Our Favourite Picks
Samoa is a postcard of natural beauty consisting of ten islands, each offering very distinct and different environments to explore. Blessed with stunning land and seascapes, and friendly people who are proud of their country, there are many versions of paradise to discover. Though by no means an exhaustive list, we have outlined the Top 5 Spots that can’t be missed if visiting Samoa for the first time.
To Sua Trench
This outrageously photogenic spot is a Samoan icon, skip it to your everlasting regret. More akin to a giant sinkhole than a trench, its sheer, green-draped rock walls plummet 20-odd metres to the almost hallucinatory-blue waters of the magnificent pool below. Swimming access is via a daunting but sturdy wooden ladder, a climb that once overcome is definitely worth the effort.
Take a stroll through the sites beautifully manicured gardens, and you’ll stumble upon a meandering walk-way that brings you face to face with the full force of the ocean, kept at bay only by the majestic cliffs that have sheltered this iconic site for centuries.
Location:
Upolu, South Eastern Landmark (15mins from Sinalei) view map here
Getting There:
Join our South East Coast Tour Here
Do it yourself by renting a vehicle Here
Robert Louis Stevenson Museum
The Robert Louis Stevenson Museum is set in the Scottish author’s beautifully restored former residence, Villa Vailima. Stevenson had his mansion built in 1890 after deciding the climate and culture of Samoa better suited his health and new found lifestyle.
As the author of house-hold tiles like Doctor Jekyll & Mr Hide, Treasure Island and Kidnapped to name a few, the museum offers a beautiful depiction of early colonial Samoan history from an artist’s point of view.
Take a stroll through the residence’s immaculately kept gardens and you might just stumble upon a track leading you up the Mt Vaea Scenic Reserve, the final resting place of Stevenson and his wife Fanny Osborne.
Location:
Upolu, Northern Landmark (15mins from Sinalei) view map here
Getting There:
Join our Apia Town Tour Here
Do it yourself by renting a vehicle Here
Faisua Giant Clam Reserve
The spectacular giant clam sanctuary is set amongst the solace of an unfrequented bay along the South Western Coast of Upolu Island. This must see attraction is one that is often missed by many, much to their uninformed loss, so do not be surprised if you end up snorkelling this colourful reserve alone.
Visit Le Valasi’s Beach Fales to pay a small fee and get directions, but be careful not to touch the giant clams as they close quickly.
We say do it, but in the same breath like to think that it can remain our little secret, so enjoy responsibly.
Location:
Upolu, South Western Site (15mins from Sinalei) view map here
Getting There:
Join our West Coast Tour Here
Do it yourself by renting a vehicle Here
Piula Cave Pools
Secreted beneath the campus of Piula Methodist Theological College, Piula Cave Pool consists of two blue-green, fish-filled freshwater grottoes, only metres from the sea. The brave can swim between them via a hidden 3m underwater passage that’s difficult to find but be weary, it is not for the faint hearted. The pools are concreted in so it’s not a completely au naturel but it is refreshing and the college grounds are beautiful.
If time is in your favour, spend a minute strolling the aisles of the cathedral set cliff-side, to learn a thing or two about this landmarks early routes, as the first Methodist settlement in Samoa.
Location:
Upolu, South Western Site (15mins from Sinalei) view map here
Getting There:
Join our East Coast Tour Here
Do it yourself by renting a vehicle Here
Alofaaga Blowholes
These impressive blowholes in the village of Taga on the south-west coast of Savaii are a perfect depiction of nature’s power in its purest form. Propelling a thunderous explosion of water hundreds of feet up into the air, this display of waterworks are particularly exciting when locals throw coconuts into the holes. But do be mindful of standing too close, as this unrestrained force presents an unpredictable means to an end for those daring enough to put it to the test.
Another site of interest nearby, is Pa Sopo’ia Cave. It is believed that this cave is an ancient pathway where Samoan ancestor’s spirits travel to reach the Devil’s Haden at Cape Mulinu’u, the final meeting place before they enter the Spirit World known to Samoans as Pulotu. Ask the local Matais to show you the way.
Location:
Savaii, South Western Landmark (3hours from Sinalei by car and ferry) view map here
Getting There:
Join our South West Coast Tour Here
Do it yourself by renting a vehicle Here
