Things To Do
in Samamea
Samamea is a quiet coastal village in Samoa, where turquoise lagoons meet lush tropical hills. Visitors are welcomed by warm, friendly locals and a pace of life that invites long sunsets and relaxed exploration. The area showcases traditional Samoan village life, with fale-style guest stays and open-air markets.
This is a place to unwind, snorkel near coral reefs, and experience genuine Polynesian hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Faleolo International Airport and transfer to your accommodation in Samamea. Take time to settle in and enjoy the breathtaking views of the ocean from your hotel. A leisurely breakfast will set the tone for what promises to be an unforgettable stay.
Explore the local area at your own pace, visiting nearby beaches or strolling along the scenic coastline. Consider indulging in a traditional Samoan lunch at a nearby restaurant, savoring fresh seafood and local cuisines. You may also choose to relax by the pool or engage in a book while soaking up the sun.
As night falls, enjoy a traditional Samoan Lovo feast, where food is cooked in an earth oven. Dive into a cultural experience by attending a dance performance showcasing Polynesian arts and stories. Wind down with a calming walk along the beach, soaking in the peaceful sounds of the ocean.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before heading out for a hike in the lush rainforest surrounding Samamea. Explore hidden waterfalls and enjoy the vibrant flora and fauna, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the island. Guided tours are available if you prefer to have an expert lead the way.
After your hike, savor a picnic lunch amidst nature, enjoying local fruits and snacks. Spend the afternoon snorkeling at a nearby coral reef, discovering the colorful marine life unique to Samoan waters. Alternatively, relax on a secluded beach with a book in hand or take a refreshing swim.
Return to your accommodation for a stunning sunset view while enjoying cocktail hour. Explore gourmet dining options at local eateries, sampling dishes inspired by Samoan and Pacific Rim flavors. End the night with stargazing on the beach, marveling at the clear night sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🥥Fresh coconut | $1-2 |
| 🛍️Local craft souvenir | $5-20 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-5 |
| 🚕Taxi within town | $3-7 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm, welcoming culture and friendly locals
- Beautiful lagoons, beaches, and island scenery
- Authentic village experiences and strong cultural traditions
- Accessible on a compact island with manageable travel distances
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options outside Apia
- Remote location can mean higher travel costs and longer flights
- Healthcare facilities are limited outside Apia; plan for emergencies
- "Talofa" - Hello
- "Fa'afetai" - Thank you
- "Fa'amolemole" - Please / Excuse me
- "Tofa" - Goodbye
- "Manuia le aso" - Have a good day
Places to Visit in Samamea
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic snorkeling spot with clear turquoise water and reef life, ideal for underwater and landscape photography.
Dramatic cliffside scene with a lush green amphitheater and deep blue water—great for wide-angle shots.
River pool and waterfall where you can shoot cascading water and natural rock formations.
Cemetery viewpoint and surrounding hills offer sweeping coastal vistas at sunset.
Golden-hour seascapes with boats, palm trees, and harbor activity.
Food in Samamea
Samamea Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Tuna marinated in lime juice, coconut milk, onion, and herbs, typically served with chili and coconut cream.
Must-Try!
Taro leaves wrapped around coconut cream and often meat, baked in an umu for a rich, creamy flavor.
Samoan style chop suey with noodles, vegetables, and meat in a savory sauce.
Meats and vegetables cooked underground in an umu, a traditional communal cooking method.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market with fresh fish, taro, coconuts, fruit stalls, and prepared snacks.
Local farmers selling produce, coconut products, and ready-to-eat bites.
Grilled fish, cassava, and tropical fruit along coastal roads.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a warm 'Talofa' and make eye contact; handshakes are common among locals.
Dress modestly in villages; shoulders and knees covered when visiting churches or traditional spaces.
Ask for a person’s name and use appropriate titles; it is polite to offer food and share with guests.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in private homes or villages.
Safety
Tipping in Samamea
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a widely expected practice in Samoa; many services include a service charge. If you receive exceptional service, a small tip is appreciated but not required.
Cash is widely used in markets and local eateries; some larger establishments accept cards in Apia. ATMs are available in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
High humidity, frequent tropical showers, and lush vegetation. Pack quick-dry clothing and rain gear; expect occasional waterlogged trails.
Generally sunnier and drier with pleasant afternoons and cooler evenings. Great for hiking and outdoor photography; sea conditions are typically calmer.
Samamea at Night
Hiking in Samamea
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short, scenic hike to a river pool and waterfall near Apia with photo-friendly cascades.
A moderate climb to a scenic overlook with coastal views and the Stevenson Memorial at the top.
A coastal trail leading to the famous cliffside trench, ideal for dramatic photography and swims.
Coastal trails with palm groves and opportunities to explore waterfalls nearby.
Airports
How to reach Samamea by plane.
Main international gateway to Samoa, about a 40–60 minute drive from Apia depending on road conditions.
Domestic airport offering flights to nearby islands and charter services; convenient for quick hops from Apia.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population; strong family and communal ties; language Samoa is widely spoken.
Visitors from New Zealand, Australia, the United States, and Europe, drawn to the islands’ culture and beaches.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Samoa; games and community events are common.
A widely played recreational sport at schools and beaches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Samamea.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most markets offer fresh vegetables, coconut-based curries, and root dishes; ask for tamaisi style coconut stew and taro, or request oka with vegetables instead of fish.