Things To Do
in Satupa‘itea
Satupa‘itea sits on Samoa’s southern Upolu coast where palm-fringed shores meet lush hills and a warm, welcoming community. It offers a glimpse of traditional Samoan life, with village gatherings, fale-style housing, and intimate encounters with local families. The coastline features quiet coves, rocky headlands, and dramatic sea views just a short ride from the village center.
This area is an excellent base for authentic rural-Samoan experiences and convenient access to nearby natural attractions.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Faleolo International Airport and embrace the breathtaking views during the scenic drive to Satupa‘itea. Once settled into your accommodations, take a leisurely stroll along the beach to soak in the natural beauty. Enjoy a fresh coconut drink while listening to the gentle waves lapping at the shore.
Visit a local market to experience the vibrant culture and purchase handmade crafts. Engage with friendly locals as you try some traditional Samoan dishes like palusami (taro leaves in coconut cream). Spend some time relaxing under the sun or swimming in the clear waters of the ocean.
As the sun sets, enjoy a traditional Samoan meal at a local restaurant, often accompanied by live music or cultural performances. Take a peaceful evening walk on the beach, watching the stars twinkle above in the clear Samoan sky. Reflect on your day's experiences while listening to the calm ocean waves.
Start your day with a traditional Samoan breakfast, including fresh tropical fruits and strong, aromatic coffee. Take part in a cultural village tour to learn about the Samoan way of life and get involved in local crafts, such as weaving or tattooing. Engage in conversations with village elders to gain insightful stories about their traditions.
After lunch, embark on a guided hike through lush rainforests, where you can discover hidden waterfalls and enjoy swim breaks in cool, refreshing waters. Capture the stunning landscapes and unique flora along the way. Enjoy a well-deserved picnic surrounded by nature before heading back.
Return to the village and partake in an evening fiafia (feast) where you can savor a variety of authentic Samoan dishes. Experience traditional dances and songs that depict the history and culture of Samoa. Wind down the night by sharing stories with fellow travelers under the starry sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Cup of local coffee or tea | $2-4 |
| 🏖️Beach chair rental | $2-6 |
| 🚗Short taxi ride | $5-15 |
| 📶1-2GB SIM card data | $5-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Genuine, welcoming culture and friendly locals
- Stunning, uncrowded scenery and beaches
- Rich opportunities for authentic village experiences
- Limited nightlife and dining options in rural areas
- Public transport can be infrequent; longer travel times between sights
- "Talofa" - Hello
- "Fa'afetai" - Thank you
- "Fa'amolemole" - Please / Excuse me
- "Tofa" - Goodbye
- "Manuia le malaga" - Have a good trip
- "Oute fiafia e gasegase i lau fesoasoani" - I am happy to receive your help
Places to Visit in Satupa‘itea
Visit one of these nice places.
A dramatic coastal trench with vibrant blue water, surrounded by lush greenery—classic Samoa photography and a unique swim spot.
Powdery white sand and clear turquoise water along a palm-fringed shore; ideal for wide-angle sea vistas and sunset shots.
Rugged lava rock landscapes that blend stark geology with ocean views—great for textures and dramatic skylines.
A sheltered freshwater pool inside a limestone cave along a picturesque coastline—cool, shaded photos and reflections.
Historic colonial residence with lush grounds just outside Apia, offering classic heritage photography and garden scenes.
Food in Satupa‘itea
Satupa‘itea Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Taro leaves baked in coconut milk with onions; often prepared with meat, but can be enjoyed in a vegetarian style when meat is omitted.
Must-Try!
Marinated raw tuna with lime and coconut milk, onions, and peppers; a refreshing coastal dish.
Meat or fish wrapped in taro or lu‘au leaves and steamed in coconut milk until tender.
Pig slow-cooked in an umu (earth oven), a centerpiece at festive meals and celebrations.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Morning stalls offering fresh coconuts, fruit, vegetables, and grilled street fare from local vendors.
Bustling market in the capital with fresh produce, prepared snacks, and local crafts—worth a day trip for diverse options.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with ‘Talofa’ and a smile; show respect to elders; dress modestly in villages and when visiting churches; seek permission before taking photos of people; remove shoes when entering homes if asked.
Safety
Tipping in Satupa‘itea
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Samoa, but small tips for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are appreciated. Use local currency (SAT) or USD where accepted; many larger establishments also accept cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Typically sunnier and cooler days; excellent for outdoor activities, hiking, and beach days with lower humidity.
Hot, humid, and rainy periods with potential tropical showers and higher humidity; plan for rain gear and flexible activities; cyclone risk exists, so monitor local advisories.
Satupa‘itea at Night
Hiking in Satupa‘itea
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible coastal hike across historic lava flows with dramatic landscapes and seascape views.
Airports
How to reach Satupa‘itea by plane.
Main international gateway to Samoa, located west of Apia; regular flights from New Zealand, Australia, and other Pacific destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Samoan communities with extended families; small numbers of expatriates and other Pacific Islanders in urban centers.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The dominant sport in Samoa with strong local club scenes and national team pride; matches are common on weekends.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Satupa‘itea.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes feature meat or fish, but palusami without meat and laulau with vegetable fillings are common. Request plant-based options and coconut or taro-based sides; always specify no meat or seafood if needed.