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

Welcome to your ultimate guide on where to stay in Pago Pago and Tutuila! Here, we're not just covering the best side of American Samoa's main island, Tutuila, to stay, including Pago Pago, Tafuna and the West Coast, and the East Coast, but we're also listing the best Upolu accommodations in each area.

What is the Best Side of Pago Pago (Tutuila) to Stay on?

For urban vibes, culture and proximity to multiple dining options, stay in Pago Pago town centre. For coastal stays and easier access to Tutuila's West Coast, boasting most of the island's attractions, stay in Tafuna. For unique accommodations and peaceful beachfront escapes, stay on the East Coast of Tutuila.

In this guide on where to stay on Tutuila, we go into further details about these places to stay by splitting them by location. That way, you will be able to choose the best place to stay in Pago Pago and Tutuila for you!

Tutuila Accommodation in Pago Pago

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

There's so much to unpack when it comes to staying in Pago Pago that you might want to check out The Complete Travel Guide to Pago Pago & Tutuila LINK#D006 to learn more about its attractions.

More About Staying in Pago Pago

What's Pago Pago good for? Culture, harbour views, national park access and local dining.

What to do there? National Park of American Samoa, Pago Pago Harbour, Jean P. Haydon Museum, Mt Alava Trail, Fagatogo Market, Blunts Point Trail and more – see 25 Best Things to Do in Pago Pago & Tutuila LINK#D004.

Where to eat? Sadie's by the Sea, DDW Beach Cafe, Tisa's Barefoot Bar, Goat Island Cafe, Tradewinds Hotel Restaurant, Evalani's Restaurant, Pago Pago Yacht Club and more – see The Food Guide to Pago Pago LINK#D003.

1.Sadie's By The Sea

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One of the finest beachfront options near Pago Pago town, the hotel combines traditional fale-inspired architecture with international hotel-style comfort.

The private beach offers endless entertainment with complimentary kayaks, sailboats and water sports equipment, while the restaurant seating positioned just above the sand provides the perfect spot to dine with ocean views.

Centrally located within walking distance of Pago Pago dock, restaurants and government offices, you'll find easy access to everything Pago Pago has to offer.

Across 40 well-appointed rooms, configurations include two queen beds, queen plus single bed combinations, and king bed options, with four "King Deluxe" rooms featuring extended lounge areas and futons for extra space.

Goat Island Café serves as the resort's popular dining destination, offering breakfast, lunch and dinner in an open-air setting that captures the tropical atmosphere.

Beyond the beach activities, guests can enjoy the outdoor pool and take advantage of the on-site convention centre for events.

All in all, Sadie's By The Sea offers something for everyone in an ultra-convenient location in the heart of Pago Pago.

Location:

Route 001, Utulei, Pago Pago, Tutuila

Price Range:$$

2.Sadie Thompson Inn

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The sister property to Sadie's By The Sea, Sadie Thompson Inn is its more affordable counterpart which occupies a charming timber building overlooking Pago Pago Harbour.

Named after the fictional protagonist from W. Somerset Maugham's short story "Rain" (1921), this historic two-storey inn welcomed the famous author himself back in 1916.

Today, you'll find various room configurations to suit different needs. Standard rooms feature either one king bed plus futon or two queen beds, whilst harbour view rooms offer a king bed with extended lounge area and scenic street and harbour vistas. For those seeking more space, apartment-style rooms provide a full kitchen alongside a large living and dining area.

We love unwinding in the air-conditioned bar, complete with pool table and great music. Sadie's Restaurant specialises in American favourites like steak and seafood served in a charming colonial setting.

Overlooking Pago Pago Harbour, the inn provides complimentary shuttle transport to and from Pago Pago International Airport for guests travelling on Hawaiian Airlines, with rental cars also available for hire.

Popular with travellers on business, those looking for a more affordable option, or travellers with a keen interest in history, Sadie Thompson Inn is an iconic choice of accommodation in Pago Pago.

Location:

Malaloa, Pago Pago, Tutuila

Price Range:$$

3.Le Falepule Le Falepule

Perched on a hillside between town and the airport, Le Falepule offers an upmarket B&B with views to die for.

The terrace boasts amazing views where you can help yourself to drinks from the honesty bar, creating the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring.

Rooms are tastefully furnished with subtle Samoan themes that feel comfortable yet familiar, providing an authentic touch without overwhelming the space.

A tropical breakfast is included each morning, setting you up perfectly for your American Samoan adventures.

With complimentary laundry services and free WiFi included, Le Falepule covers all the practical bases while maintaining its boutique charm.

Location:

Route 001, Faga'alu, Pago Pago, Tutuila. Around 200 m (219 yards) north of the hospital turn-off.

Price Range:$$

Tutuila Accommodation in Tafuna and the West Coast

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Located in the bustling commercial heart of American Samoa, Tafuna offer a unique mix of local life and convenient access to the territory's main attractions along the west coast.

You'll find both locally-run accommodations and international-style hotels in Tafuna, particularly near the airport and commercial district.

The area serves as an excellent base for exploring Pago Pago, being just a 25-minute drive from the main harbour and government centre. Better yet, staying in Tafuna is often the closest option to the West Coast of Tutuila, where most of the island's top attractions are located.

More About Staying in Tafuna

What's Tafuna & 'Ili'ili good for? Shopping, local culture, convenient airport access and proximity to Pago Pago's attractions.

What to do there? American Samoa Golf Course, access to the National Park of American Samoa, Turtle and Shark Site, Tia Seu Lupe Site, access to the western side of Tutuila, and more – see The Complete Guide to Pago Pago & American Samoa LINK#D006.

Where to eat? A&E Cafe, Dickie's Diner, McDonald's, Julia's Restaurant, Vila's Snack, Flying Fox Gastropub, Manaia Restaurant and more – see Best Places to Eat in American Samoa.

4.Tradewinds Hotel

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If you’re after convenience and comfort near the airport, Tradewinds Hotel is your top pick in Tafuna.

You'll find this is American Samoa's largest and most comprehensive hotel. The four room and suite types all feature Balinese-inspired furnishings rather than traditional Samoan décor, which gives the place a unique tropical feel.

Every room comes with an ensuite, and here's what we love most—guests get free airport transfers and complimentary continental breakfast. This adds serious value, especially if you're on a short stay or dealing with a layover.

The hotel features solid conference facilities, plus there's a swimming pool for when you need some downtime.

For dining, you'll want to check out the on-site Equator Bar & Restaurant, which serves up American-style favourites (think burgers and grilled mains). Don't miss their traditional umu nights though, which is a great chance to taste authentic island cooking.

The location is ultra-convenient, just moments from Pago Pago International Airport.

All in all, Tradewinds Hotel is a well-established hotel that is often an easy choice for business travellers, couples and families.

Location:

Route 018, Tafuna, Tutuila

Price Range:$$$

5.Moana O Sina

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For a tasteful and truly local stay, Moana O Sina is well worth considering for your stay in Tafuna.

This charming bed and breakfast offers the perfect mix of Western comfort and Polynesian charm, with homely rooms featuring French doors and timber furniture set within lush tropical gardens. The standout feature is undoubtedly the swimming pool positioned right on the coast's edge, allowing you to watch the waves roll in while you take a refreshing dip.

Ocean views are spectacular from every angle, while the spacious accommodations provide a welcoming retreat after days of island exploration. A complimentary continental breakfast is served daily (except Sundays, when you'll be given a breakfast voucher for a local cafe instead) in the waterfront breakfast fale, and for special dining occasions, you can enjoy meals in the modern twist of an open-air Samoan fale.

Meanwhile, the complimentary WiFi keeps you connected when needed.

Ideal for couples and families seeking a peaceful retreat, Moana O Sina is the ultimate choice for relaxation.

Location:

Fogagogo, Pago Pago, Tutuila

Price Range:$$$

6.Maliu Mai Beach Resort

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Another option on the Tafuna shoreline, Maliu Mai Beach Resort's main drawcard is its restaurant, but it also has a small selection of hotel rooms that are too convenient to pass.

This charming accommodation sits uniquely tucked between the runway and the coast.

Run by a welcoming local American Samoan family, the property showcases intriguing Greek-inspired pillar architecture that's been lovingly restored through gradual renovations over the years.

While the shoreline is mostly rocky rather than sandy beach, the spectacular sea views from your oceanview room more than make up for it. And instead of your average swimming pool, they have a true Samoan-style sheltered rock pool built into the cliffs.

The real magic happens in the spacious dining hall and especially out on the deck, where the lively bar service truly makes this place shine. This is also where you'll be able to connect to the hotel's WiFi.

Most choose Maliu Mai for its authentic American Samoan hospitality.

Location:

Oneonelilii Point, Fogagogo, Pago Pago, Tutuila

Price Range:$$$

Tutuila Accommodation on the East Coast

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Hidden behind the iconic Rainmaker Mountain, the east coast offers a true holiday destination for intrepid travellers.

This side of the island is particularly good for its pristine beaches, while those who love to snorkel and experience authentic Samoan village life will find tremendous value here. We personally love the peaceful atmosphere and spectacular sunrise views in this part of Tutuila.

The beauty of the east coast's accommodations is that they are not too far from Pago Pago, should you need to pop into town.

More About Staying on the East Coast of Tutuila

What's the East Coast good for? Pristine beaches, snorkelling, hiking and authentic village life.

What to do there? Alega Beach, Aunu'u Island day trips, Rainmaker Mountain, scenic drive to Masefau and Sa'ilele, traditional village visits and more – see The Complete Guide to Pago Pago & American Samoa LINK#D006.

Where to eat? Tisa's Barefoot Bar – see Best Places to Eat in American Samoa LINK#TTD040.

7.Tisa's Eco Fales

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American Samoa's most unique accommodation, Tisa's Eco Fales, can be found right here on the east coast of Tutuila.

As the only Samoan-style fale in American Samoa, the lodge offers an upmarket twist on traditional accommodation with real beds, table and chairs, driftwood and nautical décor, plus plenty of space to unwind.

This eco-fale sits directly on the beach, providing intimate access to nature while your gracious hosts, Tisa and CandyMann, are real characters offering unmatched hospitality.

Accommodating up to four guests with a minimum two-night stay, your experience includes healthy (and plentiful) meals for breakfast and dinner. On-site, you'll find Tisa's Barefoot Bar – a must-visit destination whether you're staying here or not.

Join their island tours and eco-experiences, like the Alega Marine Sanctuary snorkelling tour, or simply enjoy spending time at one of the country's best beach accommodations, just a 15-minute drive from Pago Pago town.

For anyone looking for a unique Samoan experience, Tisa's is a no-brainer.

Location:

Route 001, Alega, Tutuila

Price Range:$$

The Best Accommodation in Pago Pago and Tutuila: Accommodation Categories

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

  • 10 Best Budget Accommodations in American Samoa LINK#A001
  • 10 Best Family Accommodations in American Samoa LINK#A002
  • 10 Best Hotels & Resorts in American Samoa LINK#A006

Plan more of your trip according to different travel styles using The Complete Travel Guide to Pago Pago & Tutuila LINK#D006.