Samoa Experiences

Water sports

Samoa is a top spot for water lovers, offering year-round warm waters averaging 28°C. Beginners can dive or snorkel in calm lagoons, while deeper sites challenge the experienced. Several local tour operators and scuba schools provide equipment, training and guided trips. Top snorkelling spots include Palolo Deep, near Apia, Salamumu, Savaia, Falealupo and Manase. The best snorkelling and surfing conditions are during the dry season, May to October, with clearer water and bigger waves. Surfers will find uncrowded, powerful reef breaks on Upolu’s south coast and Savaii. Guided surf tours are common, though you should bring your own board. A small local fee supports nearby villages.

A surfer in a red shirt sits on his board, watching another surfer catch a wave, framed by rippling water and a bright sky.

Nature

Don’t miss the Alofaaga Blowholes on Savaii, where ocean waves blast through lava tubes. Nearby, the Saleaula Lava Field offers a haunting view of buried villages and a half-covered church from a 1905-1911 eruption. Samoa’s waterfalls are stunning; visit Sopoaga which is the largest waterfall, Afu Aau, popular for swimming, Papapapai-Uta which is best viewed from afar, Togitogiga, perfect for a post-hike swim and Fuipisia which boasts dramatic jungle views. For a unique swim, visit the freshwater Piula Cave Pool or To-Sua Ocean Trench, a 30-metre ladder leads into a spectacular ocean-fed pool surrounded by lush cliffs.

A couple holding hands walking through ancient ruins with overgrown trees under a clear blue sky.

Culture

Explore Samoa’s capital, Apia, by visiting its vibrant markets, offering tropical fruits, local delicacies, crafts and fresh coconuts. Don’t miss the Sunday fish market for a wide range of seafood including tuna, octopus and eel. Head to Savaii Island’s northwest to experience the Falealupo Rainforest Preserve, with its treetop walkway, a platform in a 230-year-old banyan tree and nearby sites like Moso’s Footprint and the House of Rock. Samoa has a 3,000-year-old culture centred on Fa’a Samoa ‘the Samoan way’ emphasising community, family and respect. Experience this through cultural nights or the Village Cultural Tour in Apia, featuring dance, food, tattooing, tapa making, weaving and traditional cooking. Food plays a key social role, with dishes featuring seafood, pork, taro, tropical fruits and coconut. Tattooing, or tatau, remains a respected tradition, symbolising status and dedication to Samoan culture.