What's your definition of a tropical paradise? Dazzling white sand beaches untouched by tourist, breathtaking coastline, thrilling waterfalls, lush green jungles, laid-back lifestyle, unforgettable sunsets? If that's sounds right, we have good news for you. We have found one, it's called Samoa.
Samoa is a less known island located in South Pacific Polynesia halfway between Hawaii and New Zealand. The two main islands are Savaii and Upolu. The capital Apia is in Upolu where the main international airport is located.
There are two main seasons in Samoa, Dry Season from May to October and Wet Season November to April.
How to get there?
Samoa can be easily reached via direct flights from Fiji, New Zealand, Australia, Hawaii and American Samoa. We flew to Faleolo Airport in Samoa from Fiji with Fiji Airways.
Entry requirements
Citizens from any country can have a 30 days visa-free visit except citizens in the Schengen Area who can stay for 90 days. You might need to have proof of an onward flight ticket.
Language
English is widely spoken in Upolu but the official language is Samoan. It's always a good idea to learn some local words like talofa (hello) and faafetai (thank you).
We went to Samoa for a week in April 2015 and we stayed at Sa'Moana Resort located on the gorgeous South Coast of Upolu. It's only a short 35 minutes drive from the Faleolo International Airport until you step into your Polynesian paradise.
Sa'Moana Resort is ideally situated on the marvelous Salamumu beach, where you can enjoy your privacy in a unique peaceful environment. The Resort is welcoming to couples and families with kids or surfers who love uncrowded reef breaks.
The resort offers perfectly set beach view bungalows and incredible saltwater infinity swimming pools right by the ocean. Every night you can peacefully enjoy a drink while watching the magical sunsets slip into the sea. Every week the resort host an awesome cultural night with a traditional Samoan ava ceremony followed by a lavish buffet and local entertainment.
For the surf lovers, Samoa provides waves year round. You can find good waves on both sides of the island, there's rarely a flat day. If you get lucky you can score some good waves right in front of the resort or you can jump on their surf tours and chase the swell somewhere else. Either way you are guarantee great times.
If you are not into surfing and you get tired of enjoying the paradise at the resort ( if that's possible ) you can hire a driver to show you around the island. The beauty of Samoa is unquestionable. There are 100’s of spectacular waterfalls in Samoa and our favorite place not miss is the incredible To Sua Ocean Trench. Located in Lotofaga village on the south coast.
Its a 30 meter deep ancient lava hole with the clearest turquoise ocean water and surrounded by lush green vegetation. Not for the faint of heart because it is accessed via a steep long wooden ladder where you can have fun jumping off. If you get lucky you can get it all to yourself like we did.
One of the best beaches in Samoa with the perfect white sand and pristine blue water is Lalomanu Beach. Here you can find some of the typical Samoan accommodations called Fale and its located just a short drive south of the To Sua Ocean Trench.
Samoa is a true Polynesian treasure and if you like paradise destinations off the beaten path and not overrun by tourists, you won't be disappointed. We were in awe with it's beauty and would highly recommend it to visit.
