How Samoa fits together
Almost every visitor lands at Faleolo International Airport on the western tip of Upolu, the smaller but busier of the two main islands. Apia, the capital and only real town, sits about an hour's drive east along the north coast. The best beaches lie on the south and east coasts of Upolu, over the mountains from Apia. Savai'i, the biggest island, is a ferry ride west from Mulifanua wharf near the airport, and Manono is a short boat hop from the same corner.
The four places to know
- Apia: the harbour capital, with the markets, the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum, the cultural village, cafés, hotels and the main bus station.
- Upolu's south coast: To Sua Ocean Trench, Lalomanu Beach, waterfalls, Return to Paradise Beach and the classic open beach fales.
- Savai'i: a big, quiet volcanic island of lava fields, blowholes, rainforest and long lagoons, with traditional village life everywhere.
- Manono Island: a tiny car-free island with four villages, a coastal walking path and simple fale stays.
A simple route
Spend one or two nights near Apia, then three or four on the south coast of Upolu. Cross to Savai'i for three to five nights, and add a night on Manono on the way back if you want the quietest Samoa of all. Ten days to two weeks is ideal; a week is enough for Upolu alone.
Plan ferry days and long drives around Sunday, when Samoa rests. Use our places to visit list for specific beaches, fales and restaurants, and the free trip planner to shape the order.