Things To Do
in Apia
Nestled on the central north coast of Upolu, Samoa's most populous island, Apia serves as the country's vibrant capital and primary port. It's a charming hub of government and commerce, blending modern amenities with rich cultural heritage, including the iconic Robert Louis Stevenson Museum.
The city also acts as a gateway for exploring the island's lush landscapes, featuring colorful markets, beautiful colonial architecture, and inviting waterfront areas.
- "Talofa" - Hello
- "Fa'amolemole" - Please
- "Fa'afetai" - Thank you
- "Tūtū le vālea" - How are you?
- "O ai oe?" - Who are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the bustling Apia Market where you can find local produce and handicrafts. Enjoy breakfast at a nearby café, sampling fresh tropical fruits.
After lunch, head to the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum to learn about the famous author and his life in Samoa. Take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful gardens surrounding the museum.
Dine at a local restaurant and try traditional Samoan cuisine. End your day with a relaxing walk along the waterfront, soaking in the sunset.
Spend the morning at Palolo Deep Marine Reserve, a perfect spot for snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs. Bring along a picnic to enjoy on the beach.
After a fun-filled day of swimming, grab lunch at a nearby beachside café. Spend some time relaxing on the sand or exploring more of the coastline.
As the sun sets, enjoy a beach bonfire with friends or fellow travelers. Savor some fresh seafood grilled with traditional Samoan flavors.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including stunning beaches and lush landscapes.
- Rich cultural heritage with vibrant traditions and local festivals.
- Friendly and welcoming local population.
- Laid-back lifestyle that promotes relaxation and well-being.
- Opportunity for outdoor activities such as snorkeling, diving, and hiking.
- Limited access to modern amenities and services compared to larger cities.
- Vulnerability to natural disasters like cyclones and earthquakes.
- Higher cost of living due to importation of goods.
- Limited job opportunities, especially in specialized fields.
- Transportation options can be limited and less reliable.
Best Activities in Apia
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Experience thrilling mountain biking trails and breathtaking views at Mount Vaea near Apia.
Explore the vibrant marine life and pristine waters of the Palolo Deep Marine Reserve through snorkeling.
Embark on a scenic hike to Papapapaitai Falls, a stunning natural attraction located near Apia.
Enjoy the calm waters and beautiful surroundings of Lalomanu Beach while stand-up paddleboarding.
Tours
Uncover the best of Apia with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Apia
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning natural swimming hole with crystal-clear water and lush tropical surroundings.
A beautiful natural freshwater pool located in a cave, perfect for swimming and photography.
A spectacular waterfall set amidst picturesque landscapes, offering breathtaking photo opportunities.
Food in Apia
Apia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Oka is a traditional Samoan dish made with raw fish marinated in lime juice and mixed with coconut cream, onions, and other fresh vegetables. It's a refreshing and flavorful dish that highlights the use of fresh seafood and coconut in Samoan cuisine.
Must-Try!
Palusami is a dish consisting of taro leaves wrapped around a filling of coconut cream and onions, then baked in an umu (earth oven). The rich and creamy texture of the coconut cream combined with the earthy flavor of the taro makes for a satisfying and comforting dish.
Koko rice is a popular dessert made with rice, coconut cream, and cocoa, sweetened with sugar and vanilla. It's a simple yet delicious treat that showcases the use of coconut and cocoa in Samoan sweets.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Apia better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Apia Market is a bustling hub of food and local produce where you can find a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood, and traditional Samoan treats. Visitors can explore the vibrant market stalls and sample street food such as grilled seafood, tropical fruits, and traditional snacks like fa'ausi (coconut caramel dumplings).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Apia, Samoa, it is important to greet people with respect, particularly elders. This often involves a handshake and a warm greeting, such as Talofa (hello) or Fa'amalie atu (excuse me).
Visitors to Apia should dress modestly, particularly when visiting villages and attending cultural events, to show respect for Samoan cultural values. This generally means avoiding revealing clothing and opting for attire that covers the shoulders and knees.
Samoan culture places significant importance on tapu (sacred) sites, and it is essential to show respect by not entering these areas without permission and by being mindful of local customs and traditions when visiting such places.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Apia with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Apia
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Apia or Samoa. It is not expected or required to tip at restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments.
In Apia, Samoa, cash is widely used for transactions. Credit and debit cards are accepted at some hotels, restaurants, and larger stores, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and local markets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Apia.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Apia, Samoa with lower humidity, cooler temperatures, and minimal rainfall. Perfect for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and water sports.
Expect higher humidity, warmer temperatures, and heavier rainfall during this season. While it may rain frequently, the landscapes are lush and vibrant. Visitors can still find enjoyable activities indoors and experience traditional cultural events.
Apia at Night
Hiking in Apia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located on the western coast of Savai'i, this preserve offers stunning trails through lush rainforests and breathtaking views of the coastline.
While primarily known for its swimming hole, the surrounding area features scenic pathways that allow for a beautiful hiking experience.
A moderately challenging hike that provides panoramic views of the surrounding area, including Apia and the ocean.
This reserve features various trails through lush vegetation and offers opportunities to see unique wildlife.
While it is a scenic drive, several points along the way include short hiking trails with beautiful coastal views.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Apia through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Apia by plane.
Faleolo International Airport is the main international airport in Samoa, located approximately 34 kilometers from Apia. It serves as a hub for international flights to various destinations across the Pacific and beyond.
Auckland Airport is the main airport serving Auckland, New Zealand, and is one of the largest in the South Pacific. It is approximately 2,600 kilometers from Apia and offers numerous international connections.
Nadi International Airport is the main airport in Fiji, located approximately 2,600 kilometers from Apia. It serves as a key hub for flights coming to and from the South Pacific Islands.
Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport is Australia's busiest airport, located approximately 4,000 kilometers from Apia. It provides a wide range of international flights including connections to various Pacific islands.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The indigenous people of Samoa, comprising the majority of the population in Apia.
Includes individuals of European descent, often involved in business and tourism.
A smaller demographic group, primarily consisting of individuals from neighboring countries such as China and India.
Includes migrants from other Pacific Islands, contributing to the cultural diversity of Apia.
A diverse category that may include various mixed heritage individuals and expatriates.
The Soul of Apia
Discover the essence of Apia through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Rugby Union is the most popular sport in Samoa and holds a significant cultural importance. The national team, known as Manu Samoa, has a strong following and competes at the global level.
Cricket is growing in popularity in Samoa, with local leagues and competitions contributing to the sport's development. It attracts both players and spectators.
Netball is widely played by women and is a popular sport in schools and communities throughout Samoa, often played in organized leagues.
Soccer is popular among the youth in Samoa, with local clubs and competitions facilitating participation at various levels.
Basketball has gained popularity, especially among young people, with many local courts available and community tournaments being organized.
Va'a, or outrigger canoeing, is a traditional sport in Samoa and is celebrated for its cultural heritage, often involving competitions during festivals.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Apia.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Samoan cuisine heavily features seafood and meat, many restaurants in Apia offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes. These may include vegetable-based palusami, coconut-based curries, and an assortment of fresh salads incorporating local produce.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find options such as grilled fish and seafood, fresh tropical fruits, and rice-based dishes in Apia's eateries. It's advisable to communicate dietary restrictions clearly to ensure that meals are prepared to meet specific needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Apia with these cultural adventures.
