Samoa Honeymoon & Romance Itinerary: 14 Days / Two Weeks

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How to Get Around Samoa in Two Weeks

This Samoa honeymoon and romance itinerary for 14 days (two weeks) includes travel on two islands, as well as between these islands. Here’s a quick rundown on how to get around Samoa in two weeks.

Road Transport in Samoa

Upon arrival in Samoa, get your rental car delivered to the airport for the most streamlined way to handle this itinerary. Otherwise, you can hire a different vehicle on each island to save on ferry transport fees. Get advice on car hire from What You Need to Hire a Car in Samoa. This itinerary can also be done through a mix of hiring private drivers, using taxis and joining sightseeing tours.

Interisland Transport in Samoa

There are no domestic flights in Samoa, so the only way to get between the islands of Upolu and Savai’i is via the very affordable interisland ferry. The ferry has a convenient schedule of around three departures per day on weekdays and at least one per day on weekends. If you’re travelling in a rental car, it’s recommended to pre-book your ferry ticket. Find out more about using ferry transport in our Samoa Ferry Guide.

For all of your transport options across the islands, check out our Samoa Transport Guide: 14 Best Ways to Get Around Samoa.

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Day 1 – Arrival in Samoa + Ferry to Savai’i

Travel time: 1 hour – 1 hour 30 minutes ferry + 20 minutes drive (to Amoa Resort) or 1 hour drive (to Le Lagoto or Stevensons).

Arrival at Faleolo Airport

Welcome to Samoa and the start of your escape to paradise! After the arrivals process of going through customs and biosecurity, you’ll step outside of the arrivals area to where your car rental will be waiting. If you’re arriving on an early-morning/late-night flight, get some shut-eye at the nearby Sheraton Samoa Beach Resort or Le Vasa Resort.

Ferry from Mulifanua Wharf

Since the airport is right next to the ferry terminal to Savai’i, get your trip off to a memorable (yet logical) start by catching the ferry to Samoa’s most traditional and pristine island. Be at Mulifanua Wharf approximately one hour before your chosen scheduled departure if travelling with a vehicle (learn about how to book your vehicle using How to Take a Ferry to Savai’i). Then, enjoy a scenic crossing to the island of Savai’i with views of Manono and Apolima Islands.

Arrival in Salelologa

Upon arrival, take the time to check out the handicrafts and unique souvenirs of the Salelologa Market before making your way up the east coast to your first romantic/honeymoon accommodation.

Savai’i East Coast Road Trip

Enjoy a cosy lunch at our recommended cafe in Lalomalava then it’s a cruisey drive through the east coast’s charming villages with their magnificent churches, perhaps with a coffee stop at the quirky garden cafe of Taefu T. Matafeo Store or even a canoe tour to a freshwater spring at the Asaga Mangroves – see the Top 10 Kayak Tours & Places to Kayak for details.

Next, a must-do is the Saleaula Lava Fields to see the iconic LMS Church engulfed in lava flow, one of the Top 10 Sights on Savai’i. You can even follow the lava flow all the way to the coast.

Finally, you’ll make it to one of our recommended romantic resorts for a glorious way to spend your first full night in Samoa.

Savai’i East Coast Romantic Accommodations

• Le Lagoto Resort (Fagamalo)
• Stevensons at Manase (Manase)
• Amoa Resort (Faga)

Get details on all of our recommended stays in the 10 Most Romantic Honeymoon Accommodations on Savai’i.

Dining Recommendations

Beyond the resorts, there are very limited opportunities for dining out on Savai’i, so take advantage of the fact that you’ll be driving by the delightful western-style eatery of Adria’s Cafe in Lalomalava. Enjoy an array of international meals, paninis and freshly baked treats. Alternatively (or additionally), Taefu T. Matafeo Store in Asaga provides a rustic yet romantic setting for coffee and sweet treats. Learn more about both in the 10 Best Restaurants on Savai’i.

For dinner, each of the recommended resorts above has its own restaurant. The restaurant of the Amoa Resort has the most photo-worthy plates, while Vailili Restaurant & Leilina’s Pizzeria of Le Lagoto Resort is certainly the most popular with the locals. Again, find out more about these establishments in the 10 Best Restaurants on Savai’i.

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Day 2 – Free Day on Savai’i

This honeymoon/romance itinerary is all about striking the right balance between adventure and relaxation together; so today is your time to unwind and revel in the beauty of your chosen romantic resort on Savai’i. If you need some inspiration to elevate the romance, we have some suggestions…

Romantic Activities on Savai’i

• Treat your loved one to a private dining experience at Le Lagoto Resort
• Have a romantic stroll along Manase, Fagamalo or Lano Beach – see the 10 Best Beaches on Savai’i
• Buddy up on a scuba diving trip with Dive Savai’i
• Test your teamwork in a double kayak hired from your resort
• Stargaze under some of the world’s clearest skies.

Get more details on each experience in the 10 Most Romantic Things to Do on Savai’i for Couples.

Dining Recommendations

Try the fare of some of the surrounding resorts, such as the Beach Bar & Restaurant at the resort Stevensons at Manase. Dine by the pool or over the lagoon with something from the extensive cocktail menu and one of the crowd-pleasing meals, from fish and chips to seafood platters.

A stellar sunset spot and beachfront eatery in Fagamalo, Barefoot Bar & Restaurant is your dining venture at the Savaii Lagoon Resort. Seafood is the speciality here, created into the likes of sashimi, poke and oka. With the restaurant’s own pizza oven, there’s competition with next door (Le Lagoto Resort), while pork belly, tuna steaks, fish and chips and refreshing cocktails are on their ever-changing menu board.

Dive deeper into these dining suggestions, as well as others, in The Food Guide to Savai’i.

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Day 3 – Savai’i North Coast Road Trip

Travel time: 1 hour – 1 hour 20 minutes (to Asau Bay) – 1 hour 25 minutes – 2 hours (to Falealupo).

Manase to Asau Bay

Discover some of the north coast highlights today (all of which we list in the 50 Best Things to Do on Savai’i), starting with the architectural marvel of Safotu Cathedral, the oldest Catholic church in Samoa, before reaching Mataolealelo Spring in Matavai. Although there’s nothing more revitalising than bathing in its cooling spring water during a day of sightseeing in the hot sun, the fact that men and women have to bathe in different pools might just kill the vibe. Nevertheless, you can still be close enough to share the experience if the idea doesn’t bother you.

You’ll then venture through the remote northern coast of Savai’i, shaped by volcanic activity, which is evident at Pe’ape’a Cave, a short cave attraction just off the side of the road and home to the unusual white-rumped swiftlets. Further along the North Coast Road is also the Laauoleola Cave accessed down a romantic 15-minute nature trail to a much larger cave network – see the 10 Best Caves in Samoa to compare the two.

Emerge back into civilisation once again as you reach the large village of Asau, also home to Va-i-Moana Seaside Lodge where you can stop for lunch or even stay the night if you prefer a room rather than a beach fale. On the other hand, we highly recommend you experience a beach fale together at least once during your trip to Samoa and why not do it at one of the most romantic beaches in Samoa, Falealupo, just a further 30 minutes down the road?

Asau Bay to Falealupo

From Asau Bay, the first attraction you’ll stumble upon is Moso’s Footprint. The 2 m (6.6 ft)-long foot-shaped depression has an unusual legend. Between Moso’s Footprint and Falealupo Beach are the ruins of Falealupo’s Historic Catholic Church which was destroyed by the waves of Cyclone Ofa in 1990.

Just as you reach Falealupo village, a sign points to the “House of Rock” where guides will lead you down a rough trail (better to wear closed footwear rather than your flip-flops) to a partially collapsed lava tube. Some local guides are eager to share the legends of this cave if they’re available.

Next, sweeping white sands and glorious snorkelling await at Falealupo Beach. If you’re not staying here, at least hire a day fale for beautiful snorkelling and more than a kilometre of sand to enjoy.

At the westernmost point of Savai’i, 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 and romantic show (weather permitting). Perhaps somewhere to pop the question, if it’s that trip? See 5 Romantic Ways to Propose in Samoa for more ideas.

Asau Bay and Falealupo Romantic Accommodations

• Va-i-Moana Seaside Lodge (Asau Bay)
• Falealupo Beach Fales (Falealupo)
• Se’eti Beach Fales (Falealupo)

Again, more details on these can be found in the 10 Most Romantic Honeymoon Accommodations on Savai’i.

Dining Recommendations

On the remote northwest corner of Savai’i nestled in Asau Bay, Vai-i-Moana Seaside Lodge offers just about the only dining options on this side of the island for guests and non-guests alike. Although the restaurant has an unusual system of taking dinner orders from its a la carte menu; orders must be made at reception before 5 pm, it’s worth the wait for impressive sizzling hotplate steak, lobster in mornay sauce, or chicken basicolla with mushroom and bacon sauce. Again, we detail this restaurant further in the 10 Best Restaurants on Savai’i.

Alternatively, a Samoan affair is served for guests for dinner at Falealupo and Se’eti Beach Fales which is well worth paying the small additional rate for. You’ll also receive a substantial Samoan breakfast. More details on the iconic beach fale experience can be found in our guide, Staying in a Beach Fale in Samoa + 10 Essential Tips!

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Day 4 – Savai’i South Coast Road Trip + Ferry to Upolu

Travel time: 1 hour 40 minutes – 2 hours drive + 1 hour – 1 hour 30 minutes ferry + 10 minutes drive.

Asau Bay/Falealupo to Salelologa

Make your way back toward Salelologa today by exploring the south coast of Savai’i. Your first scenic stop is just off the side of the road at Lover’s Leap. If you fancy some snorkelling, Satuiatua Beach Fales has a great spot as outlined in The Best Snorkelling in Savai’i but be aware of paying your beach fees.

Approximately 32 km (20 mi) from Satuiatua Beach Fales, immediately after the Lata River road bridge, is the Mu Pagoa Waterfall that tumbles directly into the Pacific Ocean.

Next is the iconic Alofaaga Blowholes. The access road is a bit rough and you may have to pay two small entry fees along the way. Your reward is watching the magnificent power of swell shooting water through the volcanic fissures of the coast.

Approximately 27 km (16.8 mi) further along the South Coast Road is Afu Aau Waterfall, which is perfect for a swim in a fairy-tale-like forest setting. Next door, you’ll see the sign for the Siapo Demonstration. Enjoy a refreshingly authentic demonstration of how locals make and paint canvases from the bark of a mulberry tree. What’s more, you’ll also come away with your own piece of siapo artwork.

Ferry from Salelologa Wharf

Just a further 10 minutes down the road, you’ll return to Salelologa to end your journey of Savai’i perhaps with a celebratory lunch, before catching one of the afternoon ferries back to Upolu. The process for taking the ferry back is very much the same as getting here; just make sure to pre-book your rental car.

Upon arrival to Upolu, make your way to your nearby romantic abode for a relaxing evening together.

Upolu West Coast Romantic Accommodations

• Le Vasa Resort
• Sheraton Samoa Beach Resort
• Ifiele’ele Plantation

Discover more about our favourite accommodations for couples in the 10 Most Romantic Wedding & Honeymoon Resorts on Upolu.

Dining Recommendations

For lunch, there are limited options until you reach Salelologa with the exception of Satuiatua Beach Fales and the convenience store in Palauli village (near Afu Aau Waterfall) with its baked goods and Samoan snacks. If you can hold off until reaching Salelologa, the Harbourside Cafe & Pizza Bar is good for its fresh fish dishes and, of course, pizzas.

Although each of the recommended resorts has its own dining option for dinner (note that with Ifiele’ele, food is only on request), our favourite is Cocolini’s by the Sea which proves that not all resort restaurants are just an afterthought. The oceanfront setting of Le Vasa Resort‘s restaurant provides a memorable setting for South Pacific and Mediterranean fusion cuisine. Learn more about this eatery and others in the 10 Best Restaurants on Upolu.

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Day 5 – Free Day on Upolu’s West Coast

After some amazing days on the road, take a breather and make the most of your Upolu resort today, whether you prefer to relax by the pool or do something more active. As always, we have some recommendations to amplify your romantic getaway.

Romantic Activities on Upolu’s West Coast

• Spend the day on an uninhabited island, like Nu’ulopa with tours from Le Vasa Resort
• Indulge in a relaxing couple’s massage at Sheraton‘s Manaia Polynesian Spa
• Wrap your arms around your loved one on the back of an ATV with Wolfpac ATV Tours
• Test your teamwork in a double kayak on a tour with Outdoor Samoa.

Get more details on each experience in the 10 Most Romantic Things to Do on Upolu.

Dining Recommendations

Tonight, dine at Sheraton‘s South Pacific Restaurant for local and international cuisine in an airy dining fale setting complemented by beachfront views. See the 10 Best Restaurants on Upolu for more recommendations.

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Day 6 – Upolu West Coast Road Trip

Travel time: 1-2 hours drive (depending on resorts stayed).

It’s time to hit the road once again, this time for a casual road trip of Upolu’s west coast as you make your way to some of Upolu’s most romantic resorts. Begin by following the Main West Coast Road as it rises over the cliffs about 200 m (656 ft) above sea level, checking out the wonderful lagoon vistas along the way.

You’ll descend into Lefaga Bay where, if you’re up for an adventure, Lalotalie ECAT Ventures can take you on an epic waterfall hike/canyoning trip in their glorious conservation area – learn more in the 10 Best Adventure Tours in Samoa.

If it’s high tide by the time you reach the village of Savaia in Lefaga Bay, don your snorkelling gear to swim with giant clams and perhaps even turtles at the Savaia Giant Clam Sanctuary – see The Best Snorkelling in Upolu for more information.

Your final destination today is your south coast resort, which could be located anywhere along the 37 km (23 mi) stretch between Maninoa and Saleapaga. As some of the most luxurious and romantic resorts in Samoa, it’s only fitting to spend five nights here.

Upolu South Coast Romantic Accommodations

• Sinalei Reef Resort & Spa (Maninoa)
• Coconuts Beach Club Resort & Spa (Maninoa)
• Saletoga Sands Resort & Spa (Matatufu)
• Seabreeze Resort (Aufaga)
• Aga Reef Resort (Saleapaga)

Find out more about these stays, again, in the 10 Most Romantic Wedding & Honeymoon Resorts on Upolu.

Dining Recommendations

Like elsewhere in Samoa, there are no dining options outside of the resorts (and Apia). Return to Paradise Resort provides a scenic setting for lunch and an excuse to visit one of Samoa’s most famous beaches, as featured in the 5 TV Shows & Movies Filmed in Samoa.

Tonight, make things easy by dining at your chosen resort. We’ll go through some south coast dining recommendations tomorrow.

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Days 7-9 – Free Days on Upolu’s South Coast

As our recommended resorts on the south coast of Upolu are some of the most stunning in Samoa, we’re giving you the time to enjoy them on Days 7, 8 and 9 of our honeymoon/romance itinerary. Make the most of their facilities and experiences, from glorious day spas to infinity pools and much more.

Romantic Activities on Upolu’s South Coast

• Treat yourselves to a relaxing couple’s massage at the spas of Coconuts Beach Club or Sinalei Reef Resort
• Discover Upolu’s romantic Coastal Walk
• Treat your loved one to a private dining experience at Sinalei Reef Resort or Seabreeze Resort
• Visit Samoa’s most romantic beaches, like Lalomanu or Vavau Beach
• Take a day trip to the uninhabited Namu’a Island.

Get more details on each experience and much more in the 20 Most Romantic Things to Do in Samoa.

Dining Recommendations

The great thing about the south coast resorts is that their restaurants are all open to guests and non-guests alike, so you don’t necessarily have to eat at your chosen resort for your whole stay.

Ava I Toga Restaurant of the Sinalei Reef Resort is a must-do for fine dining on its over-the-water restaurant, boasting an array of creative cuisine for all diets. Alternatively, the Waterfront Restaurant and Bar at Seabreeze Resort turns comfort food into fine dining and is exclusively adults-only after 5 pm. Learn more about these restaurants and others in the 10 Best Restaurants on Upolu.

On one of your free nights, elevate your evening meal by treating your partner to one of Upolu’s private dining experiences. Choose a private decorated setting at Sinalei Reef Resort & Spa or have a candlelit dinner with a personal waiting service on the deck of your luxury villa at Seabreeze Resort.

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Day 10 – Upolu South Coast Road Trip

Travel time: 1 hour 20 minutes – 2 hours drive (depending on resort stayed).

More adventures await on the south coast of Upolu today, so enjoy a no-doubt gargantuan breakfast then explore the island’s glorious south coast along with some of Samoa’s most iconic attractions.

Between Maninoa and O Le Pupu Pu’e National Park

Starting from Maninoa, if you have a high-clearance vehicle, make your way down the unsealed road to the glorious Aganoa Black Sand Beach, one of the 10 Best Beaches in Samoa.

Back on the Main South Coast Road, continue east through O Le Pupu Pu’e National Park and again, if you have a high-clearance vehicle, head down the unsealed road to the 1-hour Coastal Walk to see its magnificent sea arches (otherwise, you can park at the main road car park and make it a 2-hour walk). Opposite the Coastal Walk turnoff is the Ma Tree walk which is a quick venture to a giant buttress tree.

After all that walking, you’ll no doubt need to cool off, which you can do at the Togitogiga Waterfall only a few hundred metres further along the Main South Coast Road.

Between O Le Pupu Pu’e and Lalomanu

As you continue east, hug the coast by taking Salani Road, perhaps stopping for lunch at Saletoga Sands Resort and then onto Lotofaga, home to the iconic To Sua Ocean Trench. If this 30 m (98 ft) sinkhole with its rung ladder somehow needs an introduction, you’ll find it in the Top 10 Sights in Samoa.

You have two more options for romantic beach destinations today; the secluded Vavau Beach with its lagoon islets or the long stretch of pristine sands at Lalomanu where you have multiple options also for an alternative lunch at its various beach fales. Enjoy your time in paradise together, only to return to your resort once you’re ready.

Dining Recommendations

For lunch, you have various options along the south coast, including the Kiwi cuisine of the upscale Saletoga Sands Resort and the rustic dining fales of Taufua Beach Fales and Anita’s Beach Bungalows on Lalomanu Beach where the menus lurch between sashimi to burgers to seafood platters to toasted sandwiches.

Discover more options across the south coast, including restaurants for dinner, in The Food Guide to Upolu.

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Day 11 – Upolu East Coast Road Trip

Travel Time: 1 hour – 1 hour 30 minutes drive (depending on south coast resort stayed).

Wherever you’re staying on the south coast, we recommend checking out of your resort today and making your way to the Le Mafa Pass road; the most interesting route to take to the capital Apia, which will be your final destination today.

Le Mafa Pass Road

Your first stop is Sopoaga Falls with its breathtaking waterfall viewpoint and where you can watch coconut husking demonstrations to inject a bit of island culture into your journey. Further up the road is a quick detour to Fuipisia Waterfall where you’ll have the opportunity to stand at the top of the falls if you dare. Learn more about the waterfalls discussed in the 10 Best Waterfalls in Samoa.

Then, it’s onward to one of the most scenic drives in Samoa, Le Mafa Pass. Enjoy the views of the jungle-clad mountainous scenery as you wind your way across the island.

Once you’ve made it back to civilisation at Falefa village, make a waterfall stop at Falefa Falls with its attractive picnic area.

Piula Cave Pool to Apia

Just a further 3.5 km (2 mi) along the road, wash off the heat of the day at the freshwater spring of the Piula Cave Pool, signposted between the villages of Saoluafata and Faleapuna. Bathe in the reviving spring waters then choose whether to continue on the Main West Coast Road toward Apia or take a 20-minute return detour to another mesmerising swimming spot, Sauniatu Falls signposted from Saoluafata. Learn more about both of these attractions in the 10 Best Swimming Spots in Samoa.

Finally, continue on the Main West Coast Road driving through villages wedged between cliffs and the Pacific Ocean surf until you arrive in the capital and check-in at one of its welcoming yet romantic accommodations.

Apia Romantic Accommodations

• Le Manumea Hotel
• Taumeasina Island Resort
• Vaea Hotel Samoa
• Lava Hotel
• Orator Hotel Samoa

Discover more about our favourite accommodations for couples in the 10 Most Romantic Wedding & Honeymoon Hotels in Apia.

Dining Recommendations

As always, there are very few dining options outside of the resorts, so Le Uaina Beach Resort by the Piula Cave Pool is a convenient option for lunch. Just before reaching Apia, stop by Sula’s Supermarket & Bakery along the Main East Coast Road in Moataa, which is often agreed to be one of the best places to pick up quintessential Samoan snacks and baked goods, such as many of the items we list in the 20 Foods to Try in Samoa.

As for dinner, accommodations such as Taumeasina and Lava Hotel have their own reputable restaurants to make things simple. Apia is also one of the best places to experience a fiafia night, should your arrival coincide with one of these weekly events. Discover your options in the 10 Best Fiafia Nights in Samoa, as well as in the 10 Best Restaurants in Apia.

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Days 12 & 13 – Explore Apia

You have two full days to make the most of Samoa’s capital along with its cultural activities, bustling markets and even some natural wonders. Combine some of the highlights listed in the 25 Best Things to Do in Apia with some of the romantic experiences…

Romantic Activities in Apia

• Enjoy a romantic stroll through Friendship Park
• Take a picnic to the Vailima Botanical Garden
• Discover Apia’s most mesmerising snorkelling spot, Palolo Deep
• Treat your loved one to something special from Apia’s shops and markets
• Tackle the Papase’ea Sliding Rocks together.

Get more details on each experience in the 10 Most Romantic Things to Do in Apia.

Dining Recommendations

Starting with cafes, it’s worth making the short venture out of Apia to Pacific Jewell and Garden Cafe. After perusing the local crafts and clothing hand-printed on-site, sit down among the lush tropical garden for a light bagel, tempting crepes or a more hearty all-day breakfast. There are a lot more cafes to choose from, so check out the 10 Best Cafes in Apia and Upolu for more recommendations.

As for your evening dining options in Apia, Bistro Tatau Restaurant is a good go-to to impress with its speciality Asian cuisine, as well as European, Mediterranean and Australasia influences. The restaurant offers a relaxed yet sophisticated environment of slick tiled walls and tones inspired by Samoan skin tones and tatau (tattoo) ink.

On your second night, be transported to the Mediterranean and among the attractive patio gardens of Giordano’s Pizzeria. The closest European-style pizzas we’ve found in Samoa, Giordano’s combines Italian cuisine with a gorgeous balmy setting and ambient lighting. Be sure to have an extra look at the back of the restaurant to find the hidden alcoves in the gardens. For more restaurants to try, check out the 10 Best Restaurants in Apia.

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Day 14 – Departure Day

Travel time: 45-50 minutes drive.

After an exciting two weeks in Samoa on a romantic getaway, it’s finally time to say goodbye to the islands. Depending on your flight departure time, you may be able to squeeze in a couple of activities in Apia you might have missed yesterday.

Remember to arrive at the airport a couple of hours before your scheduled departure so that you have enough time to check in, go through security and browse the retail offerings, as listed in The Guide to Shopping in Samoa + The Best Places to Shop.

For anything else you need to know about leaving Samoa, it’s all listed in our guide, Leaving Samoa: Departure Tips & Checklist.

And it’s “Tofa Soifua” from Samoa!