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Apia, Sāmoa - Things to Do in Apia

Apia

Apia, Sāmoa - Complete Travel Guide

Apia, the busy capital of Sāmoa, sits beautifully along the northern coast of Upolu Island, where traditional Polynesian culture meets modern Pacific island life. This charming city serves as the cultural and economic heart of Sāmoa, offering visitors a perfect blend of colonial architecture, bustling markets, and authentic fa'a Sāmoa (Samoan way of life). The city's compact size makes it easily walkable, with most attractions centered around the harbor area and main thoroughfares. Beyond its role as a gateway to Sāmoa's impressive natural attractions, Apia itself captivates visitors with its rich history, from the final resting place of Robert Louis Stevenson to the impressive Government Building and busy Maketi Fou market. The city pulses with Polynesian rhythm, where traditional fale (houses) stand alongside modern buildings, and the warm hospitality of the Samoan people creates an immediately welcoming atmosphere for travelers seeking an authentic South Pacific experience.

Top Apia

Maketi Fou Central Market

spend time in local culture at Apia's bustling central market, where vendors sell fresh tropical fruits, traditional handicrafts, and authentic Samoan foods. The market comes alive early in the morning with colorful displays of taro, breadfruit, coconuts, and handwoven mats, offering visitors a genuine glimpse into daily Samoan life. Sample local delicacies like palusami (coconut cream wrapped in taro leaves) and fresh fish while browsing beautiful handcrafted souvenirs.

Booking Tip: Visit early morning (6-8 AM) for the best selection and coolest temperatures. No booking required - just bring cash (Samoan tala) as most vendors don't accept cards. Prices are generally fixed but gentle bargaining is acceptable for handicrafts.

Robert Louis Stevenson Museum

Discover the final home of the famous Scottish author at his beautifully preserved estate on Mount Vaea, now known as the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum. The colonial mansion showcases period furniture, personal belongings, and exhibits about Stevenson's life in Sāmoa, where he spent his final years and earned the Samoan name 'Tusitala' (teller of tales). The surrounding gardens offer spectacular views over Apia and the harbor.

Booking Tip: Open Tuesday-Saturday, entry fee around 20 WST for adults. Allow 2-3 hours including the optional hike to Stevenson's tomb on Mount Vaea. Book guided tours in advance during peak season (May-October) for deeper historical insights.

Traditional Fiafia Night

Witness authentic Samoan culture through a traditional fiafia (celebration) featuring fire dancing, siva (traditional dance), and live Polynesian music performed by local artists. These cultural shows typically include a traditional feast with dishes like oka (raw fish), roasted pig, and tropical fruits served on banana leaves. Many performances take place in traditional fale settings, creating an immersive cultural experience.

Booking Tip: Shows typically cost 80-120 WST including dinner. Book through hotels or cultural centers at least 24 hours in advance. Wednesday and Saturday evenings are most common. Look for authentic village-based performances rather than hotel shows for a more genuine experience.

Swim at Palolo Deep Marine Reserve

Just minutes from Apia, this protected marine sanctuary offers excellent snorkeling and swimming in crystal-clear waters teeming with tropical fish and coral formations. The reserve features a natural swimming pool created by volcanic rock formations, providing calm waters perfect for families and novice swimmers. The site also includes walking trails through coastal forest and picnic areas with impressive ocean views.

Booking Tip: Entry fee is 20 WST for adults, 10 WST for children. Open daily 8 AM-5 PM. Bring your own snorkeling gear or rent on-site for 15 WST. Best visited during high tide for optimal swimming conditions and clearest water visibility.

Take a Scenic Coastal Drive

start a impressive drive along Upolu's coastline, starting from Apia and winding through traditional villages, pristine beaches, and lush tropical landscapes. The route passes iconic sites like the Baha'i House of Worship, traditional fale villages, and numerous photo-worthy viewpoints overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Stop at local villages to witness traditional Samoan life and perhaps catch a glimpse of traditional crafts being made.

Booking Tip: Rent a car for 150-200 WST per day, or join organized tours for 100-150 WST per person. Full-day trips work best, starting early to avoid afternoon heat. Choose operators that include village visits and cultural interactions for a more enriching experience.

Getting There

Faleolo International Airport (APW) serves as Sāmoa's main gateway, located about 40 kilometers west of Apia on Upolu Island. The airport receives direct flights from New Zealand, Australia, Fiji, and Hawaii, with connecting flights available from other Pacific destinations. Airport transfers to Apia take approximately 45 minutes by taxi (80-100 WST) or shuttle bus (25-30 WST per person). Many hotels offer airport pickup services, and rental cars are available at the airport for those preferring to drive themselves into the city.

Getting Around

Apia is compact and easily walkable, with most attractions within a few kilometers of the city center. Colorful local buses operate throughout the day connecting Apia to villages across Upolu Island for just 2-5 WST per journey, though schedules can be irregular. Taxis are readily available and affordable for short trips around the city (10-20 WST), while rental cars (150-200 WST per day) provide the most flexibility for exploring beyond Apia. Many visitors also rent scooters or bicycles for getting around the relatively flat city center and nearby coastal areas.

Where to Stay

Apia City Center
Mulinu'u Peninsula
Vaiala Beach
Motootua
Vaimoso
Siusega

Food & Dining

Apia's dining scene beautifully blends traditional Samoan cuisine with international flavors, centered around fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and root vegetables like taro and breadfruit. The city center offers everything from casual local eateries serving oka (raw fish salad) and palusami to upscale restaurants featuring contemporary Pacific Rim cuisine. Don't miss the food stalls around Maketi Fou market for authentic street food, or visit one of the beachside restaurants for fresh fish and lobster with ocean views. Many restaurants close early (by 9 PM), so plan dinner accordingly, and Sunday dining options are limited due to local customs.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Samoa

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

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Ci Siamo

4.6 /5
(1880 reviews) 3

Paddles Restaurant

4.9 /5
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Nourish Café

4.7 /5
(274 reviews)
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Giordano's Pizzeria // Samoa

4.6 /5
(264 reviews)

Phat Burger

4.8 /5
(201 reviews)

Le Lagoto Resort & Spa

4.6 /5
(170 reviews)
bar lodging

Looking for specific cuisines?

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When to Visit

The best time to visit Apia is during the dry season from May to October, when temperatures are slightly cooler (24-28°C) and rainfall is minimal, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. This period also coincides with trade winds that provide natural cooling and fewer humidity issues. The wet season from November to April brings higher temperatures, increased humidity, and occasional tropical storms, though brief afternoon showers often provide welcome relief. July through September represents peak tourist season with the most stable weather, while shoulder months of May and October offer good weather with fewer crowds and better accommodation rates.

Insider Tips

Sunday is observed as a day of rest in Sāmoa - most businesses close and loud activities are discouraged, so plan accordingly and respect local customs
Learn basic Samoan greetings like 'Talofa' (hello) and 'Fa'afetai' (thank you) as locals greatly appreciate visitors who make an effort to speak their language
Always ask permission before photographing people or entering village areas, and consider bringing small gifts like school supplies if visiting local communities as a sign of respect

Activities in Apia