Samoa Honeymoon Guide

Samoa is an idyllic honeymoon destination, where life is slow and easy and where Fa’a Samoa, (the ‘Samoan Way’) continues to play a huge role in village life.

Formerly known as West Samoa, Samoa comprises several islands including Upolu and Savai’i, the two main islands that lie separated by an 18km-wide strait.


Upolu Island

Samoa's most populated and second-largest island offers gorgeous palm-fringed beaches and several idyllic honeymoon retreats, especially on the east coast.

Do nothing at all or share a wide range of honeymoon activities, such as touring the island by rental car or bike.

Discover panoramic views at Le Mafa Pass (285m) in the centre of Upolu and along the coastal road witness a Polynesia that remains relatively unchanged from the days before Europeans arrived.

Hike through rainforest-clad hills, visit extinct volcanoes, snorkel offshore coral reefs or dive a marine reserve.


Savai’i Island

For couples eager to share a honeymoon adventure, this mainly uninhabited island – the largest in Polynesia after New Zealand and Hawaii – offers a spectacular landscape to explore.

Discover towering mountains, untouched and amost impenetrable rainforest, spectacular volcanic craters, lava tubes, blowholes, several ancient archaeological sites, magnificent waterfalls and a series of long white-sand beaches that stretch along the northern coast around the village of Manase.

See traditional sights, such as locals bathing in communal fresh-water rock pools set alongside thatch-roofed villages.

Admire weathered white-painted churches, hike rainforest trails and enjoy honeymoon picnics on a choice of gorgeous white-sand beaches that sit framed by shady coconut palms and tranquil lagoons that are perfect for swimming and snorkeling.


Best beaches in Samoa

Samoa has some of the most secluded and pristine beaches in the South Pacific – long stretches of palm-fringed, powder-white sand lapped by turquoise lagoons – just perfect for a romantic honeymoon.

Many of Samoa's beaches boast a beachfront resort while others are home to a traditional fale (typically owned by the nearest fishing village).

Alternatively, hire a car and discover your own secluded beach. Many are privately owned so don't be surprised if you are asked to contribute a small 'fee' to use the beach – usually STD2 to STD5.

The best beaches in Samoa include the following…

Lalomanu Beach

(Upolu) – This narrow stretch of powder-white sand is considered one of the best beaches in the South Pacific.

Pick a spot to sunbathe on the soft sand and enjoy views across the lagoon to four, small, uninhabited islands.

Relax in the shade of swaying palm trees, swim or snorkel the calm, clear waters of the turquoise lagoon and when you feel hungry, enjoy fresh seafood snacks from one of the beachside restaurants.

Lalomanu Beach is located in southeast Upolu among a string of fabulous beaches that lie on the edge of a beautiful lagoon. Come for the day or stay longer at one of the beachside fales, such as Taufua Beach Fales at Lalomanu village.


Namua Island Beach

(Upolu) – Dig your toes into the sugar-white sand of this gorgeous palm-fringed beach that shelves into a gentle cove flanked by jungle-clad headlands.

Sunbathe on the unspoiled beach, enjoy exceptional swimming and snorkelling in the turquoise lagoon and follow forest trails in search of native birds.

Come for a few hours or stay longer in a traditional beach fale at Namua Beach Fales.

Namua Beach is located on the island on the same name, one of four offshore islands that lie in a sheltered lagoon just 10-minues by speed-boat from Lalomanu Beach.


Vava'u Beach

(Upolu) – Play Robinson Crusoe on this secluded stretch of palm-fringed, powder-white sand that gentle shelves past three towering, jungle-clad outcrops into a sheltered bay, with perfect swimming and snorkelling in the calm lagoon.

Come for a day or stay longer at Vavau Beach Fales. This hidden beach is located near Vavau village, on the southeast coast of Upolu.


Paradise Beach

(Upolu) – Discover this unspoiled, palm-fringed white-sand beach on the classic 3km-long walk between Salamumu and Paradise Beach – renowned as one of the finest beach walks in the South Pacific – and more commonly known as Return to Paradise Beach, because of its use in the 1953 Hollywood film 'Return to Paradise' starring Gary Cooper.

Framed by black-lava rock headlands, this idyllic beach is located along the southwest coast of Upolu, near Matautu village in the Lefaga district.

Note: You may be asked to pay a ST5 per-person custom fee to use the beach.


Matareva Beach

(Upolu) – Unwind on this crescent of palm-fringed sugar-white sand set amid black volcanic rocks and shelving into an idyllic lagoon.

Explore the shallow rock pools and experience excellent swimming and snorkelling. Matareva Beach is located on the southwest coast of Upolu.


Manono Beach

(Upolu) – Dig your toes into this crescent of sugar-white sand, nestled between soaring palm trees and an idyllic lagoon perfect for swimming and snorkelling.

Choose from several small luxury resorts, including Sinalei Reef Resort and Coconuts Beach Resort. Manono is located on the southwest coast of Upolu.


Salamumu Beach

(Upolu) – Make your own footprints in the powder-white sand of this gorgeous palm-fringed beach that also features in the scenic beach walk to Paradise Beach.


Le Lagoto Beach

(Savaii Island) – Dig your toes into the powder-white sand of this gorgeous beach that gently shelves into a calm, turquoise lagoon offering excellent swimming and snorkelling with scenic mountain views.

Relax in comfort at Savaii Island's only up-market resort, Le Lagoto Resort, which provides a range of creature comforts and water activities. Le Lagoto beach is located along the northeast coast at Fagamalo.


Manase Beach

(Savaii Island) – Sunbathe on this crescent of sugar-white sand that gently shelves into the turquoise waters of a sheltered lagoon, perfect for swimming and snorkelling.

Manase Beach is located on the northern coast near Manase Village and offers a choice of accommodation at several beach fales, including Vacations Beach Fales.


Ananoa Beach

(Savaii Island) – Enjoy the island tranquility of this gorgeous white sand beach that lies sandwiched between swaying palm trees and the blue waters of a sheltered lagoon, offering excellent swimming and snorkelling above the offshore coral gardens.


Satuiatua Beach

(Savaii Island) – Pick your own secluded spot on this long crescent of sugar-white sand nestled in front of soaring palm trees and fronting a calm, turquoise lagoon, with excellent swimming, snorkeling and occasional surfing.

Satuiatua Beach is located at Satuiatua on the southwest coast of Savaii, with a choice of several beach fales.


Ofu Beach

(Ofu Island, American Samoa) – Check out one of Samoa's best beaches – a picture-perfect sugar-white beach framed between an aquamarine lagoon and towering palm trees that merge with the jungle-clad slopes of an extinct volcano.

Pick a secluded spot to sunbathe on this 4km-long beach and enjoy excellent snorkelling among the more than 300 species of fish and 150 species of coral found in the sheltered lagoon. Later, visit the prehistoric 3000-year-old To'aga Site that stands just behind the beach.

Ofu Beach is located on the south coast of Ofu Island in the Manu'a group of American Samoa.

It is best visited on a day trip as there are no beach resorts – legends still persist that spirit ghosts, or aitu, haunt the To'aga at high noon and at night.


What to see in Samoa

Discover the largest archaeological ruin in Polynesia and get close to pristine natural beauty while looking out for local wildlife at some of these amazing attractions in Samoa.

Samoa offers a choice of must-see attractions for adventurous newlyweds, including the following…

Return to Paradise Beach

(Upolu Island) – Hike one of the finest beach walks in the South Pacific – between Sa’anapu and Return to Paradise Beach.

The trail winds through virgin rainforest along the rugged coastline, with pathways leading to secluded coves and tiny white-sand beaches.

Relax on the beach or in one of the many natural freshwater pools that act as a natural Jacuzzi – produced by a combination of the incoming waves and the hot South Pacific sun.


Lake Lanoto'o National Park

(Upolu Island) – Take a guided hike into this 400ha jungle preserve to visit Samoa's largest lake, known locally as Goldfish Lake after the wild goldfish that were originally introduced by German settlers in the 19th century.

Along the way, try to spot rare endemic birdlife including the crimson-crowned fruit dove and the red-headed parrot finch, then cool off with a swim in the unusual pea-green coloured lake.


Uafato Rainforest Reserve

(Upolu Island) – Hike through tropical rainforest to hidden waterfalls and spot local wildlife such as flying foxes, watch the best wood carvers in Samoa, browse for traditional handicrafts and perhaps buy a souvenir to help support the local people at this showcase of Fa’a Samoa.

This living experience of Samoan culture and village life is located in a secluded bay on the east coast of Upolu Island, a 1.5-hour drive from Apia.


Robert Louis Stevenson Museum

(Upolu Island) – Explore Villa Vailima, the beautifully restored former residence of the Scottish author, Robert Louis Stevenson.

Located on the outskirts of Apia in a tropical rainforest, the house offers a slice of colonial charm and character and contains many of Stevenson’s books and letters.

A two-hour hike from Vailima will take you through pretty scenery to the grave of Stevenson, with panoramic views of the Upolu coast.


Sa’anapu

(Upolu Island) – Take a 30-minute guided kayak tour through this unique marsh and mangrove site, home to delicious mud crabs and large schools of mullet, located on Upolu's south coast.


O Le Pupu-pu'e National Park & Togitogiga National Forest

(Upolu Island) – Choose from several trails that meander through this 2900ha tropical rainforest that stretches from the ridgeline connecting Mt Le Pu'e (885m) and Mt Fito, at 1100m the highest point on Upolu, to the lava fields of O Le Pupu on the south coast.

Along the way try to spot some of the 51 species of wildlife that call this park home, such as the endangered Tongan fruit bat, or flying fox, which make good use of their one-and-a-half-metre wingspans to soar above the treetops, usually at dusk.

Admire the beautiful Togitogiga Falls, just a short walk from the entrance of the park and, after an hour’s hike, pop into the Pe'ape'a Cave (a large lava tube) to watch and listed to the nocturnal, white-rumped pe'ape'a bird (swiftlet) – the ‘clicking’ noise the birds make is clearly audible as they fly through the darkness.

Or follow a 3.5km-long trail through coastal rainforest to the rugged O Le Pupu Lava Coast (photo), where a rock-strewn path leads along the coast to sea-pounded cliffs imprinted with the melted patterns of ancient lava flows.


Togitogiga Waterfall

(Upolu Island) – Located in the village of Saleilua, close to Le Pupu Pue National Park and surrounded by lush tropical gardens, these cascades flow into and through three separate natural rock swimming pools that have been used for centuries.

The best time for viewing the cascades and swimming is during the wet season from November to April.


Papapapai-Tia Falls

(Upolu Island) – While most of Samoa’s waterfalls are often hidden deep in mountainous jungle, this cascade is easily seen from a roadside parking area found along the south coast. Fed by mountain streams the cascade plunges 90m into a picturesque gorge.


To Sua Ocean Trench

(Upolu Island) – Swim in a pair of large 30m-deep waterholes separated by a short rocky archway and swept by ocean currents that surge in through an underwater tunnel. Easily reached by a 15m ladder and located in Lotofaga village near Vava'u.


Piula Cave Pool

(Upolu Island) – Located near the village of Falefa on the east coast, this freshwater pool links through an underwater tunnel to a second chamber, which is perfect for a refreshing swim.


Afu Aau Falls

(Savai’i Island) – Located on the way to the mysterious Pulemelei Mound, this waterfall offers an idyllic fresh-water swimming pool hidden deep in the rainforest – easily reached by foot or by 4WD.


Mt Matavanu Crater

(Savai’i Island) – Take a 4WD to the crater of Mt Matavanu, which last erupted between 1905 to 1911, sending molten lava flowing to the coast 13km away, destroying everything in its path.

Peer into the crater and enjoy panoramic views over the surrounding countryside.


Falealupo Rainforest Reserve

(Savai’i Island) – Get close to nature on the treetop canopy walkway (photo) that stretches 30m between two giant Banyan trees around 40m above the forest floor.

Explore trails that wind through this unspoiled 12,000ha low-lying tropical rainforest then watch the sunset from a nearby white-sand beach.

The reserve is located near the village of Falealupo on the remote western tip of Savai’i.


Pulemelei Mound

(Savai’i Island) – Marvel at the largest archaeological ruin in Polynesia, an ancient two-tiered pyramid built of natural basalt stones measuring 61m by 58m at its base and soaring to 12m-high.

The ancient complex contains walkways, smaller mounds and stone-lined earth umus (ovens) that are similar to the ceremonial temples (maraes) found in French Polynesia and Samoa.

The ancient mound has been dated to 1100 AD, and while archaeologists have pondered over its purpose and age, the mystery of this huge structure remains unsolved.

The Pulemelei mound (also known as Tia Seu Ancient Mound) is located on the south coast near Vailoa, in the Letolo Plantation.


Mt Silisili

(Savai’i Island) – Take a two-day round trip to visit the highest point in the Samoan archipelago. Often covered in cloud, Mt Silisili (1858m) sits in the centre of Savai’i Island.

Mt Silisili is located in the central region of Savaii. Aopo is the closest village, located about 10 km away.


Alofaaga blowholes

(Savai’i Island) – At the village of Taga, check out one of the world’s largest marine blowholes, where impressive jets of water spout up to 30m into the air.

Watch coconuts – thrown by locals into the holes – get blasted into the blue sky.


What to do in Samoa

In Samoa, it's easy to unwind on a choice of pristine sugar-white beaches where the only footprints in the soft sand are likely to be your own.

Snorkel and kayak calm turquoise waters and follow scenic coastal trails past traditional fishing villages through lush rainforest to beautiful waterfalls.

Or perhaps ponder the largest archaeological ruin in Polynesia and let Samoa’s unique and ancient customs enchant you, just as it did the great Scottish author and adventurer Robert Louis Stevenson, who once called Samoa home.

Experience genuine Samoan hospitality at a luxury resort or, for a perfect honeymoon experience, stay in a traditional beach fale (an open-plan thatched bungalow) set on a soft, white-sand beach just metres away from the clear waters of a turquoise lagoon.

Learn more about Fa’a Samoa, the ‘Samoan Way’, by taking part or watching a traditional ceremony…

Ava ceremony

Sample the unique ‘Ava (kava) drink; derived from the ground root of the pepper plant it precedes every matai (meeting) in Samoa.


Fire dancing

Watch both men and boys skillfully rotate fire sticks to rhythmic drumming, hand clapping, singing and story telling in one of the most exciting of Samoa’s ancient cultural traditions.

Afterwards, take part in the traditional feast of fish, lobster, pork, yams and sweet potato cooked in an underground ‘umu (oven) and flavoured with coconut cream and tropical fruits.

This exciting performance is usually preformed at all the major resorts, but for the best dance routines head to Aggie Grey’s in Apia where professional male and female dancers wearing traditional costumes of mat dresses and flower garlands perform this thrilling dance.


Tattoo ceremonies

Get an insight into Samoan culture by watching a traditional Samoan tattoo ceremony performed using sharpened sharks’ teeth or boars’ husks. Samoa is one of the few Pacific islands that continue this Polynesian art form.

Tattooing skills are passed from father to son and are highly respected in Samoan culture.

Traditional Samoan tattoos often cover a man’s body from waist to knees in a pattern of intricate lines and dots creating a uniform design pattern of triangles and curves. High-ranking women also wear tattoos on the thighs.

Apart from lazing poolside or on the beach, Samoa offers a range of active pursuits including diving, snorkelling, surfing, kayaking, hiking, horseback riding and game fishing.


Hiking

Samoa offers a wide choice of walking trails that lead to scenic cascades, rainforest, mountains, lakes and coastal sights.

Try walking between Sa’anapu and Paradise Beach – regarded as one of the finest beach walks in the South Pacific.

Other hikes include the Fagalua Bay coastal walk on east ‘Upolu which passes through several remote and otherwise inaccessible villages; the more strenuous hike to Lake Lanoto to see and swim among wild goldfish; and several trails through O le Pupu-Pue National Park.

On Savai’i Island, discover panoramic views over the South Pacific after hiking to the summit of Mount Silisili, the highest peak in Samoa.


Scuba diving

he best diving is off the south and east coasts of Upolu, around the Aleipata Islands and along the northeast coast of Savai'i, where you can swim face-to-face with friendly spinner dolphins and large green turtles.


Snorkelling

Samoa offers numerous good snorkeling sites.

The best swimming and snorkeling are found along the southwest coast and on the beaches of Aleipata on Upolu Island, including just off Matareva Beach, Lotoalofa Beach, Namua Island and the protected Palolo Deep Marine Reserve.

And just a short swim away from the beach at Apia, where it’s possible to swim among numerous colourful reef fish. The beach off Faga Village on the east coast of Savai’i also offers excellent snorkelling.


Swim with turtles

Swim with green turtles in a special pool at the enthralling Satoalepai Wetlands on Savai’i Island. The turtles are looked after by the local landowners, then released into the ocean once they become reproductive.

Or join a guided tour of the Aleipata Islands and the southeast coast of Upolu where you can swim with green turtles in their natural environment.


Surfing

From May to October, Samoa offers some of the best surfing conditions in the South Pacific. Catch waves at Boulders and Nu’usafe’e Island (accessible by boat) on Upolu’s south coast.

Or head to Aganoa Beach and Satuiatua Beach on the southern coast of Savai’i and at Fagamalo on northern Savai’i.

On American Samoa, surf the waves at Alofay Bay, Carter Beach and Leone Bay.

You’ll need to bring your own surfboard as there are no surf shops in Samoa, and expect to pay a ‘custom fee’ of around STD5 per day to the local village for surfing rights.


Kayaking

One of the best places to kayak is in the mangroves at Saanapu on Upolu Island, which is easily accessible from Maninoa Beach from where you can rent kayaks by the day.

Here you can experience a tranquil marine environment rich in bird life. Other good spots for kayaking include Manono Island on the west coast of Upolu and the Aleipata islands off the east coast of Upolu.


Game fishing

Hook up a charter at Maninoa Beach to chase marlin (available year round but best between November and February), yellow fin tuna (available year round, best from May to September), mahi mahi (available year round), wahoo and barracuda (from July to November).

Or learn some local fishing skills by casting your line from a traditional outrigger canoe.


Eco

With at least 11 endemic bird species and more than 300 volcanoes, several mountains, rainforests, mangrove and marine ecosystems, Samoa offers a unique pristine environment to explore.

Follow marked trails through rare hardwood trees, native medicinal plants and hidden waterfalls in the Falealupo Rainforest Reserve or at Uafato Rainforest Reserve.


Shopping

Best buys in Samoa include jewellery, ladies handbags, fans, mats, decorative clothing, wooden bowls and wall hangings made from traditional tapa cloth.

Apia’s flea market offers a wide selection of handicrafts, but for the best prices – and to meet the artisans personally – travel into the countryside and buy from roadside stalls.


Where to stay

Samoa offers a good choice of accommodation options to suit all budgets, including the following resorts…

Sheraton Samoa Aggie Grey's Resort
Location: Mulifanua, Upolu
Rating: 4.5-star
Prices: from AUD436 per room
Description: Set within 224 acres of tropical gardens, the Sheraton Samoa Aggie Grey's Resort boasts a lagoon-style swimming pool and a day spa. Each beachfront room features a balcony or patio offering ocean views. Daily buffet breakfast is included. Awake to the sounds of the Pacific Ocean in your air-conditioned, refurbished room or suite. Each includes a small refrigerator, an in-room safe, coffee/tea making facilities and satellite TV. All rooms include a deluxe bathroom with a shower or bathtub. Guests can drink and dine at the 5 onsite restaurants and bars. Also onsite you will find a kid's club, wedding and function facilities, including a chapel and both indoor and outdoor conference areas. The resort presents weekly traditional singing and dancing, with live entertainment every night. There are 2 golf courses within 45 minutes' drive from the resort and return transfers are available for an additional charge. The 4.5 star Sheraton Samoa Aggie Grey's Resort is a 5-minute drive from Faleolo International Airport.

Seabreeze Resort
Location: Aufaga, Upolu
Rating: 4-star
Prices: from AUD385 per room
Description: Boasting private beach access and impressive ocean views, Seabreeze Resort features 2 restaurants, a bar, a swimming pool and free glass-bottom kayaks. All air-conditioned rooms include a patio with outdoor seating. You can spend the afternoon snorkelling, having a relaxing massage or enjoying a facial treatment. Adventure seekers can arrange a chartered fishing tour or surfing trip at the tour desk. On Fridays the free scheduled cultural activities will give you an insight into Samoan life. Waterfront Bar & Restaurant serves a variety of á la carte dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Paulini’s Pool Bar is also a great place to enjoy a cocktail, smoothie or light meal. Situated amongst the garden, Cbreeze Pizzeria offers tasty wood fired pizza. At Seabreeze Resort, your nightly rate includes a la carte breakfast daily, free use of snorkel gear and glass bottom kayaks, nightly turndown service with a small gift each evening, a complimentary a la carte minibar which is replenished daily, complimentary use of a mobile phone during your stay, a complimentary food platter in your room for arrivals after 21:00 and before 7:00. Seabreeze Resort Samoa is 15 minutes' walk from from Vavua Beach, 30 minutes' walk from the To Sua Trench and 35 minutes’ drive from Togitogiga Waterfall. Faleolo International Airport is 90 minutes’ drive away.

Saletoga Sands Resort & Spa
Location: Matatufu, Upolu Island
Rating: 4-star
Prices: from AUD330 per room
Description: Boasting an outdoor pool with swim-up bar, a day spa and fitness centre, Saletoga Sands Resort & Spa offers modern accommodation with free breakfast and wonderful sea views. Guests enjoy free access to snorkelling equipment and stand-up paddle boards. The tour desk can arrange scenic cruises and cultural tours. The luxury day spa offers private massage sessions and beauty treatments. Airport transfers are available, which include a personalised airport pickup and a driver who will provide Samoan cultural information. Your free daily continental breakfast includes toast, fruit, cereals, juices and tea/coffee. The on-site restaurant and bar serves local and international cuisine and features ocean and poolside views. Picnic hampers are also available. All villas have air conditioning, a flat-screen TV and tea/coffee making facilities. Some feature a private balcony. Saletoga Resort & Spa is 15 minutes’ drive from Tafatafa Beach. Apia city centre is 43 minutes’ drive and Faleolo International Airport is a 1-hour drive away.

Sinalei Reef Resort & Spa
Location: Maninoa, Upolu
Rating: 4-star
Prices: from AUD286 per room
Description: Located directly on the beach and surrounded by tropical gardens, Sinalei Reef Resort & Spa offers a full-service day spa, 9-hole golf course and 2 restaurants. The cocktail bar serves drinks by the pool. Each bungalow is air-conditioned and features garden or ocean views, an in-room safe, tea/coffee maker, and bathroom with toiletries and bathrobes. Some bungalows are located on the beach front. Activities include kayaking, volleyball, fishing and snorkelling. Sinalei Spa offers relaxing massages and body treatments by the sea. Laumosooi Fale Restaurant specialises in fresh local seafood. Sinalei Reef Resort Samoa is less than 30 minutes’ drive from Apia city centre. It is 40 minutes’ drive to Faleolo International Airport.

Return to Paradise Resort
Location: Gagaifoolevao, Upolu
Rating: 4-star
Prices: from AUD264 per room
Description: At Return to Paradise Resort the most difficult decision a guest may face is whether to swim in one of 4 swimming pools or in the sparkling waters of Paradise Beach opposite the resort. A free shuttle service to Apia return is available on certain days. There are stunning tropical gardens for you to explore throughout the resort or you can appreciate views of them from your private balcony. Each room is equipped with an iPod dock and pure silk curtains. Some feature a private plunge pool. As the sun sets over the ocean, you can sip on a cocktail or have a snack from Rockpool Bar. Paradise Kitchen and Cabana Café offer the perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely meal. Guests can take part in regular cultural Fiafia nights, which include Polynesian buffet meals and Samoan fire dancing. Other activities are available in the surrounding areas such as diving, snorkeling, beach volleyball and reef fishing. Located in Lefaga, this luxurious resort is 25 minutes' drive from Faleolo International Airport and 45 minutes’ drive from both Apia Wharf and Old Apia Markets.

Aga Reef Resort and Spa
Location: Lalomanu, Upolu
Rating: 4-star
Prices: from AUD288 per room
Description: The waterfront Aga Reef Resort and Spa offers a private beach, 2 swimming pools and a day spa. All accommodation features a balcony offering sea or lagoon views. A free continental breakfast buffet is included for all guests. All air-conditioned accommodation features a 32-inch flat-screen TV, a sofa and a refrigerator. All villas and rooms include private bathroom facilities, some with a bathtub. The spa offers massage, body treatments, waxing and pedicures. Island tours, airport transfers and cruises can be booked at the tour desk. The restaurant opens onto the beach and features a large poolside deck. It operates daily and serves Samoan and international cuisine. Your included breakfast consists of fresh fruit, cereals, yogurts, bread and jams. Located on the South East coast of Upolu Island, Aga Reef Resort is 5 minutes’ drive from To Sua Pool and Lalomanu Beach. Apia is 55 minutes’ drive away.


Best time to honeymoon in Samoa

The best time to visit Samoa is during the winter dry season from June through September, as it is the coolest and least rainy time of year. However, even during this period, you should expect some downpours and occasional thunderstorms.

Samoa experiences a hot tropical climate that is wet and humid year-round.

Temperatures throughout Samoa are fairly stable, with little variation between the hottest and coolest time of year, with an average high of 30-31°C (86-88°F). The south-east trade winds blow steadily throughout the year, making the heat more bearable.

For more climate info: Samoa Weather Guide


Getting to Samoa

Samoa, officially the Independent State of Samoa, is located in the Pacific Ocean, around 5632km (3500mi) northeast of Australia.

Formerly known as West Samoa, Samoa comprises two main islands, Savai'i and Upolu, separated by an 18km-wide strait, and four smaller islands: Manono, Apolima, Fanuatapu and Namua.

The most convenient route to Samoa is by air to Faleolo International Airport (APW), located about 30km (18mi) west of Apia, the capital of Samoa.

The smaller Fagali'i Airport (FGI) is used only on the Apia-Pago Pago route, and is located near Fagali'i (or Fagali'i-uta) village, around 5km (3mi) southeast of Apia.

More about how to get to Samoa


How to get around Samoa

Exploring Samoa by car, bicycle and foot is fairly easy. Traffic drives on the left-hand side of the road. The coastal roads on Upolu and Savai'i are sealed, and most of the other main roads are in reasonably good condition.

Drivers should be alert though, especially at night, to the hazard of roaming dogs, pigs, chickens and people.

Frequent ferries operate between Mulifanua, Upolu and Salelologa, Savai’i, taking 1 hour, three times daily. Taxis and hire cars are easily available.

More about how to get around Samoa


Latest update: Samoa Honeymoon: 13 January, 2023



Advertising