10 family-friendly things to do in Samoa

Samoa is more than a beach or island holiday, it’s an experience. It is also a natural treasure, like the black pearls sprinkled throughout the Pacific. Here are 10 experiences not to miss when visiting this South Pacific paradise.

1. Robert Louis Stevenson Museum

This was the mansion of the famous 19th century author of Treasure Island and Kidnapped, and now houses many of his belongings on public display. The writer was so enchanted by Samoa and its people that he requested to be buried on Mount Vaea, and visitors can choose to take the 30-45 minute walk from the museum to his tomb.

2. Papase’ea Sliding Rocks

About 15 minutes by bus or taxi from Samoa’s capital city of Apia are these natural rock waterslides, formed over thousands of years by running water. There is one 5-metre slide and three smaller ones at the base of the steps, suitable for young children who want to slide and swim in the freshwater pool.

3. Palolo Deep Marine Reserve

One of the most popular swimming and snorkelling spots in the Apia area, this reserve is around the corner from the wharf, towards Vaiala Beach, and is home to a variety of tropical fish and coral.

4. Piula Cave Pool

This underground freshwater pool on the north coast of Upolu is a great place for swimming, snorkelling and picnicking. Entry to the pool is through the gates of the Piula Methodist Theological College. It’s closed on Sundays.

5. Lalomanu Crater Walk

Behind the Lalomanu Hospital is the start of a short walk to an extinct volcanic crater, which is home to a large population of flying foxes. Ask for a guide at Lalomanu.

6. O le Pupu-pue National Park

The name of this 29-sq-km national park means ‘from the coast to the mountaintop’, and there are a number of superb hiking trails leading from the top of Mount Fito to the southern coast (not all of these will be suitable for kids so make sure to check with a guide). Wildlife in the area includes over 50 species of bird, flying foxes and tropical wildflowers.

7. Mu Pagoa Waterfall

A rare natural feature, this amazing waterfall plummets into the surging sea within 100 metres of the bridge between the villages of Puleia and Gautavai. It’s a great spot to see the local villagers utilising this natural resource as part of their daily routine.

8. Alofaaga Blowholes

One of the most spectacular natural attractions in Samoa, and some of the most impressive blowholes anywhere in the world, the Alofaaga Blowholes can be accessed from the village of Taga. A coastal track can be followed west for several hours to the ancient village of Fagaloa.

9. Saleaula Lava Fields

This was the site of a village that was destroyed by lava flow from Mt Matavanu between 1905 and 1911. It now looks something like a lunar landscape, scattered with the remains of homes and buildings.

10. Auala Green Turtle Conservation

The Auala women’s committee manages the turtle conservation program, and guides are available to show you the turtles before they’re released back into the wild.