Samoa in October

October weather, activities, events & insider tips

October Weather in Samoa

30°C (86°F) High Temp

23°C (74°F) Low Temp

0 mm (0.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is October Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect transition month - dry season begins with minimal rainfall but temperatures haven't peaked yet, ideal for outdoor activities
Tourist season hasn't fully ramped up yet - accommodations 30-40% cheaper than December-March peak season
Trade winds strengthen in October providing natural cooling, making 30°C (86°F) feel more comfortable than humid months
October marks the start of optimal diving and snorkeling season with 25-30m (82-98 ft) visibility as seas calm after rainy season

Considerations

Still 10 rainy days expected with sudden afternoon downpours that can disrupt outdoor plans for 1-2 hours
Humidity remains high at 70% making midday activities feel oppressive - plan indoor breaks 11am-2pm
Some tour operators still on reduced schedules transitioning from wet season - fewer departure times for popular activities

Best Activities in October

Upolu Island Snorkeling and Beach Tours

October's calm seas and improving visibility make this ideal for exploring coral gardens around Upolu. Water temperature holds steady at 26°C (79°F) and morning conditions are typically glass-calm. The transition from wet season means fewer tourists at popular spots like Lalomanu Beach.

Booking Tip: Book 7-10 days ahead through licensed marine operators. Tours typically cost WST$180-250 (USD$65-90) including equipment. Morning departures 8-9am avoid afternoon weather changes. Look for operators with covered boats for sudden showers.

Savai'i Lava Field and Cultural Tours

October's drier conditions make the Saleaula lava fields more accessible after wet season erosion repairs. Cooler mornings are perfect for walking the 2 km (1.2 mile) lava field trail. Local villages resume full cultural demonstration schedules after harvest season.

Booking Tip: Full-day tours typically WST$300-400 (USD$110-145) including inter-island ferry. Book 5-7 days ahead as October sees increasing demand. Choose tours departing before 7am from Upolu to maximize cool morning exploration time.

Waterfall Swimming Expeditions

October offers the best of both worlds - waterfalls still flowing strong from wet season but trails becoming more manageable. Papapapaitai Falls and Sopoaga Falls have maximum flow while access roads improve. Water temperatures remain refreshing at 24°C (75°F).

Booking Tip: Half-day waterfall tours range WST$120-180 (USD$43-65). Book with operators providing proper hiking footwear for muddy trails. Choose tours with 4WD vehicles as some access roads still soft from wet season.

Traditional Village Stay Experiences

October coincides with post-harvest celebrations and traditional food preparation seasons. Villages are more active with cultural activities, and the cooling weather makes sleeping in traditional fales more comfortable. This is when families prepare for upcoming festive seasons.

Booking Tip: Village stays cost WST$80-150 (USD$29-54) per night including meals. Book minimum 14 days ahead through village councils or cultural tourism operators. October availability limited as this is prime season for cultural activities.

Apia Markets and Food Tours

October brings abundant local produce including ulu (breadfruit), taro, and tropical fruits at peak freshness. Morning market temperatures are more comfortable, and this is when traditional earth oven (umu) cooking demonstrations resume regular schedules after wet season.

Booking Tip: Food tours typically WST$100-160 (USD$36-58) for 4-5 hours including tastings. Book for early morning starts (6-7am) when produce selection is best and temperatures coolest. Saturday markets offer the most variety.

October Events & Festivals

Late October

Teuila Festival Preparations

Late October sees communities across Samoa preparing for the annual Teuila Festival. While the main festival is typically in November, October offers unique opportunities to witness traditional costume making, dance practice sessions, and cultural preparations in villages.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Quick-dry shorts and lightweight pants - 70% humidity makes cotton take hours to dry after washing

Reef-safe sunscreen SPF 50+ - UV index reaches 8 and reflection off white sand beaches intensifies exposure

Lightweight rain poncho - more practical than umbrella for sudden 30-45 minute afternoon downpours

Water shoes with good grip - volcanic rocks and coral can be sharp, wet surfaces slippery after rain

Moisture-wicking shirts - avoid cotton which stays damp in 70% humidity, synthetic blends dry faster

Light sweater for air-conditioned restaurants - indoor temperatures often set to 18°C (64°F) contrast

Waterproof phone case - essential for water activities and protecting against sudden rain

Insect repellent with DEET - October's warm evenings bring mosquitoes, especially around water sources

Flip-flops and closed walking shoes - villages require respectful footwear, beaches need protection

Light daypack with waterproof cover - for carrying snorkel gear, water, and protecting items from rain

Insider Knowledge

October is when Samoan families start preparing copra (dried coconut) for export - you can often observe and participate in this traditional process in coastal villages

Book accommodations on Tuesdays-Thursdays for best rates - weekend pricing increases even in shoulder season as regional visitors arrive

Many local restaurants close 2-4pm for afternoon rest during October heat - plan late lunch before 1:30pm or wait until 4pm reopening

October is peak season for traditional Samoan medicine plant gathering - some eco-tours include learning about traditional healing plants with village elders

Avoid These Mistakes

Booking beach activities for midday - even in October, 11am-2pm temperatures with 70% humidity are oppressive, morning and late afternoon are optimal

Underestimating afternoon rain duration - while showers are brief, they can delay outdoor activities by 1-2 hours when combined with muddy conditions

Assuming all tour operators run full schedules - some still operate reduced October schedules transitioning from wet season, confirm departure times