Samoa in February

February weather, activities, events & insider tips

February Weather in Samoa

31°C (87°F) High Temp

24°C (75°F) Low Temp

0 mm (0.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is February Right for You?

Advantages

Dry season at its peak - February has the least rainfall of any month, making it ideal for outdoor activities and beach days without weather interruptions
Trade winds provide natural cooling - consistent southeast trade winds keep temperatures comfortable during midday heat, especially on elevated areas and coastal regions
Perfect water conditions - calm seas and excellent visibility (30m/98ft+) make February prime time for snorkeling, diving, and swimming with minimal wave action
Cultural calendar highlights - February coincides with village cricket tournaments and traditional fiafia nights as communities celebrate the dry season abundance

Considerations

Peak tourist season pricing - accommodation rates are 40-60% higher than shoulder months, and popular resorts book out 2-3 months in advance
Intense midday sun - with minimal cloud cover and UV index of 8, sun exposure becomes dangerous between 11am-3pm without proper protection
Crowded popular spots - major attractions like To Sua Ocean Trench and Lalomanu Beach experience their highest visitor numbers, affecting the peaceful atmosphere Samoa is known for

Best Activities in February

Upolu Island Coastal Snorkeling

February's calm seas and crystal-clear water make this the absolute best month for snorkeling around Upolu's fringing reefs. Water temperature sits at a comfortable 28°C (82°F) with visibility extending 25-30m (82-98ft). The lack of rainfall means no runoff clouding coastal waters. Early morning sessions (7-9am) offer the calmest conditions before trade winds pick up.

Booking Tip: Book through certified operators 7-10 days ahead as weather reliability makes February extremely popular. Tours typically cost WST$80-120 ($30-45 USD) and include equipment. Look for operators with marine biology guides who can explain coral spawning activity that peaks in February.

Savai'i Highlands Hiking

The dry conditions make February perfect for tackling Samoa's volcanic interior. Trails to Mount Silisili (1,858m/6,096ft) and through Falealupo Rainforest Preserve are at their most accessible with minimal mud and clear mountain views. Cooler temperatures at elevation (18-22°C/64-72°F) provide relief from coastal humidity.

Booking Tip: Independent hiking is possible, but guided tours (WST$150-200/$55-75 USD) provide cultural context and safety. Book 5-7 days ahead. Start before 6am to avoid afternoon heat buildup. Ensure guides are certified by Samoa Tourism Authority.

Traditional Village Cultural Immersion

February's dry weather coincides with village preparation season for upcoming ceremonies. This is when you'll see traditional crafts like siapo (bark cloth) making and fine mat weaving in full swing. Villages are most welcoming during this productive season, and outdoor fiafia performances happen without weather concerns.

Booking Tip: Arrange through village tourism committees rather than commercial operators for real feels. Costs typically WST$40-80 ($15-30 USD) per person including traditional meal. Book 3-5 days ahead and always bring gifts (tinned corned beef or fine mats from Apia market).

Apia Harbor and Coastal Cycling

Trade winds make February ideal for cycling Samoa's coastal roads. The 45km (28-mile) loop around Upolu's eastern peninsula offers impressive ocean views with consistent cooling breezes. Early morning rides (6-9am) avoid both heat and tourist traffic, while the dry season ensures reliable road conditions.

Booking Tip: Quality bike rentals cost WST$25-40 ($9-15 USD) per day. Book 2-3 days ahead during peak season. Look for operators offering basic mechanical support and route guidance. Avoid cycling between 10am-3pm due to intense sun exposure.

South Coast Swimming Hole Tours

February's low rainfall means swimming holes like To Sua Ocean Trench and Togitogiga Falls are at optimal levels - deep enough for swimming but not dangerously swollen. Water temperatures are perfect at 26-27°C (79-81°F), and the lack of recent rains ensures crystal-clear water for photography.

Booking Tip: Popular spots require early arrival (before 9am) or late afternoon visits (after 4pm) to avoid crowds. Entry fees range WST$15-30 ($6-11 USD). Consider hiring local guides (WST$50-70/$18-26 USD) who know lesser-visited spots with similar beauty but fewer tourists.

Inter-island Ferry Adventures

February offers the calmest seas for ferry travel between Upolu and Savai'i islands. The 1.5-hour journey becomes scenic rather than endurance test, with frequent dolphin sightings and clear views of both islands. Reliable schedules mean better planning for multi-island itineraries.

Booking Tip: Ferry tickets cost WST$25-35 ($9-13 USD) per person each way. Book morning departures for calmest conditions. Vehicle transport adds WST$60-80 ($22-30 USD). Purchase tickets day before during peak season as services can fill up.

February Events & Festivals

Throughout February

Samoa International Cricket Tournament

Village cricket tournaments reach their peak in February's dry season, with inter-village competitions happening across both islands. These aren't just sports events but major social gatherings with traditional food, dancing, and community celebration. Matches use unique Samoan rules and equipment.

Mid to Late February

Teuila Tourism Festival Preparation

While the main festival occurs in September, February marks the beginning of preparation season. Villages start practicing traditional dances and crafts demonstrations. Visitors can observe artisans preparing materials and communities organizing, offering insight into Samoa's cultural preparation processes.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

High SPF reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 50+) - UV index reaches 8 daily and reflection off water intensifies exposure during snorkeling and beach activities

Lightweight long-sleeve UV shirts - essential for 11am-3pm sun protection when exploring outdoor attractions like markets and archaeological sites

Quick-dry hiking pants - for comfortable highland hiking and village visits where cultural dress codes require covered legs

Water shoes with good grip - volcanic rock and coral around swimming holes and beaches can be sharp and slippery when wet

Lightweight rain jacket or poncho - while February is dry, occasional afternoon showers last 20-30 minutes and can be intense

Insect repellent with DEET 30%+ - trade winds reduce mosquitoes but highland areas and village settings still have active populations

Sarong or lavalava - essential for village visits and temple entry, also doubles as beach towel and privacy screen

Cash in small bills - many attractions and local services don't accept cards, and having WST$5-20 notes makes transactions smoother

Portable phone charger - for GPS navigation on hiking trails and long days exploring remote areas where charging isn't available

Reef-safe toiletries - regular soaps and shampoos damage coral reefs that you'll be swimming near daily

Insider Knowledge

Shop at Fugalei Fresh Produce Market on Saturday mornings (6-8am) for the best selection of tropical fruits at local prices, before tourist crowds arrive and vendors raise prices by 50-100%

Book accommodations on the south coast rather than Apia area - you'll save 30-40% on rates while being closer to the best swimming holes and snorkeling spots that most visitors come to see

Carry small denominations of tala (WST$2, $5, $10 notes) - many village attractions, church donations, and local transport require exact change, and breaking large bills can be difficult outside Apia

Time village visits for late afternoon (4-6pm) when families gather and are most welcoming to visitors, but always ask permission before photographing people or entering traditional buildings

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating sun intensity - many visitors get severe burns within 30 minutes of midday exposure, not realizing that Samoa's proximity to the equator makes UV rays significantly stronger than temperate climates

Overpacking activities into midday hours - the combination of heat, humidity, and intense sun makes 11am-3pm unsuitable for outdoor activities, yet tourists often plan full-day schedules without heat breaks

Wearing inappropriate clothing to villages - showing up in beach attire to cultural sites or villages causes offense and may result in being turned away from attractions or ceremonies