Home › Destinations › Savai'i
Savai'i, Sāmoa - Things to Do in Savai'i

Savai'i

Savai'i, Sāmoa - Complete Travel Guide

Savai'i is Samoa's largest and most traditional island, offering visitors an authentic Polynesian experience away from the crowds. Known as the 'soul of Samoa,' this volcanic island maintains a slower pace of life where ancient customs and natural beauty reign supreme. The island features dramatic lava fields, pristine beaches, traditional villages, and some of the Pacific's most spectacular blowholes and natural pools. Savai'i's rugged landscape tells the story of relatively recent volcanic activity, with the 1905-1911 eruptions creating unique geological formations that have become some of the island's most fascinating attractions. The island's commitment to traditional fa'a Samoa (Samoan way of life) means visitors can experience genuine cultural exchanges in villages where extended families still live together and practice age-old customs.

Top Savai'i

Alofaaga Blowholes

Witness the spectacular natural phenomenon where ocean waves force water through underwater lava tubes, creating dramatic water spouts that can reach heights of 60 meters. The blowholes are most impressive during high tide and rough seas, creating thunderous sounds and impressive displays. Local children often demonstrate their courage by throwing coconuts into the holes just before the water erupts.

Booking Tip: Visit during high tide for the most dramatic displays, typically mid-morning or late afternoon. No entrance fee required, but bring small bills (5-10 WST) to tip local guides and children who demonstrate coconut throwing. Best viewing is from October to March during rougher sea conditions.

Saleaula Lava Fields

Explore the haunting remains of villages buried by the 1905-1911 volcanic eruptions, where you can walk through hardened lava fields and see the famous Virgin's Grave that miraculously survived the destruction. The landscape offers a stark reminder of nature's power, with church ruins and scattered foundations telling stories of displaced communities. The contrast between the black lava rock and emerging tropical vegetation creates an otherworldly atmosphere.

Booking Tip: Free to explore independently, but hiring a local guide (20-30 WST) provides valuable historical context and helps locate key sites. Wear sturdy shoes as lava rock is sharp and uneven. Early morning or late afternoon visits offer the best lighting for photography and cooler temperatures.

Traditional Village Experiences

spend time in authentic Samoan culture by participating in village life, learning traditional crafts like mat weaving and wood carving, and experiencing the fa'a Samoa way of life. Many villages welcome visitors for cultural demonstrations, traditional meals, and storytelling sessions with village elders. These experiences provide genuine insights into Polynesian customs, family structures, and traditional practices that have been preserved for generations.

Booking Tip: Arrange visits through your accommodation or local cultural centers, typically costing 50-100 WST per person including meals. Always bring a small gift (kava, fine mats, or food) as per Samoan custom. Dress modestly covering shoulders and knees, and be prepared to participate respectfully in village protocols.

Falealupo Canopy Walk

Experience the rainforest from above on this 40-meter high canopy walkway that offers spectacular views over the treetops to the ocean beyond. The walkway provides access to the forest ecosystem's upper levels, where you can spot tropical birds and enjoy panoramic vistas of Savai'i's northwestern coastline. The experience combines adventure with environmental education about Samoa's unique flora and fauna.

Booking Tip: Open daily 8am-5pm with 20 WST entrance fee. The walkway can sway in windy conditions, so visit during calmer morning hours if you're sensitive to heights. Bring insect repellent and water, and wear comfortable walking shoes with good grip. Camera batteries drain quickly in humidity, so bring extras.

Swimming at Natural Pools

Discover pristine natural swimming holes formed by volcanic activity and freshwater springs, including the famous Afu Aau Waterfall and various coastal rock pools. These crystal-clear pools offer refreshing swimming opportunities surrounded by lush tropical vegetation and dramatic rock formations. Each pool has its own character, from shallow family-friendly spots to deeper pools perfect for diving and snorkeling.

Booking Tip: Most natural pools are free to access, though some may request small donations (5-10 WST) for maintenance. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, water shoes for rocky areas, and snorkeling gear if desired. Visit early morning for the most peaceful experience and best water clarity before afternoon crowds arrive.

Getting There

Savai'i is accessible via a scenic 90-minute ferry ride from Upolu island, with regular services departing from Mulifanua Wharf to Salelologa Wharf. The Samoa Shipping Corporation operates multiple daily crossings, with adult fares around 8 WST and vehicle transport available for an additional fee. Flights are also available from Faleolo International Airport to Maota Airport on Savai'i, though ferry travel is more common and economical. Book ferry tickets in advance during peak season (June-September) and arrive at least 30 minutes before departure. The ferry journey itself offers beautiful ocean views and is considered part of the Savai'i experience.

Getting Around

Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring Savai'i, as public transportation is limited and many attractions are scattered across the island. Several rental agencies operate from Salelologa Wharf, with daily rates starting around 100-150 WST for basic vehicles. The island's main road circles the coastline, making navigation relatively straightforward, though some attractions require short drives on unsealed roads. Taxis are available for shorter trips but can be expensive for full-day exploration. Many accommodations offer bicycle rentals for local exploration, and some provide shuttle services to major attractions.

Where to Stay

Salelologa (ferry terminal area)
Manase Beach
Falealupo Peninsula
Safotulafai
Fagamalo
Lano

Food & Dining

Savai'i's dining scene centers around fresh local ingredients, traditional Samoan dishes, and beachside restaurants serving excellent seafood. Most accommodations provide meals featuring locally caught fish, tropical fruits, and root vegetables prepared in traditional earth ovens (umu). Small family-run restaurants in villages offer real feels with dishes like palusami (coconut cream and taro leaves), oka (raw fish salad), and freshly grilled fish. Sunday to'ona'i (traditional feasts) provide opportunities to experience elaborate Samoan meals with multiple courses. Stock up on supplies in Salelologa, as dining options become more limited in remote areas, and many restaurants close early or have irregular hours.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Samoa

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

View all food guides →

Ci Siamo

4.6 /5
(1880 reviews) 3

Paddles Restaurant

4.9 /5
(538 reviews)

Nourish Café

4.7 /5
(274 reviews)
cafe

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?

Local Cuisine Italian Japanese Fine Dining

When to Visit

The best time to visit Savai'i is during the dry season from May to October, when rainfall is minimal and trade winds provide comfortable conditions for outdoor activities. This period offers the most reliable weather for exploring lava fields, hiking, and enjoying natural pools, with temperatures averaging 24-28°C. The wet season (November to April) brings higher humidity, more rainfall, and the possibility of cyclones, though it also offers lush green landscapes and fewer tourists. Sea conditions are generally calmer during dry season months, making ferry crossings more comfortable and coastal activities more enjoyable.

Insider Tips

Bring cash as ATMs are limited outside Salelologa, and many attractions and restaurants don't accept cards
Learn basic Samoan greetings like 'Talofa' (hello) and 'Fa'afetai' (thank you) as locals greatly appreciate the effort
Sunday is strictly observed as a day of rest - most businesses close and activities are limited, so plan accordingly and respect local customs by dressing modestly and avoiding loud activities

Activities in Savai'i