Things To Do
in Apia
Apia is Samoa's vibrant capital perched on the Upolu coastline, where lush hills meet a busy harbor. The city blends colonial architecture with lively markets, churches, and waterfront views that define daily life. Hospitality here feels warm and genuine, inviting visitors to slow down and soak in Polynesian rhythm.
From rainforest trails to sea breezes, Apia offers a compact, friendly gateway to Samoan culture and adventure.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Samoa Cultural Village, where you can witness traditional weaving and fire-making demonstrations. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh tropical fruits and Samoan pancakes. Stroll along the waterfront to admire the colonial architecture and vibrant market stalls of Apia.
After lunch, head to the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum, where you can explore the home of the famous author and learn about his life in Samoa. Take a guided tour through the beautifully landscaped gardens and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding hills. Spend some time at the nearby Apia Market, discovering local crafts, fresh produce, and unique souvenirs.
As the sun sets, find a cozy restaurant along the waterfront for dinner, where you can enjoy local delicacies like palusami and fresh fish. After your meal, take a peaceful walk along the beach, soaking in the tranquil sounds of the ocean. End your evening with a visit to a lively bar featuring traditional Samoan music and dance performances.
Wake up early and head to the beautiful Lalomanu Beach for a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters. Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the coastline at your own pace, surrounded by stunning views of the lush landscape. Enjoy a packed breakfast on the beach, listening to the gentle waves lapping at the shore.
After some fun in the sun, indulge in a beachside lunch at one of the local fales offering fresh seafood and tropical drinks. Spend the afternoon snorkeling in the vibrant coral reefs nearby, where you can encounter colorful fish and marine life. Take some time to relax on the beach, soaking up the sun or reading a book under a shady palm tree.
As dusk approaches, gather around a beach bonfire for a traditional Samoan umu feast, where you can enjoy various meats and vegetables cooked in an underground oven. Share stories and laughter with fellow travelers and locals, immersing yourself in the warm atmosphere. Conclude your day by stargazing on the beach, marveling at the clear night sky above.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $40-60 |
| 🏨1 night in mid-range hotel | $100-180 |
| 🛍️Local souvenir | $5-25 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short city trip) | $5-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm hospitality and rich culture
- Convenient access to nature and beaches
- Compact city center easy to explore on foot
- Limited direct international flight options compared with larger hubs
- Smaller selection of mainstream shopping and brands
- "Talofa" - Hello
- "Fa'afetai" - Thank you
- "Talu" - Please
- "Manuia le aso" - Have a good day
- "Lelei" - Good/OK
Places to Visit in Apia
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic hillside estate with lush gardens, colonial architecture, and sweeping views over the surrounding landscape.
A distinctive, towered church with Gothic-inspired design and stained glass accents.
Ocean views, market activity, fishing boats, and sunset lighting along the harbor promenade.
Forest setting with natural pools and cascading slides perfect for atmospheric nature shots.
Food in Apia
Apia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh tuna or reef fish cured with lime juice, coconut milk, onions, and herbs.
Must-Try!
Tar leaves wrapped around coconut cream and often meat or seafood, cooked until tender.
Meats and fish cooked in an underground pit; Keke Pua are coconut pancakes often enjoyed as street snacks.
Sweet taro or banana fritters fried to a crisp and enjoyed with coconut.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market with produce, coconuts, and ready-to-eat Samoan staples.
Market area near Apia offering fresh fruit, coconuts, and local snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respectful dress is appreciated, particularly in churches and more traditional settings.
A friendly handshake with a smile is common; avoid loud behavior in public and observe local etiquette in ceremonies.
Safety
Tipping in Apia
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory, but rounding up or leaving a small tip for good service is appreciated in hotels and restaurants.
Cash in Samoan Tala is widely used; many places accept credit/debit cards, especially hotels and larger restaurants. Some markets and small vendors may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm and humid with frequent showers; stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and plan water-based activities in mornings.
Milder evenings with daytime heat around the mid- to high-20s°C; rain can occur but is less frequent than in summer.
Apia at Night
Hiking in Apia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short-to-moderate hike with panoramic views over Apia and the coastline.
Forest trail leading to natural pools and slides popular for a refreshing dip.
Airports
How to reach Apia by plane.
Main international gateway to Samoa, located about 40-50 minutes from Apia by car. Flights connect via Auckland and other regional hubs.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority group with strong extended family networks and cultural traditions.
Significant communities of Europeans, New Zealanders, Australians, and other Pacific Islanders.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The dominant sport in Samoa; expect local matches and community leagues.
Popular recreational and organized leagues with beachside pickup games.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Apia.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Navigate by choosing taro, breadfruit, yams, coconuts, fruits, vegetables, and rice; ask for vegetable-based dishes and avoid meat or fish if necessary.