The whole country of Samoa itself is known for its natural beauty, with picturesque landscapes, vast valleys, white-sand beaches, and rainforest-covered volcanic mountains, among other exciting things. Apia, however, is charming for its relaxing ambience and very hospitable locals. Despite being relatively small, Apia has much to offer; its vibrant produce and flea markets, restaurants with traditional dishes as well as international cuisine, and bars can easily explored by foot.
What to see & do
Robert Louis Stevenson Museum - The Robert Louis Stevenson Museum is dedicated to Robert Louis Balfour Stevenson, a Scottish novelist, poet, essayist, and travel writer. Robert Louis Stevenson had become very popular and a well-respected figure to the locals while he was in Samoa. When he passed away in 1894, he was buried on top of Mount Vaea. The museum houses some of his work and family memorabilia, and also has a gift shop and a sign book at the entrance for visitors to write in.
Samoa Cultural Village - The cultural village on Beach Road offers a fun and interactive way for both locals and visitors to experience Samoa's culture and traditions.
Vailima Botanical Gardens - The 12-hectare Vailima Botanical Gardens is home to a wide variety of plant species, including endemic, introduced, and naturalised species. The garden is the perfect place for leisurely walks and quiet time with nature. Nearby are a visitor centre and a swimming hole that is open to visitors.
Palolo Deep Marine Reserve - Only a few minutes’ walk away from the centre of Apia is a blue hole with walls of coral and tropical fish. There is gear for rent available as well as toilets, showers, and changing rooms. Anyone can simply rent equipment and go snorkelling or diving, or even just wade in the waters or have a picnic by the shore any day of the week.
Savalalo Flea Market - Don't forget to explore at least one market in Apia! Savalalo Flea Market offers unique Samoan handicrafts, like hand-crafted wood carvings, printed sarongs, and woven pandanus mats, a great selection for affordable souvenirs.
How to get around within Apia
Apia is a fairly walkable city, but travellers are advised to exercise caution when walking around at night, as most households have guard dogs. In this case and other scenarios where you would prefer not to walk, taxi service is cheap, safe, and available. There are also buses that frequent in and out of the city from downtown Apia.
How to get there
Samoa is served by Faleolo International Airport, an airport located 40 kilometres west of Apia. The following airlines operate to Faleolo International Airport: Air New Zealand, Fiji Airways, Inter Island Airways, Samoa Air, Polynesian Airlines, and Virgin Samoa. These airlines connect Samoa to Australia (Auckland, Brisbane, and Sydney), Hawaii (Honolulu), and to other parts of Samoa (Nadi, Suva, Pago Pago, Tau, Asau, and Maota).
