Destination Profile
Right on the cusp of the International Date Line some 3,500 miles east of Australia, Western Samoa marks the very heart of Polynesia. It does so in grand style. Its two main islands - Savai'i and Upolu – rise straight from an ocean that glints turquoise and moss green. Rows of coconut palms sprout from craggy rock pools, there are lush valleys clinging to the slopes of hulking shield volcanos, and – of course – beaches that run for miles and miles without a single human being in sight. And when you're not hiking the heights, snorkeling with barracuda, or swinging in a hammock? How about papaya-topped octopus and taro curries in local taverns? How about rugby showdowns and traditional South Pacific dance shows? Cheap flights to Western Samoa from Australia will whisk you into the Faleolo International Airport in the capital of Apia. For the fastest route, be sure to seek out deals going direct with airlines like Virgin Australia.
The Piula Cave Pool is your chance to swim in crystal-clear water that sloshes around a lava chute just 45 minutes from the capital of Apia.
Upolo is an island laced with adventure. Under the ridges of Mount Fito, you can find emerald rock pools, rare jungles, and intriguing lava fields.
Less than 1,000 people call hidden Manono Island home, which means the pearly shore waters and snorkeling spots are likely to be deserted.
No airlines fly non-stop to Western Samoa from Australia.