable rates include air conditioning, free WiFi and complimentary laundry services, plus there's an on-site shop (though Eseta typically ensures you're well-equipped with snacks before any adventures). She can organise island tours through her local connections, often with the pastor's daughter or the pastor himself as your guide.

The location couldn't be more convenient, sitting less than 1.6 km (1 mi) from the airport and about 4.8 km (3 mi) from the boat dock.

Location:

Fitiuta, Ta'ū Island, Manu'a Islands.

Price Range:$

6.Ma'atoa Rental Units

Ma'atoa Rental Units (2) CREDIT AmericanSamoaPocketGuide.com
© AmericanSamoaPocketGuide.com

For travellers seeking something more private, Ma'atoa Rental Units is your only self-contained accommodation on Ta'ū, located in Ta'ū Village.

The apartment accommodation offers eight spacious self-catering units perfect for travellers seeking privacy and independence.

Each unit features air conditioning in both the living room and bedroom, ceiling fans, insect-screened windows and a fully equipped kitchen with fridge, microwave, gas stove and oven.

While the units provide essential amenities like drip coffee and basic cooking utensils, guests should note that hot water and toiletries aren't provided, and WiFi is only available at one end of the property or at the owner's shop.

Originally built as low-income housing, these units have been given a major facelift with tasteful yet minimalistic decor and fully tiled flooring, ensuring a homely and comfortable space that guests can enjoy all to themselves.

Location:

Ta'ū backroad, Ta'ū, Manu'a Islands. From Ta'ū village, take the back road towards the high school, but instead of following the turn left toward the school, turn right until you reach a long green building, which is Ma'atoa Rental Units.

Price Range:$$$

7.Faga Homestay

Ta'u Faga Beach Homestay Accomm CREDIT AmericanSamoaPocketGuide.com
© AmericanSamoaPocketGuide.com

A low-key lodging with a stellar location, Faga Homestay offers an excellent alternative along the northern coast of the island.

Your friendly host, Manaia, creates a very laid-back atmosphere where guests can truly unwind, whether that's sharing a beer together or simply enjoying the tranquil beachfront fale.

The homestay features four basic rooms, each equipped with both a double and single bed plus ensuite bathrooms. One room even includes a small personal kitchen, which is essential on an island where there are no restaurants.

What sets this place apart is the personalised service – Manaia offers airport pick-up and leverages strong family connections in Ofu to arrange seamless transportation for guests. While there's no formal meal service, the focus here is on genuine hospitality and helping you navigate the island with ease.

The beachfront location provides the perfect escape, with a traditional fale right on the sand where you can soak up the island's natural beauty in complete privacy.

Location:

Main Road, Faga, Ta'ū, Manu'a Islands. Along the northern road.

Price Range:$

The Best Accommodation in the Manu'a Islands: Accommodation Categories

By now, you’ve probably realised that the Manu'a Islands have a small but enticing offering of accommodations. If you're looking for something in particular, the following links should help:

Plan more of your trip according to different travel styles using The Complete Travel Guide to the Manu'a Islands LINK#D012.