14 Places To Visit On The Samoa Islands​: Tropical Paradise Awaits

An image of a stunning tropical paradise in Samoa, ideal for a scenic retreat.

The Samoa Islands are a secret paradise in the South Pacific, with its dramatic landscapes, sparkling waters, and abundant wildlife. From white-sand beaches to rainforests, and from dramatic waterfalls to island-hopping, the places to visit on the Samoa Islands​ are a travel paradise for all adventure-seekers. From the serene beach at Lalomanu Beach to the beautiful To Sua Ocean Trench, these islands have something to offer for people who wish to relax as much as for people who seek adventure. Nature lovers, history seekers, and beach lovers will have plenty to find here in this island paradise.

Top Places To Visit On The Samoa Islands For An Enchanting Vacation

Here is the list of the most beautiful places to visit on the Samoa Islands for a memorable tropical getaway.

1. To Sua Ocean Trench

A photo of the To Sua Ocean Trench, one of the places to visit on the Samoa Islands.

Photo: Neil / Wikimedia Commons

The Sua Ocean Trench is a very representative tourist spot indeed in The Samoa Islands. This blue crystal-clear water filling the 30-meter-deep sinkhole that is located in the Lotofaga village represents one of the most iconic tourist spots. Surrounded by gardens and volcanic rock, it gives tourists a magical and serene setting. Couples and thrill-seekers can climb down the wooden ladder to enjoy a rejuvenating bath in the icy water. The trench has a connection to the ocean via underground tunnels, making it even more naturally remarkable.

Location: Lotofaga village, Upolu
Entry Fees: WST 20 / ₹632.9
Best Time To Visit: May to October

Suggested Read: The Ultimate Guide To The Most Beautiful Beaches In Samoa

2. Lalomanu Beach

A scenic landscape of Lalomanu Beach, one of the places to visit on the Samoa Islands.

Photo: Neil / Wikimedia Commons

Lalomanu Beach is a golden sand paradise, palm-fringed and blessed with crystal-clear waters, one of the finest places to see in The Samoa Islands. Situated on the southeastern shore of Upolu, this beach is famous for its peaceful atmosphere, hence suitable for honeymoon couples and nature enthusiasts. The tranquil waters are ideal for swimming and snorkelling, providing a view of vibrant coral reefs and sea creatures. Guests may also unwind in Samoan-style beach fales, and mini-openn huts that offer a quaint Samoan experience.

Location: Upolu
Entry Fees: N/A
Best Time To Visit: June to September

3. Savai Lava Fields

The rugged beauty of Savaii Lava Fields, one of the places to visit on The Samoa Islands.

Photo: Christoph Strässler / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Savai’i Lava Fields presents an attractive glimpse into Samoa’s volcanic history, making them a visit to the Samoa Islands Tourist Place List. Between 1905 and 1911, the fields were formed by the explosion of Mount Matavanu, which covered spacious areas with black rigid lava. Visitors can yet detect beautiful landscapes, where the remains of the buried villages under Lava are still standing as historical markers. One of the highlights is the grave of the virgin, a place where the lava miraculously closed. The fields provide a striking contrast to the green-rich greenery of Samoa, making them an ideal place for adventure and photography.

Location: Savai
Entry Fees: WST 5/ ₹152.97
Best Time To Visit: April to October

Suggested Read: Islands In The Pacific

4. Papapapaitai Falls

A breathtaking sight of Papapapaitai Falls, one of the places to visit on the Samoa Islands.

Photo: CC0 Public Domain / pxhere / Image For Representation Only

A breathtaking tourist destination in The Samoa Islands, Papapapaitai Falls is a natural wonder that one cannot afford to miss. On the island of Upolu, this grand waterfall plunges down from a distance of more than 100 meters into a profound gorge amidst lush rainforest. The perspective along Cross-Island Road provides a breathtaking panoramic view of the falls and is an excellent stop for tourists visiting the island. The ideal time to visit is following heavy rain when the waterfall is at its strongest.

Location: Upolu
Entry Fees: N/A
Best Time To Visit: November to April

5. Saleaula Lava Ruins

One of the places to visit on The Samoa Islands, ghostly beautiful Saleaula Lava ruins.

Photo: Frank Schulenburg / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Saleaula Lava is one of the most complicated places for the ruins of Samoa Island, which offers a glimpse into the island’s past. These ruins are a church and village remains buried under lava after the explosion of Mount Matavanu in the early 1900s. Visitors can walk through the site, given how the lava preserves parts of the church structure, including stone walls and virgin Mary statues. The terrible beauty of the site yet makes it an attractive stop for history enthusiasts and photographers.

Location: Savai
Entry Fees: WST 5 / ₹152.97
Best Time To Visit: April to October

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6. Alofaga blowhole

An image of a luxurious view of Alofaaga Blowholes should be one of the tourist places.

Photo: Claire Charters / Wikimedia Commons

Alfaga Blue Holes is one of the most exciting tourist attractions in Samoa Islands, offering a natural spectacle. Located in the village of Taga on Savai, these blithes are made by sea waves forcing water through volcanic rock tunnels, sending powerful jets of water into the air. The vision is both dramatic and amazing, especially during high tides when the water explosion can reach several meters high. Visitors can showcase local people and how they use coconut shells to increase the spectacle.

Location: Savai
Entry Fees: WST 5 / ₹152.97
Best Time To Visit: May to October

7. Piula Cave Pool

An image of the cool, crystal-clear waters of Piula Cave Pool in the Samoa Islands.

Photo: Derek Voller / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Piula Cave Pool is perhaps one of the Samoa Islands’ most tranquil sites to visit, ideal for a cool swim. Situated underneath the Piula Theological College on Upolu, this natural freshwater pool has an underground spring that supplies the cool, crystal-clear waters. Tourists can swim inside the cave and venture through the tiny underwater tunnels. The serene atmosphere, with the surrounding greenery, makes it an ideal place to relax.

Location: Upolu
Entry Fees: WST 10 / ₹305.93
Best Time To Visit: Year-round

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8. Manono Island

A beach scene of Manono Island, a secret paradise among The Samoa Islands tourist places.

Photo: Sonja Pieper / Wikimedia Commons

Manono Island is a secret paradise among The Samoa Islands tourist destinations for those who want to find peace away from the world. This little, car-free island is ideal for tourists who want to live the Samoan traditional lifestyle. Visitors can walk around the entire island in just a few hours, enjoying breathtaking ocean views, small villages, and friendly locals. The island’s beaches are perfect for swimming and snorkelling, with vibrant coral reefs just offshore. Staying in a beach fale provides an authentic and unforgettable experience.

Location: Between Upolu and Savai’i
Entry Fees: N/A
Best Time To Visit: May to October

9. Robert Louis Stevenson Museum

Robert Louis Stevenson Museum, a cultural spot among The Samoa Islands attractions.

Photo: amanderson2 / Wikimedia Commons

Robert Louis Stevenson Museum is among the best tourist attractions in the Samoa Islands for history enthusiasts. The museum is a tribute to the Scottish literary legend who lived out his last years in Samoa. Tourists can visit the beautifully restored colonial house, which is full of original artefacts and personal items. The museum also has scenic walking trails to Stevenson’s tomb on Mount Vaea with splendid views of Apia. The museum provides an in-depth insight into Samoan literature and history.

Location: Apia, Upolu
Entry Fees: WST 20 / ₹632.9
Best Time To Visit: Year-round

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10. Tafua Peninsula

A beachscape of the Tafua Peninsula, a place not to miss visiting on The Samoa Islands.

Photo: Rickard Törnblad / Wikimedia Commons

The Tafua Peninsula is one of the undiscovered jewels of The Samoa Islands, boasting stunning landscapes, a harsh coastline, and verdant rainforests. This region of breathtaking beauty is ideal for both nature enthusiasts and adventure-seekers. The Tafua Rainforest Preserve, which is situated on the peninsula, features dense tropical rainforests, rare bird life, and breathtaking ocean scenery from the cliff sides. The notable feature of this area is the Tafua Crater, a dormant volcanic crater covered in dense foliage, providing a rewarding experience for trekkers.

Location: About 130 km from Apia
Entry Fees: N/A
Best Time To Visit: May to October

11. Afu Aau Waterfall

A serene view of a beautifully cascading waterfalls on the Samoa Islands surrounded by greenery

Photo: Wirestock Creators / Shutterstock

In the southeast of Savai’i, Afu Aau Waterfall plunges from the rainforest canopy into a clear freshwater pool. A brief ten-minute walk from the car park takes you along shady trails to the main falls, where you can swim and admire the weathered rock face. Village-run facilities with entrance fees collected at a traditional fale make for smooth access. Beyond the main drop, three smaller cascades offer peaceful spots for a picnic. This natural gem, nestled in lush jungle, is a must-see on any Samoa Islands itinerary, combining refreshing swims, hikes and island charm.

Location: Savai’i
Entry Fee: WST 5 / ₹152

Suggested Read: Waterfalls In Samoa

12. Palolo Deep Marine Reserve

A picture of beautiful corals and numerous tropical fish at a water body around the Samoa Islands

Photo: NOAA / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

In Apia, the Palolo Deep Marine Reserve lies just a five-minute stroll east of the town centre along Beach Road. This protected marine park centres on a deep blue hole encircled by coral walls alive with tropical fish, making it ideal for snorkelling at high tide. On-site, you’ll find basic showers, changing rooms and toilets, and snorkel gear is available for hire. At peak tide, the gentle current carries you effortlessly out to the buoy-marked drop-off, where clear waters reveal eels, parrotfish and vibrant reef formations. It’s easy access and one of the best things to do on the Samoa islands.

Location: Apia
Entry Fee: WST 5 / ₹152

13. Togitogiga Waterfalls

Togitogiga Waterfalls is one of the best places to visit on the Samoa Islands

Photo: TravelInsider / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Tucked amid the lush forests of Upolu’s south coast, Togitogiga Waterfalls unfold as a series of gentle cascades pouring into clear waterholes framed by tropical gardens. Legend says Samoan warriors long ago trained and refreshed in these cool pools. A short walk from the car park leads you under swaying palms to the main falls, where free entry, changing rooms and restrooms make visits easy. Visitors can swim in the fresh water, picnic at thatched fales or simply linger on mossy rocks. Best seen in the wet season when flows peak, Togitogiga is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the Samoa Islands.

Location: Lotofaga, Upolu
Entry Fee: Free

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14. Falealupo Canopy Walk

A picture of a canopy walk amidst the lush green forests of Samoa Islands

Photo: Ibrahim Achiri / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Nestled at Falealupo’s western tip on Savai’i, the Canopy Walk springs from a legend that ancient banyan gods wove branches high above the rainforest to shelter weary travellers. Today, for 20 tala you enter a customary-owned fale, with the fee also covering nearby Moso’s Footprint and the House of Rock. A short forest stroll brings you to a laddered spiral stair and a 24-metre swing bridge strung ten metres above the floor. From the platform in the old banyan tree, you gaze over lush green treetops toward the ocean. It’s a brief, thrilling climb that perfectly combines Samoan culture, conservation and island scenery.

Location: Falealupo Canopy Walk, Savai’i
Entry Fee: WST 20 / ₹608

The Samoa Islands are a haven of nature, culture, and unending memories. With its pristine beaches, rainforests, and dramatic waterfalls, there is something for every traveler. From the sparkling waters of Lalomanu Beach to the mystical allure of Togitogiga Waterfall, every destination is a one-of-a-kind and awe-inspiring experience. Plan a trip with TripXL and discover the best places to visit on the Samoa Islands.

Cover Photo: Jason Boyd / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes! Lalomanu Beach has soft white sands and clear waters, and it is an ideal location for a romantic beach picnic enjoying stunning ocean views.
The Sua Ocean Trench is a unique natural swimming hole with stunning turquoise waters, surrounded by lush gardens. The experience of climbing down the wooden ladder and swimming in this magical spot is unforgettable.
Yes! Savai’i Island is a paradise for adventure seekers, offering volcanic craters, blowholes, hidden waterfalls, and opportunities for snorkelling and diving.
Absolutely! Samoa is rich in cultural heritage, and tourists can get to experience authentic Fa'a Samoa (the Samoan lifestyle), such as dance shows, local handicrafts, and traditional banquets.
May to October is the best time to travel to Samoa as it is dry and pleasant weather, perfect for beach activities and outdoor adventures.
Head to To Sua Ocean Trench on Upolu Island—a dramatic natural swimming hole surrounded by lush gardens. It’s one of the most photographed Samoa tourist spots for good reason.
Lalomanu Beach is a must-visit for its crystal-clear waters and soft sand. Aganoa Black Sand Beach on Savai'i offers a quieter, dramatic setting perfect for peaceful getaways.
Visit the Samoa Cultural Village in Apia to learn about traditional dance, tattooing, and cooking. It’s a great place to connect with authentic Samoan heritage.

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