Samoa in September

September weather, activities, events & insider tips

September Weather in Samoa

29°C (85°F) High Temp

23°C (73°F) Low Temp

0.0 mm (0.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is September Right for You?

Advantages

Dry season begins - minimal rainfall (0.0 mm/0.0 inches) but still 10 intermittent shower days that cool temperatures and clear quickly
Perfect hiking weather - 23-29°C (73-85°F) range ideal for To Sua Trench and Mount Fiamoe trails without extreme heat
Whale watching peak season - humpback whales migrate through Samoan waters, best visibility from southern coastlines
Cultural calendar peak - September marks traditional tatau (tattoo) season when master craftsmen are most active before October ceremonies

Considerations

Tourist shoulder season means limited tour frequency - many operators run trips only 3-4 days per week instead of daily
Trade winds inconsistent - sailing and windsurfing conditions unpredictable, with calm periods lasting 3-5 days
Some accommodation staff take annual leave - smaller faleolo (beach fales) may have reduced service or temporary closures

Best Activities in September

To Sua Ocean Trench Swimming

September's 70% humidity and 29°C (85°F) highs make the cool spring-fed pool perfect for midday swims. Water temperature stays constant 24°C (75°F) year-round, providing relief from humid conditions. Early morning visits (8-10am) avoid tour groups and offer best photography light through the opening.

Booking Tip: Entry fee 20 WST ($8 USD), no advance booking needed. Bring sturdy sandals for 10m (33 ft) wooden ladder climb down. Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid 11am-2pm tour bus arrivals.

Savai'i Island Whale Watching

September is prime humpback whale season as they migrate north through Samoan waters. Calm morning conditions (before 10am) offer 80% whale sighting success rates. Boats depart from Salelologa wharf, with best viewing along southern coastlines where deep water allows close approaches.

Booking Tip: Book 5-7 days ahead through certified marine operators, costs typically 150-200 WST ($60-80 USD) for 3-hour trips. Morning departures (7-8am) have highest success rates and calmer seas.

Traditional Village Cultural Tours

September coincides with traditional tatau season when master tattoo artists (tufuga ta tatau) are most active before October ceremonies. Villages like Poutasi and Saleaula offer authentic demonstrations. Comfortable 23-29°C (73-85°F) temperatures ideal for walking village paths and sitting through 2-3 hour cultural presentations.

Booking Tip: Arrange through village councils 3-5 days ahead, typical contribution 50-100 WST ($20-40 USD) per person. Include traditional meal (to'ona'i). Respect photography protocols during sacred demonstrations.

Mangrove Kayaking Falealupo

September's consistent 70% humidity and minimal rainfall create perfect conditions for 2-3 hour mangrove exploration. Water levels stable, wildlife active in cooler early morning temperatures. Falealupo canopy walkway combination offers diverse ecosystem experience in comfortable conditions.

Booking Tip: Half-day tours typically 120-180 WST ($50-75 USD) including equipment and guide. Book 4-5 days ahead, depart 7-8am for best wildlife viewing. No previous kayaking experience needed for these protected waters.

Mount Fiamoe Hiking

September's moderate temperatures and low rainfall make this 500m (1,640 ft) summit accessible without extreme heat stress. Trail conditions optimal - no muddy sections from heavy rains. 360-degree views of Upolu island clearest in September's variable conditions with intermittent clouds.

Booking Tip: Self-guided trail, start before 8am to complete 4-5 hour round trip before midday heat. Bring 2-3 liters water despite comfortable temperatures - humid conditions increase dehydration risk. Local guides available in Apia for 80-120 WST ($32-48 USD).

Apia Markets Food Tours

September brings seasonal tropical fruits - ripe breadfruit, young coconuts, and late-season mangoes. Maketi Fou (New Market) busiest 6-9am when village vendors arrive with overnight catches and garden produce. Comfortable morning temperatures ideal for walking market stalls and trying hot foods.

Booking Tip: Self-guided experience, budget 20-40 WST ($8-16 USD) for tastings. Peak activity Saturday mornings 6-9am. Try palusami (corned beef in taro leaves) and fresh oka (raw fish salad) from established vendors with high turnover.

September Events & Festivals

Early September

Teuila Festival

Samoa's largest cultural festival celebrating traditional dance, music, and crafts. Features fiafia performances, traditional cooking competitions, and handicraft displays. Peak tourist event showcasing authentic Samoan culture without commercialization.

Throughout September

Traditional Tatau Season

September marks the beginning of traditional tattoo season when master craftsmen (tufuga ta tatau) begin work before October ceremonies. Villages hold demonstrations and cultural education sessions about this sacred art form.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket - brief afternoon showers on 10 days, each lasting 15-20 minutes

SPF 50+ broad spectrum sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 with limited cloud cover

Breathable cotton or linen clothing - avoid polyester in 70% humidity conditions

Reef-safe sandals with grip - essential for To Sua ladder (10m/33 ft) and rocky coastal areas

Quick-dry swimwear - multiple water activities daily, humid conditions slow normal fabric drying

Insect repellent with DEET - still water areas and mangroves have mosquito activity

Waterproof phone case - intermittent showers and water activities require protection

Wide-brimmed hat - limited natural shade on hiking trails and beach areas

Lightweight daypack - 2-3 liter water capacity needed for moderate temperatures but high humidity

Conservative covering clothes - long sleeves and pants required for village visits and church services

Insider Knowledge

Village protocols require formal permission (fa'atau) before photography - always ask village chief or guide first, especially during cultural demonstrations

Sunday activities extremely limited - most businesses, tours, and restaurants closed. Plan museum visits, beach time, or rest day. Only hotel restaurants typically open.

Tipping not traditional but increasingly expected from tourists - 10% at tourist restaurants, round up taxi fares, 20-30 WST for full-day guides

ATMs limited outside Apia - withdraw sufficient WST cash before traveling to remote areas. Credit cards accepted only at major hotels and some tour operators

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating water needs - 70% humidity causes rapid dehydration even in comfortable 23-29°C (73-85°F) temperatures, especially during cultural tours and hiking

Planning activities on Sundays - Samoa observes strict Sabbath with business closures, limited transport, and cultural restrictions on loud activities

Ignoring village dress codes - shorts and tank tops inappropriate for cultural sites and villages, even in warm weather. Cover shoulders and knees required