Surfing in Samoa
Samoa is a lush tropical paradise with stunning natural scenery. The island is located in the South Pacific Ocean and offers some of the best waves in the area. There are lots of palm trees, waterfalls, beaches, warm weather, and some amazing waves scattered all over the place. What makes Samoa an ultimate surf destination is that the surf spots are mostly uncrowded. The islands are usually compared to other countries that are famous for their perfect powerful waves but without the crowd factor. Thanks to the strategic position in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, Samoa enjoys outstanding surf conditions throughout the whole year. Most of the breaks consist of reef-pass waves that require a certain level of skill to be surfed but there are still mellow waves for those who are learning how to surf. No matter what your level of surf is this trip is totally worth it and you’re bound to score some unreal waves and have an epic time in paradise.
Climate in Samoa
The climate in Samoa is tropical with distinct wet and dry seasons. There is little variation in the air temperature throughout the year and the average is around 27° C. The sea temperature is also warm with average temperature around the low 20s all year round. This makes it a perfect destination to swim, snorkel and surf all year around. In the country’s eastern and south-eastern coast, trade winds arrive usually in the afternoons messing up the surf conditions but also a cooling effect during the hottest part of the day. Dry season is from May to October, making this the most popular time for visitors. This is the best time to surf with consistent swells ranging from 6-8 ft on average. The wet season, from November to April, experiences less swell but amazing glassy conditions. It might not rain every day, but there are occasionally short but intense thunderstorms. The wettest months of the season are in between December to March.
Best surf spots in Samoa
The island of Upolu is where the international airport is located. There are many surf spots in Upolu and surfing conditions are ideal all year round. The resorts spread along the coast are perfect for those who are looking for an easy and comfortable way to explore the best surf spots in the island and at the same time enjoy the traditional culture and natural beauty of Samoa. The best surf spots are located far away from the shore and can only be accessed by boat. For those not staying at a surf resort, there are still a few accessible surf spots around Samoa, although you will need to pay a local to take you around. The archipelago of Samoa has many well known reef breaks that will provide plenty of waves to ride. The most popular surf spots on Upolu are: Coconuts, Wackas, Boulders and Tiavea. Savai'i is another Samoan island that offers incredible surf breaks. The island is way less populated by tourists, meaning you will probably have waves to yourself there. The most famous breaks are Agona, Pastor Point, K-Land and Middles and are located on Savaii’s northern coastline.
Budget Planning
Meal price range
Simple meals start at $7 USD. Mid-range meals start at $14 USD. Dining & drinking at high-end restaurants can cost anywhere from $90-150 USD
Equipment rental
You should bring your own gear.
Prepaid SIM cards
BlueSky Samoa is a good choice. SIM cards can be purchased from official shops on Apia. Prepaid packages start at $14 USD.
Public transport
Brightly colored buses drive around Samoa. There is only one main bus terminal and no official stops, so just wave your hand and flag one down when you need it. All buses prominently display the name of their destination in the front window.
Taxis are cheap and reliable. But not metered so negotiate the price before you get in. You can easily take a ferry between the islands.
Car rentals start at $45 USD.
Note: almost everything in Samoa is closed -including public transport- on Sundays, besides hotels.
Gas prices
$0.96 USD a liter.
Types of risks
Sharp, shallow reefs and heavier hollow waves.
How to prepare
Visa
Citizens from all countries can enter Samoa without a visa for anywhere from 60-90 days, depending on your nationality. Your passport must be valid for 6 months at time of entry and you must have proof of onward/return travel.
Vaccines
Although it's not mandatory, it’s recommended that you have been vaccinated for hepatitis A & B, yellow fever, typhoid, rabies, meningitis, polio, Tdap, chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia, influenza, measles, mumps and rubella. You’ll be asked to show proof of your yellow fever vaccination if you come from a country with a risk of yellow fever.
Things to know
Language & Currency
The official language in Samoa is Samoan. Many Samoans in the tourism industry will speak some English, but English is pretty limited in more remote areas.
Best time to go
Samoa has surf all year round. The two different seasons bring changes in wind and swell directions. In the dry season (May-October) there are big south swells (3-10ft) and mainly south-east trade winds, so the early session is the go to get those glassy conditions.
Checking Surf forecast
Checking the forecast about a week before your trip is always a good idea. Understanding what the waves will be like and knowing what gear to pack is essential. You can check the forecast for the waves here.
Do I need pack a pharmacy kit
You should bring a basic kit. Including ear drops, eye drops, bandaids, ear plugs, gaze, alcohol, mosquito repellent and broad spectrum antibiotic ointment.
Travel/Surf Insurance
World Nomads has great travel insurance packages that are not super expensive and they cover surfing.
Emergency
Dial 995 for the police and 999 for an ambulance.
Check surf pictures of Samoa at #surfsamoa.
