Samoa is located east of the international date line and south of the equator, about halfway between Hawaii and New Zealand in the Polynesian region of the Pacific Ocean.  Officially called The Independent State of Samoa, this country is a pictureperfect display of natural beauty consisting of ten islands, with the two main islands, Upolu & Savai’i accounting for 99% of the total land area. The main islands Savai’i and Upolu are dotted with awesome surf breaks and get consistent good swells year-round. All are reefbreaks and most of them located offshore. Expect plenty of power and very few crowds. Large tides affect most waves in Samoa so generally surfing happens a few hours each side of the high tide. A strong culture and religious tradition requires that surfing may be restricted on Sundays at some breaks.  

Quick Facts

Tropical waves in a beautiful location 

Most breaks require boat access 

Well established and family friendly surf camp options 

Friendly locals and chilled vibes 

When to go

Samoa has surf year-round and is blessed with many world class spots, however most are located on difficult to access reefs.The most consistent swells come from way down in the Southern Ocean and intensify before exploding on Upolu Island's south shore during the April to October season.The months between February and April, as well as October are a good option with glassy, clean conditions due to lack of trade winds. The southern hemisphere summer is when the North Shore of Upolu and Savaii are at their best.North Pacific swells travel via Hawaii and hit Samoa's north shore approximately three to five days after hitting Oahu.

Attractions

The Diving in Samoa is a massive drawcard with deep water pinnacles and passages through barrier reef walls teeming with marine life. Between the crystal blue waters, the sandy beaches, rich green valleys and rainforests, the lagoons and the waterfalls it’s also one of the most breathtaking of Pacific Islands. An average air temperature of 30 degrees all year round and an ocean that stays around 25 degrees also adds to the comfort levels.

The Country

Previously known as Western Samoa, the “Western” was dropped in 1996 and the country became “Samoa”. It is comprised of larger volcanic islands and smaller offshore islands, with a total of 11 islands making up the whole country. The largest are Savai’i and Upolu, with the latter home to approximately 75% of the population as well as the capital Apia and the main international airport at Faleolo. Tourism however is relatively undeveloped compared Fiji and Tonga and so the islands present fantastic opportunities for exploration and contain awesome waterfalls and impressive blowholes, as well as quaint, beautifully maintained villages, bustling fruit, vegetable and handicraft markets, and the world famous To Sua Ocean Trench. 

Getting There

Fly into the International airport at Faleolo on Upolo and your resort or accommodation will organise all the land or boat transfers.  

Travel Information

Time Zone

GMT +13

Currency

Samoan Tala (WST)

Calling code

+685 

Electric

230 V and the frequency is 50 Hz