Dreaming of where to go for your first Pacific Island family getaway with the family and want to avoid the holiday rush? Then look no further than the beautiful island nation of Samoa.
Home to dramatic waterfalls, lush tropical forests, crystal-clear freshwater pools, ancient volcanoes and pristine
beaches, the island paradise of Samoa is filled with breathtaking natural beauty just waiting to be explored.
Coupled with its traditional 3,000-year-old culture, incredibly friendly locals and laid-back island vibes, Samoa is
guaranteed to enchant and surprise the whole family.
Samoa is more than a beach or island holiday – it’s an experience, a natural treasure, and a destination the
whole family will enjoy.
Here are the top must-do family-friendly experiences when visiting this South Pacific paradise.
Robert Louis Stevenson Museum
Samoa. Photo Credit – Kate Webster
Location: Vailima, Cross Island Rd, Apia, Upolu, Samoa
The Robert Louis Stevenson Museum is the perfect stop for those seeking a historical experience. What was
once the home of the famous 19th century author of Treasure Island and Kidnapped is now a public museum.
Enchanted by Samoa and its people, the author requested to be buried on top of Mount Vaea, overlooking the
sea. Visitors can take a leisurely 30-45 minute walk around the museum – and even visit his tomb.
Papase’ea Sliding Rocks
Location: Tuamasaga, Upolu, Samoa
For those seeking adventure while visiting Samoa, sliding down the natural waterfalls is one way to get your
adrenaline hit! Worn down by thousands of years of running water, these naturally formed rock slides are the
perfect activity for cooling off on a hot day. With multiple slides to choose from, there is fun for the whole family at
an affordable price, with tickets ranging from ST$2.00 – $5.00 (AUD $1.20 – $2.90) This site is an absolute must
do for any families looking for fun while travelling to Samoa, and is located just a 15 minute drive from Samoa’s
capital, Apia.
Piula Cave Pool
Piula Cave Pool. Photo Credit – Kate Webster-
Location: Piula Theological College in the Village of Lufilufi, Upolu, Samoa
What originated as an old lava tube, the Piula Cave Pool is the perfect spot for a dip on a warm day. The
beautiful crystal clear freshwater spring pool and cave is a great spot to take the kids for a swim, bring some
lunch for a picnic or your snorkel gear for a look under the water. When planning your trip keep in mind it’s closed
on Sundays.
Swim with Turtles
Location: Off North Coast Road, Sato’alepai, Savai’i, Samoa
Swimming with turtles in this type of environment is a once in a lifetime experience that everyone needs to enjoy
when visiting Samoa. Located in the village of Sato’alepai, this unique experience is owned and operated by the
Matai’a family. Visitors are able to swim alongside these gorgeous creatures at a site that values marine
conservation. The pond is shallow enough for the little ones to get involved, making it the perfect family friendly
activity!
Alofa’aga Blowholes
The blowholes. Photo Credit – Kate Webster
Location: S Coast Road, Taga, Palauli, Savai’i, Samoa
Visiting the Alofa’aga Blowholes is an essential when on holidays in Samoa. These impressive blowholes are
located in the Taga village in South-West Savai’i. Showcasing the power of the wave in its purest form, the
blowhole propels a roaring jet of water hundreds of feet up into the air – a sight you and the kids don’t want to
miss.
Namu’a Island
Location: Namu’a Island, Samoa
Namu’a Island is the perfect spot for a day trip, located just a 5-10 minute boat ride off the South-Eastern of the
Upolu Mainland. It is a great place to swim with turtles in their natural habitat and enjoy the breathtaking natural
beauty of the small island. To find departure points look for the “Namu’a Island Beach Fales” sign along Mutiatele
Aleipata’s Main South Coast Road, or ask your accommodation to arrange a trip for you.
Falealupo Canopy Walkway
Location: Falealupo Rainforest Preserve, Savai’i, Samoa
Samoa’s magnificent Canopy walkway is an absolute must for every family visiting. Located in the Falealupo
Rainforest Preserve in the northwest of Savai’i, 40 metres above the ground lies a hanging bridge. The ultimate
jungle experience, you’ll feel one with nature as you make your way across the walkway alongside a giant
Banyan tree. Hanging across a 30 metre gap suspended in the depths of a gorgeous Samoan rainforest, it’s sure
to be a memorable experience for the whole family.
Take a ride on Samoa’s colourful buses
Bus on Savai’i Island. Photo Credit – Kate Webster.
Location: Fugalei Street, Apia, Upolu, Samoa & Salelologa, Savai’i, Samoa
If you’re looking for a fun way to travel around Samoa like a local, then look no further. You can board the buses
at main terminals – located in Apia behind the food market in Fugalei and opposite the flea market at Savalalo.
For those staying on Savai’i the terminal is located at the market and main wharf in Salelologa. You can catch
one of these buses by waving it down as it approaches. Fares are typically paid in cash once you depart the bus,
and should be ST$12 per person at most.
Samoa Cultural Village
Location: Beach Road, Apia, Upolu, Samoa
For those looking to experience the authentic culture of Samoa and gain insight into their cultural traditions, then
the Samoa Cultural Village is for you. The Village offers a range of activities including tapa making, traditional
tattooing or ‘tatau’, carving cultural artefacts, the preparation of the “umu” or Earth oven, and so much more.
Located in the heart of Apia, head to the Samoa Cultural Village to experience the ‘Fa’a Samoa’ for yourself.
Fiafia Nights
You can’t leave Samoa without attending one of the many fiafia nights on offer. These nights are a stunning
display and celebration of the Samoan culture and its heritage. You can see locals performing traditional dances
of more than 3,000 years, while you feast on a traditional Samoan style buffet. Don’t be afraid to get up and have
a go for yourself – the locals are more than happy to show you the ropes! You can find these nights at most local
resorts and hotels, so be sure to check when they’re offered as soon as you arrive.
