Top 6 attractions to see in Samoa

Samoa is a turquoise slice of paradise located halfway between New Zealand and Hawaii in the South Pacific. It’s one destination that doesn’t get a lot of attention, but it should. So right now has never been a better time to visit before the rest of the world finds out about this amazing destination. Only have a short time on the island and want to see the top Samoa tourist attractions? Looking for things to do? What are the best Samoa tours?

Keep reading the top 6 attractions to see in Samoa for the lowdown on what to check out on the island of Upolu.

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Tourist attractions

Not sure where to start with your Samoan itinerary? Check out this must-see list of the best Samoa tourist attractions around the island.

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Papapapaital Falls

The Papapapaital Falls are on the south coast of Upolu, Samoa. It’s the largest and most photographed falls in Samoa. At 100 metres (328 feet) high, with the majestic flow of water cascading into a deep gorge every second, you’ll be in awe. It’s incredible how calming the rhythmic sound of water can be.

You can’t access these falls, your can only view them from a distance behind the safety rail. Next stop another waterfall – Togitogiga.

Togitogiga Waterfalls

The Togitogiga Waterfalls are located a few miles from the O Le Pupu Pue National Park on the south coast of Upolu. It’s a smaller waterfall than Papapapaital but don’t let that fool you. These waterfalls are the perfect place to have a pleasant swim while the water flows over your body.

To access the waterfall, you need to go down some steps and cross a small creek, which has large stones leading the way. Just make sure you are wearing the right footwear like reef shoes, as it can be a slip hazard. Feel like a beach visit? We are heading to the most popular one in Samoa next.

Lalomanu Beach

Another popular Samoan tourist attraction is Lalomanu Beach. Also on the south coast of Upolu, it’s the perfect place to see magnificent views of the smaller outer islands of Samoa.

Lying on its spectacular white sandy beach or swimming in the warm sea water is the perfect answer for those travellers who want a bit of downtime.

If you are feeling hungry, there is a restaurant on the beach, Taufua Beach Fales, which has the most stunning views from any table you sit at. Because the food is tasty and inexpensive, the restaurant is very popular and often crowded.

The chicken is delicious and so mouth-watering. Make sure you have a taste on your visit. Highly recommended.

Beach Fales

If you want an authentic Samoan overwater bungalow experience, you can stay in your very own beach fale. The Lalomanu Beach Fales are basic, traditional open-air thatched huts.

You are provided with mosquito nets but if mosquitoes love you like they do me, bring a spare one with you. The fales are the fraction of the cost of an overwater bungalow in places like Bora Bora in French Polynesia.

To stay in the latter, it will set you back at least 10 times the price of what a beach fale on Lalomanu Beach costs.

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To Sua Ocean Trench

A must see Samoa tourist attraction is To Sua Ocean Trench. To Sua Ocean Trench is on the south east coast of Upolu. The ocean trench has a giant swimming hole which is 30 metres (98 feet) deep and accessible via a long ladder. Water from the ocean makes its way into the swimming hole

There is also a cave that leads to the open sea but only recommended for skillful divers to enter.

For those that don’t want to swim in the ocean trench or dive in the cave, there is a smaller beach called Fagaoneone above ground. There are undercover huts where you can sit and relax while taking in the beautiful views.

There is also a walk that takes you down to the beach lookout but only for those that can manages going up and down a large amount of stairs. The effort is worth it though. You’ll see the most picturesque views this side of Samoa.

Le Mafa Pass Road

The panoramic views continue while driving down the Le Mafa Pass Road. Le Mafa Pass Road is on the east coast of Upolu. Here you’ll see the typical lush, jungle mountains that are a regular feature in Samoa. Our final stop is – Piula Cave Pool.

Piula Cave Pool

This cave pool is a favourite with locals and tourists who want to escape the heat. It’s located on the north east coast of Upolu and is an entertaining place to visit. Small fish dart in between your legs as you swim in the cave pool. Remember, you’re in fish territory now.

If you go to the lookout near the ocean shore you will see a lot more fish, every colour of the rainbow is represented shining through the water contours.

I had quite a few interactions with the friendly, charming Samoan kids who were swimming in the cave pool. One little girl innocently called out to me,

“Are you enjoying our Samoan culture?” My answer. I can definitely say an overwhelming “Yes!”

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Samoa tours

You can see all the above attractions by car if you have hired one for your stay. The alternative if you want to relax with someone else driving, is to book a Samoan day tour. There are a few Samoan tours and tour operators to choose from.

I went on a tour run by Samoa Surf and Turf and they were fantastic. The tour was the Full Day Upolu Island Highlights with hotel pick ups in Apia and I highly recommend it. Shawn and his wife are locals in Samoa and know the island like the back of their hand.

👉 Book the Full Day Upolu Island Highlights tour here

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