Things to do in Samoa

Discover the best of Samoa with a full-day tour of Upolu. Visit iconic landmarks, swim in pristine waters, and experience the cultural beauty of the island. Enjoy stunning scenery, refreshing swims, and local charm. Start your day with a refreshing visit to the beloved Piula Cave Pool. Later, continue to the Sopoaga Waterfall. Admire the many different types of Samoan plants and trees that are labelled by their Samoan and scientific names. Splendid gardens fill the surrounding area. Next, see the To Sua Trench, a giant swimming hole 30 meters deep and accessible via a long ladder where a platform sits for easy access in the pool. Inside is a cave that leads to the open sea and recommended for skilled divers. It is surrounded by beautiful native gardens and offers a spectacular ocean view. Overlooking the ocean is a small beach known as Fagaoneone, meaning white sand. Opposite, you can find a lava field with blowholes, mini pools, and good fishing spots. If you're visiting between mid-September and November, you may even be lucky enough to see a few whales coasting by. Stop at the Lalomanu Beach, lined with beach fales and magnificent views of the smaller outer islands. Lalomanu Beach is located on the south coast of Upolu and was voted by Lonely Planet as one of the top 10 Beach Destinations of the World. Next, see the Togitogiga Waterfall, located in the village of Saleilua and situated a few miles away from the O Le Pupu Pue National Park. It's a popular swimming spot and place to linger for a picnic, plus there are changing rooms and restrooms. There is also a recreation area ideal for games, such as rugby and volleyball, for those with their own equipment. Continue to the Papapapaitai Waterfall, one of the most photographed falls in Samoa and considered the longest at 100 meters high, cascading into a deep gorge. Its untouched surroundings brings to life and a sense of mystery. It is recommended for visitors to stay behind the rail for safety purpose. Finally, visit the Bahai Temple, designated as a “place of spiritual gathering and of the manifestation of divine mysteries." The Baha'’i' House of Worship and prayer gardens are open daily for prayer, meditation, and personal reflection to peoples all religions, races, and nationalities. Its majestic architecture and tranquil atmosphere, set within fifteen acres of stunning gardens, offer an experience like none other.

Experience the best of Samoa with a guided tour that take you through breathtaking crystal-clear lagoons, lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and pristine beaches. Discover iconic landmarks and explore the vibrant capital of Apia. To-Sua Ocean Trench Immerse yourself in one of Samoa’s most stunning natural wonders—a breathtaking freshwater lagoon surrounded by lush jungle. A perfect spot for swimming and capturing unforgettable photos! Pristine Beaches and Crystal-Clear Waters Unwind on Samoa’s stunning beaches, where you can snorkel, swim, or simply bask in the warm tropical sun. Apia City Tour Wander through the charming capital of Apia, where you’ll encounter bustling local markets, colonial-era architecture, and cultural landmarks such as the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum.

Experience six magnificent water destinations on an exhilarating journey that will take you eastwards through the diverse north and south coasts of Upolu, three mountain passes, and some tantalizing off-road jaunts. Where in the world can you accomplish five different fresh and saltwater swims in one day? Customize the route and times at attraction sites or optional interchange or additional side trip as time permits. Opportunities for bird watching enthusiasts. Visit the Sauniatu Waterfall, Piula Cave Pool, Lalomanu Beach, To Sua Ocean Trench, Togitogiga Waterfall, O le Pupu-Pue National Park Lava Cliff Walk, and Papapapaitai Falls at 110m.

Swim in three of Upolu’s cave pools and lava tube destinations on a full-day tour. Enjoy fresh and saltwater swims in Piula Cave Pool, To Sua Ocean Trench, and Vaiula Cave Pool. Start your day with a swim in the freshwater spring pool sitting beneath a historic church at Piula Cave Pool. Swim 25 meters into the cave and sit on a natural ledge at the end. Experience a remarkable phenomenon that makes your submerged legs appear a tint of cyan blue. Next, head to the To Sua Ocean Trench. Brave the steep descent into the trench and swim in the tidal waters. Stroll around the lovely gardens and gaze over the beautiful volcanic coast. Stop at Vaiula Beach Fales for a delicious focaccia tuna sandwich lunch and snacks. Engage with the chief according to village custom before equipping everyone with a headlamp or flashlight in preparation for the tour of the cave pool. Hike through the jungle to the hidden entrance of Vaiula Cave Pool (not far from the beach fales lunch spot). The journey through the 150-meter long lava tube is fascinating. After descending into the cave, encounter some nice horizontal sections and a minor talus slope, occasionally requiring one to bend down to avoid scraping one’s head. Finally, arrive at the pool, where the water is absolutely pure and crystal clear. Swim 10 – 15 meters to where the tube dives underwater. On the way home, stop to view Upolu’s highest waterfall, Papapapaitai Falls at 110 meters.

A day tour in Samoa offers a rich blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and local flavors, encapsulating the essence of this South Pacific paradise. Here’s a detailed description of what you might expect on a day tour in Samoa: Cultural Immersion and Historical Exploration Pick-Up and Introduction: Begin your day with a warm Samoan welcome as you’re picked up from your accommodation. The guide, often a local, will provide an introduction to the tour, sharing insights into Samoan history, culture, and traditions. Visit to Apia: Start your exploration in the capital, Apia. You will visit the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum, the former home of the famous Scottish author who spent his final years in Samoa. The museum, set in beautiful gardens, offers a glimpse into his life and Samoan history. Cultural Village Experience: Head to a traditional Samoan village where you'll witness a 'Fa'a Samoa' (The Samoan Way) cultural show. Experience firsthand the art of tapa cloth making, traditional tattooing, and the preparation of the ‘umu,’ an underground oven used for cooking Lunch at a Local Eatery: Enjoy a traditional Samoan lunch at a local restaurant or a beach fale (hut). Dishes often include fresh seafood, taro, palusami (taro leaves with coconut cream), and tropical fruits. Dining by the sea enhances the experience, with the sound of waves adding to the ambiance. Scenic Beauty and Adventure To Sua Ocean Trench: After lunch, travel to the stunning To Sua Ocean Trench in Lotofaga. This natural swimming hole, surrounded by lush gardens and accessed by a long ladder, is one of Samoa’s most iconic sites. Swim in the clear, turquoise waters, or simply relax and take in the breathtaking scenery. Lalomanu Beach: Continue to Lalomanu Beach, one of Samoa's most beautiful stretches of white sand. Here, you can relax on the beach, swim in the clear waters, or take a stroll along the shoreline. The view of the nearby islands and the backdrop of green hills makes this a perfect spot for photos. Sunset and Farewell Drive Back to Apia: As the day winds down, enjoy a scenic drive back to Apia. Depending on the time of year, you might catch a beautiful Samoan sunset along the way, with the sky painted in hues of orange, pink, and purple. Drop-Off: Return to your accommodation with memories of a day filled with culture, adventure, and the natural beauty of Samoa. Optional Add-Ons: Togitogiga Waterfall: If time allows, you might visit the Togitogiga Waterfall in the O Le Pupu-Pu’e National Park, where you can swim in the natural pools or explore the surrounding rainforest. Sopoaga Falls: A stop at Sopoaga Falls offers another opportunity to marvel at Samoa’s dramatic landscapes, with a lookout providing stunning views of the waterfall and surrounding gardens. This day tour in Samoa is designed to provide a comprehensive experience, offering a taste of everything that makes Samoa a unique and beautiful destination in the South Pacific.

Dive into Samoa’s natural beauty with a full-day snorkelling and waterfall adventure. Enjoy a guided snorkelling experience and visit the Papaseea Sliding Rocks, Giant Clam Sanctuary, Maninoa Beach, Togitogiga Waterfall, Papapapaaitai Falls. We start the day at the Papaseea Sliding Rocks,then to Giant Clam Sanctuary, located within a village marine protected area on Upolu Island's south coast. See the amazing clams and other marine life in the warm clear waters of this marine reserve. Quality snorkel set provided and your guide can guide you into the waters if you wish. Then we stop for lunch at Maninoa Beach (own expense) and have a beer or a wine on this picturesque beach. We then head to the Togitogiga Waterfall, a glorious spot for a splash. This series of gentle waterfalls are separated by blessedly cool waterholes. Cool down on a hot day in the fresh waters. We end the day with stops at Papapapaitai Falls (the tallest in Samoa at 107m) for beautiful picture and then on to walk the gardens of the Bahai Temple.

Enjoy a hassle-free start to your adventure with pickup from your hotel lobby anywhere within Apia town (approximately a 5 km radius). Meet your friendly local guide, who will share insights, stories, and hidden gems as you explore Samoa’s breathtaking landscapes and rich culture. Piula Cave Pool Start the day with a visit to Piula Cave Pool, a hidden freshwater gem located within the historic Methodist Theological College. About 35 minutes east coast of Apia town. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for a cool dip before the afternoon heat kicks in. Swim into the small cave or just relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings—this is the perfect spot to refresh before the adventure continues! Le Mafa Lookout ILe Mafa Pass is a stunning mountain pass in Samoa, offering breathtaking views of the island's lush landscapes. It is located on Upolu Island along the Cross Island Road, which connects Apia to the southeastern part of the Island. Sitting at around 1,700 feet (518 meters) above sea level. Snap some incredible photos and take in the beauty of Samoa from above. With fresh air and stunning scenery, this is a moment to just pause and soak it all in! Lalomanu White Sandy Beach Welcome to Lalomanu Beach, one of Samoa’s most beautiful coastlines! Sink your feet into the soft white sand, relax under a coconut tree, or choose to unwind in a fale (traditional hut). If you're feeling hungry, a local beachfront restaurant is nearby where you can grab some lunch and drinks while enjoying the ocean views. Quick family Stop – Local Life Time for a quick refresh with a stop at a local family’s home. Sip on fresh coconut water, stretch your legs, and get a glimpse of daily island life. A short but sweet stop to experience real Samoa before we continue our journey! To Sua Ocean Trench Now for the highlight—To Sua Ocean Trench, a breathtaking 30-35 meter deep natural swimming hole! If you're up for an adventure, climb down the wooden ladder and take a swim in the stunning blue water. Or, if you prefer to stay dry, relax in a fale nearby and just soak in the incredible view—either way, this spot is pure magic! Sopoaga Falls A quick stop at Sopoaga Falls, a spectacular 50-meter drop waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. Watch as the water cascades beautifully into the valley below, creating a picture-perfect moment. A peaceful and scenic stop before we hit the road again. Papapapaitai Falls A quick 5-minute stop at Papapapaitai Waterfall on the way back to Apia. It’s right off the Cross-Island Road, and at about 100 meters (328 feet) tall, it’s one of Samoa’s highest waterfalls. You can see it from a distance, though the view depends on the season and water flow. When it’s running, it’s a stunning sight! Scenic Drive Back to Apia Then, cruise through villages we’ll head back to Apia via the Cross-Island Road, a scenic drive through the island’s lush interior. The perfect way to end an unforgettable day in paradise!

Explore the O le Pupu Pu’e National Park on a guided tour from Apia. Walk through the tropical rainforest, see the Ma Tree, The Lava Coastal Cliff Walk, and visit the Aganoa Black Sand Beach. Start your day with a pickup from your hotel in Apia and head to the O le Pupu Pu’e National Park. Enjoy a walk through the tropical rainforest to the Ma Tree with its buttress roots that extend out for meters in all directions. Next, take a walk to the Lava Cliff Coastal Cliffs. Step back in time and visit the raw beauty of ancient and spectacular volcanic action in the form of sea cliffs, arches, and islands. View the swirling bird life on one of the nearby islands. Following a 4WD track, reach the magnificent, unspoiled, and rarely visited Aganoa Black Sand Beach. The hues of black sand are a result of eroded volcanic material caused by lava flowing into the sea. Over time, other sands have mixed with the black sands and although now the colour is more of a light/dark gray in places, it is no less impressive and one of Samoa's finest beaches. Enjoy a refreshing dip in the deep waters and finish with a fine picnic lunch. Afterward, return to Apia.

Embark on an adventurous 5km hike through a dense rainforest, on a 5-5.5 hour trip to Lake Lanoto'o. The half-day excursion is perfect for travelers who like to get off the beaten track to see and do something a little different. With a maximum of six people per group, enjoy a more immersive and dynamic tour experience. After a moderate sometimes steep ascent through the dense rainforest, cool off in the volcanic crater lake. Please note that this hike can be challenging, with steep and slippery sections, so it is essential to wear footwear with good tread and be prepared for a moderate level of physical exertion.

To-Sua literally means 'giant swimming hole', 30 metres deep and accessible via a long ladder where a long platform sits for easy access in the pool. Inside is a cave that leads to the open sea and is recommended for skilled divers. It is surrounded by beautiful native gardens and a spectacular view ideal for weddings, photoshoots and more. Overlooking the ocean is a small beach known as Fagaoneone meaning white sand, while opposite you can find a lava field with blowholes, mini pools and good fishing spots. If you're visiting during mid-September to November you may even be lucky enough to see a few whales coasting by. This is an absolute must-see place to visit while on holiday in Samoa.