Things To Do
in Saleaula
Saleaula is a small rural village on the island of Savai'i, Samoa. It sits near dramatic lava fields created by the Mount Matavanu eruption in the early 1900s, which shaped the landscape and local settlement patterns. The scenery combines inland hills, coastal views, traditional fale housing, and lush tropical vegetation.
Visitors come for authentic Samoan hospitality, scenic walks, and opportunities to learn about the island’s volcanic history.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Faleolo International Airport and take a scenic drive to Saleaula, soaking in the lush landscapes of Samoa. Check into your accommodation and refresh before heading out to explore. Stroll along the coastline to catch your first glimpse of the beautiful beaches.
Visit the historical site of Saleaula, known for its volcanic remnants and the lava fields from the 1905 eruption. Guided tours provide insights into the fascinating history and culture of the area. Relish a traditional Samoan lunch at a local restaurant with stunning sea views.
As the sun sets, enjoy a peaceful evening walk along the beach, where the soft sounds of the waves create a tranquil atmosphere. Dine at a seaside restaurant, savoring fresh seafood dishes prepared with local flavors. Conclude the night by immersing yourself in Samoan culture through a traditional dance performance.
Start your day with a guided hike through the dramatic lava fields surrounding Saleaula. Witness the striking geological formations that tell the story of the island's volcanic activity. The fresh morning air and unique landscapes provide a perfect backdrop for photography.
After a morning of exploration, return to the village for a culturally immersive lunch featuring locally-sourced ingredients. Engage with the locals, practicing your Samoan greetings and learning about their way of life. Visit the nearby church to admire its historical architecture and significance.
Spend the evening enjoying a beach bonfire while tasting traditional Samoan dishes like 'oka' and taro. Share stories and laughter with fellow travelers as the stars twinkle above. This enchanting night under the Samoan sky leaves lasting memories.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🧃Bottle water (1.5L) | $0.50-1 |
| ☕Coffee at local cafe | $2-4 |
| 🏨Guesthouse or basic bungalow per night | $25-60 |
| 🧭Souvenir or handicraft | $5-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Genuine, welcoming Samoan hospitality
- Dramatic lava fields provide unique landscapes and photography opportunities
- Limited dining options in rural areas; many places are family-run
- Smaller infrastructure for tourists compared with larger islands
- "Talofa" - Hello
- "Fa'afetai" - Thank you
- "Fa'amolemole" - Please / Excuse me
- "O lo'u igoa o [name]." - My name is [name].
- "Tatou te le fiafia." - Nice to meet you.
- "Talia mai." - Excuse me/sorry.
Places to Visit in Saleaula
Visit one of these nice places.
Broad basalt plains with contrasting textures and moss, offering stark, otherworldly landscapes especially during golden hour.
Historic church remnants set against lava rock, providing atmospheric architectural contrasts.
Prairie-green vegetation meeting the turquoise lagoon; capture silhouettes of palm trees and fishing boats at dusk.
Candid scenes of market stalls, fale gatherings, and everyday activities that reveal genuine Samoan culture.
Food in Saleaula
Saleaula Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Tar leaves wrapped around coconut cream and onions, sometimes with meat, steamed until tender.
Must-Try!
Citrus-marinated raw fish (often tuna) with coconut cream and greens.
Meat or fish wrapped in taro leaves and steamed until flavorful.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Main local market area on the island where you can buy fresh produce, perhaps fresh coconut, root vegetables, and handmade crafts; great for sampling everyday snacks.
Casual, home-style dishes prepared in village grounds; look for coconut rice and seafood options.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Show deference to village leaders and elders; greetings and polite language are important in social interactions.
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting homes or churches; remove shoes where required and be mindful during sacred moments.
Ask permission before taking photos of people or homes; some families may decline, and that should be respected.
Safety
Tipping in Saleaula
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not obligatory but appreciated for good service; it’s common to round up bills or give small amounts to guides and hosts if you’re satisfied.
Cash (Samoan tala) is widely used in rural areas; some guesthouses and larger establishments accept credit cards, but many small stalls and village eateries operate on a cash basis.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Nov–Apr: Hot and humid with frequent brief showers and a higher chance of tropical storms; mornings are best for outdoor activities, and sea conditions can be rough during storms.
May–Oct: More temperate and drier; pleasant for hiking and outdoor photography; evenings can be cooler; coastal seas are usually calmer.
Saleaula at Night
Hiking in Saleaula
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A gentle to moderate loop around the lava plains with photo opportunities of unique rock textures and vegetative growth.
A short coastal hike with viewpoints over the reef and sea, ideal for sunrise or sunset photography.
Airports
How to reach Saleaula by plane.
Main international gateway to Samoa, located near Apia on Upolu; access to Saleaula typically via road and a domestic flight or long ferry ride combined with road travel.
Domestic airport on Savai'i offering limited services; best used for regional travel on the island, often connected by road or ferry from Salelologa.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Samoan households with strong kinship ties; many villages are led by matai (chiefs) within extended families.
A mix of local service workers and international travelers who visit for cultural experiences and nature-based activities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local teams and school matches are common in towns across Samoa.
Widely played at community and school levels; casual games are common on beaches and open spaces.
A traditional pastime in some communities, especially during gatherings and school events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Saleaula.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy taro, breadfruit, po'o leaves (pulses), fresh fruit, coconut milk-based dishes, and vegetable sides; request dishes without meat or fish and confirm no meat broths.