Prepare to be amazed, my friend!
The stunning islands of Samoa rose from the depths of the Pacific Ocean thanks to the fiery eruptions of volcanoes.
But that’s just the beginning of the story!
Skilled Polynesian seafarers settled these lands over 2000 years ago, and a series of fierce chiefs ruled the land until a badass female leader, Salamasina, brought them all together in the 1500s.
As time went by, European traders came knocking and the Germans even tried to take over in 1900.
But it was the Kiwis who ended up in charge, ruling Western Samoa until it finally gained independence in 1962.
Today, the majority of Samoans call the islands of Savaii and Upolu home, and about 70 percent of them are proud farmers who grow crops like taro and coconut.
Well, my friend, let me tell you, Samoa is famous for a lot of things!
But if I had to pick just one, I’d say it’s their love of food.
I mean, seriously, have you ever tasted Samoan cuisine?
From fresh seafood to tropical fruits to starchy vegetables, their dishes are a flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds dancing.
And don’t even get me started on the palusami (taro leaves cooked in coconut cream) or the oka (raw fish salad).
So if you’re a foodie like me, then Samoa is definitely the place to be!
So come discover the magic of Samoa, where ancient history and stunning natural beauty combine to create an unforgettable experience!
What are the Best things to do in Samoa ?
Get ready to experience the most thrilling and exciting activities in Samoa that will leave you on the edge of your seat.
Join me as I spill the beans on the best things to do in this majestic land, sharing with you my personal favorites that will blow your mind.
To Sua Ocean Trench (Upolu)
A natural cave and one of the main attractions in Samoa.
The water comes from underground springs, which should fall into the adjacent sea, but breaks off here because of what happened at the offset plates.
As a result, there was a collapse that always flow with clean and cool water.
You can spend a couple of hours here and recharge your batteries for the day.
It is a very relaxing and quiet place.
In the morning, there are not much tourists who visit but the crowds go thicker in the afternoon.
Many local families come here for the weekend.
In between swims, you can bask in the wooden platform or dine in the cafe.
Near the cave there is a lava beach where huge waves whipped, crawling crabs and fish – in general, it is something to see.
You must go here without children, for safety reasons.
The high and steep ladder by which every visitor must use to descend into the cave and on the way back to climb is not advisable for children.
The entrance of the park is very nice and with a breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean.
The cave saltwater appears as an idyllic vision.
The staircase to descend to the base might get a little slippery, but it will stay safe once dipped in the water.
From here you will notice that the water current drives in two opposite directions, this is due to the presence of a passage of underground water between the cave and the ocean.
If the weather permits, you can also swim from the cave to the ocean.
But when the water current is too strong, it is absolutely not recommended to do it because the waves could push a person against the rock wall.
If you come to Samoa, there are many opportunities to get there;
by renting a taxi, a car or even directly with a tour organized by the hotel.
Don’t miss this tourist spot in Samoa because it is one of the most beautiful places in the world ever.
My favorite stuff to do in Samoa
Lalomanu Beach
Located on the opposite side of the island of Upolu.
There are many ways to access this beach, you can opt for a taxi and you can also take a bus to reach this lovely place.
The beach of Lalomanu is a lovely place, the sand is white and fine and the sea is blue and intense.
It is the only real sand beach on the Western part of Samoa.
It is very nice, cozy, relaxing, and peaceful.
There is a shop, a good cafe, shower and toilet.
The sea is warm, clean and comfortable.
The line of surf on the shore is far, about a hundred meters or more.
Sometimes there are small rocks that you can step on, but it does not spoil the experience.
Piula Cave Pool
An underground cave with fresh water.
The entrance of this place is not very noticeable.
It is located on the territory of a school so it is advisable to go around here slowly so that you would not miss the small sign.
Input cost at the time of visit 5 Talas, as there are toilets, changing room and a fee to the arranged territory.
It is here where you will have the opportunity to take a dip in one place immediately in fresh water and sea in Samoa, which is quite a rarity from all the other attractions of the city.
The only downside is that there are not enough places to hide when the strong winds hit, nevertheless, a visit to this enchanting place is still worth all the time and effort.
O Le Pupu-Pue National Park
The incredible mix of tropical atmosphere and prolific soil make Samoa the ideal rearing ground for rainforests and other lavish scenes, for example, mangrove swamps and bog peat areas.
These biological systems are all bursting at the seams with local untamed life, for example, seabirds, bats, flying foxes, geckos, and also a plenty of special flora and fauna.
One of the most preserved rainforest attractions in Samoa is the O Le Pupu-Pue National Park on Upolu.
This park runs from the southern drift up into the bumpy inner part of the island.
This part of the city is also a favorite hang out place of more than a thousand species of migratory birds;
you must look into this site and explore every corner.
It is best to wait until the afternoon and see the migratory birds in action and don’t forget to take lots of pictures.
The scene of the birds swooping down the waters to rest perfectly complements the beauty of the setting sun.
Fun things to do in Samoa
Samoa Cultural Village (Apia)
If you go to Samoa you have to participate or visit the Samoa Cultural Village.
It is from here where you will know how to cook Samoan, the classic way to make fire, dances, delicious Samoan food prepared at the time and even see how the coconut juice is extracted from the trees.
The Samoans participating in the show are more than friendly, they are very hospitable.
It is a lovely place and not just like the usual tourist islands you will find in Samoa because here; the population keeps its traditions, both in behavior and social culture, and also in the construction of houses that remain completely open with sliding panels.
The seats are great even within the islands, the natural atmosphere here is truly impressive, definitely not to be missed while in Samoa!
Robert Louis Stevenson Museum
The Treasure Island is a book known to many children all over the world and it is here in Samoa where the final days of the famous Scottish born author were spent with his loving wife, Fanny. The
Popular Samoa tourist attractions
Robert Louis Stevenson Museum
is a tribute to the author, a man who had a busy life and an incredible woman beside him until the end.
Once you enter the house/museum, you will recognize the places described in some of his books.
He was also a man who did so much for the Samoans, who also dedicates to him always a strong admiration.
He was buried at the top of the mountain in this island (Mt. Vaea). The house faces a well manicured lawn with a nice garden on the side with manmade waterfall and collection of his sculptures.
His room is kept as is; the table still has some of his works and the books he wrote, plus some personal family pictures and antique collections all over the house.
For the certified fan, it is interesting to wander around his house and to listen to the stories of the guide.
What else to do in Samoa ?
Papaseea Sliding Rock
Located in the island of Apia. It is possible to access this attraction via public transport or by bus, but the rates are different and full of people because they are mostly a route for the children who are going to and from school.
It has lush tropical vegetation with lakes arising from the rocks. You can jump from a height into the water, the slippery rocks, and swim in the cold mountain water slides or take a picnic and eat lunch.
In the afternoons and on weekends there are a lot of local tourists who enjoys a bath and taking pictures of the serene place.
Is Samoa worth visiting?
The answer is Yes. Samoa is worth visiting, especially if you visit the following awesome market:
Old Apia Market
While touring the rest of the island you may stop at the Old Apia Market to feel the local flavor and heart of Samoa.
The market sells everything, but the most interesting is of course the local fruit and food. You can buy local potatoes, coconuts, and bananas.
There is also a lane for imported and local goods. The market is popular among the Samoans and the curious tourist that frequent the place while in Apia.
In the main building there are stalls selling crafts as well as vegetables and fruits. A dozen feet away, you can see a huge fresh fish and other seafood.
The beach promenade is also near a bus station with colorful old buses which are only known in Samoa. In the market you will find stalls selling clothes, cosmetics, kitchen, and household appliances.
In the stands, you can see the work of the local women embroiders and where you may also pause to eat and drink. This is also the best option to get to know the charming locals and the enterprising people of Samoa.
Of course, haggling for the last price of your chosen items is normal but it is more convenient to shop if you have a local guide with you.
This way you will not experienced being charged with an overpriced product of Samoa. The guides will even teach you a technique on how to haggle for the item that you fancy.
Must see places in Samoa
Palolo Deep Marine Reserve
A nice beach located in the port of Apia area.
For those who enjoy snorkeling this is paradise because of it blue waters, beautiful and multicolored coral reefs with an amazing aquatic fauna that has a great amount and variety of fish urchins and sea cucumbers and all the beauty for you to enjoy and see for a wonderful diving experience.
The water has a pleasant temperature and marine life is very rich.
Afu Aau Waterfall (Savai’i)
Definitely this is the best waterfall for both the Savaii and Upolu region.
The Afu Aau Waterfall is at the end of a road, access is a bit more difficult if you drive a small car but nothing is impossible.
The waterfall is beautiful, and you can swim in peace during weekdays when there is not much visitors.
You can also snorkel or just be relaxed in the water.
Do not forget to wear goggles and to bring a good water camera to take advantage of the water that is crystal clear and the surroundings that are filled with thick old trees and lush green vegetation.
What else to see in Samoa ?
Alofaaga Blowholes
If you enjoy the simple things of nature, this is a must visit.
The Alofaaga Blowholes are really impressive, you can marvel at the power of the Pacific Ocean.
If you can, pay for 5 Talas (separate admission fee) a skilled local will put a coconut in one of the blowholes and you must watch them fly or get thrown 100 meters up in the air after the force of the sea.
Like virtually everything on the island, you pay two splints to enter.
You arrive at the beach that is covered with black rocks (hardened lava), and makes the water pressure through the holes of the stone and the tide to squirt water.
If you are going to Savaii, you should definitely drop in here!
These marine geysers in some places hit with a very impressive strength and height.
For safety reasons, the children are advised not to get near, same with the curious adults.
Popular places to visit in Samoa
Falealupo Canopy Walk
From the village of Falealupo you can reach the main attraction of this area called the Falealupo Canopy Walk.
The 2 km track allows you to pass through the trees at the height of 30 meters.
The trees are connected with ropes of 30 m long suspension bridge.
Near the forest there is a beautiful sandy beach without much tourist influx.
It is difficult to reach these places by public transport because it runs only one or two buses so it is advisable to rent a private 4×4 for easy mobility.
The Falealupo Canopy Walk is fun if you are not afraid of heights as it is really high.
At the top you will be amazed by the spectacular view of the forest and the immensity of the tree you have climbed from the platform.
Both the bridge and the stairs in the tree are metallic structures so they are completely safe so don’t worry about any untoward incidents; the staff is trained and will look after you in every step of the way.
Things to do in Samoa with kids
Swimming With The Turtles
The general admission here at the Swimming With The Turtles is US $5. The visit is not limited but an hour in cold water will suffice.
Many say that it is not humane to catch turtles and their squeeze but some conservationists here see it differently.
Turtles certainly do not like it, but no one will do any harm to them here. In the end, when they grow, these turtles are released into the sea and are marked for monitoring.
If they were left in the wild they have a much greater danger of getting harmed. On this farm lived a dozen turtles, small and large, and you can swim with them.
Kids can join in the fun too as they cling to their tortoise shell and rolled. Be sure to bring a towel, because after a swim it gets too cold out there.
This tour is very exciting and provides informative entertainment. Do not miss the chance to interact with the turtles when you’re in Samoa.
Things to do around Samoa
Dive Savai’i
The Dive Savai’i is an excellent choice to explore the waters of this part of Samoa.
The dive center is really great.
The staff are professional divers (PADI Certified) and kind people who understand how to explain the basics of diving for the inexperienced divers or anxious.
This is not about who is the fastest, or deepest, but how great relaxed dives through the beautiful reef and coral landscape of Samoa can be accomplished without any hitches.
A tour of an old shipwreck is also included on their package.
The flourishing reefs here have more than a thousand types of tropical fishes and some are in their most bizarre forms.
With a little luck you can see almost every day a turtle, stingray, eel, or even an octopus.
You can also combine great diving and snorkeling in the shallow areas here.
The prices are quite high but it is all worth it for the time and knowledge you gained about deep sea diving.
The owners speak German, English, and Russian.
They also provide the boat, complete gears, and equipment needed in every diving expedition.
A trip to Samoa is a must if the goal of your trip is to know, discover, and learn about an exotic culture that is as interesting as the Samoans.
You will find everything in one place here starting from;
the food, dances, songs, and tattoos.
If you adore nature and yearns for different kind of beaches to explore, Samoa is the right travel destination for you.
FAQs
What is the best time to visit Samoa?
The best time to visit Samoa is during the dry season, which runs from May to October.
The weather is cooler and drier during this time, making it more pleasant for outdoor activities.
What are some must-see attractions in Samoa?
There are plenty of amazing things to see and do in Samoa!
Some must-see attractions include the To Sua Ocean Trench, Piula Cave Pool, Lalomanu Beach, and the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum.
What is the local cuisine like in Samoa?
Samoan cuisine is a delicious mix of fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and starchy vegetables like taro and yams.
Some popular dishes to try include palusami (taro leaves cooked in coconut cream), oka (raw fish salad), and panipopo (coconut buns soaked in sweet coconut milk).
Is it safe to travel to Samoa?
Samoa is generally a safe country to visit, but as with any travel destination, it’s always important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
Petty crime can sometimes occur, especially in urban areas, so it’s best to keep valuables out of sight and avoid walking alone at night.
Are American Samoa and Samoa the same thing?
No, American Samoa and Samoa are not the same thing.
While they share a name and some cultural similarities, they are two distinct countries with separate governments, currencies, and legal systems.
What is the difference between American Samoa and Samoa?
Although they share a name and are located in the same region of the world, American Samoa and Samoa are actually two separate countries.
American Samoa is an unincorporated territory of the United States, while Samoa (formerly known as Western Samoa) is an independent nation.
Additionally, American Samoa uses US currency and has a different time zone than Samoa.
