Day 1: Arrive in Apia
After landing at Faleolo International Airport, make your way to Samoa’s capital, Apia. It’s a small city, so getting around is easy. Drop your bags off at your accommodation and take a stroll around town.
Be sure to visit the Maketi Fou, the central market. You can find fresh tropical fruit, handmade crafts, and a vibrant showcase of local life. Afterward, head to the nearby flea market for more souvenirs.
In the afternoon, visit the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum. Robert Louis Stevenson, author of “Treasure Island,” spent his last years in Samoa, and his old mansion is now a museum.
For dinner, check out Paddles Restaurant—one of the best places for fresh seafood. Relax and rest up for the adventure ahead.
Day 2: Explore Around Apia
Start the day early with a trip to the Palolo Deep Marine Reserve. If you like snorkeling, this place is fantastic. Just a few meters off the shore, you’ll find colorful coral reefs and plenty of fish.
In the afternoon, visit Vailima Botanical Gardens—the lush, tropical setting will help you unwind. While you’re there, consider hiking Mount Vaea, where you’ll get a rewarding view of Apia from the top. This trail also leads you to Robert Louis Stevenson’s final resting place.
In the evening, take a night walk along Apia Harbor. You can grab ice cream nearby at Giordano’s or head out for some barbecued street food.
Day 3: Day Trip to Piula Cave Pool and Lalomanu Beach
Take a day trip to escape the city. Piula Cave Pool is your first stop, about 40 minutes from Apia. This freshwater pool inside a cave is a great spot to relax and cool off. The water is clear and refreshing.
After spending time at the cave pool, drive to Lalomanu Beach. It’s one of the most beautiful beaches in Samoa, with white sand and turquoise water. You can rent a beach fale (traditional hut) for a shaded spot to relax. Swimming here is amazing, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot turtles.
As the evening sets, stay in one of Lalomanu’s beachside fales for a peaceful night listening to the waves.
Day 4: Cultural Experience at the Samoa Cultural Village
Make your way back to Apia and spend the morning at the Samoa Cultural Village. This is the best place to learn about Samoan traditions like tapa cloth making, carving, and traditional cooking. The demonstration by locals is hands-on, and the fiafia performance—songs and dances by locals—is not to be missed.
For lunch, eat like a local and try some oven-cooked umu food. It’s slow-cooked in an earth oven using heated lava rocks. The flavors are rich and smoky.
In the afternoon, take it easy at one of Apia’s many cafes, or if you’re up for it, get a massage at the beautiful Le Manumea Resort to relax.
Day 5: Waterfalls and the To Sua Ocean Trench
Today is for nature lovers. Start the morning by visiting Papaseea Sliding Rocks. You can enjoy sliding down natural rock formations while cooling off in the small waterfall pools.
Next, head towards the iconic To Sua Ocean Trench. This is a must-see in Samoa—an awe-inspiring 30-meter deep swimming hole accessible via steep wooden stairs. The water is crystal-clear, and swimming here is a surreal experience.
If you’re hungry afterward, stop at nearby Lupe’s Beach Resort for a quick local meal. You can wrap up the day by visiting Sopo’aga Waterfall for a beautiful view of a stunning waterfall in the middle of lush gardens.
Day 6: Trip to Savai’i Island
Catch a morning ferry from Upolu to Savai’i, Samoa’s largest island. The ferry takes about 90 minutes. Once you arrive, pick up a rental car or make arrangements for transport.
Your first stop should be the Saleaula Lava Fields. These fields showcase the damage from a 1905 volcanic eruption. You can still see the remains of a church buried by lava. It’s a unique historical site.
Then, visit the Alofa’aga Blowholes. The pressure from the waves forces water through the lava tubes, creating massive spectacle-like fountains shooting up into the air.
Spend the night in one of Savai’i’s beach resorts, such as Le Lagoto Resort, and relax by the beach.
Day 7: Return to Apia and Relax
Catch a morning ferry back to Upolu and return to Apia. Since it’s your last full day, take it slow. Visit the colorful Fugalei Market to pick up fresh local produce and last-minute souvenirs.
If you feel like taking another dip in the ocean, head to Vaiala Beach where you can have one last swim before your Samoa adventure ends.
For your final meal in Samoa, dine at Scalini’s Restaurant, offering a mix of Samoan and Italian food.
Wrap up the day with a relaxing evening walk by the harbor and soak in the peaceful atmosphere of Samoa.
Summary & Final Tips
Samoa is a great place for a mix of adventure and relaxation. The activities across both islands provide a good balance between cultural immersion and nature exploration. To enjoy this week, pace yourself. Samoa is best experienced slowly, with time to relax and soak up the surroundings. Bring your sunscreen, plan transport in advance, and don’t rely on everything being on time—this is island life after all!
You’ll leave feeling refreshed and with a deeper appreciation for this beautiful island nation. Safe travels!
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