WHAT TO EAT

Oka i’a – The Samoan Ceviche
Samoa’s version of ceviche, oka i’a is a dish of raw fish marinated in lime juice and mixed with creamy coconut milk, onions, tomatoes and fresh herbs. The tangy, refreshing flavours are perfect on a warm day and offer a delightful contrast to the rich coconut. Typically made with tuna, oka i’a is served in beachside eateries and local markets, offering a true taste of the island.

 Palusami – A Creamy Samoan Classic
Palusami is a savoury dish made with tender taro leaves, coconut cream, onions and (on occasion) corned beef or fish. The mixture is wrapped in banana leaves and baked or steamed, resulting in a rich, creamy flavour that melts in your mouth. This dish is often served at feasts, but can also be found at local restaurants or markets. It’s a must-try for anyone seeking authentic Samoan cuisine.

 Panipopo – Sweet Coconut Buns
If you have a sweet tooth, panipopo is the perfect Samoan treat. These soft bread rolls are baked in a bath of sweet coconut cream, making them wonderfully rich and tender. A popular local dessert or snack, panipopo is a beloved comfort food, often found in bakeries or during traditional family meals. Pair it with coffee or tea for a delightful end to your meal.

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

To Sua Ocean Trench – Natural Swimming Pool
The To Sua Ocean Trench is one of Samoa’s most iconic natural attractions. A bucket list feat, plunge into this surreal 30-metre-deep sinkhole, filled with turquoise saltwater. Accessible via a steep wooden ladder, this tranquil jewel is framed by lush gardens, affording secluded splendour. Be sure to explore the surrounding areas, with abounding hidden caves and coastal views.

 Lalomanu Beach – A Slice of Paradise
Praised as one of the most beautiful beaches in the South Pacific, Lalomanu Beach is defined by a pristine stretch of powder white sand bordered by translucent waters. Bask in the sun, snorkel among kaleidoscope corals or relish a picnic by the shore. The waters are calm and warm, making it ideal for families and tranquillity seekers alike.

 Falealupo Canopy Walk – Adventure in the Treetops
For adventure hunters, the Falealupo Canopy Walk offers thrills among Falealupo’s thriving rainforest. Suspended 40 metres above ground, the trail leads you across a swinging bridge through the forest canopy. Brace yourself for imposing vistas atop the towering banyan tree, where kilometres of jungle and coastline parade below.

CULTURAL EXPERIENCES

Fa’a Samoa – Embracing the Samoan Way of Life
Samoa’s rich cultural heritage, known as Fa’a Samoa (The Samoan Way), marks the heart of the island’s community life. Visitors are invited to experience this legacy firsthand through village tours, where you can witness traditional ceremonies, crafts and aspects of communal living. Acquaint with friendly locals as they prepare meals, perform dances and display their beautiful handwoven mats and siapo cloths.

 Fire Knife Dance – A Thrilling Cultural Spectacle
A signature element of Samoan culture, the Fire Knife Dance is a high-energy performance showcasing skill and bravery. Wielding knives set aflame, the performers spin, toss and dance with the burning blades, creating a mesmerising display of light and movement. Typically performed during cultural festivals and shows, this dance is a symbol of strength and courage, and a highlight for any visitor looking to witness the vibrancy of Samoan traditions.

 Samoan Umu – The Traditional Earth Oven Feast
No visit to Samoa is complete without experiencing an umu, a traditional feast cooked in an earth oven, embodying the heart of Samoan culture. This age-old practice begins with heating large stones over an open fire, symbolising the connection to the land and local resources. Food such as taro, breadfruit, chicken and fish is wrapped in banana leaves and cooked slowly, emphasising traditional techniques. The communal nature of the umu fosters unity, as friends and family gather to prepare and share the meal, reinforcing social bonds through storytelling and laughter. Often featured during important celebrations, the umu represents generosity and hospitality, profoundly celebrating the flavours and values of Samoan heritage.