Samoa

Travel Guide
Upolu showing rocky coastline, colorful reefs and tropical scenes
A rich cultural history, dazzling white-sand beaches and famous former residents make this Pacific island nation a fascinating vacation destination.

Samoa is an independent state (distinct from the U.S. territory of America Samoa) made up of 10 islands in the Pacific Ocean. Visit this stunning archipelago sitting halfway between New Zealand and Hawai’i to go scuba diving down to deep-sea craters, swim with turtles near the shore and shop for fresh fruit at a local market.

The first Samoan people began to inhabit the islands after arriving by canoe around 1,000 B.C. Visit the Museum of Samoa to examine historic artifacts including pottery and tools from Samoa’s prehistory. Learn more about the Samoan culture and language by visiting a local village.

Upolu, one of Samoa’s two main islands, features classic white-sand beaches, aqua-blue lagoons and the harbor-side capital of Apia. Shop for souvenirs including brightly colored sarongs, Samoan jewelry and handwoven baskets at Apia’s flea markets. The town also has an active nightlife to enjoy, with plenty of restaurants and bars serving Samoan cuisine and tropical cocktails.

Within easy reach of Apia is the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum, a converted mansion that tells the story of the famous author’s life on the island. Walk to the top of nearby Mount Vaea to pay your respects at Stevenson’s grave.

The other main island, Savai’i, is Samoa’s largest island and a prime spot for natural scenery. Go swimming at Afu Aau Waterfall, a stunning cascade that drops from lush rainforests into a fresh-water pool. In southwest Savai’i, marvel at the Alofaaga Blowholes where powerful jets of water shoot up from the ground.

The warm Samoan waters are a hot spot for native turtle populations. Take a tour of the wetlands sanctuary at Satoalepai village in Savai’i to see the turtles being cared for. Grab your snorkeling gear and head to the ocean around Namu’a Island to swim with turtles in their natural habitat.

Samoa’s major airport is Faleolo International Airport on Upolu. Flights operate from New Zealand, Australia, Hawai’i, Fiji and American Samoa. Consider renting a car to get around the roads are in a fair condition but be aware of potholes and remember that you drive on the left in Samoa. A passenger and vehicle ferry runs between Upolu and Savai’i and takes a little over an hour each way.

No matter how you get around Samoa, you will have plenty of opportunities to marvel at the beauty of Mother Nature and learn from the friendly local islanders.

Popular cities in Samoa

Paradise beach
Lalomanu
Known for Beaches, Family-friendly and Islands
Get away to relaxing Lalomanu! Enjoy the beaches, island views, and local cuisine.

Reasons to visit

  • Lalomanu Beach
Apia featuring signage, street scenes and a city
Apia
Known for Relaxing, Islands and Culture
The capital of Samoa is a small city known for its colorful marketplace, souvenir shopping and relaxed and hospitable locals.
Salelologa featuring food, interior views and markets
Salelologa
Known for Ferries and boats, Swimming and Relaxing
Shop for unique Samoan souvenirs in the town’s marketplace or enjoy a traditional lunch before discovering the beautiful beaches and rainforest of Savai’i.
Blues upon blues #returntoparadiseresort
Matautu
Known for Beaches, Friendly people and Snorkeling
Come to relaxing Matautu and enjoy its beaches, snorkeling, and bars.
Vaitele
Vaitele
Known for Shopping, Friendly people and Golf
Experience Vaitele: its golf, island views, and more!
Stunning Samoa #blues
Salamumu
Known for Friendly people, Snorkeling and Beaches
Explore secluded Salamumu: its snorkeling, beaches, food, and more!

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