Sheraton Samoa Beach Resort

The Sheraton spreads along the lagoon at Mulifanua on Upolu's far western end, where the water turns gold at dusk and the island of Manono floats on the horizon. Its practical advantages are unmatched in Samoa—Faleolo International Airport is minutes away, as is the wharf for ferries to Savai'i—making it the natural first and last night of any two-island itinerary, and a resort destination in its own right for those who settle in.

Low room wings and fales face the lagoon across lawns and coconut palms, in a relaxed international style with Samoan touches. The shallow, sheltered water suits families and paddlers; the pool complex, kids' activities and a golf course in the neighbourhood fill the days, and the spa fale handles the afternoon-heat hours.

Dining runs from lagoonside grills and generous buffets to a swim-up bar timed for the famous Mulifanua sunsets, with weekly fiafia performances. Apia is about forty-five minutes east when town beckons. The resort's international-brand consistency, rare in the independent Pacific, is precisely its appeal: familiar comforts wrapped in genuine fa'a Samoa warmth at the quiet end of the island.