Top reasons to visit Upolu
- Stunning Beaches: Upolu boasts pristine beaches with crystal-clear waters, ideal for relaxation and water activities.
- Adventure Activities: Engage in exciting pursuits like swimming, golfing, and whale watching amidst beautiful landscapes.
- Cultural Experiences: Discover rich heritage through historic temples, museums, and local customs, immersing yourself in Samoan culture.
- Breathtaking Waterfalls: Explore captivating waterfalls that offer scenic views and perfect spots for a refreshing dip.
- Warm Hospitality: Experience the friendly nature of locals and enjoy a welcoming atmosphere throughout your stay.
Find great hotels near Upolu
Upolu, Samoa, offers a delightful array of accommodation options, from charming bed and breakfasts to family-friendly hotels. Whether you're seeking an adventurous getaway, a business trip, or an affordable holiday experience, you'll discover a variety of cheap and budget-friendly stays. With stunning landscapes and warm hospitality, Upolu is the perfect destination for all types of travellers looking for memorable experiences in paradise.
- Insel Fehmarn Hotel: Nestled 10km from Upolu, Insel Fehmarn Hotel is a charming 3-star property designed for families seeking a delightful vacation experience. With a focus on family-friendly amenities, the hotel provides services such as babysitting and childcare, ensuring that parents can enjoy their stay while the little ones are cared for. The welcoming environment and attentive staff make it an appealing choice for those travelling with children, allowing for a relaxing and enjoyable family getaway.
- Le Manumea Hotel: Offering a blend of comfort and style, Le Manumea Hotel is a 3.5-star accommodation located 10km from Upolu. With a commendable guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, this hotel features diverse dining options, including a restaurant for dinner and lunch, a bar and lounge, as well as a snack bar. Entertainment amenities such as an LCD TV and DVD player add to the guest experience, making it a great option for those looking to unwind after a day of exploring. The hotel's inviting atmosphere is perfect for both couples and families.
- The Samoan Outrigger Hotel: Situated 10km from Upolu, The Samoan Outrigger Hotel is a 3-star property that also boasts a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10. This hotel caters to families with its thoughtful amenities, including complimentary cribs for younger guests. Its relaxed ambiance and friendly service make it an excellent choice for travellers seeking a comfortable base while enjoying the beauty of Samoa. The hotel's focus on family-friendly services allows for a stress-free holiday experience.
Where to stay near Upolu
Upolu, Samoa, offers an enchanting blend of culture and relaxation, making it the perfect destination for outdoor and beach adventures. Explore the stunning Upolu Cay, immerse yourself in the welcoming nature of the island, and experience the warm hospitality of the friendly locals. With its picturesque landscapes and vibrant atmosphere, Upolu promises a memorable getaway filled with unique experiences and captivating charm.
- Apia: Nestled approximately 11km from Upolu, Apia serves as the vibrant capital of Samoa, offering a delightful blend of cultural and outdoor experiences. Visitors can enjoy the local markets, where fresh produce and handicrafts are abundant, and spend leisurely afternoons at the botanical gardens. The city is surrounded by picturesque beaches and a sports facility stadium, making it a hub for adventure seekers and those looking to soak in the stunning scenery. Peak travel seasons occur from June to July and September, attracting tourists eager to explore its charm.
- Maninoa: Located around 10km from Upolu, Maninoa is a hidden gem for those seeking adventure and natural beauty. This city is renowned for its inviting beaches, lagoons, and opportunities for snorkelling and swimming. Visitors can immerse themselves in the tranquillity of the island's surroundings while engaging in various outdoor activities. The peak travel periods are from March to April and July, ensuring a lively atmosphere during these months, perfect for those looking to experience the local adventure scene.
- Siumu: Situated just 10km from Upolu, Siumu is a stunning coastal city known for its breathtaking beaches and outdoor adventures. The area draws visitors during the peak season from June to August, making it a popular destination for beach lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. Activities such as exploring the local markets and visiting the nearby national park and archipelago offer a rich travel experience. Siumu's idyllic setting and seasonal vibrancy make it an excellent choice for a memorable holiday.
Things to do in Upolu
Shopping
Discover Apia's local markets, like the bustling Apia Market, where you can find handcrafted souvenirs and traditional Samoan crafts. For a more modern experience, visit the Samoa Shopping Centre, featuring various shops and eateries, perfect for picking up unique gifts during your stay in Upolu.
Recreation
In Upolu, immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere of the Samoan Spa, where traditional techniques meld with natural ingredients for rejuvenating treatments. Alternatively, explore the serene surroundings of Taumeasina Island Resort, offering yoga sessions and wellness programmes that promote relaxation and mindfulness in a picturesque coastal setting.
Adventure
Explore the lush rainforest on a guided hike to the stunning Togitogiga Waterfall, where you can swim in natural pools. Venture to the south coast for an exhilarating surf lesson at Lalomanu Beach, known for its beautiful waves and vibrant marine life.
Nightlife
Visit the Lava Lounge in Apia for vibrant cocktails and a lively atmosphere. For a more laid-back vibe, head to the Samoa Brewery for local brews and live sports. Enjoy traditional music and dance at the cultural shows around the island for an authentic experience of Samoan nightlife.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Upolu
To save money during your visit to Upolu, consider travelling in the cheaper months of February to March and November, while avoiding the more expensive June to July and September. Book your accommodation about a month in advance for the best rates, and look for last-minute deals on platforms like Expedia. Sundays typically offer the lowest hotel rates, while Fridays are the priciest. Use Expedia’s search tools to find budget-friendly options, and consider bundling your hotel with flights and activities for additional savings. Exploring local markets and natural attractions can also be free or low-cost ways to enjoy your stay.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Upolu are February to March and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to July and September, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Upolu is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Upolu is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay around Upolu is Friday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring that the most affordable hotels appear first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels available for booking.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel reservations in Upolu with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions near Upolu
Upolu, Samoa, is perfect for an outdoor, beach, and adventure holiday. Visitors can explore captivating waterfalls, enlightening museums, and historic temples, catering to those seeking cultural immersion, romance, and outdoor experiences. Notably, Upolu Point offers additional opportunities for exploration. Whether you're after relaxation or adventure, Upolu provides a diverse range of attractions to enjoy during your stay.
- Baha'i House of Worship: This stunning temple, located 5km from Upolu, offers a serene environment for reflection and spiritual connection. Its unique architectural design and beautifully landscaped gardens invite visitors to appreciate the principles of unity and peace that the Baha'i faith embodies.
- Robert Louis Stevenson Museum: Situated 6km from Upolu, this museum is dedicated to the life of the famous author. Visitors can explore the charming villa and its lush surroundings, gaining insight into Stevenson's literary legacy and his time spent in Samoa.
- Papapapaitai Falls: At 5km from Upolu, this picturesque waterfall captivates with its breathtaking views and lush surroundings. Ideal for those seeking adventure, the falls provide a romantic setting for a leisurely hike or simply to relax amidst nature's beauty.
Best time to go to Upolu
The best time to visit Upolu is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. March and April are its hottest month on average. At the time of April, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy. August is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Upolu
For your journey to Upolu, you can fly into two major airports: Apia (APW-Faleolo International) located 29km away and Apia (FGI-Fagali'i) situated 8km away. Near Apia (APW), consider staying at Samoa Beach Resort, a 4.5-star resort, 3km from the airport, offering convenient airport shuttle services. Alternatively, near Apia (FGI), the Sheraton Samoa Aggie Grey's Hotel & Bungalows, a 4.5-star hotel 3km away, also provides comprehensive transport options. Other nearby accommodations include Taumeasina Island Resort and Tanoa Tusitala Hotel, both within a few miles of Fagali'i, ensuring easy access to the airports for your travel needs.