A Guide to the Weather and Climate in Samoa
What is the weather like in Samoa? Samoa has a tropical climate with warm and sunny weather all year round with its fair share of rain too. In this complete guide to the weather, climate and seasons in Samoa, discover the yearly climate of the islands, as well as what the weather is like month-by-month.
Before we begin, make sure you dress for the weather by following the advice in What to Wear in Samoa: Clothes Packing List.
The Seasons in Samoa
Samoa has a tropical climate with little variation in temperature and humidity throughout the year but a distinct wet and dry season. Samoa’s rainiest months are from November to April, while the driest are from May to October. The seasons are therefore split into the following:
- Dry season: May to October
- Wet season: November to April
Note that Samoa still experiences rain even during the “dry” season. Similarly, it does not rain every day during the “wet” season.
Samoa Year-Round Weather: What is the Annual Climate?
© SamoaPocketGuide.comThe Temperature in Samoa
Samoa experiences warm temperatures all year round due to its position just south of the Equator, with very little variation in air and sea temperatures throughout the year. The hottest period is from December to April when highs are around 30°C (86°F), while the coolest period is from June to September when they are around 29-30°C (84-86°F). The average low throughout the year is around 24°C (75°C) which occurs at night.
Samoa Year-Round Temperature: What is the Average Temperature in Samoa?
The average maximum temperature in Samoa is 30°C (86°F), while the minimum average is 24°C (75°C).
Scroll down for temperature listings for each month in Samoa.
© UnsplashThe Sea Temperature in Samoa
Like the air temperature, the sea temperature in Samoa remains fairly consistent throughout the year. The water temperature in Samoa is very comfortable for swimming all year round with an average yearly sea temperature of 28.9°C (83.9°F).
The highest sea temperatures tend to be experienced during the wet season with the average temperature being 29°C (85°F) between November and May.
The lowest sea temperatures only go down to around 28°C (82°F) during the dry season between June and October.
Again, average sea temperatures month-by-month can be seen in our monthly weather guides below.
© SamoaPocketGuide.comRainfall in Samoa
Don’t be fooled completely by the labels “dry” and “wet” seasons. Rainfall can occur all year round in Samoa. The yearly average rainfall amounts to around 2,800 mm (110″) with around 169 days experiencing rain.
As the name suggests, the wet season is when maximum precipitation occurs with about 270 to 419 mm (10.6 to 16.5″) falling per month between November and April.
In the dry season, Samoa still gets a share of rainy spells with an average of 133 to 257 mm (5.2 to 10.1″) precipitation per month between May and October.
Due to Samoa’s maritime climate and relatively flat terrain, rainy spells usually come in quick, heavy and often short bursts over the islands. During the wet season, however, there can be some days where it rains for most of the day.
It’s also important to note that rainfall can vary greatly between the drier coast and the wetter inland areas. You’ll also find regional micro-climates, so if it’s raining where you are, chances are it’ll be different somewhere else in Samoa.
© SamoaPocketGuide.comDaylight and Sunshine Hours in Samoa
Samoa experiences long days all year round with daylight hours spanning 13 hours per day from November to February. In the dry season months, this only drops down to 11-12 hours with the shortest days being in June.
With the long days comes plenty of sunshine. The most sunshine hours are experienced between July and September, averaging at 7 hours per day. The months with the least sunshine are December and January with around 5 hours per day.
© publicdomainpictures.netSevere Weather Events
Tropical cyclones that develop in the South Pacific have a risk of affecting Samoa. The cyclone season in Samoa and the South Pacific starts in November and ends in April, i.e. during the wet season. The peak months for cyclone risk are the months of December, January and February. There is also a higher risk of cyclone activity during an El Nino year.
Samoa has a history of cyclone activity. The worst cyclones include Cyclone Val (1991), which caused 13 deaths and an estimated ST$788 million in damage, including homes and agricultural crops, while Cyclone Evan (2012) caused 14 deaths and estimated damage of around ST$465 million. This is by no means an all-inclusive list, so check out our month-by-month weather guides for November, December, January, February, March, April and June, which include the history of cyclones in Samoa.
Samoa is well-prepared with emergency procedures should a cyclone occur, which you can learn more about in Cyclone Safety in Samoa: How to Prepare for a Cyclone.
Samoa Weather by Month
© SamoaPocketGuide.comJanuary Weather in Samoa
The year gets off to a hot, humid and likely rainy start in Samoa, as it’s the midst of the wet season. It’s also the cyclone season in the South Pacific, so be aware of cyclone warnings – see our cyclone guide for more details. Otherwise, the country is vibrant with New Year celebrations, as one of the first in the world to welcome the New Year.
Average temperature: 30°C / 86°F in the day, 24°C / 75°F at night
Average sea temperature: 29°C / 84°F
Average rainfall: 419 mm / 16.5″
Daylight hours: 13 hours
For more in-depth information, see our complete guide to Samoa Weather in January.
© SamoaPocketGuide.comFebruary Weather in Samoa
It’s still the wet season in Samoa where rain can come in bursts of heavy rain or full rainy days in February. Temperatures are hot and it’s humid but at least the days are long and there are still plenty of sunshine hours for those seeking some sun. February is also considered the low season, which is a cheap and quiet time to experience the islands. See the 10 Reasons to Travel in the Low Season in Samoa for more benefits.
Average temperature: 30°C / 86°F in the day, 24°C / 75°F at night
Average sea temperature: 29°C / 84°F
Average rainfall: 325 mm / 12.8″
Daylight hours: 13 hours
For more in-depth information, see our complete guide to Samoa Weather in February.
© PixabayMarch Weather in Samoa
The wet season continues, with still the slight risk of cyclones developing. Those looking to avoid the rain as much as possible, however, can escape to the drier micro-climate of the south coast of Upolu (Lalomanu). It’s hot, humid and a truly tropical experience in Samoa during March.
Average temperature: 30°C / 86°F in the day, 24°C / 75°F at night
Average sea temperature: 29°C / 84°F
Average rainfall: 332 mm / 13.1″
Daylight hours: 12 hours
For more in-depth information, see the complete guide to Samoa Weather in March.
© SamoaPocketGuide.comApril Weather in Samoa
April is the transitional month from the wet season to the dry season, still bringing some “April showers” along with it, but relatively fewer than in previous months. Temperatures and humidity are still high, but at least it’s the last month of the cyclone season. Meanwhile, locals are likely to celebrate the public holidays of the long Easter weekend, so expect some reduced business hours during this time.
Average temperature: 30°C / 86°F in the day, 24°C / 75°F at night
Average sea temperature: 29°C / 84°F
Average rainfall: 261 mm / 10.3″
Daylight hours: 12 hours
For more in-depth information, see our full guide to Samoa Weather in April.
© SamoaPocketGuide.comMay Weather in Samoa
May is the official start to the dry season, where rainfall starts to decrease slightly but temperatures are still hot and humid. May is a good time to visit Samoa before the tourist “crowds” arrive. Be aware that Mother’s Day, the Monday after the second Sunday in May, is a public holiday, so expect most businesses (except accommodations and natural attractions) to be closed.
Average temperature: 30°C / 86°F in the day, 24°C / 75°F at night
Average sea temperature: 29°C / 84°F
Average rainfall: 205 mm / 8.1″
Daylight hours: 11 hours
For more in-depth information, see our complete guide to Samoa Weather in May.
© SamoaPocketGuide.comJune Weather in Samoa
The dry season really kicks into gear with much drier days than earlier in the year. Sea temperatures are also dropping but still very warm for a comfortable swim. No wonder June is one of the most popular months to visit Samoa! Note that June 1, Independence Day, is a public holiday, so expect some businesses to be closed on this day (but some fun village celebrations).
Average temperature: 29°C / 84°F in the day, 24°C / 75°F at night
Average sea temperature: 28°C / 82°F
Average rainfall: 165 mm / 6.5″
Daylight hours: 11 hours
For more in-depth information, see the complete guide to Samoa Weather in June.
© SamoaPocketGuide.comJuly Weather in Samoa
July is a popular time to be in Samoa; it’s hot and humid with very few rainy spells making the weather more and more appealing for those wishing to escape the cold Southern Hemisphere winter. What’s more, July is considered a safe time to travel to Samoa with very little risk of cyclones.
Average temperature: 29°C / 84°F in the day, 23°C / 73°F at night
Average sea temperature: 28°C / 82°F
Average rainfall: 133 mm / 5.2″
Daylight hours: 11 hours
For more in-depth information, see the complete guide to Samoa Weather in July.
© SamoaPocketGuide.comAugust Weather in Samoa
August is one of Samoa’s coolest months, which isn’t saying much as it is only a degree cooler than the height of the wet season (Samoa’s summer). Luckily, there are airy beach fales designed to keep you cool when sleeping on the beach. What’s more, rainfall rates are low enough for quick showers to not spoil your holiday. Note that the Monday after the second Sunday in August is Father’s Day in Samoa, a public holiday where some businesses are closed.
Average temperature: 29°C / 84°F in the day, 23°C / 73°F at night
Average sea temperature: 28°C / 82°F
Average rainfall: 155 mm / 6.1″
Daylight hours: 12 hours
For more in-depth information, see the complete guide to Samoa Weather in August.
© SamoaPocketGuide.comSeptember Weather in Samoa
September is usually an ideal month for travellers in terms of the weather. It’s hot, humid (but not chokingly so) and mostly dry with usually just a few days of the month experiencing rain. It’s also a good time for water clarity when diving and snorkelling. With no public holidays in Samoa in September, it’s business as usual.
Average temperature: 29°C / 84°F in the day, 23°C / 73°F at night
Average sea temperature: 28°C / 82°F
Average rainfall: 180 mm / 7.1″
Daylight hours: 12 hours
For more in-depth information, see the complete guide to Samoa Weather in September.
© SamoaPocketGuide.comOctober Weather in Samoa
Although October isn’t as popular of a month to visit Samoa, the weather still meets the minimum requirements for most travellers. Days are long, sunny and, as ever, with a few rainy spells. The sea temperatures are warm. There are even interesting events going on, such as White Sunday and the palolo season celebrations. We can’t think of a reason not to visit Samoa in October!
Average temperature: 29°C / 84°F in the day, 24°C / 75°F at night
Average sea temperature: 28°C / 82°F
Average rainfall: 257 mm / 10.1″
Daylight hours: 12 hours
For more in-depth information, see the complete guide to Samoa Weather in October.
© SamoaPocketGuide.comNovember Weather in Samoa
November might be the start of the wet season, but it’s typically not until the end of the month that the rain gets more frequent. Also on the plus side, it’s the tourist low season so it’s a good time to find cheaper holiday deals and experience the last of the good weather before the wet season gets into full swing. Otherwise, in the true spirit of Samoa, it’s hot and humid in November!
Average temperature: 30°C / 86°F in the day, 24°C / 75°F at night
Average sea temperature: 29°C / 84°F
Average rainfall: 270 mm / 10.6″
Daylight hours: 13 hours
For more in-depth information, see the complete guide to Samoa Weather in November.
© SamoaPocketGuide.comDecember Weather in Samoa
The wet season is well and truly here, where downpours are often heavy but short on most occasions. It’s also the cyclone season, so it’s best to be aware of the cyclone and weather warnings. There are plenty of public holidays where the country shuts down for Christmas and New Year. Also, be aware that the holiday season is a busy time to fly to Samoa, so make your bookings well in advance.
Average temperature: 30°C / 86°F in the day, 24°C / 75°F at night
Average sea temperature: 29°C / 84°F
Average rainfall: 372 mm / 14.6″
Daylight hours: 13 hours
For more in-depth information, see the complete guide to Samoa Weather in December.
© SamoaPocketGuide.comFrequently Asked Questions About the Weather in Samoa
Finally, here are some of the most common questions about the weather in Samoa by travellers across the internet.
What is the Average Temperature of Samoa?
The average temperature in Samoa ranges from 24°C to 30°C (75°F to 86°F) daily with little change in temperatures throughout the year due to its near-equatorial position.
Does Samoa Have a Rainy Season?
Yes, Samoa has a rainy season from November to April. However, it can still rain outside of the rainy season.
Does Samoa Have Snow?
No. Samoa is a low-lying tropical country close to the Equator, therefore, Samoa does not have snow.
What is the Hottest Temperature in Samoa?
The average hottest temperature in Samoa is 30°C to 32°C (75°F to 89.6°F).
More About the Weather, Seasons and Climate in Samoa
That’s it for our complete guide to the weather and climate in Samoa. Check out the following articles for more weather advice:
- The Best Time to Visit Samoa: A Month-by-Month Guide
- The Best Time to Dive in Samoa
- The Best Time to Surf in Samoa
- The Best Time of Year for Fishing in Samoa
At last, enjoy a comprehensive guide to planning a trip to Samoa in The Best Samoa Travel Guide.
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 [2024])
- Samoa Tourism Authority Corporate (Tourism news - 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])
- SPTO (Pacific tourism advice - Updated [2024])
- Samoa Hotels Association (Tourism trade association - 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.
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