10 Best Day Tours of Apia 🍍 2025

Last Updated: 30 July, 2025

Explore the Capital of Samoa with the Guided Day Tours of Apia

Samoa‘s capital isn’t just a city where locals go to work. This is a vibrant hub radiating Polynesian charm with vibrant markets and fale-inspired architecture. There’s fascinating history and colonial influences to learn about, which is better explained through knowledgeable guides than simply gazing upon sights without context to their significance. Whether you’re staying on the opposite side of Upolu and don’t have a rental car or simply want to experience the capital with a local, there are a few day tours of Apia to make the most of your visit.

1. Apia Town & Cultural Village Tour – Samoa Holidays & Events

Samoa Holidays & Events offers an immersive experience that lets you savour every moment of Samoan culture.

On their “Apia Town & Cultural Village Tour“, you’ll explore Apia‘s highlights before delving into the heart of Samoan traditions.

The day kicks off with a tour of Apia’s landmarks, including the stunning Cathedral and historic Town Clock.

Then, it’s off to the Samoa Cultural Village for an authentic Samoan experience. You’ll participate in an ‘ava ceremony, watch captivating dance performances, and even get a taste of umu-prepared food.

After lunch, choose between a refreshing swim at Piula Cave Pool or exploring local markets and the historically rich Mulinu’u Peninsula.

It’s a day packed with culture, history, and natural beauty – truly the essence of Samoa!

Inclusions with Samoa Holidays & Events are a packed lunch, bottled water, accommodation pick-up and entry fees. Check out Samoa Holidays & Events‘ full offering on their website.

2. Half-Day Private Excursion of Upolu – Autobots

Experience the beauty of Apia and Upolu on a tailor-made adventure with the “Half-Day Private Excursion of Upolu” by Autobots. This flexible 4-hour tour lets you explore the island’s highlights at your own pace, perfect for those short on time but big on curiosity!

Your private driver and knowledgeable guide will ensure a comfortable and informative journey, taking you to Samoa’s must-see sights within the half-day timeframe. From what we’ve experienced, the cultural richness of Apia, the historical charm of the RLS Museum, and the vibrant atmosphere of Samoa Tourism’s Cultural Village are just a few of the gems you might discover.

Fancy a refreshing dip? Don’t miss the chance to visit the stunning Piula Cave Pool (trust us, it’s a local favourite). With Autobots, there’s no need to stress about driving or navigation – just sit back, relax, and soak in the scenery as your private guide reveals the best of Upolu.

Whether you’re a culture vulture, nature enthusiast, or simply looking to make the most of your limited time, this tour offers the flexibility to craft your perfect Samoan adventure. We personally love how you can customise your itinerary to suit your interests.

For more details and to book your premium Samoan adventure, check out the Autobots website.

3. Apia Town Tour – Coconut Tours

See it all on an unforgettable tour of the capital with Coconut Tours. The “Apia Town Tour” is the perfect option for travellers looking for flexibility.

Venture on a full-day exploration of the capital’s reputable museums, cultural sites and stunning natural wonders with irresistible inclusions.

This dynamic tour allows you to not only visit but fully experience four of your bucket list items from a huge list: the National Museum of Samoa, Robert Louis Stevenson Museum, Leulumoega Fine Art Museum, Market, Mulivai Cathedral, Samoa Culture Village, Manumea Art Studio, Papaseea Sliding Rock, Taula Factory, Faleata Golf Course (equipment provided), Faleata Mangroves, cooking traditional food at the Aleisa Plantation, a social paddle at Nafanua Outrigger Canoe Club (Tuesdays only) or hike the Robert Louis Tomb Trail.

Inclusions with Coconut Tours are snacks, bottled water/coconuts, accommodation pick-up, towels (if swimming) and entry fees.

Coconut Tours also offers a full-day “Samoa Bird Watching Tour“, where you can spot native birds in lush rainforests, volcanic coastlines and conservation areas on Upolu and Savai‘i.

Check out Coconut Tours‘ full offering on their website.

4. Apia Highlights Tour – Tour Samoa

Designed for cruise ship passengers visiting Apia, the “Apia Highlights Tour” with Tour Samoa is also a great option for travellers with limited time to explore the capital.

After picking you up from your cruise ship or Apia hotel, you’ll be transported along the Mulinuu Peninsula awash in historical monuments and Samoa Parliament fale. Visit the bustling Fugalei Market for its tropical food, crafts and cultural ambience before stepping inside the magnificent Immaculate Conception Cathedral.

Just outside of Apia, you’ll tour the fascinating Robert Louis Stevenson Museum before crossing the island for lunch and a show at Maninoa Beach.

Note that this specific tour only operates on Saturdays if the quota of a minimum of 15 people is met. If this doesn’t suit, try the alternative Half-Day Island Tour or Full-Day Tour of Apia and Upolu, as listed in the 10 Best Day Tours of Upolu.

5. Apia Township and Surrounding Areas – Samoa Scenic

One of the most comprehensive tours of Apia, the “Apia Township and Surrounding Areas” tour with Samoa Scenic is a half-day experience with morning and afternoon departures.

The tour begins with a drive up the Mulinuu Peninsula to see its historical monuments and iconic architecture of the Samoa Parliament. After learning a little about Samoan history, marvel at more architectural wonders inside the Immaculate Conception Cathedral. Shop for local crafts and produce at the Fugalei Market, and then your last stop is the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum for a tour of a colonial villa and manicured gardens.

Tour inclusions are hotel transfers (extra cost for accommodations outside of Apia) and all attraction entry fees. Samoa Scenic also offers tours across Upolu and Savai’i, where you can learn about the latter in the 10 Best Day Tours of Savai’i.

6. Township Tour – Turipi Shuttle & Tours

Embark on a fascinating 4-hour journey through Apia with Turipi Shuttle & Tours‘ “Township Tour”. This 4-hour excursion offers a comprehensive glimpse into Samoa’s history and culture.

You’ll kick off your adventure at the Mulinu’u Peninsula, home to the impressive Parliament House and poignant Independence Monuments.

Next, you’ll explore sacred burial grounds, a testament to Samoa’s deep-rooted traditions. The tour continues with a visit to the Court House and the enlightening Samoa Museum, where you’ll dive into the nation’s fascinating past.

Don’t miss the bustling Apia Markets – a feast for the senses! Literature buffs will love the stop at the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum, dedicated to the famous author who called Samoa home.

Your final destination? The Cultural Village, where Samoan customs come alive before your eyes. Trust us, this tour is the perfect way to get your bearings in Apia (and snag some great photo ops while you’re at it)!

7. Township Tours – Sunshine Samoa Tours

Discover the history and culture of Apia with Sunshine Samoa Tours‘ comprehensive “Township Tours”. This family-owned company offers an insightful journey through the heart of Samoa’s capital, perfect for history buffs and culture enthusiasts alike.

You’ll explore vibrant local markets, witness the grandeur of the Parliament House, and pay respects at sacred burial grounds. The tour takes you to significant landmarks like the Mulinu’u Peninsula and Independence Monuments, offering a deep dive into Samoa’s journey to nationhood.

Don’t miss the chance to visit the fascinating Samoa Museum or admire the architectural beauty of the Catholic Cathedral. Literature fans will love the stop at the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum, celebrating the famous author’s connection to Samoa.

With Sunshine Samoa Tours, you’re not just seeing the sights – you’re experiencing it with the insights of locals who are passionate about their culture and capital. It’s no wonder we also list them in the 10 Best Cultural Activities in Apia & Upolu.

8. Cross Island Road and Apia Tour – Saletoga Sands Resort

Several of Upolu’s resorts offer their own in-house tours of Apia, making it impossibly easy to explore the capital.

For example, Saletoga Sands Resort & Spa offers a different tour for each day of the week, such as the Tuesday full-day tour taking in the sights of the Cross Island Road on the way to Apia.

Visit the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum, stop by the Tiapapata Art Centre and visit various magnificent churches from the Baha’i Temple to Apia’s Immaculate Conception Cathedral. The tour also allows you time to explore the famous Fugalei Market – a cultural must-do!

9. Apia Experience Full Day Tour – Return to Paradise Resort

Another resort making a trip to Apia easy despite its remote location on the southern coast of Upolu, Return to Paradise Resort offers a trip of not just Apia’s highlights but some fun sights on the drive.

On your way over the Cross Island Road, stop by Samoa’s highest waterfall Papapapaitai Falls, the Baha’i Temple and the iconic Robert Louis Stevenson Museum.

In Apia itself, mingle with the locals at the Fugalei Market and wander around the Immaculate Conception Cathedral.

Finally, throw on your swimwear for the unique natural waterslides of the Papase’ea Sliding Rocks!

10. Apia Township Tour – Ulalei Lodge

Just because you’re staying in Apia doesn’t mean you have to figure it all out on your own. Ulalei Lodge, located along the beach and seawall of Apia’s Vaiala suburb, is only moments away from the town centre but can provide a wealth of insights on their “Apia Township Tour”.

Discover several of Apia’s iconic markets, visit the glorious Immaculate Conception Cathedral and get insider knowledge of Apia’s best sights and eateries.

More About Day Tours in Apia and Samoa

That’s it for our list of the best day tours of Apia, but it’s by no means the end of our advice. For more tours of the capital, guided and self-guided, check out these guides:

Finally, discover more Apia highlights in the 25 Best Things to Do in Apia and 101 Best Things to Do in Samoa: The Ultimate List.

Sources:

The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across Samoa and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:

Samoa Tourism Authority (General travel advice - Updated [2025])
Samoa Tourism Authority Corporate (Tourism news - Updated [2025])
SPTO (Pacific tourism advice - Updated [2025])
Samoa Hotels Association (Tourism trade association - Updated [2025])
Samoa Meteorological Division (Weather forecast and warnings - Updated [2025])
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (Visa and immigration advice - Updated [2025])
Ministry of Customs & Revenue (Border restrictions advice - Updated [2025])
Ministry of Agriculture & Fisheries (Biosecurity advice - Updated [2025])
Samoa Bureau of Statistics (Statistics and travel data - Updated [2025])
Land Transport Authority (Tourist driver’s license info - Updated [2025])
Safe Travel (New Zealand travel advisory for Samoa - Updated [2025])
Smart Traveller (Australia travel advisory for Samoa - Updated [2025])
Travel.State.Gov (U.S. travel advisory for Samoa - Updated [2025])

Our editorial standards: At Samoa Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

About The Author

Laura (Lora) S.

This article was reviewed and published by Laura, editor-in-chief and co-founder of Samoa Pocket Guide. Since arriving solo in the South Pacific over 10 years ago with nothing but a backpack and a background in journalism, her mission has been to show the world how easy (and awesome) it is to explore a paradise such as Samoa. She knows the islands inside out and loves sharing tips on how best to experience Upolu and Savai’i’s must-dos and hidden gems. Laura is also the editor of several other South Pacific travel guides.

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