Samoa Travel Guide: Top Sights, Food & Travel Tips

Far out in the South Pacific, Samoa is a place where everyday life moves with the ocean. Two main islands, Upolu and Savai‘i, hold blue swimming holes, lava cliffs, and villages where open-air fales face the sea. You come for the color of the water, stay for the calm rhythm of island life, and leave with the taste of coconut and reef fish still on your mind.

Apia, the capital, is friendly and easy to explore. Markets sell fruit, taro, and handwoven mats. A short drive takes you to waterfalls, natural pools, and coral reefs that are clear enough to see schools of fish from the surface.

Samoa does not try to dazzle with big resorts. It welcomes you with simple comforts, soft beaches, and genuine hospitality.

Must-See Attractions

To Sua Ocean Trench

A deep, emerald pool connected to the sea by lava tubes. Climb down the wooden ladder for a swim you will remember.

Lalomanu Beach

Powder-soft sand and calm water on Upolu’s southeast coast. Great for snorkeling and sunset walks.

Papase‘ea Sliding Rocks

Natural rock slides that end in cool freshwater pools. Go in the morning when the water is clearer and crowds are smaller.

Robert Louis Stevenson Museum

The author’s former home in Vailima, set in lush gardens. A short trail leads to his tomb with views over Apia.

Savai‘i Day Trip

Take the ferry to see the Alofaaga Blowholes, Saleaula Lava Fields, Afu A‘au Waterfall, and the Falealupo canopy walkway.

What to Eat

Oka i‘a

Raw fish cured in lime with coconut cream, onion, and chili. Fresh and bright.

Palusami

Taro leaves baked with coconut cream. Silky, rich, and perfect with grilled fish.

Umu Feast

Food cooked in an earth oven with hot stones. Usually includes taro, breadfruit, fish, and pork.

Panikeke

Banana fritters. Light, sweet, and sold warm at markets.

Fa‘ausi

Baked taro topped with caramelized coconut sauce. Comforting and simple.

Samoa’s food is rooted in land and sea, cooked slowly and shared with family.

Do You Know?

Samoa famously “skipped a day” in 2011 when it moved to the west side of the International Date Line to align business hours with Australia and New Zealand. Locals went to bed on a Thursday and woke up on a Saturday.

Village life follows fa‘a Samoa, the Samoan way. Open-sided fales, evening prayers, and Sunday rest are part of daily rhythms. Dress modestly in villages and ask before taking photos.

Essential Travel Tips for Samoa

Best Time to Visit

Dry season: May to October

This is the most comfortable time for beaches, boat trips, and hiking. The wet season runs from November to April, with higher heat and a chance of cyclones.

Money & Payments

Currency: Samoan tala (WST)

Cards: Accepted at major hotels and some restaurants in Apia

ATMs: Available in town, limited or none in remote areas

Carry cash for village stays, small shops, and ferries.

Getting Around

Colorful public buses and taxis in Apia

Ferry connects Upolu and Savai‘i

Car rental is common, and driving is on the left. You may need a temporary local permit from police or the rental agency.

Staying Safe

Samoa is generally calm and welcoming. Keep valuables secure in town, follow local advice about currents and reef entries, and respect Sunday quiet hours in villages.

Staying Connected in Samoa

Public Wi-Fi can be slow outside Apia, and coverage thins out in rural coasts and on parts of Savai‘i. Local SIMs are available, but buying and registering one takes time and usually requires in-person setup.

JetSet eSIM makes it easy.

Activate your Samoa JetSet eSIM before landing and connect the moment you arrive.