Travel to Samoa — everything you need to know

When to go to Samoa?

Weather in Samoa

Check the weather city by city, starting with Apia.

What to do in Samoa?

Samoa, often called the 'Heart of Polynesia', is a preserved archipelago where the fa'a Samoa culture (the Samoan way of life) permeates every aspect of daily life. With its spectacular ocean trenches, dizzying waterfalls and some of the finest beaches in the Pacific, Samoa offers rare authenticity in a breathtaking natural setting. Robert Louis Stevenson, author of Treasure Island, chose to end his life here, seduced by the beauty and generosity of the Samoan people.

To Sua Ocean Trench

The To Sua Ocean Trench is unquestionably one of the most striking natural wonders in Samoa and the entire Pacific. This 30-metre-deep natural pit, filled with intensely turquoise seawater, is connected to the ocean by an underwater tunnel. You descend via a long wooden ladder into a setting framed by giant ferns and dense tropical vegetation for an unforgettable swim.

Highlights : To Sua Trench — diving into the turquoise pit from the wooden ladder, Lotofaga beach — sea access from the To Sua gardens, Sua Beach natural pools — rocky pools with clear water, Lotofaga coast — black cliffs and panoramic ocean views.

Lalomanu Beach

Lalomanu is regularly cited among the most beautiful beaches in the South Pacific, with immaculate white sand, coconut trees leaning over the sea and crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkelling. The beach is lined with coral cliffs and offers a stunning view of Manu'a Island in the distance. Traditional fales (open beach bungalows) let you sleep just metres from the waves for an authentic island experience.

Highlights : Lalomanu Beach — one of the most beautiful beaches in Polynesia, Taufua Beach fales — a night in an open beach bungalow, Lalomanu coral reef — snorkelling with colourful tropical fish.

Savai'i — Lava fields & Turtles

Savai'i, the largest of the Samoan islands, is a sparsely developed volcanic island offering spectacular scenery: the Saleaula lava fields from an early 20th-century eruption, impressive blowholes on the north coast, and the Fa'a'ala turtle pool where sea turtles come to feed just metres from visitors. The island is also home to the Pulemelei Mound, the largest prehistoric monument in Polynesia.

Highlights : Saleaula lava fields — 1905–1911 flows that engulfed a village and a church, Fa'a'ala turtle pool — free-roaming sea turtles in a natural pool, Pulemelei Mound — the largest prehistoric monument in Polynesia (12th century), Alofaaga blowholes — 20m water and air jets on the volcanic coast.

Apia & Robert Louis Stevenson's House

Apia, Samoa's lively capital, blends a colourful covered market, German colonial architecture and a relaxed Polynesian atmosphere. The city is known worldwide as the home of Robert Louis Stevenson, author of Treasure Island, who settled there in 1890 and died there in 1894. His Vailima villa, now a museum, is today one of the country's main tourist attractions. Papapapai-tai Falls, reachable via a short hike, are among the most beautiful on the island.

Highlights : Villa Vailima — Robert Louis Stevenson's former home, now a museum, Papapapai-tai Falls — a 100m waterfall in Upolu's rainforest, Aggie Grey's beach — snorkelling and a protected lagoon in downtown Apia.

Travel budget for Samoa

Samoa is one of the most affordable destinations in the Pacific Islands. Fales (traditional open bungalows) let you sleep on the beach for a modest price while immersing yourself in Samoan culture. Local food (fish, taro, umu — Polynesian earth oven) is cheap and delicious. Domestic transport between Upolu and Savai'i is by affordable ferry.

Practical tips for travelling to Samoa

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