Our Top Picks for the 25 BEST Things to Do in Apia 2026

Last Updated: 17 November, 2025

Activities, Attractions and Must-Dos in Apia

Our Genuine Takes on Local Experiences

What are the must-dos in Apia? This neat little capital in the South Pacific provides all the entertainment and conveniences urbanites will love while still offering a quintessential Samoan ambience.

Between its markets, eateries, museums and even free cultural demonstrations, accessing the real Samoa is effortless. Not to mention, there are several natural attractions that just beg to be discovered on the city’s doorstep. Then again, if you want to dine, shop, party or even gamble, all of that is here too.

All in all, there’s never a dull moment in the capital of Samoa, so plan the ultimate city escape with this list of the best things to do in Apia!

Before we begin, make sure your trip planning is complete with Where to Stay in Apia: The Best Accommodations in Apia and The Food Guide to Apia: Places to Eat & Food Tours.

Side note: Our insights are from our personal travels and on-the-ground research, not generated by AI. Scroll down to learn more about our experienced travel writing team.

1. Immerse in Local Traditions at Samoa Cultural Village

“Fa’a Samoa” means “The Samoan Way”, and you’ll certainly get the full flavour of the Samoan culture at Samoa Cultural Village. Happening from 10 am to 12:30 pm, Tuesday to Friday (although confirm the latest schedule on Samoa Tourism’s website), the cultural village starts with a hands-on experience of weaving your own plate for the umu.

You’ll then be formally welcomed with an ‘ava ceremony before seeing how a traditional umu feast is prepared. While your lunch is cooking, discover how ‘ava bowls are carved and even witness a painstaking Samoan tatau (tattoo) being applied in the traditional way. Finally, sit down with your freshly prepared umu lunch while watching a fiafia cultural performance, including fire dancing.

Location: Behind the Samoa Tourism Information Centre, Beach Road.

25 BEST Things to Do in Apia ???? [2023]

2. Discover the Incredible Snorkelling Spot of Palolo Deep

At first glance, it might not look like much. But 100 m (109 yards) off the shores of Apia and under the lagoon’s surface hides an amazing array of marine life that will make you squeak in your snorkel.

Hire snorkelling gear from the kiosk at Palolo Deep and swim out to the white buoy to see an underwater trench thriving with staghorn coral, hundreds of tropical fish, starfish, octopuses and, if you’re lucky, perhaps even some turtles. The latter is more likely to be seen near the tiny island – just so you know. Note that the water is way too shallow for enjoyable snorkelling when it’s not close to high tide, so plan your visit accordingly.

For more sweet snorkelling spots, check out The Best Snorkelling in Samoa: Top 10 Places to Snorkel.

Location: Between the Marina and Vaiala Beach along Beach Road. Tours to Palolo Deep are also available with Coconut Tours Samoa and Samoa Surf & Turf.

3. Experience Culture, Cuisine and Crafts at Apia’s Markets

The markets of Apia are certainly worth perusing whether it’s for retail therapy or cultural ambiance.

The largest market in Samoa and a hotspot for all sorts of cultural goings-on, Fugalei Market is a sight not to be missed. The Flea Market is a more compact version and specialises more in crafts, while the Samoa Women’s Association of Growers (SWAG) Market is a cute Saturday gathering, and the Night Market on the last Friday of the month is a street food storm.

As you can see, there are plenty of amazing markets to go through, so check them out further in the 10 Best Markets in Samoa.

Location: All over Apia! See the link above for specific locations.

4. Slide Down the Papase’ea Sliding Rocks!

Try out Apia’s very own natural waterpark at the Papase’ea Sliding Rocks! When we were there last, we couldn’t get enough of this thrilling attraction.

After walking down an anxiously high number of steps, knowing that you have to get back up them again, you’ll come across the first and biggest slide that locals call the “men’s slide”: a near vertical 5-m (16-ft) slide. Further down is the “kids’ slide”, a much less precarious slide with a little drop at the end of extra fun. Finally, at the bottom, you have the “women’s slide”.

Lots of fun, lots of laughs; what’s not to love? Avoid the busiest times, which tend to be the weekends, to get optimal slide time.

For more affordable attractions like this, check out the 15 Free & Cheap Things to Do in Apia.

Location: Se’ese’e, Faleata District on the outskirts of Apia. The access road turns off Maugafolau Road near the University of the South Pacific campus.

5. Make Apia Your Launching Pad for an Island Tour

You don’t have to miss out on Samoa’s highlights just because you’re staying in the capital. Local tour operators offer free transfers from Apia on their exciting excursions across the main island, Upolu, awash in waterfalls, paradisal swimming holes and glorious beaches. Our most recommended island tours from Apia include:

Coconut Tours

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with Coconut Tours. Their “Apia Town Tour” lets you explore the capital’s gems, while the full-day “Across Upolu Tour” takes you to stunning spots like To Sua Ocean Trench and Piula Cave Pool. 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. Can’t make it to Savai’i? They’ve got you covered with day trips to the island. Don’t miss out – book your adventure now!

Tai’s Native Experience

Join a Samoan chief for an authentic island experience with Tai’s Native Experience. Their “Full Day Tour with a Local” offers a unique perspective of Upolu, including hidden gems and must-see spots like To Sua Ocean Trench. What’s more, Savai’i is also on the menu. Check out their Southern Savai’i and Northern Savai’i day trips. Book now for an unforgettable Samoan adventure!

Samoa Holidays & Events

Samoa Holidays & Events offers laid-back tours that let you savour each moment. Their “Apia Town & Cultural Village Tour” explores Apia‘s highlights, including the Fugalei Produce Market and Samoa Cultural Village. Nature lovers will enjoy the “Namua Island Turtle & Snorkel Experience” and “To Sua Trench & Waterfalls Day Tour“. Tours typically include transfers, lunch packs, water, and entry fees.

Autobots

Autobots offers premium private tours on Upolu and Savai’i, featuring a dedicated driver and guide. Their family-friendly approach includes baby seats upon request. Choose from full-day or half-day excursions on Upolu, or adventure to Savai’i with included ferry costs. Their diverse fleet caters to all group sizes, from SUVs to 26-seater buses.

Golden Eco Tours

Golden Eco Tours provides family-led cultural experiences across Samoa. Their “Sightseeing & Cultural Tour of Upolu” offers deep cultural immersion. Water enthusiasts will love the “Snorkeling Tour – Giant Clams & South West Upolu“. The “Manono Island Excursion” provides a unique, car-free island experience with local families.

Sunshine Samoa Tours

Sunshine Samoa Tours is a family-run operation led by a father-and-daughter duo, offering very affordable rates. Their “Upolu Island Highlights” tour takes you to iconic spots like To Sua Ocean Trench, Piula Cave Pool and the giant clams. The “Half-Day Apia Highlights” is perfect for those short on time, covering the market, museums and more. And if you’re heading to Savai’i, don’t miss their “Savai’i Highlights” tour featuring blowholes, waterfalls and the local market.

Samoa Surf & Turf Tours

Experience Samoa through the eyes of worldly Samoan guides with Samoa Surf & Turf. Their “Full Day Tour” offers a comprehensive journey around Upolu, visiting iconic sites like Piula Cave Pools and To Sua Trench. With a perfect combo of local knowledge and international perspective, you’re in for a treat! Don’t forget to check out their “Snorkel Tour” and “Cruise Ship Island Adventure” for more exciting options!

Location: The tour includes Apia accommodation transfers.

6. Learn About Samoan History at the Falemata’aga Museum of Samoa

The donation-based Falemata’aga, Museum of Samoa has an impressive collection of historical artefacts from across Samoa and the South Pacific.

When we visited on our last trip, we were delighted by the free guided tours available with passionate guides to show you through six different galleries (in air-conditioned rooms, might we add) boasting 3,000-year-old Lapita pottery, colonisation history and even a small art exhibition. There’s plenty here to keep you occupied for as long as you wish.

Get more of a museum fix from the 5 Best Museums in Samoa.

Location: Vaitele Street (look out for the large mural on the building).

7. Take a Tour of the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum…

Another museum in Apia that’s well worth scouting out, the impeccably maintained grounds and villa of the famous Scottish author Robert Louis Stevenson (1850-1895), who lived in Samoa for the remaining four years of his life, are preserved for visitors to enjoy today.

While “Villa Vailima” has had a few makeovers over the years, the home has been filled with replicas to represent what this classic colonial home would have looked like. That’s not to say there aren’t a few original trinkets, books and personal belongings to admire, as well as stories to immerse in while taking the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum tour with one of the museum’s incredibly knowledgeable guides.

Location: Signposted along Cross Island Road in the village of Avele, just south of Apia.

8. … Then Hike Up Mt Vaea to Robert Louis Stevenson’s Tomb

Accessed via Vailima Botanical Garden (see point #8) or the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum, the Robert Louis Stevenson Tomb Trail not only leads you to the tomb of the famous author on Mt Vaea but reveals both fairytale-like rainforest and outstanding views of Apia.

There are two routes to choose from: the 30-minute rough and steep way or the 50-minute easier way that zigzags its way to the top. The latter passes by a magnificent banyan tree. Whichever you choose, good walking shoes are recommended.

For an enhanced experience, go with a local SIM card to scan the QR codes on the “Digital Nature Trail” along the way. This adds an exciting interactive element to your hike.

Check out more places to stretch your legs in the 15 Best Walks & Hikes in Samoa.

Location: RLS Museum – Signposted along Cross Island Road in the village of Avele, just south of Apia. The walk can be found at a clearing in the forest between the Garden Toilets and the museum (you’ll see the sign for the Tomb Track).

Vailima Botanical Garden – Same as above, but the driveway is directly next to the RLS Museum driveway.

9. Explore Vailima Botanical Garden

Encompassing 12 ha (30 acres) of native, introduced and naturalised plant species, Vailima Botanical Garden offers a wonderful free space to explore in Apia.

The information centre here provides more details about the biodiversity of the gardens, while the freshwater pool and waterfall of the Loimata o Apaula stream is a pleasant place for a refreshing dip. You can also start the Tomb Trail (see above) from here.

Location: Follow signposts for the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum along Cross Island Road in the village of Avele, just south of Apia.

Instead of turning down the lane to the museum, however, continue straight until you reach an archway and sign for Vailima Botanical Garden.

10. Potter Around Matagialalua Friendship Park

A neat little area on the Apia waterfront, Friendship Park offers an attractive park for a stroll, to catch the latest community event, and to let kids loose at the playground if you’re travelling as a family.

We personally love the Mangrove Tidal Garden with its boardwalks and bridges to mosey over. You’ll also get to watch locals battle it out at the sports courts, and head down to the amphitheatre to catch a free gig or event.

For more family-friendly spaces in the city, check out the 10 Things to Do in Apia with Kids.

Location: On the waterfront behind the Government Building on Beach Road.

11. Watch the Royal Samoan Police Marching Band

Each weekday morning from around 8:45 am, the Royal Samoa Police Band brings the streets of Apia to life with trumpets, trombones and drums as they march along Beach Road from the Police Station Headquarters.

At 9 am, they raise the Samoan flag on the lawns of the Government Building before marching their merry way back to the Police Station. A sight not to be missed!

For more quirky attractions like this, check out the 10 Most Unique Things to Do in Samoa.

Location: Between the Police Station HQ and Government Building, Beach Road.

12. Indulge in a Spa Treatment

Apia boasts a number of day spas where you can effortlessly find your zen. From cultural therapeutic massages to top-of-the-line beauty treatments, there are spas in Apia to truly make yourself feel 100%!

What’s more, there are some very reasonable massage rates going around, so compare your options with the 5 Best Spas in Apia and start reviving. Plus, find more experiences you can enjoy undisturbed in the 10 Adults-Only Activities in Apia.

Location: All over Apia! See the link above for recommendations and their locations.

13. Reel in the Big Ones on a Fishing Charter

Swap a day of hustle and bustle in Apia for a day on the water, reeling in Pacific pelagics, from tuna to masimasi. Fishing is a way of life here on the islands, so there’s no lack of experienced fisherfolk who can show you the lines on a private fishing excursion.

Troppo Fishing Adventures and Blue Marlin Game Fishing are your go-to charters in Apia, but new ones are cropping up all the time, so check them out in the 10 Best Fishing Charters in Samoa.

Location: Apia Marina, Beach Road.

14. Tee Off at Apia’s Golf Courses

Find sanctuary at one of Apia’s two tropical golf courses. The Faleata Golf Course and Royal Samoa Country Club are both park courses boasting 18 holes of challenges, each winding through the coconut palms.

Let local tour guides show you the ropes (or the clubs?), as golf tours are on the agenda with Coconut Tours and Tour Samoa.

Find the most suitable course for you in The Complete Guide to Golf in Samoa.

Location: Faleata Golf Course – Talimatau Road. Royal Samoa Country Club – Plantation Road.

15. Experience a Fiafia Night!

“Fiafia” means “happy” in Samoan and fiafia nights follow an equation that can’t help but put a smile on your face!

Many will start with an ‘ava welcoming ceremony before guests are treated to a buffet of Samoan staples (just like the ones in the 20 Foods to Try in Samoa), as well as some international favourites.

Once your stomach is gleeful, the show can get underway with cultural Pacifika dancing and, usually, the highlight of the show, siva afi, which is Samoa’s very own knife fire-dancing in the homeland where Polynesian fire dancing originated!

Location: All over Apia! Make your selections, as well as find out their locations, in the 10 Best Cultural Shows (Fiafia) in Samoa.

16. Spend the Day Shopping

Home to talented craftspeople who have passed down techniques from generation to generation, Samoa certainly entices with unique woodwork, gorgeous siapo paintings, hand-printed clothing, natural beauty products and much more – just see the 10 Best Souvenirs from Samoa for an idea of the amazing handicrafts and skincare products available.

With this in mind, browsing the craft and body care shops of Apia is a very viable way to spend some time in the city. You can also kick this up a notch by meeting the makers and artisans with Tour Samoa.

Check out the retail highlights in The Guide to Shopping in Samoa + The Best Places to Shop.

Location: All over Apia! Check out the links above for shopping recommendations and their locations.

17. Have a Look Inside the Immaculate Conception Cathedral

This striking cathedral looming over the Apia Harbour is undoubtedly one of the most awe-inspiring in Samoa, from the outside and within. Inside, the Immaculate Conception Cathedral boasts an ornate timber ceiling and vibrant stained-glass windows.

The original church was constructed in 1884 with the most recent reconstruction estimated to have cost ST$13 million, so go have a visit for the love of funding!

For other impressive churches to visit, check out the 10 Best Churches in Samoa to Experience as a Visitor.

Location: Beach Road opposite the Samoa Tourism Information Centre.

18. Check Out the Apia Clock Tower

Standing in plain sight at Apia’s main roundabout on Beach Road, the Apia Clock Tower is an interesting photo opportunity.

What’s more, it commemorates the Samoan soldiers who died during World War One.

Reading the plaque at the base of the clock tower, however, can be dangerous due to traffic, so check out the Falemata’aga, The Museum of Samoa (see above), to see the full text, including the 60 names of those who died during the war.

Location: Beach Road roundabout, near the Government Building.

19. Take a Tiki Tour Down the Mulinuu Peninsula to See its Historical Sites

On the Mulinu’u Peninsula lining the Apia Harbour are a number of historical memorials that make for an interesting side trip from town.

From the tombs of various heads of state to memorials to Samoa’s German affiliations to commemorating Samoa’s independence, many representations of Samoa’s political history can be found here. Learn more about the individual memorials in the 10 Best Historical Sites in Apia or learn straight from a Samoan chief, as this area is included on tours with Tai’s Native Experience!

Location: Mulinuu Peninsula, Mulinuu Road.

20. Treat the Tastebuds at Apia’s Cafes or Restaurants

An obvious thing to do in Apia, but one still worth mentioning, is dining at Apia’s cafes and restaurants.

Some of its best establishments are the cafes, with highlights being Nourish Cafe and RiVaiv Cafe, with healthy (and obviously naughty) meals in quaint garden settings, while dine-in restaurants like Paddles Restaurant and Bistro Tatau rarely fail to impress. You can even go vegan at the Kure Juice Bar or try the best coffee in town next door at the Coffee Roaster.

Compare all of your best options in the 10 Best Restaurants in Apia and the 10 Best Cafes in Apia & Upolu.

Location: All over Apia! See the links above for recommendations and their locations.

21. Work on Your Wellness with a Yoga Class

While it can be pretty easy to get caught up in all of Samoa’s adventure activities, don’t forget to work on your wellness too. Apia is a beautiful place in Samoa to experience yoga, but with a twist!

For the ultimate zen experience, we recommend joining a yoga retreat. These immersive experiences allow you to fully embrace the practice while soaking in the stunning natural beauty of Samoa.

Discover all of your options in the 10 Best Places to Experience Yoga in Samoa.

Location: Various locations around Apia and Upolu Island, depending on the retreat organiser.

22. Discover Apia’s Vibrant Nightlife

Whether your vibe is kicking back with sundowner cocktails or dancing into the wee hours, Apia has the bars and nightclubs for an unforgettable night out.

The Apia Marina is where much of the party is if you want to mingle with locals and expats. Otherwise, we like the Apia Yacht Club on the Mulinu’u Peninsula.

Plan your night using The Guide to Apia & Upolu Nightlife + 5 Things to Do on Upolu at Night.

Location: All over Apia! See the 10 Best Bars in Apia for recommendations and locations.

23. Cool Off at a Hotel or Resort’s Pool

It’s no secret that it can get pretty toasty in Apia. Either choose to stay in a hotel with a pool to cool off in your downtime or get a “day pass” to enjoy the facilities of a resort or hotel as a visitor.

Taumeasina Island Resort is a popular choice for day passes, allowing you access to two swimming pools and the beach with kayaks and Hobie cats available. Alternatively, Tivoli Aparthotel is a real hidden gem and much less likely to be busy.

Location: All over Apia! Taumeasina Island Resort – Taumeasina Road, Taumeasina.

Tivoli Aparthotel – Cross Island Road, Malifa.

See the 25 Best Hotels in Apia & Upolu to book a hotel with a pool.

24. Try Your Luck at Samoa’s Only Casino

Unmissable on the Apia Harbour, mainly because it’s a multi-storey bright white building right next to the historic Aggie Grey Hotel, Black Sands Casino is Samoa’s only casino. This gambling joint is exclusively open to those 21 years and older, so don’t forget your passport or driver’s license for ID!

Inside, you’ll find gaming tables offering Poker (3 card & 5 card) and Blackjack, as well as slot machines to test your luck. Two full-licence bars keep the drinks flowing, with beer being the most popular choice (both local and international varieties are available). Feeling peckish? Don’t worry, snacks are offered on-site to keep you fuelled up for your gaming session.

Friday and Saturday nights are when the casino really comes alive, so if you’re after a buzzing atmosphere, that’s when to visit. The casino accepts AUD, NZD, USD and FJD, but keep in mind that winnings are paid out in Samoan Tala (ST).

It’s open seven days a week from 4 pm to 4 am, giving you plenty of time to try your hand at becoming Samoa’s next big winner!

Location: Beach Road, Apia (next to Aggie Grey’s Hotel).

25. Experience a Sunday To’onai

To’onai is a traditional Sunday lunch in Samoa, which brings in family and friends not only to eat together but to prepare the meal, with each family member having a different role to play.

Hotels in Apia also host Sunday to’onai which, admittedly, will be more about eating than cooking for the visitor. Try dishes like palusami and food that has likely been cooked in an umu at accommodations like the Orator Hotel and Taumeasina Island Resort. To’onai buffets usually start at midday; be sure to book your spot.

If you’re lucky (and friendly enough), your resort staff may invite you to their church service and then to their family home for a more authentic to’onai experience.

For more ways to spend your Sunday, check out the 10 Things to Do in Samoa on a Sunday.

Location: Orator Hotel – Tanumapua Village, Alafaalava Road, Aleisa.

Taumeasina – Taumeasina Road. Insel Fehmarn – Falealili Street.

More Things to Do in Apia

You didn’t think that was all of the things to do in Apia, did you? Well, we’ve squeezed in more experiences across the following articles:

Finally, add even more to your itinerary by using our other whopping list of 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])
Samoa Hotels Association (Tourism trade association - Updated [2025])
SPTO (Pacific tourism advice - 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 Meteorological Division (Weather forecast and warnings - 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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