51 BEST Things to Do on Savai'i ☀️ [2024]

Activities, Attractions and Must-Dos on Savai’i

What are the must-dos on Savai’i? With quaint villages lining the coasts and the interior remaining an untouched paradise, it’s no surprise that Savai’i’s attractions surround cultural and natural wonders. From exploring mysterious lava caves to gaining an authentic cultural insight through crafting and food demonstrations, Savai’i can’t help but give you an enriching and, quite frankly, fun time! So, see what you could be up to on Samoa’s “Big Island” with a list as big as it is; a whopping 50 best things to do on Savai’i!

Once you’re convinced to go, plan your trip with The Complete Travel Guide to Savai’i and Where to Stay on Savai’i: The Best Savai’i Accommodations.

1. Watch the Power of the Waves at the Alofaaga Blowholes

An icon of Savai’i and Samoa, it’s no surprise that the Alofaaga Blowholes tops this list of the best things to do on Savai’i. Watch a spectacular show of wave power between the fissures of volcanic rock on the coast. Although a treat at any time, the best time to go is high tide. It’s a short but rugged walk that can be slippery, so sturdy shoes are best. Note that you may have to pay two entry fees (totalling approximately ST$10 per person) as the attraction crosses two family lands. Locals will sometimes put coconuts on the blowholes for extra drama. It’s worth asking for directions to the culturally significant Pa Sopo’ia Cave also at the site.

Location: Taga village, signposted off the main road on the southwest coast. Note that the road to the blowholes is about 1.5 km (0.9 mi) of rough unsealed road. 2WDs will just manage but drive carefully.

50 BEST Things to Do on Savai'i ☀️ [2023]

2. Cool Off at the Afu Aau Waterfall

One of the most stunning waterfalls and swimming holes in Samoa (and the South Pacific) awaits down a short and gorgeously maintained jungle trail on the southeast side of Savai’i. Enjoy a refreshing dip in the aqua-blue waters at the base of the 15-20 m (49-66 ft) Afu Aau Waterfall. Pay your fees at the fale just off the main road (the entry sign is easy to spot) then it’s a 650 m (711-yard) drive on a flat dirt road to the car park with a toilet block and changing room. With a reasonable entry fee, this one easily makes it onto the 26 Free & Cheap Things to Do on Savai’i.

Location: Palauli village, signposted off the main road on the southeast coast.

3. Enjoy a Nature Walk and Venture Through a Giant Lava Tube at Laauoleola Cave

The 15-minute forest trail through mahogany, ifilele, teak, kava, eucalyptus and banyan trees is just the beginning… As you begin to approach the entrance of Laauoleola Cave, you’ll hear the unusual clicking of swiftlets as they move in and out of the caves. Then, it’s up to you to decide how far you walk through the large lava tube that is said to span 5 km (3.1 mi) under the surface! It’s a short flat walk (with a few muddy patches) through the cave to the first descent, which the guides can organise a ladder should you want to continue – let them know you would like to do this before you begin the tour. The walk is fully (and casually) guided. The guide has a torch but you might want to also bring your own.

Location: A’opo village, signposted off the main road on the northern coast.

4. Experience Authentic Samoan Culture at the Siapo Demonstration

While visiting the Afu Aau Waterfall (see point #2), don’t miss this amazing and refreshingly authentic cultural experience right next door. Stop at the sign for the “Siapo Demonstration” where you’ll be invited into a local family’s fale for a demonstration of traditional canvas-making and painting techniques. You can even give it a go yourself! From cutting down the young mulberry tree to leaving with a completed piece of Samoan siapo (also known as tapa), the demonstration lasts approximately 45 minutes. For more ways to immerse in the Samoan culture, check out the 10 Best Cultural Activities on Savai’i.

Location: Palauli village, signposted off the main road on the southeast coast (near the Afu Aau Waterfall).

5. Snorkel Among Coral, Fish and Turtles

Savai’i and snorkelling are just a given with a new white-sand and blue-lagoon paradise to discover each day. Popular snorkelling beaches include Lano, Manase, Asau, Vaisala and Faleaupo where seeing amazing pockets of coral swarming with tiny tropical fish is all part of the experience. You’re even highly likely to spot turtles too! Some accommodations hire our snorkelling gear for a small fee, but these aren’t always great quality. For this reason, we highly recommend bringing your own or hiring some from Dive Savai’i or one of the gear rentals on Upolu.

Location: All over Savai’i! Check out The Best Snorkelling in Savai’i: Top 8 Places to Snorkel for locations.

6. Watch the Sunset and Discover Historical Sites at Cape Mulinuu

At the westernmost point of Samoa, accessed via a flat dirt road (suitable for 2WD) through the coconut groves, Cape Mulinuu is home to the historic Mauga Fetu Star Mound, Ana O Vaatausili Giant’s Cave and Vaisuatoto Well. If there are locals around taking entry fees, they are usually happy to tell you about the legends of these historical sites. Otherwise, the interpretation panels here are sufficient enough. Afterwards, catch the sunset from the beach and rock pools of Cape Mulinuu just across the road from the historical sites for a spectacular show (weather permitting) at the westernmost point of Samoa. For more historical wonders, check out the 10 Best Historical Sites on Savai’i.

Location: Falealupo Road, approximately 2.2km (1.3 mi) south of Falealupo Beach on the northwest coast.

7. Walk Among Lava Ruins at the Saleaula Lava Field

Discover the remnants of the destructive Mt Matavanua 1905-1911 eruption at the enchanting Saleaula Lava Field. It’s a short walk to the lava field’s most striking feature, the LMS Church which sits in ruins with a lava flow solidified right through its arching entrances. Walk approximately 300 m (328 yards) west following the sign and you’ll encounter the mysterious “Virgin’s Grave” where the lava flow is said to have avoided the grave of a young girl. Past the church ruins is an attractive wetland viewpoint, then head back on the trail and go northeast for approximately 900 m (984 yards) over an exposed lava flow to the striking lava cliffs.

Location: Saleaula village, signposted off the main road on the northeast coast.

8. Relax and Snorkel at Falealupo Beach

Sweeping white sands and glorious snorkelling await at Falealupo Beach. Either stay the night or hire a day fale at the Falealupo Beach Fales or Se’eti Beach Fales with more than a kilometre of sand to enjoy. Falealupo Beach Fales’ shop sells drinks and snacks should you want to spend the afternoon, while snorkelling gear is available to hire for an acceptable price. The snorkelling is fine from the beach, but the best parts are further out where the beach fale offers a snorkelling tour. Discover more of the island’s best sandy spots in the 10 Best Beaches on Savai’i.

Location: Falealupo village off Falealupo Road on the northwest coast. Turn off the main road onto Falealupo Road at Falealupo-utu village.

9. See the Unique Mu Pagoa Waterfall

Samoa’s only waterfall that plunges into the Pacific Ocean, Mu Pagoa Waterfall offers a unique natural attraction on Savai’i. It might not be the highest waterfall but it’s still an impressive sight to see the Lata River suddenly falling into the ocean with the swell crashing against the cliffs below. This natural attraction is not signposted, so is therefore easy to miss – see the directions below. For more waterfalls to chase, check out the 10 Best Waterfalls in Samoa.

Location: Between Puleia and Gautavai villages on the southeast coast. Take the driveway/road that turns toward the coast immediately before entering the road bridge from the east side. A local should come out of one of the nearby fales to greet you.

10. Dive Among the Turtles and Nudibranchs on the John Williams V Wreck Dive

From lagoon diving among the turtles, eagle rays, clownfish and nudibranchs to a shallow wreck dive of the John Williams V, there are some interesting dive sites around Savai’i for new and seasoned divers alike. Dive Savai’i is a PADI-affiliated operation offering a range of recreational dives, courses and snorkelling tours. Note that they operate seasonally, so check out the Dive Savai’i website for dates. Additionally, see The Top 10 Places to Scuba Dive in Samoa for more on the subject.

Location: Fagamalo village (opposite the Le Lagoto Resort) on the northeast coast.

11. See Fascinating Cave Birds at Pe’ape’a Cave

Named after the white-rumped swiftlets that live in this ancient lava tube, Pe’ape’a Cave is believed to stretch for 1 km (0.6 mi) underground. Although the entrance to the cave is the size of a railway tunnel, guided tours can only take you a short way into the cave before it narrows and becomes too difficult to crawl through. Keep noise and torchlights low so as to not disturb the swiftlets that nest in these caves. Check out more caves to explore in the 10 Best Caves in Samoa.

Location: Letui village, signposted off the roadside on the northern coast.

12. Shop and Mingle with the Locals at the Salelologa Market

Peruse a wonderous array of locally crafted carvings, woven bags and fans, handprinted lavalava (sarongs), coconut jewellery and much more at the Salelologa Market. A sight easy to visit straight off the ferry, Salelologa Market also hosts fruit sellers with their mounds of pineapples, bananas, taro, coconuts, breadfruit, pumpkins and the list goes on. There’s also a small food court section selling cheap baked goods and fried food that won’t send you too far over budget – see The Top Cheap Eats on Savai’i.

Location: Salelologa in the commercial centre to the south of town – turn left off the ferry then right past Lusia’s Lagoon Chalets.

13. See How Samoan Cocoa Beans are Made on a Koko Plantation Tour

See where your Whittaker’s Chocolate originates (if you’re from New Zealand) on Va’ai family’s koko (cocoa) farm. Departing from Va-i-Moana Seaside Lodge, the Koko Plantation Tour has you seeing the koko cultivation process from seedlings to dried cocoa beans. The tour also includes a demonstration on how to make koko Samoa (Samoan hot chocolate) with tastings! Learn more about the drink in the 10 Drinks in Samoa You Have to Try.

Location: Va-i-Moana Seaside Lodge, between Auala and Asau villages on the northwest coast.

14. See Glorious Trees on the Falealupo Nature Trail

An easy yet insightful stroll on the way to Falealupo Beach, the Falealupo Nature Trail is a 400 m (437-yard) trail taking you through a rainforest reserve with interpretive panels to tell you more about the magnificent flora seen along the way.

Location: Signposted approximately 2.5 km (1.6 mi) down Falealupo Road from Falealupo-uta village on the northwest coast.

15. Scratch Your Head at Moso’s Footprint

Not an attraction that you’ll need to make a lot of time for, Moso’s Footprint is a simple hop-out-of-the-car stop on the way to Falealupo Beach. The 2 m (6.6ft)-long foot-shaped depression has an interpretation panel beside it describing the legend of Moso who stepped his right foot onto Savai’i, extending his left foot across the Pacific onto Suva in Fiji. The sign also describes the geological interpretation.

Location: Signposted approximately 6 km (3.7 mi) down Falealupo Road from Falealupo-uta village on the northwest coast.

16. Wander Among the Falealupo Church Ruins

Between Moso’s Footprint and Falealupo Beach is another attraction that was free when our research team last visited but apparently there are sometimes villagers taking a small entry fee to see this site. Either way, you’ll get to view the ruins of Falealupo’s Historic Catholic Church which was destroyed by the waves of Cyclone Ofa in 1990.

Location: Cape Vaitoloa, Falealupo Road on the northwest coast.

17. Hear the Legends About the House of Rock

Guides will lead you down a rough trail (better to wear closed footwear rather than your flip-flops) to a partially collapsed lava tube. While an old legend speaks of the “Rock House” being made as a result of a housebuilding competition between the village’s men and women (and the women won), more recent history tells of the lava tube protecting villagers from cyclones. Some local guides are eager to share the stories if they’re available.

Location: Falealupo Road, signposted at the northern end of Falealupo Beach on the northwest coast.

18. Catch Pacific Whoppers on a Private Fishing Charter

Head out on the azure waters to catch Pacific pelagics, such as mahimahi, yellowfin tuna, sailfish, trevally and more on a private fishing charter. Enjoy a day of snorkelling, fishing and lunch with Amoa Resort‘s own 30 ft boat exclusively for your group of up to five guests (minimum age 18 years old). Alternatively, get in touch with Va-i-Moana Seaside Lodge in Asau Bay for a personalised fishing experience of either a half- or full-day charter on one of their two fishing boats. For more on getting “hooked” in Samoa, head to The Ultimate Guide to Fishing in Samoa.

Location: Amoa Resort – Tours depart from their resort in Faga village on the east coast. Va-i-Moana Seaside Lodge – Between Auala and Asau villages in Asau Bay on the northwest coast.

19. Snorkel with Turtles at Manase Beach

One of the most popular beaches on Savai’i and one of the best places in Samoa to see turtles in their natural environment, Manase Beach is another area to entice. The beach fales just beg for you to stay longer, so either stay overnight or just for the day (see fales in the 10 Best Beach Fale Accommodations on Savai’i). Bring your own snorkelling gear otherwise, Tanu Beach Fales has some for hire. Be careful of tidal conditions, and avoid swimming near the reef passages. Check out more snorkelling hotspots in The Best Snorkelling in Savai’i: Top 8 Places to Snorkel.

Location: Manase village on the northeast coast. Enquire at the accommodations situated on the coastline including Tailua Beach Fales, Tanu Beach Fales, Jane’s Beach Fales and Stevensons at Manase.

20. Indulge in a Beachfront Massage

Treat the senses to a soothing massage in a breathtaking setting. Although there used to be more spa options on Savai’i (and may still open in the future, so be sure to inquire at resorts such as Le Lagoto Resort), you will now have to venture to Va-i-Moana Seaside Lodge for a traditional massage known as fofo Samoa. Choose to experience this heavenly massage either in the air-conditioned comfort of your room, on the deck of your fale or surrounded by lagoon waters in the massage fale on the pier. Alternatively, Aganoa Lodge offers a range of massages and even couples’ spa treatments at their spa fale. For more on finding your zen in Samoa, check out the 10 Best Places to Get a Massage in Samoa.

Location: Va-i-Moana Seaside Lodge – Between Auala and Asau villages in Asau Bay on the northwest coast. Aganoa Lodge – Signposted off the main road in Fa’a’ala village on the southeast coast.

21. Refresh at a Freshwater Village Pool (Vai Taele)

Nothing beats the feeling of cooling off at a village’s freshwater pool, known as a vai taele in Samoan. Easy to spot as you’re travelling along the coast, village pools have a manmade concrete barrier to contain some of the fresh springwater/protect swimmers from the tide. Some pools to look out for include Vaga Freshwater Pools (Lefagaoali’i), Vai Safe’e (Safotu) and behind the John Williams Memorial (Sapapalii). For more activities that are suitable for families, check out the 10 Things to Do on Savai’i with Kids.

Location: All over Savai’i!

22. Cool Off at Samoa’s Most Famous Village Pool, Mataolealelo Pool

Speaking of freshwater pools, the most famous on Savai’i is Mataolealelo Pool. The village pool is associated with the Samoan legend of “Sina and the Eel”, which is the story of the first coconut tree. The pool is split into two sections: one for the men and the other for women and children. Either way, the feeling of fresh springwater during a day of exploring in Savai’i’s hot climate is ultra-reviving. What’s more, the site is well maintained with changing rooms and bathrooms.

Location: Matavai village, signposted off the main road on the northeast coast.

23. Hit Savai’i’s Uncrowded Surf Waves

The final frontier of surfing in the South Pacific, Savai’i provides a number of reef breaks ideal for the seasoned surfer. If you’re serious about surfing, book yourself some nights at Aganoa Lodge, a surf lodge with professional surf guides who know the area and can organise the fees paid to local villages for using their reef breaks. Otherwise, if you’re visiting surf spots like Satuiatua and Vaisala Bay, you will need to handle this yourself and get a good briefing about the rips at the reef entrance.

Location: All over Savai’i! See the 10 Best Places to Surf in Samoa for specific surfing locations.

24. Check Out Safotu Catholic Church

Visit the village of Safotu to check out one of the most significant churches on Savai’i. Safotu Catholic Church is Samoa’s first Roman Catholic Church, made from bleached coral and impeccably maintained for an interesting visit. Learn more about Samoa’s churches in The Guide to the Religions in Samoa.

Location: Safotu village, easily spotted along the main road on the northeast coast.

25. Treat Your Loved One to a Private Dining Experience

As the sun is setting and your toes are in the sand, the ambience of a private sunset dinner is effortlessly romantic. Le Lagoto Resort makes the whole process easy with its “Romantic Dining Lagoon Side” package, which includes a bottle of bubbles, a cocktail, a dedicated waiter, a three-course dinner and a romantic dining set-up by the lagoon. Alternatively, Jet Over Hotel in Salelologa is also said to offer private dining. For more couple-centric activities like this, check out the 10 Most Romantic Things to Do on Savai’i.

Location: Le Lagoto Resort, Fagamalo village on the northeast coast. Jet Over Hotel, Salelologa north of the ferry terminal.

26. Go on an Adventure at Dwarf’s Cave

Certainly the most adventurous cave tour in Samoa, Dwarf’s Cave (Nu’u le Tau) is significant to the local village for its legends. Signs from the main road point toward Paia village, where you should enquire about hiring a guide to take you through this cave. The experience takes you approximately 40 m (44 yards) into the cave, which initially has some confined spaces (not recommended if you’re claustrophobic) that will have you walking, crawling and sometimes wading or swimming. Prepare for clothes and shoes to get wet. Plus, bring a torch if you have one.

Location: Paia village. Follow signs inland off the main road to Dwarf’s Cave from the northeast coast.

27. Hike Mt Matavanu

For those looking for an interesting hike and a volcano to climb, try Mt Matavanu. Mt Matavanu can be found on the north coast and was the volcano responsible for the 1905-1911 eruptions that sent lava flowing 13 km (8 mi) along the coast. Organise a hike with a guide from the village of Safotu or pay your entry fees and they’ll point you to the easy-to-follow road/trail. You can either drive (20-25 minutes) or walk (2-3 hours) up the 4WD track to the summit, providing the opportunity to spot flying foxes and take in magnificent views of Savai’i’s western villages.

Location: Approximately 10 km (6 mi) inland from Safotu village on the road that passes through Paia. A 4WD is recommended for driving to the summit. Otherwise, guides can be hired for hiking via the Savai’i Samoa Tourism Association.

28. Enjoy Some Bird Watching at the Tafua Crater

On this 1-hour walk to the Tafua Crater, your guide from Safua Tours will endeavour to point out Samoa’s fascinating and rare wildlife, such as the manumea (tooth-billed pigeon) and flying foxes. The top of the crater provides awesome views of the surrounding coastline and villages. Bring acceptable walking shoes and binoculars if you have them.

Location: Tafua-tai village. From Maoto village on the main road, take the road to the coast which is approximately 6 km (3.7 mi) to Tafua village. Guides are best hired via the Savai’i Samoa Tourism Association.

29. Hike the Multi-Day Mission Up Mt Silisili

Samoa’s highest mountain and a multi-day adventure to tackle, Mt Silisili provides an awesome adventure on Savai’i. As long as you have your own tent, food, jacket as it gets cooler as you go up in altitude, and any other gear you usually hike with, A’opo village can supply the guide. The trail encompasses plantations, the lush A’opo Conservation Area rainforest, and an impressive crater ridge with orange and white moss clinging to fragile lava rocks. Check out the 7 Best Walks & Hikes on Savai’i for more details.

Location: A’opo village on the north coast. Organise guides through the Savai’i Samoa Tourism Association.

30. Explore the Lagoon by Kayak or SUP

You’ll be hard-pressed to find a beach fale or resort that doesn’t have at least a couple of kayaks to hire. Depending on where you stay, there is a small hire fee or they are free for guests to explore the lagoon until their heart’s content. Be careful of strong currents near reef passages. Learn more about kayaking in Savai’i using Kakaying in Samoa: Top 10 Places to Kayak.

Location: All over Savai’i! See the link above for specific locations.

31. Paddle Among the Asaga Mangroves

A very special experience if you can get it organised (book through the Savai’i Samoa Tourism Association or Samoa Tourism Authority), villagers at the Asaga Mangroves offer guided canoe/kayak trips through their glorious mangrove forest. Although guides are not often fluent in English, they’ll point out interesting aspects of the forest as they go. The relaxed 10-15-minute paddle terminates at a freshwater spring where a refreshing dip awaits!

If there’s no one there providing tours when you arrive, you can walk alongside the stream to a volleyball net where a short trail leads to the freshwater spring.

Location: Tours depart from the road bridge in Asaga village (there is a sign for the Asaga River Pool and Beach Fales) on the northeast coast.

32. Be Amazed by the Views at Lover’s Leap

As you’re tiki touring along the scenic southwest coast of Savai’i, stop by the Lover’s Leap lookout. It’s sometimes overgrown, but if you’re lucky, you’ll get breathtaking views from a clifftop vantage point of the water surging into a small but dramatic cove below. There is a small fale within the barricade where there is sometimes someone to take the small entry fee. Most of the time, however, you’ll find it unoccupied.

Location: Along the main road at the northern end of Falelima village, just past the Mormon Church, on the southwest coast.

33. Join a Village Walk

You’ll drive through many villages during your time on Savai’i but nothing compares to experiencing them at a more relaxed pace. Cue the “village walk”; an activity that resorts such as Amoa Resort and Va-i-Moana Seaside Lodge offer guests in order to share more about the Samoan culture and villages. The village walk with Amoa takes you to plantations where you’ll touch, smell and, if you’re lucky, taste the fruit, vegetable and herbs lining the village road. Alternatively, Va-i-Moana’s focus is on visiting a village preschool. Both tours are very casually guided, taking more of an approach for you to ask questions rather than sit through a rehearsed speech.

Location: Amoa Resort – Faga village on the east coast. Va-i-Moana Seaside Lodge – Between Auala and Asau villages in Asau Bay on the northwest coast.

34. Take Part in a Weaving Demonstration

Baskets, bags, headbands and hats; it’s amazing how many items can be crafted from a simple coconut palm frond in just 30 minutes! Although weaving demonstrations may well be a casual offering of some resorts and beach fales across Savai’i, Amoa Resort‘s Weaving Demonstration is the one we can vouch for. Local staff will start by making a very large and functional basket at an impressively brisk pace – like the ones you’ll see in abundance across the markets. Then, a palm frond is handed over to you as you’ll be shown how to weave your own basket or even head visor much like local fishermen use. Leaving with a cool little souvenir, a sense of achievement and cultural insights is what it’s all about.

Location: Amoa Resort – Faga village on the east coast.

35. See a Koko Samoa Demonstration

Another fantastic cultural insight Amoa Resort offers is the Koko Samoa Demonstration. Join the friendly local staff at the resort bar to not only learn how koko Samoa (cocoa) is grown on the island but how locals turn it into a unique version of hot chocolate that’s made every morning in typical Samoan family homes (and usually doesn’t last long either). You’ll understand why this is after trying some of the smooth cocoa goodness for yourself, which is sweetened just to your liking! Check out more food-orientated tours in the 10 Best Foodie Experiences on Savai’i.

Location: Amoa Resort – Faga village on the east coast.

36. Check Out the John Williams Memorial

Standing in front of the London Missionary Society/Congregational church in Sapapali’i village is the stone memorial commemorating the landing of British missionary John Williams who arrived in 1830 to introduce Christianity to Savai’i. He came at a time of war when he successfully converted the victorious Malietoa Vainu’upo, who accepted the Christian message as a fulfilment of an ancient prophecy of a new religion by the goddess Nafanua. Thanks to Maleitoa’s example, many Savai’ians were encouraged to convert. It wasn’t until some 45 years later that other missionaries started arriving on Savai’i to establish missions.

Location: Sapapali’i village, along the main road on the east coast.

37. Kitesurf on the Lagoon

If you’ve got your own gear, Savai’i is a rewarding destination for kitesurfing. Tradewinds are the most favourable during August and September on the flat lagoon waters in front of Lano Beach. Otherwise, Aganoa Lodge is another popular option should you want to throw a few waves into the mix. Find out more about organising a kitesurfing trip using our Kitesurfing in Samoa: The Top 10 Places to Kitesurf guide.

Location: Lano Beach – Along the main road on the east coast. Aganoa Lodge – Signposted off the main road in Fa’a’ala village on the southeast coast.

38. Listen to the Harmonies at a Sunday Church Service

The powerful harmonies echoing across the churches on a Sunday is an experience not to be missed. Don your most church-appropriate attire (cover knees and shoulders) and head to one of the churches across the island, typically with a 10 am service. It’s not uncommon for guests who have a good repertoire with resort staff and beach fale hosts to be invited to their church, as well as for a traditional Sunday to’onai feast with the family.

Location: All over Savai’i! Check out the 10 Best Churches in Samoa to Experience as a Visitor for recommendations.

39. Tour Florence’s Farm

Stay at the unique B&B experience of Florence’s Place inland in Fa’a’ala village for the fascinating foodie experience of exploring a 300-acre farm awash in taro, coconuts, papaya, pineapple, limes, bananas and livestock. After learning about the Samoan way of life through your friendly hosts, Ruth and Kelvin, you’ll indulge in the farm’s fare through home-cooked meals. Learn more about the accommodation in the 10 Best Guesthouses & B&Bs in Samoa.

Location: Fa’a’ala village (Palauli district), signposted off the main road on the southeast coast.

40. Indulge in an Umu Feast

The traditional Polynesian method of slow-cooking fish, tropical root vegetables and dishes like palusami is usually saved for special occasions in Samoan culture, but there are a couple of ways to experience this special meal for yourself on Savai’i. Guests at Aganoa Lodge are treated to locally-inspired cuisine throughout their stay, including the “umu night” which is often a highlight of the meal plan! Alternatively, Va-i-Moana Seaside Lodge puts on an umu demonstration on a Friday night if they have sufficient guests staying with them (be sure to enquire ahead of time).

Location: Aganoa Lodge – Signposted off the main road in Fa’a’ala village on the southeast coast. Va-i-Moana Seaside Lodge – Between Auala and Asau villages in Asau Bay on the northwest coast.

41. Seek Out Savai’i’s Best Sunrise Spots…

It’s simple but very rewarding if you can wake up early enough (see Savai’i’s typical sunrise times each month in our Weather category). But with many resorts and beach fales lining the east coast of Savai’i, there’s no excuse to not catch one of its breathtaking sunrises at least once during your visit. Highlights for watching the sunrise include from the beautiful beaches of Lano, Faga and Asaga.

Location: East coast of Savai’i. Check out specific locations in the 10 Best Places to Watch the Sunrise in Samoa.

42. … And Best Sunset Spots

One that most of us are more willing to stay awake for, there are also plenty of stunning places to watch the sunset from Savai’i. Although the west coast along the beaches of Satuiatua and Cape Mulinuu are obvious go-to’s, the north coast also captures some stellar sunsets, such as at Manase and Fagamalo.

Location: West and north coast of Savai’i. Check out specific locations in the 10 Best Places to Watch the Sunset in Samoa.

43. Stop By the Roadside Fruit Stalls

The opportunity to buy delicious local produce awaits simply on the roadsides of Savai’i. Many roadside stalls just have a woven basket of coconuts or pineapples; wait by the stall and someone will likely come out to greet you – otherwise, leave cash; ST$5 per large fruit is a safe bet. Other roadside stalls are full huts with a complete offering of vibrant fruit. We especially like a couple of roadside markets near Lalomalavu – look out for the organic eatery under a vibrant shelter selling fruit, vegetables, coconut juice and barbecue food.

Location: All over Savai’i. Lalomalavu is located on the east coast, just north of Salelologa.

44. Then Stop by the Barbecues, Cafes and Restaurants!

Speaking of food, an obvious experience but one still worth mentioning is dining at Savai’i’s cafes, restaurants and barbecues! Admittedly, Savai’i isn’t exactly teeming with eateries. Instead of eating at cafes and restaurants, Samoans are more likely to stop by their local roadside barbecues for marinated chicken or lamb with a side of taro, breadfruit and/or rice and chop suey. Why not give it a go?! Otherwise, there are a couple of delightful Western-style cafes in Salelologa, Lalomalava and Asaga, while resorts like Amoa Resort in Faga, Le Lagoto in Fagamalo and Stevensons in Manase provide a more formal dine-in experience with international and Samoan cuisine.

Location: All over Savai’i! Check out our recommendations in The Best Places to Eat on Savai’i: 10 Best Restaurants on Savai’i.

45. Stay at a Beach Fale

Elevated on the sands with the sound of the waves rolling onto the distant reef; not only is sleeping in a traditional beach fale a beautiful experience but a social one. Savai’i’s beach fales are run by local families, offering a cultural experience from the traditional structure where you sleep to the home-cooked breakfast and dinner shared with fellow travellers. Meals are a mixture of the foods that contemporary Samoans like to eat, like curry and chop suey, to more traditional dishes like palusami with dinner and koko rice (cocoa rice) or supo esi (papaya soup) for breakfast. In short, your beach fale experience is like an awesome homestay including “glamping” on the beach. Learn more about it in Essential Tips for Staying in a Beach Fale in Samoa.

46. Paddle a Paopao Canoe

Lining the coast of Savai’i, it’s not uncommon to see outrigger canoes, locally known as paopao or va’a, that local fishermen use. For visitors, they also make a fun and alternative way to explore the lagoons (don’t steal a fisherman’s paopao though). Accommodations like Joelan Beach Fales and the Vaisala Hotel have paopao available for guest use. Otherwise, the Asaga Mangrove tour takes you on these canoes through a special wetland ecosystem to a freshwater swimming hole. Learn more about the tour in the 10 Best Kayak Tours in Samoa.

Location: Joelan Beach Fales – Lano village on the east coast. Vaisala Hotel – Vaisala village on the northwest coast. Asaga Mangroves – Tours depart from the road bridge in Asaga village (there is a sign for the Asaga River Pool and Beach Fales) on the northeast coast.

47. Stargaze Under Some of the World’s Clearest Skies

When night falls and the weather is clear, the universe puts on the most mesmerising show made all the clearer thanks to Savai’i’s lack of light pollution. Any of the beach accommodations regularly capture magnificent displays of the Milky Way arm when the conditions are right, but to really get away from light pollution, head to remote places like Cape Mulinuu and Falealupo or Mt Matavanu (4WD only).

Location: All over Savai’i. See The Best Spots for Stargazing in Samoa for specific locations.

48. Hit Savai’i’s Bars and Nightclubs

That’s right, Savai’i does have some nightlife should you want to let your hair down with the locals. The best options for overseas visitors are the Harbourside karaoke night on Fridays from 6 pm to 10/11 pm and the karaoke/disco social night at the Bayview Resort bar until 12 am. Otherwise, there are some other nightclubs worth checking out if you can get a group together or go with hotel staff – more advice can be found in The Ultimate Guide to Samoa Nightlife.

Location: Harbourside Cafe & Pizza Bar – Salelologa, just north of the wharf along the main road. Bayview Resort – Saleaula village along the northeast coast. See the link above for more locations.

49. Enjoy a Self-Drive Tour Around the Island

As you can see from this whopping list of things to do on Savai’i, the island just begs to be explored. If you prefer to see it all independently, either hire a car on Savai’i or bring a rental car, scooter or bicycle on the ferry from Upolu. We recommend splitting the trip into at least two days (but more is always better), so follow our suggestions in the A Self-Guided Day Trip Around Savai’i: Two-Day Itinerary.

Location: See the link above for the locations of places to visit.

50. Explore All of Savai’i’s Attractions on an Island Tour

Discover many of Savai’i’s natural and historical wonders that we’ve mentioned on this list with the expertise of a local guide (not to mention without the hassle of finding the attractions yourself). Get in touch with Nu’u from Savai’i Tours for a personalised tour of the island, or he can suggest a fun-filled itinerary. Otherwise, accommodations like Amoa Resort and Falealupo Beach Fales offer their own island tours, while many resorts over on Upolu offer day trips. Check out your best options in the 10 Best Day Tours of Savai’i.

Location: See the link above for pick-up locations.

51. Soak Up the Island Views on the Ferry Back to Upolu

Finally, as we come to the end of this mega list of the best things to do on Savai’i, there’s one last experience that you won’t miss but is an adventure in itself: taking the ferry. It’s worth checking out the views from the open decks, as you’ll see the islands of Apolima, Manono and Nu’ulopa go by. Look at the water below for a chance to see schools of fish, seabirds and even sharks! Learn more about the ferry journey to and from Savai’i in our Samoa Ferry Guide: How to Use the Ferry for Interisland Travel in Samoa.

Location: Salelologa Wharf, along the southeast coast.

More Things to Do on Savai’i

You didn’t think that was all of the things to do on Savai’i, 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:

Savai’i Samoa Tourism Association (Region tourism website)
Samoa Tourism Authority (General travel advice - Updated [2024])
Samoa Tourism Authority Corporate (Tourism news - Updated [2024])
Samoa Hotels Association (Tourism trade association - Updated [2024])
SPTO (Pacific tourism advice - Updated [2024])
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (Visa and immigration advice - Updated [2024])
Ministry of Customs & Revenue (Border restrictions advice - Updated [2024])
Ministry of Agriculture & Fisheries (Biosecurity advice - Updated [2024])
Samoa Meteorological Division (Weather forecast and warnings - Updated [2024])
Samoa Bureau of Statistics (Statistics and travel data - Updated [2024])
Land Transport Authority (Tourist driver’s license info - Updated [2024])
Safe Travel (New Zealand travel advisory for Samoa - Updated [2024])
Smart Traveller (Australia travel advisory for Samoa - Updated [2024])
Travel.State.Gov (U.S. travel advisory for Samoa - Updated [2024])

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

Author

Laura 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.

Contact Laura via our contact page

51 BEST Things to Do on Savai’i ☀️ [2024]