Boat Diving

Around 35 dive sites accessible by boat. A number of the closer dive sites also serve as snorkelling sites.

Samoa underwater, Credit

These dive sites range from exposed deep water reef pinnacles with moderate current exposure to sheltered lagoon sites with relatively shallow waters, negligible current exposure and undemanding diving conditions. Cconsiderable lengths of barrier reef walls, the tops of which can be exposed on spring low tides and the bottoms of which are around 40m, through which there are passages between the lagoon and the outer barrier reef. In addition to reef diving we also have a couple of wrecks, the most recent of which was a tugboat purposefully scuppered to serve as a dive site. Due to the range of dive sites we visit, there are choices for all levels of certified divers and all levels of experience.

Humuhumunukunukuapua'a, Credit

The pinnacles offer excellent opportunities to see eagle rays and a range of pelagic and reef sharks, whilst the reef walls are home to a healthy number of reef sharks, large schools of snappers, plentiful groupers and sweetlips, and a number of Humphead wrasse. All of the dive sites contain numerous nudibranchs and cryptic species such as scorpionfish and lionfish.

How to Get There

Samoa’s international airport is Faleolo. Flights come to Samoa from New Zealand, Australia, Fiji and Hawaii, as well as American Samoa.

Vehicle, Credit

Where to Eat & Drink

Locally,  Aggie Grey’s Resort offers guests and visitors alike a choice of restaurants whilst Apia is a 45 minute drive or taxi ride away. Apia offers diners a superb selection of restaurants to suit all budgets, with pizza restaurants and waterside bar restaurants in the marina amongst the highlights.

Tropical drink, Credit

A number of resorts and bars present authentic cultural shows to the public during the evening, including traditional Polynesian nights and fire dancing. There are, however, relatively few choices for late night entertainment with most establishments closing by 11pm, although at the time of writing a new nightclub is planning its opening night.

Other Activities

Other activities include;

Snorkelling tours, Kayaking, Pedal boats, Waterskiiing, Wakeboarding, Fishing, and Hobie cat sailing.

There are a number of golf courses in Samoa, including the 18 hole Penina Championship course at Aggie Grey’s.

There are also cultural tours available to local villages and nearby islands.

An award-winning Polynesian tattoo artist also operates on the site.

Kayak boat, Credit

There is plenty of exploring to do on Upolo as well as neighbouring Savai’i islands, including blowholes, the world famous To Sua Ocean Trench, idyllic beaches, waterfalls and hiking. Samoa also has excellent surfing opportunities, although the reef breaks tend to be suited to experienced surfers only.

The capital Apia is a pleasantly quaint town with flea markets, fruit and vegetable markets and a waterfront to explore. Close to the centre are the Palolo Deep Marine Reserve and the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum.

Insider Tips

There is no malaria in Samoa but the mosquitoes are fairly active, especially in the evenings.

Although the electricity supply is reliable, a surge protector is a worthwhile investment.

The best exchange rates for international currency are actually offered in-country, so change foreign currency upon arrival. Most major cards are accepted at ATM points and in larger stores, although local currency is needed in the markets.

To-Suo Swimming hole, Samoa, Credit

Health hazards in Samoa are mainly limited to dehydration and sunburn.

Pharmacies and general medical outlets tend to be inexpensive but under-stocked, so any essential medication should be brought with you.

Plug sockets in Samoa are Australia/New Zealand standard.

Tipping is not standard and therefore at your discretion.