Things To Do
in Apia
Apia is the vibrant capital city of Samoa, located on the island of Upolu. Known for its rich cultural heritage, Apia offers a blend of stunning natural beauty, traditional Samoan architecture, and lively markets. The city serves as a hub for exploring the rest of the island, with a variety of attractions ranging from historical sites to beautiful beaches.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture while enjoying the warm hospitality of the Samoan people.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum, where you can learn about the life of the famous author and explore his beautifully preserved home.
Head to the Apia Market, where you can shop for local handicrafts, fresh produce, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of the city.
Enjoy dinner at a traditional Samoan restaurant, followed by a cultural show featuring traditional dance and music.
Take a guided tour to the nearby To Sua Ocean Trench, a stunning natural swimming hole surrounded by lush gardens.
Spend your afternoon relaxing at Lefaga Beach, where you can swim, sunbathe, or enjoy water sports.
End your trip with a sunset dinner at a seaside restaurant, savoring fresh seafood while overlooking the ocean.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant | $20 |
| 🚕Taxi fare (within city) | $10 |
| ☕Coffee at a café | $4 |
| 🛍️Souvenir from the market | $5 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural experiences and friendly locals.
- Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
- Great local cuisine with fresh seafood.
- Limited public transportation options.
- Higher costs for imported goods.
- Humidity and potential for tropical storms during wet season.
- "Talofa" - Hello
- "Fa'amolemole" - Please
- "Fa'afetai" - Thank you
- "O ai oe?" - Who are you?
- "Tofa soifu" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Apia
Visit one of these nice places.
This breathtaking natural swimming hole surrounded by lush greenery is perfect for capturing stunning landscape photos.
A historical site with beautiful coastal views and ruins of ancient temples, ideal for scenic photography.
The picturesque waterfront area of Apia offers vibrant sunset views and colorful local boats, perfect for evening photography.
Food in Apia
Apia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Samoan noodle dish made with stir-fried beef, vegetables, and soy sauce, often served at family gatherings.
Must-Try!
Taro leaves filled with coconut cream and meat, wrapped and cooked in an underground oven, creating a unique flavor.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market featuring fresh fruits, vegetables, fish, and street food stalls where you can try local dishes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Elders are highly respected in Samoan culture; always greet them first and show deference.
When visiting villages, wear modest clothing and avoid swimwear outside of beach areas.
It's customary to remove shoes before entering homes and certain cultural sites.
Safety
Tipping in Apia
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Samoa, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated for good service.
Cash is widely used; however, some establishments accept credit cards. It's advisable to carry local currency.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect warm temperatures and low humidity, making it the best time to visit for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
This period experiences higher humidity and rainfall, with higher chances of tropical storms, but also lush landscapes.
The festive season is a vibrant time with celebrations, local events, and traditional feasts, providing a unique cultural experience.
This season may bring severe weather; travelers should monitor forecasts and travel advisories closely.
Apia at Night
Hiking in Apia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A challenging hike that leads you to the summit of Mount Fito, offering stunning panoramic views of Upolu and beyond.
Features various hiking trails through lush rainforest, showcasing native flora and fauna, and leading to beautiful waterfalls.
Airports
How to reach Apia by plane.
Located about 30 minutes from Apia, this is the main airport serving Samoa, offering both domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Samoa, known for their strong cultural traditions, family ties, and hospitality.
A growing community of expatriates, particularly from New Zealand and Australia, drawn to Samoa for work and lifestyle.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Rugby is the most popular sport in Samoa, with a strong national team and local competitions throughout the year.
Cricket is also gaining popularity, with local leagues and national teams participating in regional tournaments.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Apia.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Samoan cuisine often includes meat, there are vegetarian options available, particularly at restaurants catering to international tourists.
Gluten-free options can be found, but it's advisable to communicate dietary needs clearly, as many local dishes are made with flour.