Why travel to Samoa? It’s warm, friendly, tasty, tropical AND beautiful. Plus there are lots of unique things to do in Samoa that pretty much outline the PERFECT Pacific Island for adventure, relaxation, or just to find out more about life of a real-life tropical paradise!
It’s easy to get to Samoa with flights from Auckland, Australia and Fiji, and connections through Hawaii – there isn’t really a reason NOT to go!
Read on for tips about travel to Upolu and Savai’i plus all the best – and tastiest – things to do in Samoa.
- About travel to Samoa
- Things to do in Upolu, Samoa
To’Sua Ocean Trench
Fugalei Market
Giant Clam Sanctuary
Lolimanu Beach
Papase’ea Sliding Rocks
‘Ava Ceremony
Koko Samoa
Piula Cave Pool
Papapapaitai Falls
Immaculate Conception Cathedral - Things to do in Savai’i
- Getting around on Upolu
- Ferry to Savai’i
- Samoan food to try in Samoa
- Accommodation
About travel to Samoa
We spent five days in Samoa which actually felt great for a short break (and only four hours from Auckland) to relax and enough time to explore some of the most iconic sights and tastes I had been yearning for.
However, I would love to go back again and would say if you aren’t short on time then definitely visit for a week or more.
Samoa is made up of 12 islands; four of which are inhabited.
Upolu and Savai’i are the two main islands. They are surrounded by several smaller islands, including Manono and Apolima – the next largest two.
There is plenty to do on Upolu, and it is easy to get around, explore and find everything you need.
But I am also going to tell you how to get to Savai’i and why it is worth making the trip there too!
Here are all the best things to do and tips to plan your travel to Samoa.
Transportation for exploring Upolu
Have you even BEEN to Samoa if you didn’t cruise around Upolu with reggae tunes cranking and the tropical breeze blowing?!
Thats what we did.
It’s easy to hire a car and pick it up from the airport and the island roads that wrap around Upolu are just begging to be explored in the sunshine and at the pace of island life.
The islands are blessed with natural beauty; from beaches, to waterfalls and the lush vegetation that edges the villages and embraces ancient volcanoes.
We basically hopped in the car and headed for the other side of the island taking the Cross Island Road (which literally does as it says and takes you right across the island) and making our way back around the coastal route.
If you wanted to you could drive around the entire island in 4-5 hours, but you might not see much. I would definitely recommend giving yourself sufficient time to hop out and stop whenever you wish.
Getting around Upolu
Definitely keep an eye out for the island buses that also use the roads.
If you’ve driven in the Pacific you will already know what I mean, and if not – well, you have that excitement to look forward to!
There are beautiful churches dotted everywhere around the island; you can spot them in the villages as you drive through and often can see the schools next door or attached to the church grounds themselves.
Some of the churches are historic for the island and somewhat ethereal in appearance.
By the time we had driven around I was getting good at recognising the different colours of denominations from afar, and looked forward to seeing each village centre as we approached.
- Tip: Look out for any other hazards you might come across – the free roaming chickens, dogs, pigs, and horses!
10 Highlights and Things to do in Samoa – Upolu
In no particular order, here are 10 things to do in Samoa on Upolu Island that we reckon make it absolutely worth a visit!
1. Fugalei Markets in Apia
And back in Apia, do NOT miss the Fugalei Markets for the biggest selection of fresh fruit and vegetables, niu coconuts and enormous sweet juicy pawpaws that will only set you back $1 USD!
We pretty much began at the fruit section and found a niu coconut to sip on whilst wandering around…
If you are there for a whole week and can visit on a Sunday then you are in extra luck. Sunday is ‘umu’ day and there is all kinds of extra steamed and ground-cooked delights!
2. To Sua Ocean Trench – Things to do in Samoa
I know I’ll say the same thing about the Koko-Samoa, niu coconuts (and probably a kava ceremony) – but I don’t think a visit to Samoa would be complete without a swim in To-Sua Trench.
It’s one of the most iconic highlights of Samoa. And seriously. Do you think this could literally be one of the most beautiful swimming holes in the world?!
To Sua translates to mean ‘giant swimming hole’ and that is certainly apt. Popular with locals and tourists alike, the trench is just as it sounds – a deep swimming hole formed by an ancient lava eruption.
- Tip: There is a steep ladder down into the trench to a standing platform that makes for easy access into the water.
The climb down is steep but worth it for a swim in this beautiful Samoan treasure.
Tickets to visit To Sua Trench:
- Adults: ST $20 ($7 USD)
- Children 6-11 Years: ST $10 ($3.5 USD)
- Children Under 6: Free
3. Giant Clam Sanctuary – Things to do in Samoa
One of the popular things to do in Samoa is to snorkel in the Giant Clam Sanctuary. The sanctuary is located within a village marine protected area on Upolu Island’s south coast.
- Tip: It costs $25 WST (about $9 USD) to snorkel in the Giant Clam Sanctuary.
4. Lolimanu Beach – Things to do in Samoa
Lolimanu Beach is on the southern part of Upolu.
It was voted by Lonely Planet as one of the top 10 Beach Destinations of the World!
It is a beautiful stretch of white sandy beach that is popular for a beach day out. Or you can stay in one of the beach Fale (huts) right in the Lalimanu Beach district.
5. Papase’ea Sliding Rocks – Things to do in Samoa
Papaseea Sliding Rocks are a natural attraction located in Samoa. The rocks are naturally formed smooth rocks that make a natural waterslide into the Papase’ea Stream.
The site is 6km from central Apia, well-signposted from the road past the Mormon Temple.
6. ‘Ava Ceremony
The ‘Ava ceremony is one of the most important customs of the Samoan islands.
It is a ritual in which a ceremonial beverage is shared to mark important occasions in Samoan society. Most often it includes speeches and oratory before the formal drinking of ‘Ava.
- Tip: If you are invited to be part of a kava ceremony during your travel to Samoa then definitely grab that opportunity.
It is a special experience to be part of.
Part of my visit to Savai’i was to visit a preschool in one of the small villages. I felt honoured to have the village chief and several of the elders attend our visit and welcome us with an ‘ava ceremony.
These are the kind of experiences in travel that cannot be bought. Sitting on the floor to share in this ceremony is something I will treasure forever.
7. Papapapaitai Falls
Papapapaitai Falls is one of the longest waterfalls in Samoa at 100m high, cascading into a deep gorge.
These spectacular falls plunge 500 feet into a volcanic crater, surrounded by a lush rain forest.
You can hike to Papapapaitai Falls. Or about 14km from Apia on the main road there is a lookout and carpark with impressive views to the falls.
8. Immaculate Conception Cathedral – Things to do in Samoa
The church is central to the Samoan way of life.
Christianity arrived in the islands in 1830 by way of missionaries and the Christian faith integrated with Samoans’ beliefs in gods for the sun, earth, heavens, and sea.
Anywhere in the South Pacific is in an iconic experience to attend a church service. I recommend it as a great experience and one of the things to do in Samoa that truly showcases the culture and people of Samoa.
Everyone is welcome to attend church services, which are often led by a beautiful choir singing.
Even if you aren’t a practising Christian, it is a special opportunity to witness the sound of Samoa!
- Tip: In Apia you can find church services at the Immaculate Conception Cathedralwhich holds an English mass on Sunday at 9:30 AM.
9. Piula Cave Pool – Things to do in Samoa
Along the Main East Coast Road – about 45mins from Apia – you will find Piula Cave Pool. This bright blue green pool is located at the Piula Theological College in the Village of Lufilufi.
It is another gem on the island and one of the refreshing things to do in Samoa.
10. Ride one of the Samoan Buses
Taking a colourful bus is one of the unique things to do in Samoa! The Samoan buses are one of the country’s most unique features.
The buses travel all over the island and almost every one is different.
They are a fun, budget-friendly way to travel, offering a unique cultural experience.
To catch one, simply wave it down (there are no formal stops), and when you’re ready to get off, pull the cord along the roof.
5 Highlights and Things to do in Savai’i, Samoa
Here are 5 things to do in Savai’i, Samoa.
1. Take the ferry to Savai’i from Upolu, Samoa
If you have time on your itinerary, one of the most memorable things to do in Samoa is to take the ferry to the second largest island of Savai’i.
We loved the adventure of getting TO Savai’i!
The ferry is easy to use and operates daily.
Travelling time between these islands is an hour and 15 minutes.
- Tip: Tickets can be bought at both ends, at Mulifanua Wharf (Upolu) and Salelologa Wharf (Savaii).
Arriving in Savai’i from Upolu, Samoa
On arrival in Savai’i the Salelologa Market is really close to the main wharf and bus terminal.
This is the best place to find all kinds of fresh fruit and vegetables, baked goods, crafts, gifts – everything you need to stock up for Savai’i and beyond. Grab some niu coconuts and enjoy the market experience!
The experience of exploring Savai’i is like heading back in time in the Pacific. There aren’t the seven-days-a-week shops and fast food options of Apia.
There are natural attractions and locals going about their lives on this tropical island paradise as they have done for generations.
If it works with your itinerary definitely squeeze in Savai’i. It will be a highlight in your travel to Samoa!
2. Salelologa Market – Things to do in Savai’i, Samoa
Salelologa New Market is the main marketplace in Savai’i. It is easy to find located near the main Salelologa Wharf and by the Savai’i bus terminal.
There is a good range of clothing, souvenirs, artefacts, household goods, groceries and fruit & vegetables.
3. Koko Samoa – Things to do in Savai’i, Samoa
I was lucky enough to stay with friends in the village of Sagone on Savai’i and feel blessed to have had such a unique and homely experience.
If you get the chance to visit Savai’i on your travel to Samoa then grab that opportunity too.
This was also the time I became officially the islands biggest temporary-staying fan of Koko Samoa!
Koko Samoa is served as a hot cocoa made from cocao beans, which come from the tree called cacao. Basically, its chocolate in its purest form!
The smell of the Koko-Samoa simmering away on the outdoor kitchen is honestly almost as good as savouring each mouthful in taste. Do NOT leave Savai’i or Samoa without trying a home-brewed or market made Koko Samoa…
You will thank me later!
4. Pa Sopo’ia Cave – Things to do in Savai’i, Samoa
The famous Pa Sopo’ia Cave on Savai’I is located off the beaten track. But if you have time in Savai’i it is worth the trouble to find.
5. Alofaaga Blowholes
The Alofaaga Blowholes, also known as the Taga Blowholes, are a natural feature on Savai’I that are worth going out of your way for.
The blowholes are located in the district of Palauli, southwest of Salelologa wharf. Though you can actually see them from the ferry as you arrive!
It truly is spectacular to watch the force of the ocean coming up through the blowholes. It’s amazing to see how high the blowholes go!
Samoan food and Kava to try in Samoa
Eating some of my favourite island foods in Samoa was right up there on my Samoan-bucket-list.
Like other Polynesian countries, Samoa has unique and different ways of cooking, presenting and eating dishes of the Pacific.
I know I have more to try (and that’s excellent).
But on this trip my favourites were:
- Masi Samoa – coconut cookies
- Panikeke – rounded pancakes/banana fritters (or ‘balls of golden goodness’!)
- Panipopo – buns baked in a sweet and sticky coconut cream sauce
- Sapasui – Samoan Chop Suey; vermicelli noodles, soy sauce, sugar, garlic, ginger, and meat
- Oka i’a – a raw fish salad marinated in coconut cream
- Fa’alifu taro – taro boiled in coconut sauce
- Palusami – young taro leaves baked in coconut cream
I could go on! A lot of these you can find at the markets, or in the small roadside stalls or local restaurants.
It’s making me hungry even thinking of all these while writing – I definitely need to go back!
Accommodation and where to stay on Upolu, Samoa
If you want to be close to bars and restaurants it is best to stay in Apia. But there are also many beach resorts and accommodation around the island of Upolu.
An authentic Samoan Fale stay can be found at many hotels and villas or in the traditional villages dotted throughout the islands. If you get the chance to stay in a Fale it is a great experience!
In Apia we stayed at the Apia Central Hotel on Savalalo Road.
- Apia: Apia Central Hotel
This was a handy location to explore Upolu from. Prices are reasonable with double, triple and family rooms and a small courtyard swimming pool.
Though there are a few other options in Apia and on Upolu to choose from:
- Saleapiga: Jaymy Beach Fales
These are traditional Samoan Beach Fales open styled and traditionally built with local material and literally right on the beach.
- Lolomanu Beach: FaoFao Beach Fales
Affordable accommodation on the beach (or they do have air-conditioned rooms) with dinner and breakfast included in the rates.
- Mulifanua: Sheraton Samoa Beach Resort
A luxurious and beautiful stay on Upolu!
Accommodation and where to stay on Savai’i, Samoa
We were lucky in Savai’i to stay at a Fale (house) in Sagone Village with friends.
But there are numerous options in Salelologa and the villages around Savai’i.
- Salelologa, Savai’i: Savai’I Lagoon Resort
Considered the best resort in Savaii, this is as luxurious as they come on Samoa’s big island!
- Salelologa, Savai’i: Vaisala Beach House
Beachfront accommodation that is very reasonably priced with great food.
- Lano Beach, Savai’i: Lauiula Beach Fales
Family run accommodation located on the beautiful white sandy beaches of Lano.
This was the view below from our Fale in Sagone Village.
You can see the main road of the island. But the photo can’t quite describe the welcoming smell of kitchen fires burning and that sound of pigs wandering and grunting – and roosters crowing!
Read more about travel in the South Pacific
- A Different Side Of Fiji: Holidaying In Fiji Without Resorts.
- Vanuatu: A Kid-Friendly Week In Vanuatu.
- Rarotonga: A Family Christmas In Tropical Paradise.
- 10 Things To Do In Tonga.
- Rarotonga With Kids: Travel Guide.
More about travel to Samoa and planning for the Pacific and beyond
These are the companies we use and can recommend for planning and booking travel.
- Booking.com – The best all-around accommodation booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. It is easy to filter and sort into price and availability with all the extras you are looking for personally.
- 12GoAsia – Book trains anywhere online.
- Skyscanner– This is by far our favourite flight search engine. They are able to search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites often miss. We book all our flights through Skyscanner.
- GetYourGuide– Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions offered all around the world. Everything from walking tours, to street-food tours, cooking classes, desert safari’s and more!
- SafetyWing – A global travel insurance that covers people from all over the world while outside their home country. You can buy it short or longterm; and even if you are out of the country.
- World Nomads – Travel insurance tailored for longterm travel and nomads (including those who have already left home). Make sure you have insurance before embarking on all the things to do in Samoa!
