Samoa Travel Guide
Often overlooked in the South Pacific, Samoa is a hidden gem in this region of the world, featuring a ton of exciting things to see and do. Split between two islands, Upolu and Savai’i, visitors will find no shortage of picturesque beaches, lush tropical landscapes, and fun adventures. Relax on the beach, go snorkeling, slide down a waterfall, hike across a lava field, learn about Samoan culture, photograph breathtaking waterfalls, and more.
Samoa Stats
Official Languages: Samoan, English
Population: 216,000
Capital City: Apia
Currency: Samoan Tala (WST)
Power Outlet: Type I
Your Trip to Samoa
Best Things to Do in Samoa (+ Itinerary & Helpful Tips)
Start here to help plan your trip to Samoa. In this article we walk you through our top travel tips that will help you make the most of your journey.
Top Experiences in Samoa
Unwind on a Beach. Samoa is known for its world-class white sand beaches. With lush tropical forests on one side and crystal blue water on the other, the scenery is nothing short of breathtaking. One of the best is Lalomanu Beach, which is lined with palm trees and fales.
Go Snorkeling. With crystal clear water and vibrant marine life, Samoa is an idyllic spot for snorkeling. Two of the top spots are at the Giant Clam Sanctuary, where snorkelers can get up close to these huge clams, and at Manase Beach, where snorkelers might see sea turtles.
Lava Field Coastal Walkway. Found in O Le Pupu-Pue National Park, this hiking trail leads through a tropical forest and out along black lava cliffs being pounded by the sea below.
Papase’aa Sliding Rocks. Slide down a waterfall, plunging you into a small swimming area. This is one of the most thrilling things to do in Samoa.
To-Sua Ocean Trench. A natural saltwater pool formed by a sinkhole; this is one of the most fun places to swim in Samoa. Descending into the swimming hole on the long, wooden ladder is part of the adventure.
Waterfalls. Samoa is dotted with many beautiful waterfalls nestled within the island’s lush landscape. View them from afar or take a dip at some of the smaller falls that allow it.
Relax in a Fale. You will find these beach huts throughout Samoa, overlooking the turquoise waters. For a small fee, you can rent one for an afternoon or even spend the night in one.
Explore Apia. Spend some time wandering through Apia, the capital of Samoa. Among its city streets you will find a cathedral, open-air markets, the Samoa Cultural Village, restaurants, and hotels.
Drive Around the Island of Upolu. With dramatic cliffs, white sand beaches, and vibrant tropical landscapes, it’s hard not to see something interesting as you drive around the island.
See Giant Banyan Trees. Visit the Falealupo Rainforest Reserve to see these majestic trees.
Attend a Fiafia Night. This cultural event celebrates Samoan heritage with dinner, music, and dancing. It is an entertaining way to gain insights into the Samoan culture.
Alofaaga Blowholes. See one of the largest blowholes in the world. For the best experience, visit near high tide to see its biggest water spray.
Eat a Traditional Samoan Meal. You can’t go wrong with enjoying traditional Samoan cuisine. Enjoy a meal cooked in an umu, where ingredients such as fish or pork are wrapped in leaves and placed on hot stones, allowing the food to both steam and bake. The result is a tasty and tender serving that will delight your tastebuds.
Visit American Samoa. Extend your trip and hop over the international date line to American Samoa. Just a quick 30-minute flight away, American Samoa features a national park, great hiking, scenic coastlines, and one of the world’s best beaches.
When To Visit Samoa
The best time to visit Samoa is during the winter season, which runs from May through September. Visitors will find slightly cooler temperatures this time of year, along with less rain.
Due to its location along the equator, Samoa features a tropical climate and is hot and humid year-round. The wet season runs from October through April and is the most likely time to encounter a tropical storm, which can interrupt travel plans.
Visit Nearby American Samoa
Samoa and American Samoa Itineraries with Hawaii & Fiji
Just a short 30-minute flight away, consider extending your trip with a visit to American Samoa. This article here will help you plan your trip.
Ultimate Guide to American Samoa: 18 Amazing Things to Do
American Samoa is a grouping of several small islands that are located in the South Pacific. For visitors, the National Park of the American Samoa is the main attraction, but there is a long list of things to do outside of the national park. In this guide, we cover the best things to do in […]
American Samoa Travel Tips: 20 Things to Know Before You Go
If you are planning a trip to American Samoa, there is no doubt that you have a lot of questions. When is the best time to go? How do you get around? Where should you go? American Samoa is not like Fiji, Bali, or the Virgin Islands. The tourism infrastructure is not well developed, so […]
National Park of American Samoa: Things To Do, Photos & Map
Located in the South Pacific, spread across several small islands, sits on of the least visited national parks in the USA, the National Park of American Samoa. Go snorkeling, hike to the tallest peaks for stunning views across the islands, visit remote beaches, and learn about Samoan culture…these all top the list of things to […]