10 Amazing Things To Do On Samoa Islands: A Tropical Paradise

A stunning view of the Samoa Islands, where lush landscapes meet turquoise waters, reflecting the perfect horizon.

Travellers find their place in the South Pacific when they visit the Samoa Islands. People who want to glimpse unspoiled nature besides Polynesian heritage should visit these islands. The top things to do on Samoa Islands render the best experiences for tourists. This destination has brilliant beaches paired with powerful falls and colourful coral underwater scenes. If you are planning a trip to this South Pacific gem, your trip will never be forgotten.

Top 10 Things To Do On Samoa Islands

Here are are some of the best things to do on Samoa Islands, rendering the best experiences to the tourists for an unmatchable trip:

1. Swim In The To Sua Ocean Trench

A breathtaking view of To Sua Ocean Trench, a natural swimming hole surrounded by lush greenery.

Photo: amanderson2 / Wikimedia Commons

Located on the island of Upolu, the To Sua Ocean Trench is one of the most iconic natural attractions in Samoa. It’s also a breathtaking swimming hole. The funnel into the turquoise depths is a 30-meter deep sinkhole filled with crystal clear seawater and accessed via a wooden ladder that descends into a pool of bright blue. It is a fabulous place for a refreshing swim, with towering rock walls and dense vegetation all around.

Best Time To Visit: Morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds
Recommended Gear: Swimsuit, waterproof camera, water shoes

2. Explore The Lalomanu Beach

A postcard-perfect scene of Lalomanu Beach, where turquoise waves kiss the golden sands.

Photo: amanderson2 / Wikimedia Commons

Lalomanu Beach is one of the best beaches on the southeastern coast of Upolu. It is consistently ranked among the best beaches of the South Pacific. It has powdery white sand, crystal blue waters and a bonus of green cliffs. This makes it an idyllic place to swim, snorkel or just relax in a beach fale (a traditional open-air hut). Incidentally, the beach is also well known for its amazing views of sunsets and sunrises.

Best Time To Visit: Year-round
Recommended Gear: Sunscreen, snorkeling gear, beach towel

3. Hike To The Afu Aau Waterfall

A mesmerizing view of Afu Aau Waterfall cascading into a serene natural pool in the Samoa Islands.

Photo: Basile Morin / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Afu Aau Waterfall is tucked away in the rainforest of Savai’i and is for nature lovers. A short walk through lush tropical vegetation over impassable forest leads to a beautiful waterfall cascading into a cool, inviting pool. It makes for a beautiful place to swim in the refreshing water or to have a picnic by the falls in the tranquil surroundings visited by all. Visiting the waterfall is one of the best things to do on Samoa Islands.

Best Time To Visit: During or just after the wet season (November to April) for the best water flow
Recommended Gear: Sturdy shoes, swimsuit, insect repellent

4. Visit The Piula Cave Pool

A hidden gem in the Samoa Islands, the Piula Cave Pool’s crystal-clear waters invite visitors to have a peaceful swim inside a volcanic cave.

Photo: Stephen Glauser / Wikimedia Commons

The Piula Cave Pool is a naturally formed freshwater pool connected to the ocean located beneath the Piula Theological College on Upolu. The water is filtered through underground lava rock and cools the water. When you swim in there, it’s crystal clear, very cool, and very refreshing. Some adventurous visitors can swim through a small underwater tunnel that connects two separate caves.

Best Time To Visit: Early morning for a quiet experience
Recommended Gear: Swimsuit, snorkel mask, waterproof flashlight

5. Discover The Alofaaga Blowholes

Powerful ocean water shoots through the Alofaaga Blowholes, creating an impressive display.

Photo: Plenz / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

The Alofaaga Blowholes, located at the western tip of the island known as Savai’i, feature a spectacular natural phenomenon. Here the water is shot high up into the air when ocean waves hit a volcanic rock coastline. Locals occasionally throw coconuts into the blowholes just for shits and giggles as they launch into the sky. The force and beauty of the blowholes themselves are simply not to be missed by thrill seekers.

Best Time To Visit: During high tide for the best water bursts
Recommended Gear: Camera, sturdy shoes, sunglasses

6. Snorkel At Palolo Deep Marine Reserve

A vibrant underwater scene in Palolo Deep Marine Reserve, featuring colorful coral and tropical fish.

Photo: amanderson2 / Wikimedia Commons

Palolo Deep Marine Reserve in Apia is an underwater world for those who love to explore the world underwater and it is a snorkeler’s paradise. This marine reserve is a short swim from the shore and boasts a breathtaking drop-off full of coral gardens and an amazing mix of marine life. These include reef sharks, sea turtles, and fish that are simply out of this world. It is an excellent place to view, and the visibility is exceptional for underwater photography.

Best Time To Visit: Morning for calm waters and better visibility
Recommended Gear: Snorkel mask, fins, underwater camera

7. Hike The Mount Matavanu Crater

A panoramic view of the lush green Mount Matavanu Crater, surrounded by thick rainforest.

Photo: Bruno Girin / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

For those wanting adventure, you can head on the Mount Matavanu Crater hike on Savai’i and expect a challenging and rewarding experience. Surrounded by dense rainforest and with a breathtaking panoramic view of the island, this dormant volcanic crater is one of the most visited sites in the Lombok Straits. The trek is steep but it offers the chance to see some classic volcanic landscapes and very rich biodiversity.

Best Time To Visit: Dry season (May to October) for better trail conditions
Recommended Gear: Hiking boots, water bottle, insect repellent

8. Experience Samoa’s Cultural Village Show

Image of the beautiful and intricate wood carvings at a cultural village in the Samoa Islands.

Photo: Vijayanrajapuram / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

To get the best experience of Samoa’s heritage, you need to visit the Samoa Cultural Village in Apia. Visitors can here see traditional tattooing, wood carving, coconut husking and perhaps they can even participate in an umu (earth oven) cooking demonstration. An experience not to be missed is witnessing the skill and bravery of Samoan warriors during the thrilling Siva Afi (fire knife dance).

Best Time To Visit: Thursdays (most cultural shows happen weekly)
Recommended Gear: Camera, comfortable clothing

9. Take A Boat Tour To Manono Island

A serene view of Manono Island with palm-fringed beaches and turquoise waters.

Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Manono Island sits east of Upolu and is embedded between it and the local Savai’i island. Heading out via a short boat ride here is always for an off-the-grid experience. Visitors will find that the island is so peaceful as it does not lend itself to roads. These lead to footpaths that lead to traditional villages, scenic coastlines and historical sites like Tui Manners Grave. There are plenty of things for visitors to enjoy, like kayaking, snorkelling, or just taking in the slow-paced atmosphere of the island.

Best Time To Visit: Year-round
Recommended Gear: Water shoes, hat, snacks

10. Watch The Sunset At Cape Tapaga

A historical picture of Tapaga with the dancers and tribal people.

Photo: Shaun Fisher / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Cap off your exotic getaway in Samoa by relishing in a stunning sunset at Cape Tapaga. Situated on the northeastern part of Upolu, this panoramic observation deck offers a magnificent view of the sun dipping in the great Pacific Ocean. It’s a great place to take some photographs or meditate and enjoy the solitude. Witnessing the sunset here is one of the best things to do on Samoa islands.

Best Time To Visit: Sunset
Recommended Gear: Camera, picnic blanket

Samoa Islands offers visitors all-in-one luxury by merging natural wonders with outdoor fun. This is in an island setting with friendly people and beautiful locations. All the things to do on Samoa islands will leave you feeling amazed. You can swim in deep ocean waters, climb volcano craters and meet the kindhearted Samoan population. Book with TripXL to dive into the adventure paradise that awaits!

Cover Photo: Claire Charters / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time to visit Samoa is during the dry season (May to October) when the weather is sunny and less humid. The wet season (November to April) brings heavier rainfall but also lush greenery and fewer tourists.
For most travellers, Samoa offers visa-free entry for up to 60 days. However, it’s always best to check with your country’s embassy or Samoa’s immigration website for the latest entry requirements.
The official currency is the Samoan Tala (WST). Credit cards are accepted at major hotels and businesses, but it’s advisable to carry cash for small vendors and rural areas.
Yes, Samoa is generally safe and welcoming. However, it’s recommended to follow local customs, dress modestly in villages, and be mindful of strong ocean currents when swimming.
The official languages are Samoan and English. English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.

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