A Tourist’s Guide to The Best Swimming Beaches in Samoa

Samoa is renowned to be one of the last untouched tropical havens with perfect beaches and calm crystal waters. To help you in your quest to find the perfect spot for a refreshing swim after a nap under the palm trees, we’ve compiled a list of the best swimming beaches in Samoa.

 

Coming up:

Best swimming beaches in Upolu, Samoa

1. Lalomanu Beach

2. Lefaga Beach

3. Tafatafa Beach

Best swimming beaches in Savai'i, Samoa

1. Aganoa Black Sand Beach

2. Manase Beach

 

Best swimming beaches in Upolu, Samoa

 

1. Lalomanu Beach

Surrounded by lush palms and crystal waters, Lalomanu Beach has been recognised as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world and of course, one of the best beaches in Samoa and definitely one of the best things to do in Samoa. This picturesque white sandy beach is located in the village of the same name, in the south of Upolu Island. It takes about an hour to drive there from Samoa’s capital, Apia but as the sign at the entrance says: ‘Come and enjoy heaven’, the journey to this untouched paradise is well worth it!

To make the most of your getaway, you can choose to stay overnight at one of the traditional fales nearby for the most authentic Samoan beach experience. The stunning beach makes for the most beautiful sunsets but let's not forget its incredible sunrises too! Waking up to the sound of the calm golden waves is truly magical. 

Lalomanu is not only one of the most popular beaches to swim in Samoa, the inviting turquoise waters of the lagoon are also amazing to experience by kayak. Snorkelling is likewise a great option at Lalomanu as the beach is part of a marine reserve where you can enjoy the rich and colourful underwater world.

 

2. Lefaga Beach

Lefaga Beach is a Samoan gem located on the southwest coast of Upolu. This tropical haven was made famous by the American movie, Return to Paradise, which was filmed there, and is one of the best places to visit in Samoa. Destroyed by the 2009 tsunami, Lefaga Beach has since been fully restored to its former glory.

Secluded amongst tall palms, this beach is unique for its atypical combination of pearly white sand and black stones along its shore, making it one of the most beautiful places in Samoa. After a long day swimming or snorkelling in the crystal blue waters of Lefaga in search of giant clams, the nearby Faimafili Village Resort’s beachfront restaurant is the perfect place to end another idyllic Samoan day. There you can enjoy amazing views of the sunset while treating yourself to a well-deserved dinner after an afternoon swimming in Lefaga’s turquoise lagoon.

 

3. Tafatafa Beach

Tafatafa in the South of Upolu Island is the day trip not to miss during your Samoan stay! This beach is great for swimming, snorkelling, surfing or simply sunbathing on the soft white sand. Extending your visit to overnight is also an option with Samoan beach fales available to book for the night allowing you to wake up directly on the beach in the morning. 

This idyllic beach is great for families but also beach weddings in Samoa with beautiful clear waters and several facilities close by, making it a safe and convenient experience. Vaiula Beach Fales along Tafatafa’s shore can be rented for the occasion and decorated with colourful local flowers. The couple and their wedding guests can also choose to stay the night in one of the fales after a traditional Samoan feast to celebrate this very special day. Alternatively, they can choose to spend the wedding night at one of the nearby resorts (ask us and we can help you book some accommodation for you).

 

Best swimming beaches in Savai'i, Samoa

 

1. Aganoa Black Sand Beach

Aganoa Black Sand Beach is the most scenic and secluded volcanic beach in Samoa. The stunning crescent-shaped beach is located west of the O Le Pupu-Pue National Park on Savai’i Island and is accessible through a 4WD track only. Its soft black sand and transparent dark blue waters surrounded by tall palm trees give it its unique character. 

Aganoa Black Sand Beach is a popular beach for swimming, snorkelling and surfing. However, we recommend that you bring your own gear as the beach is too isolated and doesn’t have any facilities close-by. 

The calm and idyllic setting of Aganoa allows you to explore the underwater world far from the crowds or to go for a relaxing swim in the lagoon. If you are looking at where to go in Samoa for the most secluded and unique beach experience, this is the perfect beach for you!

 

2. Manase Beach

Manase Beach is located next to the village of the same name on the north coast of Savai’i Island, 45km from the ferry terminal on the east of Savai’i, and is a popular destination for visitors of the secluded island wanting to experience the best of Samoa. The picturesque beach features locally owned traditional Samoan beach fales along the white sandy shore, fringed by lushed palm trees. There you can also find various facilities thanks to six Samoa beach resorts conveniently situated close by. 

 

And that’s a wrap on the best beaches in Samoa, make sure you also read our blog on the best beach resorts in Samoa to start planning your dream Samoa holiday.

 

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