Discover Samoa, a pristine Polynesian paradise in the South Pacific where ancient culture thrives alongside stunning natural beauty. From the iconic To-Sua Ocean Trench to cascading waterfalls and white-sand beaches, this independent island nation offers authentic cultural experiences and warm hospitality.
Top day trips
Handpicked excursions within easy reach.
South Coast Waterfall Circuit (Upolu)
Highlights: To-Sua Ocean Trench swim · Sopoaga Falls viewing platform · Togitogiga Waterfall swim · Giant Clam Sanctuary snorkel
Savai'i Island Day Trip
Highlights: Alofaaga Blowholes on south coast · Saleaula Lava Fields with buried church · Afu Aau Waterfall swim · Traditional villages with no tourist crowds
Robert Louis Stevenson Museum and Mount Vaea Hike
Highlights: RLS Museum colonial mansion with original furnishings · 45-minute jungle hike to Stevenson grave at summit · Panoramic views over Apia and Pacific · Cultural heritage insights
East Upolu Coastal Drive (Piula Cave Pool and Lalomanu Beach)
Highlights: Piula Cave Pool freshwater swim at Methodist college · Lalomanu Beach (one of South Pacific's most beautiful) · Nu'utele Island views · Traditional roadside villages
North Coast Cultural Drive and Falefa Falls
Highlights: Falefa Falls multi-tier waterfall viewpoint · Traditional north coast villages and roadside crafts · Piula Cave Pool accessible from north coast road · Afu-one Beach scenic stop
Trips by distance
How far you can go in a day.
Getting there
Transport options for day trips.
- Tours
- Organized day tours from $60-80 USD per person covering south coast highlights or Savai'i Island, arranged through Samoa Scenic Tours and other Apia operators
- Private
- Private car hire with driver-guide from $120-180 USD per day provides maximum flexibility for customized itineraries across Upolu
- Public
- Timber buses cover main routes but are too slow and infrequent for efficient day trip use - suitable for Piula Cave Pool on north coast bus route only
- Rental
- Rental car from $60-90 WST/day ($22-32 USD) - the most practical option for independent day tripping across Upolu. Drive on the left.
Day trip tips
Make the most of your excursions.
Start south coast day trips at 7-8 AM to reach To-Sua Ocean Trench before tour buses arrive at 9-10 AM
Take the 6 AM or 8 AM ferry to Savai'i for maximum island time - last return ferry is around 4-5 PM so book accommodation if planning a late return
Almost nothing is accessible on Sunday - plan driving day trips for Monday-Saturday
Carry WST cash for village entry fees ($5-20 at most attractions) as card payment is not available at most sites
Combine the east coast drive with Piula Cave Pool in the morning and Lalomanu Beach in the afternoon for an efficient full-day circuit