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! 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!
Table of Contents
Accommodation in Ofu and Olosega
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, featuring pristine beaches, traditional village life, good hiking trails and incredible snorkelling opportunities.
What to do there? Swimming at Ofu Beach, snorkelling in the coral reefs, exploring traditional villages, hiking, bird watching 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 traditional meals with families, as the islands have minimal commercial restaurants - see Information, Shops & Services in the Manu'a Islands LINK#D013.
1.Va'oto Lodge
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 (snorkelling gear included).
The lodge provides transfers from the wharf if you're arriving by boat. All units are basic yet comfortable with ensuite bathrooms.
Self-caterers can purchase food from the well-stocked pantry and fridge, or enjoy reasonably priced meals and drinks on-site.
We love that guests get complimentary use of bikes, snorkelling gear, books and board games, perfect for exploring or relaxing during quieter moments.
And let's be honest, as the only accommodation between Ofu and Olosega, why wouldn't you?
Ofu, Manu'a Islands
Accommodation on Ta'ū Island
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 serves as the location for the island's only accommodation option.
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 pristine rainforest and dramatic coastal scenery in the Pacific.
More About Staying on Ta'ū Island
What's Ta'ū good for? Remote island adventure, pristine rainforest, traditional village culture and dramatic volcanic landscapes!
What to do there? National Park of American Samoa hiking trails, Mount Lata summit trek, cultural workshops and activities, coastal walks and birdwatching - see the 10 Best Things to Do in the Manu'a Islands LINK#D010.
Where to eat? Local village stores and the accommodation's dining facilities - see The Food Guide to the Manu'a Islands LINK#D009.
2.Fitiuta Lodge
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, 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). 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 transportation to and from Ofu.
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.
Fitiuta, Ta'u, Manu'a Islands
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:
- The Best Budget Accommodations in American Samoa
- The Best Family Accommodations in American Samoa
- 5 Best Hotels & Resorts in American Samoa
Plan more of your trip according to different travel styles using The Complete Travel Guide to the Manu'a Islands LINK#D012.
