Samoa Travel Guide: 18 Unique Things To Do in Samoa Apia

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As a millennial family with a love for minimalist travel, we’ve always been drawn to destinations that offer unique and authentic experiences. This time, our family adventure took us to the Pacific paradise of Apia, Samoa, with our 8-month-old baby in tow.

Initially, the thought of travelling to Samoa with a baby was daunting, especially amidst the news about Zika at the time. However, one glance at the mesmerising photos of the To-Sua Ocean Trench, and we were sold. Despite the doubts, we decided to ‘just go for it’.

With our compact travel stroller, a few pieces of summer beachwear, a suitcase half-filled with nappies, a couple of DEET-free insect repellents, and my life-saving Ergo baby carrier, we set off to explore the Pacific Paradise. (You’ll find a full list of what to pack for Samoa in a minute.)

In this comprehensive Samoa travel guide, we’ll share our experiences and provide you with essential information for your family trip to Apia. From the must-know travel tips to the top things to do in Samoa, we’ve got you covered.

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Samoa: The Hidden Gem in the Pacific

Apia, Samoa, is a country where nature is the playground. There are two main islands that most travellers visit: Upolu and Savai’i. This hidden island paradise in the South Pacific is not only known for its pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters but there’s more to Samoa than meets the eye. From sliding rocks to hidden waterfalls, there’s no shortage of things to do in Samoa. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or a culture enthusiast, Samoa has something for everyone.

The Pacific Islands have always held a special place in our hearts, and Samoa is no exception. Our trip to Apia was more than just a holiday; it was an exploration of hidden gems and attractions that was too ‘boring’ to most millennials, but undoubtedly unique. If you’re looking for a tropical island getaway that offers more than just stunning beaches, Samoa is the place to be.

What to Pack for Samoa?

• Sunscreen and insect repellent: You’ll be spending a lot of time outdoors, so these are essential to protect against the sun and insects.
• Light clothing: Given Samoa’s tropical climate, lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended. Pack a mix of swimwear, shorts, t-shirts, and a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.
• Hat and sunglasses: Protect yourself from the strong sun with a wide-brimmed hat and UV-protective sunglasses.
• Reusable water bottle: Staying hydrated is crucial. A reusable water bottle is environmentally friendly and can be refilled throughout the day.
• Snorkelling gear: If you plan on exploring Samoa’s vibrant marine life, consider bringing your own snorkelling gear for comfort and hygiene. For kids, I highly recommend a full-face snorkel mask like these.
• Travel adapter: Samoa uses Type I power sockets, so if your devices use different plug types, you’ll need a travel adapter.
• Comfortable walking shoes: Choose shoes with good traction as you’ll likely be exploring various terrains.
• Swimsuit and towel: Samoa’s beautiful beaches and swimming spots are not to be missed.
• Cash: While credit cards are accepted in many places, having cash on hand is always a good idea.
• Leave extra space for souvenirs: Samoa offers a range of unique crafts and souvenirs, so leave some room in your luggage.

Currency Exchange Tips for Samoa

When planning your trip to Samoa, it’s important to understand the local currency and the best ways to manage your money while travelling. Here are some tips to help you navigate the financial aspects of your trip:

Local Currency: The official currency in Samoa is the Tala (WST). The exchange rate is approximately 1 WST = 0.5 NZD. So, if you’re travelling from New Zealand or Australia, you can roughly calculate costs by halving the amount in Tala.

Order Online: If you prefer to have everything organised before your trip, consider ordering your currency online from your local bank.

Exchange in Samoa: If you haven’t had a chance to order Tala before your trip, you can exchange your money in Apia. While there is a currency exchange booth at Faleolo Airport, you’ll generally get a better rate in Apia town centre. Remember to bring a photo ID for the transaction.

Credit Cards: Most hotels and restaurants in Samoa accept credit cards, usually with a surcharge of around 3-3.5%.

Usually, our family would recommend the Wise Travel Card for managing multiple currencies, but Tala, the local currency of Samoa, is not currently supported on Wise. So the next best option would be to bring cash for most transactions and a debit/credit card for hotels and restaurants.

The Unique Fale Culture of Samoa

One of the things we love about travelling is the opportunity to engage with locals and learn about their way of life. Taxi drivers, in particular, are often a wealth of local knowledge and insights. During our trip to Apia, we had some fascinating conversations with our taxi driver that gave us a deeper understanding of Samoan culture.

As we drove from the airport to our resort in the early evening, the flickering lights from the local houses, or ‘fales’, piqued our interest. Unlike the enclosed houses we’re used to, these fales had no doors or windows, just a foundation, a roof, and poles. We could see people going about their evenings at home, completely out in the open with no privacy whatsoever!

According to our friendly taxi driver, each village in Samoa has its own chief, and the community is closely knit, with almost everyone knowing each other. It’s common for large groups of friends and families to gather at night and play bingo together. Neighbours are often invited to join family feasts, and because of this strong sense of community that extends to the entire island, crime is practically non-existent here, making Samoa one of the safest destinations for families.

Our taxi driver also shared that on Sundays, most people attend church in the morning and spend the rest of the day with their families. This means many shops and attractions are closed on Sundays, so it’s important to plan your itinerary accordingly.

These insights from our taxi driver enriched our understanding of Samoan culture and lifestyle. It’s these kinds of interactions that make travelling so rewarding. They open our eyes to different ways of living, encourage us to appreciate diversity, and broaden our perspectives. So, next time you’re travelling, don’t forget to strike up a conversation with your taxi driver. You never know what fascinating insights you might gain!

Cultural Etiquette and Safety Tips in Samoa

When travelling in Samoa, it’s important to respect local customs and be mindful of safety. Here are some tips:

• Respect for local customs: Dress modestly when visiting villages and always remove your shoes before entering someone’s home. This shows respect for Samoan traditions and culture.
• Sunday observance: Sundays are a day of rest in Samoa, with many locals attending church and spending time with family. Be respectful of this tradition, and plan your activities accordingly.
• Ask before photographing: If you want to take photos of locals, especially in villages, it’s polite to ask for permission first.
• Road safety: If you’re driving, remember that Samoans drive on the left side of the road. Always wear your seatbelt and follow local speed limits.
• Health precautions: Must bring insect repellents and consider bringing a basic first-aid kit for minor injuries or illnesses.
• Respect wildlife and nature: When exploring natural sites, follow the principle of “leave no trace”. Don’t disturb wildlife, and take any litter with you.
• Tidal awareness: Be aware of the tides, especially when exploring coastal areas. Rocks can be slippery when wet, so exercise caution.

Getting Around in Samoa

Navigating Apia and the surrounding areas can be an adventure in itself. Given that we were travelling with a baby and a couple of friends, we explored a few different modes of transportation during our stay. Here’s a rundown of our experiences:

By Taxi

The journey from Faleolo International Airport to Apia town centre takes about 40 minutes by car and costs around 60 Tala. If you’re travelling with a baby, you’ll be relieved to know that taxi drivers in Samoa are not overly concerned about having a baby car seat. So, you can leave your baby car seat at home.

Hire a Local Driver

Hiring a local driver can be a great way to explore the island. We arranged for a local to be our guide/driver for three days at a cost of about 360 Tala per day. This arrangement not only provided us with transportation but also gave us the benefit of local knowledge and insights.

Hire A Car

The cost of hiring a car in Apia Samoa is around 120 Tala per day, plus 21 Tala to convert your license. There may be additional charges for pick-ups or drop-offs outside of Apia town centre. Driving in Samoa is relatively straightforward; you drive on the left side of the road, and the Main Coast Road will take you around the island in less than half a day.

On Foot

Exploring Apia town on foot is very doable. Just remember to avoid the hottest part of the day, around mid-morning to midday. Don’t forget to wear a sunhat and apply sunscreen for protection against the strong sun.

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Samoa Travel Guide: Top 18 Things To Do in Samoa

1. Dive into To-Sua Ocean Trench

Cost: ~20 tala pp

Our adventure began at the iconic To-Sua Ocean Trench, nestled in the village of Lotofaga. It is a giant swimming hole that was formed by a collapsed limestone cave. Imagine a natural swimming pool, 30 metres deep, cradled by lush greenery and kissed by the ocean breeze. That’s the To-Sua Ocean Trench, one of our favourite spots in Apia.

While photos of To Sua Ocean Trench look amazing, they can’t quite convey the full sensory experience. The salty tang of the sea air, the exhilarating chill of the deep saltwater pool – it’s something you have to experience firsthand.

We spotted a few adventurous souls snorkelling and diving in the trench. Although we heard there wasn’t much to see underwater, it’s worth exploring for yourself! Once you’ve had your fill of swimming, don’t rush away.

There is a cute little beach fale strategically placed by the ocean, a perfect spot to strike up a conversation with locals and fellow travellers. Everyone seems to be in their happy zone here, and you might just make a new friend or two! The area around the trench is very peaceful, perfect for a moment of tranquillity.

Be careful. The steep wooden ladder that leads down into the ocean trench can be slippery, so tread carefully.

And in case you’re wondering, I didn’t take my baby down to the trench for safety reasons. I left her with one of our friends and ventured down myself instead. Her cries echoed around the island as I was exploring the depths. Embarrassing, to say the least, but To Sua Ocean Trench is what lured me here, and this is an experience I wouldn’t have missed for the world!

On the bright side, her cries also sparked a few conversations with other travellers, which I enjoyed learning about their stories. One of them was a father of four, who came on this trip with the children to give his wife a break. Now that’s one lucky wife!

2. Slide down Pappase’ea Sliding Rocks

Cost: 15 tala pp

Next, we journeyed through Samoa’s natural wonders with a visit to the Pappase’ea Sliding Rocks. This unique attraction is one of the most fun things to do in Samoa. Nestled amidst lush rainforest, these natural water slides offer an adrenaline-pumping experience for the whole family, embracing nature’s playground to the fullest.

Before you begin your adventure, you may be presented with a visitor book to sign. Then, you’ll make your way down a steep set of stairs through the rainforest to reach the cascading waterfalls.

As you descend the stairs, the first pool you encounter on the right-hand side can be quite shallow. We don’t recommend jumping into that pool as the rocks can be sharp. The actual sliding rocks are further down to the left, offering a natural slide into the refreshing pools below.

While the Pappase’ea Sliding Rocks is a fun-filled activity for adults and older children, it may not be considered a baby-friendly attraction. That said, our baby had a blast giggling and kicking in my carrier, watching people making splashes! If you are carrying a baby around Pappase’ea Sliding Rocks, always hold on to something as it can be quite slippery. The climb back up the steep stairs might feel like a workout, but that’s all part of the fun, right?

3. Marvel at Sopo’aga Falls

Cost: 10 tala pp & extra fees for using the bathroom and the coconut show

One of the off-the-beaten-track things to do in Samoa is a visit to the Sopo’aga Falls. This hidden gem offers a tranquil escape and a chance to connect with nature.

During our visit, we had the pleasure of meeting Uila (pronounced Weila), the keeper of this paradise. With the cascading waterfalls as a backdrop, Uila assists tourists in capturing their perfect moments, even suggesting poses and instructing you like a professional photographer. Her warm hospitality truly adds a layer of authenticity to the experience at Sopo’aga Falls.

However, you know we like to keep things raw in this blog. We weren’t aware of the coconut husking show at the end of our visit, nor did we sign up for it. It came as a surprise when she asked for an extra 10 tala at the end. Honestly, if Uila had told us about the show, we would have said yes in a heartbeat anyway. It was well worth it. Our baby had her first taste of coconut, and we learned about the various uses of this versatile fruit. It was a great learning experience.

Visiting Sopo’aga Falls is more than just a sightseeing activity; it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and learn about the natural resources of Samoa. And best of all, you’ll have beautiful photos to remember this place by. This experience is sure to be one of the most memorable things to do in Samoa.

4. Visit Togitogiga Waterfall

Cost: Free

Togitogiga Waterfall, in our opinion, is an underrated attraction in Apia that deserves a top spot on any family travel itinerary to Samoa. The cascading water surrounded by lush greenery creates a picturesque setting that will take your stress away.

Upon arrival, you’ll find the reception office near the car park where you can gather information about the waterfall. They welcome donations, but to our pleasant surprise, there was no mandatory entry fee!

The waterfall is a mere 2-minute walk from the car park, along a well-maintained and easy-to-navigate path. Yes, it’s that accessible, even with a baby in your arm.

The waterfall is a small but calming waterfall that cascades into a pool, shaded by trees. On a hot day, a dip in the cool, refreshing water is an absolute joy. The pool is shallow enough to stand in at the time of our visit, which made me feel safe bringing my baby in for a little splash, and she loved it.

This waterfall is a hidden gem that’s often overlooked by tourists, making it a peaceful retreat away from the crowds and one of the unmissable things to do in Samoa.

5. Swim in Piula Cave Pool

Our plans to visit the Piula Cave Pool, unfortunately fell through as it was closed on the Sunday we planned to go. This natural freshwater swimming hole, located beneath the historic Methodist Chapel in the village of Lufilufi, is known for its cool, inviting waters, which provide a welcome respite from the tropical heat.

From what we’ve heard, swimming in this cave pool is like stepping into another world. The sunlight filtering through the entrance illuminates the clear waters, revealing a fascinating underwater landscape. The cave extends underground, and for the adventurous, there’s an underwater passage leading to a second pool. It’s recommended that you bring your snorkelling gear to fully explore these underwater caves.

6. Relax at Lalomanu Beach

Next on our itinerary was the stunning Lalomanu Beach, often celebrated as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. With its pristine white sands, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs, it’s a paradise for beach lovers.

As Kiwis, we’re spoilt with world-class beaches back home in New Zealand, so we didn’t dedicate much of our precious time in Samoa to beach lounging. That said, if we had more time on the island, we would have certainly relished a day basking in the sun on the beautiful sands of Lalomanu Beach or snorkelling along the coral reefs.

7. Unwind at Saleapaga Beach

Saleapaga Beach, another world-class beach in Samoa’s crown, is famed for its golden sands, clear waters, and tranquil ambience. To be honest, when you’re on a Pacific Island and away from the crowd, every beach is a paradise!

8. Hike the Mt. Vaea Trail

For those who enjoy a good hike, the Mt. Vaea Trail is a popular choice. This trail leads you to the summit of Mt. Vaea, the final resting place of the famous author Robert Louis Stevenson. The hike through the lush rainforest offers stunning views of Apia and the surrounding landscape.

Given the challenging nature of the hike and having our baby with us, we decided to forgo this activity – one of the most challenging but rewarding things to do in Samoa.

9. Snorkel at Palolo Deep Marine Reserve

Cost: 5 tala pp

The Palolo Deep Marine Reserve is a must-visit for marine animal lovers. This underwater paradise, located just a short walk from Apia’s city centre, is home to a vibrant coral reef teeming with colourful tropical fish. It’s a fantastic spot for snorkelling, offering an up-close view of Samoa’s rich marine biodiversity. The depth varies with the tide, so it’s best to visit during high tide for the best snorkelling experience.

10. Sail to Manono Island Marine Reserve

Another marine wonder in Samoa is the Manono Island Marine Reserve. This protected area is a sanctuary for a variety of marine species, making it a fantastic spot for snorkelling and diving. The crystal-clear waters offer excellent visibility, allowing you to witness the underwater spectacle in all its glory.

We decided to save this underwater adventure for a future visit when the kids are old enough to share this amazing experience.

11. Cross the Apolima Strait

The Apolima Strait, the narrow body of water separating the islands of Upolu and Savai’i, is another noteworthy location in Samoa. It’s known for its strong currents and rich marine life, including several species of dolphins and whales that can often be spotted here.

Again, while we didn’t venture out into the strait on this trip, it’s definitely on our list for future visits, especially during whale-watching season.

12. Stroll Around Apia Harbour

We recommend dedicating a day or two to experience the vibrant Apia Harbour and its lively nightlife. This picturesque harbour, nestled amidst some of Samoa’s best restaurants, offers more than just stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere. It’s a hub of activity that truly captures the charm and beauty of Apia.

The harbour is encircled by a stroller-friendly path, making it an ideal spot for families with young children. With a helping hand, navigating the area with a stroller is a breeze. As you meander along the harbour, you’ll be treated to the sight of boats gently bobbing in the water, the soothing sound of waves lapping against the shore, and the beautiful landscape that frames the harbour.

Taking a leisurely stroll around Apia Harbour is a delightful experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Samoa at your own pace. It’s a chance to slow down, take in the sights, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere that makes Apia Harbour a must-visit destination.

This memory of our trip holds a special place in my heart, and I highly recommend this seemingly ‘boring’ activity as one of the top family-friendly things to do in Samoa.

13. Sample Traditional Samoan Cuisine

A trip to Samoa wouldn’t be complete without trying the local cuisine. Samoan food is a unique fusion of fresh local produce and traditional cooking methods, resulting in dishes that are both delicious and deeply rooted in the island’s culture.

Begin your culinary adventure with palusami, a traditional Samoan dish. This delicacy comprises taro leaves filled with coconut cream and then baked in an ‘umu’, a traditional Samoan earth oven. The result is a dish that’s rich in flavour and utterly satisfying. You can get palusami at the markets at very affordable prices.

Next, sample oka, a raw fish salad marinated in coconut cream and lime juice. Oka is my favourite Samoan dish and I’m drooling over my keyboard just writing about it. The freshness of the fish, combined with the tangy flavours of the marinade, is really refreshing and delicious on a hot day! At the time of our travel, some restaurants will price a cup of oka around 30 Tala, but markets sell them for only 3 Tala!

For dessert, treat yourself to fa’ausi, a sweet and sticky pudding made from coconut cream and caramelised sugar. This dessert is an absolute treat, offering a taste of Samoa’s sweet side.

To accompany your meal, order a fresh coconut or try a local beer. These beverages are the perfect way to wash down the delicious flavours of Samoan cuisine.

Sampling the local cuisine was one of the highlights of our trip, offering us a taste of Samoa’s rich culinary heritage. It’s an experience we highly recommend to any food-loving traveller. Hang on, we’re not done yet.

14. Dine at Paddles Restaurant

With many restaurant options in Samoa, Paddles Restaurant has been a favourite among travellers for well over a decade. What sets them apart is their consistent, 5-star service, which we had the pleasure of experiencing firsthand.

Located near the vibrant Apia Harbour, Paddles Restaurant offers a delightful blend of Italian and Samoan flavours. The restaurant’s charming ambience, coupled with its stunning harbour views, makes for a memorable dining experience.

During our casual stroll around Apia Harbour, we stumbled upon Paddles Restaurant and decided to go for a spontaneous dinner. Despite being fully booked, the accommodating staff managed to squeeze us in for an earlier session. The staff’s warmth and friendliness were immediately apparent, as they kept our little one entertained with animal cards throughout our meal.

The food at Paddles Restaurant was absolutely delicious, with generous portions that were beautifully presented. Their diverse menu caters to a variety of tastes, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

What truly set this dining experience apart was the staff’s attention to detail. As we were leaving, it started to rain, and to our surprise, the staff at Paddles walked us to our taxi with an umbrella! Now that’s 5-star service! It’s these personal touches that make Paddles Restaurant stand out from the rest and for that reason, it deserves a spot on this long list of the best things to do in Apia, Samoa.

15. Explore the Markets in Apia

No visit to Apia would be complete without exploring the local markets. They offer a fascinating glimpse into the everyday life of the Samoan people. Leaving the stroller behind at the resort, I opted for my trusty Ergo baby carrier, which proved to be the perfect solution for navigating the lively marketplaces.

The Flea Market, a vibrant hub of activity, is a treasure trove of local crafts, clothing, and trinkets. It’s the perfect place to find unique souvenirs and gifts, from traditional Samoan clothing to handcrafted jewellery. The atmosphere is electric, with vendors showcasing their wares and shoppers haggling to get the best deals.

Next, we ventured to the Fish Market. As the name suggests, this is where locals come to buy and sell fresh seafood. The market is a hive of activity, especially in the early morning when the catch of the day is brought in. Even if you’re not in the market for seafood, it’s worth a visit just to experience the lively atmosphere.

Finally, we made our way to the Fugalei Produce Market. This market is a must-visit for foodies, offering a wide variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and local delicacies. It’s a great place to sample local produce and experience the flavours of Samoa.

Navigating these markets with a baby carrier rather than a stroller made the experience much more manageable and enjoyable. These markets are a vibrant part of Apia’s culture, offering an authentic Samoan experience and a taste of the local way of life. I highly recommend a visit to these markets for a sensory feast and the chance to pick up unique mementos of your trip.

16. Experience the Vibrant Nightlife in Apia

When the sun sets, Samoa comes alive with its vibrant nightlife scene. Head to Apia, the capital city, and explore the local bars and clubs. Dance the night away to the rhythmic beats of the traditional Samoan music or groove to the latest international hits. If you prefer a more relaxed evening, enjoy a sunset cocktail at one of the beachfront bars and watch as the sky paints a stunning palette of colours. For a unique cultural experience, attend a fiafia night, a traditional Samoan feast accompanied by dance and music performances. This is a great opportunity to mingle with the locals, taste traditional dishes, and learn more about their customs and traditions. The nightlife in Samoa is diverse and caters to all tastes, ensuring that you’ll have a memorable evening.

17. Learn at Samoa Cultural Village

If you’re keen to explore more of Samoan culture, a trip to the Samoa Cultural Village should be high on your list. This cultural centre provides an immersive journey into the traditional Samoan lifestyle. From observing the preparation of a traditional ‘umu’ (earth oven) to taking part in a ‘kava’ ceremony, the Samoa Cultural Village offers a wealth of enriching experiences.

The village also serves as a hub for local artisans who demonstrate their expertise in traditional arts and crafts. Whether it’s tattooing, wood carving, or weaving, you have the opportunity to see these skilled craftspeople in action and even acquire their unique creations as souvenirs.

This visit to the Samoa Cultural Village was a highlight of our trip, offering us a deeper understanding of Samoan culture and traditions. It’s an experience we would highly recommend to any visitor seeking a genuine insight into Samoa’s rich cultural heritage.

18. Visit the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum

Another cultural highlight when considering what to do in Apia is the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum, located at the author’s former residence, known as Vailima. Take a guided tour of the estate and learn about the life and works of this famous author while enjoying the beautiful surroundings.

The beautifully preserved colonial-style mansion is surrounded by lush gardens, and the guided tour takes you through various rooms, each filled with memorabilia, photographs, and personal belongings of Stevenson and his family. The museum is a must-visit for literature lovers and those interested in the history of Samoa.

Both the Samoa Cultural Village and the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum offer unique cultural experiences that enrich your understanding of Samoa’s rich heritage and history.

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Wrapping up

Our family trip to Samoa was filled with unforgettable experiences, but we must admit, we couldn’t cover everything we wanted to during our short stay there. Samoa is a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be discovered, and we feel there’s so much more to explore. For this reason, we highly recommend hiring a local guide who can double as your chauffeur for the day. They can take you off the beaten path, share local stories and customs, and ensure you experience the true essence of Samoa. This way, you can uncover more of Samoa’s magic, making your trip even more memorable.

Remember to book an accommodation that suits both you and your family’s needs, whether that’s a luxury resort getaway or a private holiday home with its own garden. You can find our top-pick resorts and accommodations in Apia, Samoa in this post as we share our personal experiences staying on this beautiful island. We can’t wait to return and continue our exploration of this Pacific paradise.

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