Upolu

Samoa, Oceania

Upolu, the second-largest island in Samoa, boasts stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant culture. Notable attractions include the breathtaking To Sua Ocean Trench and the lively capital, Apia, where you can experience local markets, traditional dance performances, and delicious Samoan cuisine. The island’s warm hospitality and clear coral reefs make it an ideal paradise for adventurous travelers and relaxation seekers alike.

Quick facts

Target stay

5-7 days

Type

Island

Vibe

Relaxing

Airport

Faleolo

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

8 Best Things to Do in Upolu

1

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit To Sua Ocean Trench

Swim in a stunning natural swimming hole surrounded by lush beauty.

No booking required
2

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Lalomanu Beach

Relax on one of Samoa's most beautiful beaches.

No booking required
3

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Snorkel at Apolima Island

Discover vibrant marine life in crystal-clear waters.

Booking required
4

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Robert Louis Stevenson Museum

Explore the home of the famed author in Samoa.

No booking required
5

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Hike up Mount Fito

Trek to a stunning viewpoint over Upolu.

No booking required
6

Est. 6 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Enjoy Savaii Island Day Trip

Take a scenic ferry ride to the neighboring island.

Booking required
7

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Samoa Cultural Village

Experience traditional Samoan culture and hospitality.

No booking required
8

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Go Whale Watching

Observe majestic humpback whales in their natural habitat.

Booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Not expected

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

No data

LGBTQ+ safety score

-5 (#93 globally)

Cost

Standard

Currency

Tala

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Samoan

(20-50% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Panipopo

V

Coconut cream-filled bread rolls. (National dish)

Oka I'a

Raw fish marinated in coconut cream.

Palusami

VE

Taro leaves cooked in coconut cream.

Fa'ausi

VE

Banana and coconut dessert.

Sapasui

Samoan-style chop suey with meat.

Phrases to learn

English

Samoan

Hello

Talofa

(Tah-loh-fah)

Yes/No

Ioe / Leai

(Ee-oh-eh / Leh-eye)

Thank you

Fa'afetai

(Fah-ah-fay-tai)

Excuse me

Fa'amalie atu

(Fah-ah-mah-lee-eh ah-too)

How much?

E fia?

(Eh fee-ah)