13 Best Tours In Apia

Apia is a lively port city that serves as the gateway to some of the most stunning natural and cultural attractions in Samoa. What makes Apia such a great base for tours is not just its proximity to incredible sights, but the rich variety of experiences available—whether it’s swimming in pristine waters, exploring waterfalls, or enjoying local culture. We particularly love how many tours cater to small groups, making each trip more personal and flexible. For example, the Full-Day Upolu Island Highlights Tour (see details) offers a well-rounded taste of the island’s top sights in just a day.

If you’re after a more private experience, the Samoa in a Day: Customizable Tour (see details) lets you tailor your itinerary, perfect for cruise passengers or those wanting to explore at their own pace. For underwater explorers, the Snorkeling Tour in Samoa (see details) combines reef encounters with waterfall stops, showcasing Samoa’s diverse marine life.

Quick Overview

This list covers a variety of tour styles, including full-day island highlights, snorkeling adventures, cultural explorations, and private shore excursions. Highlights include iconic landmarks like the To Sua Ocean Trench, stunning waterfalls such as Sopoaga Falls, and immersive cultural experiences at Fugalei Market. Whether you prefer a relaxing beach day, an active snorkeling trip, or a private journey, there’s something here to fit your style. Now, let’s explore each tour in detail.

1. Full-Day Upolu Island Highlights Tour from Apia

At number 1, the Full-Day Upolu Island Highlights Tour is perfect for travelers wanting an all-in-one experience. This tour includes stops at Piula Cave Pool, Le Mafa Pass with panoramic views, the famous To Sua Ocean Trench, and the beautiful Lalomanu Beach. It’s a comprehensive day that covers Samoa’s most iconic sights in just about 7-8 hours. You’ll visit local spots, swim in clear waters, and enjoy stunning scenery—all in a small group that prioritizes personal attention.

The tour is highly rated, with perfect 5/5 reviews from 100 travelers, many praising the guide Shawn for sharing his deep knowledge and making the day engaging. Guests appreciate the relaxed pace and the variety of experiences, like swimming in the Fatumea Cave Pool or relaxing on Lalomanu’s sands. The value lies in the combination of diverse highlights—admission tickets for Piula Cave Pool and To Sua are included, making this a solid choice for those new to Samoa or short on time.

Bottom Line: A well-rounded, engaging tour ideal for first-time visitors who want a taste of Samoa’s top sights with personalized service.

2. Apia: Full-Day Upolu Island Tour with Waterfalls and Beaches

This 8-hour tour offers a thorough exploration of Samoa’s most scenic spots, guided by a local who knows the island well. It features the To Sua Trench, Papapapaitai Waterfall, and Lalomanu Beach, complemented by visits to the Baha’i Temple and its lush gardens.

What sets this tour apart is its focus on both natural beauty and cultural sites, providing a balanced day out. The itinerary includes stops for swimming, sightseeing, and photo opportunities, making it suitable for active travelers who want a deep dive into Samoa’s landscape and culture. With a 5/5 rating from 57 reviews, travelers find it excellent value for the full day. The guides are praised for their local insights, and the included stops at stunning waterfalls and beaches are highlights.

Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive day emphasizing natural beauty with cultural insights, perfect for photo lovers and nature enthusiasts.

3. Snorkeling Tour in Samoa

For ocean lovers, the Snorkeling Tour in Samoa is a full-day adventure around 8 hours long. It takes you to Palolo Deep Marine Reserve, Giant Clam Sanctuary, and a lovely lunch spot in Maninoa. This tour is all about underwater exploration and is a favorite among those who love reef life.

What makes it special is the chance to see sea turtles, reef sharks, and a rainbow of tropical fish in protected marine reserves. Guests have noted how the reefs along the shoreline are “amazing,” and seeing a sea turtle in action is a highlight. The guided snorkeling experiences are suited for competent swimmers, and admission to the marine reserves is included.

Bottom Line: A top pick for snorkelers wanting to see Samoa’s vibrant reefs and marine life, with the added bonus of waterfalls and beaches nearby.

4. Apia: Upolu Island Full-Day Tour with a Local Guide

This 8-hour tour offers a personalized look at Samoa’s highlights with a local guide. It features the To Sua Ocean Trench, the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum, and the Fugalei Market, giving you a good mix of cultural, historical, and scenic experiences.

The tour’s strength lies in its flexibility and insider knowledge. The guide shares stories about Samoa’s history and culture, making the experience more meaningful. Guests have praised the guide’s friendliness and depth of knowledge, which helps you understand local life beyond the typical tourist spots. It’s perfect for travelers who want a curated experience but still enjoy exploring at a comfortable pace.

Bottom Line: A great choice if you want a private, personalized tour that combines history, culture, and local flavor.

5. Adventour Samoa: Full Day Tour

This 8-hour tour offers a taste of Samoa’s culture and natural beauty, with stops at Sauniatu Village, Papapapaitai Falls, and Samoa Cultural Village. It’s perfect for those curious about local traditions and community life.

The highlight is the chance to explore villages, meet locals, and see traditional crafts. The tour is highly rated for its authentic feel, and the guides are known for making visitors feel like friends. It’s a good fit for travelers wanting a culturally immersive experience without the crowds. The tours include multiple sightseeing stops with brief walks and photo opportunities.

Bottom Line: A solid choice for culturally curious travelers wanting an authentic, small-group experience.

6. Samoa in a Day: Customizable Tour of Beaches, Waterfalls, Culture

This private tour adapts to your interests, lasting about 5-8 hours. It’s perfect if you want control over your day, choosing from attractions like Giant Clam Sanctuary, To Sua Ocean Trench, Lalomanu Beach, and more.

What makes this stand out is its flexibility—ideal for cruise passengers or travelers with limited time who still want to see Samoa on their terms. The itinerary can be tailored, so if you’re keen on beaches, waterfalls, or culture, the tour will prioritize those. Reviews praise the guide’s knowledge and ability to modify plans based on weather and preferences.

Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting a personalized, private experience that fits their schedule and interests.

7. Samoa Upolu: Full Day Private Tour

This 7.5-hour private tour promises a tailored experience with Sopoaga Falls, Lalomanu Beach, and Piula Cave Pool. It’s ideal for travelers seeking exclusivity and flexibility.

Your guide, Junior, is noted for being an excellent host, making the day both fun and informative. The private setting means you can adjust the pace and focus on your favorite spots, while visiting iconic sites in comfort. Guests have shared positive experiences, emphasizing the personal touch that makes this tour special.

Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want privacy, a flexible schedule, and a memorable, personalized Samoa experience.

8. Adventour Samoa: Cruise Ship Excursion

This 4-5 hour cruise ship tour is designed for travelers on a tight schedule. It covers essentials like To Sua Ocean Trench, Waterfalls, and key urban sights in Apia.

Although shorter, it hits the highlights with guided commentary and efficient transport. Reviewers appreciate the well-organized nature and the ability to see the best parts of Samoa without missing the ship’s departure. It’s a practical option for cruise visitors wanting to maximize limited time.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for cruise travelers who want a quick but comprehensive Samoa experience.

9. Samoa: National Park Lava Cliffs & Black Sand Beach Day Tour

This 6.5-hour adventure explores O le Pupu Pu’e National Park, Ma Tree, and Aganoa Black Sand Beach. It offers a blend of volcanic landscapes and relaxing beach time.

It’s suited for those interested in Samoa’s geological features and scenery. The tour features dramatic lava cliffs and cultural sites like the Ma Tree with its roots extending meters, making it a unique photo opportunity. The included picnic lunch adds to its ease, giving a full day of natural wonder.

Bottom Line: Well-suited for nature and geology fans wanting an active day with some relaxing beach time.

10. Samoa: Pristine Waters of Upolu, All Inclusive Full Day Tour

This 8.5-hour tour makes the most of Samoa’s scenic spots, including Piula Cave Pool, To Sua Ocean Trench, and various waterfalls. It’s designed for travelers who want comprehensive access to Upolu’s waters and landscapes.

Guests enjoy swimming in both fresh and saltwater, with a packed lunch included. The tour’s emphasis on scenic beauty and variety makes it a good value, providing a full day of exploring Samoa’s natural treasures without feeling rushed.

Bottom Line: For those seeking a full immersion in Samoa’s scenic spots with all logistics taken care of, this tour offers excellent value.

11. Apia: Half-Day Sightseeing and History Tour

This 3.5-hour tour is perfect for history and culture buffs eager to understand Samoa’s past. It includes visits to sacred burial grounds, colonial sites, and the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum.

It’s a straightforward way to get a snapshot of Apia’s history and see key landmarks without a full day commitment. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off makes it convenient for travelers with limited time.

Bottom Line: A concise, informative tour for those interested in Samoa’s background and colonial influences.

12. Private Day Shore Tour Samoa’s Waterfalls, Beach, Culture

This private, 7-hour shore excursion combines Piula Cave Pool, Sopoaga and Papapapaitai waterfalls, Lalomanu Beach, and a cultural family visit. It’s exclusive, tailored, and ideal for cruise passengers or private groups.

Traveling in comfort, you get a flexible day with fewer crowds, making it perfect for those wanting a personalized experience. Reviews are limited but praise the flexibility and quality of the private guide.

Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers wanting a customizable, private experience that touches all the major landmarks.

13. Private Shore Tour Samoa’s Natural Wonders Full-Day Trip

This premium private tour offers a full day of sightseeing, including To Sua Trench, Piula Cave Pool, Sopoaga Falls, and Lalomanu Beach. Its tailored approach suits those who want an exclusive, relaxed pace.

The itinerary includes visits to both natural and cultural sites with plenty of time to enjoy each stop. It’s priced accordingly but offers a high level of comfort and personalization. Travelers appreciate the flexibility and the chance to connect with locals at a family home.

Bottom Line: The ideal choice for discerning travelers seeking a bespoke, intimate Samoa experience with no crowds.

How to Choose

Picking the right tour depends on your priorities. If you want a comprehensive day with highlights, the Full-Day Upolu Island Highlights Tour (see details) or the All-Inclusive Waters Tour (see details) are excellent choices. For snorkelers, the Snorkeling Tour (see details) offers vibrant marine life. If private or customizable experiences appeal, the Samoa in a Day (see details) or the Private Shore Tours (see details) give you control over your itinerary.

Consider your budget, time constraints, fitness level, and interest in culture or nature. Booking early is advised, especially for popular private tours and cruise ship excursions, to secure your preferred dates.

In summary, Apia offers an array of tours suited to different interests—from adventure and relaxation to culture. For a full island experience, the Full-Day Upolu Highlights is hard to beat. For underwater enthusiasts, the Snorkeling Tour delivers close encounters with vibrant marine life. And for those seeking a personalized, private journey, options like the Samoa in a Day or Private Shore Tours are ideal. Whatever your choice, Samoa’s natural beauty and warm hospitality will make your visit memorable. Remember to book early, especially if you’re on a cruise, and enjoy every moment exploring this Pacific paradise.