Samoa isn’t just about stunning beaches and lush landscapes—it’s a place where every turn offers a new chance for a memorable tour or experience. Whether you’re a water lover eager to swim in crystal-clear pools, a history buff curious about volcanic caves, or someone just wanting to relax on beautiful beaches, Samoa delivers. Among the many options, we particularly love the Tour of Primeval Crystal Waters of Samoa, which offers a thrilling mix of freshwater and saltwater swimming in some of the most iconic spots on Upolu. Its flexible itinerary and small group size make it a personalized adventure you won’t forget.
Another standout is the Cave Pool & Lava Tube Swims of Upolu. It combines the adventurous hike into Vaiula Cave with the chance to swim in Piula Cave Pool, with the added thrill of exploring a volcanic lava tube—perfect for those wanting more than just a beach day. For cruise passengers, the Apia Port: Cruise Guests’ Shore Excursion offers a comprehensive taste of Samoa’s highlights in just six hours, making it ideal if your time is limited but your curiosity is high. And for a classic Samoan experience, the To Sua Trench/Swimming Hole delivers stunning vistas and a giant sinkhole swimming adventure.
Below, we explore each tour in detail, helping you decide which fits your interests, schedule, and style best.
1. Tour of Primeval Crystal Waters of Samoa
This tour of Primeval Crystal Waters offers a full 9-hour exploration of Upolu’s most stunning swimming spots, with the flexibility to customize your day. You’ll visit six water destinations, including Piula Cave Pool, Lalomanu Beach, and the To Sua Ocean Trench. The tour begins at the Visitor Information Center, where you’ll meet your guide and set out on a back-road journey that takes you into the island’s less-traveled corners.
What makes this tour stand out is its balance of activity and relaxation. You’ll dip in freshwater at Sauniatu Waterfall, swim in saltwater pools at Piula Cave, and lounge at Lalomanu Beach—each site offering a different vibe and scenery. The itinerary is flexible, so you can spend more time at your favorite spots or explore new angles, making it ideal for travelers who want a personalized experience. The tour also includes scenic views, hiking, and photo stops, including Papapapaitai Falls, which is highly rated for its breathtaking 110-meter drop.
Rated 5/5 based on 8 reviews, this tour is perfect for active travelers who want to see the natural diversity of Upolu’s water wonders. The small group size (limited to six) ensures a personal experience, and the ability to cancel with 24-hour notice adds flexibility. Expect a day filled with swimming, sightseeing, and fresh air—an authentic Samoa adventure.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for water lovers who want a full day of exploring Samoa’s best swimming spots at their own pace.
2. Cave Pool & Lava Tube Swims of Upolu
For those who crave both adventure and a touch of volcanic geology, the Cave Pool & Lava Tube Swims of Upolu offers a full-day experience packed with hiking and swimming. Starting at the Visitor Information Center, your day includes a jungle hike to discover the hidden entrance to Vaiula Cave Pool, which feels like stepping into a secret world. You’ll then descend into Piula Cave Pool, swimming beneath a historic church—an unusual and memorable setting.
The highlight is braving the steep descent into the To Sua Ocean Trench, a giant sinkhole filled with tidal waters, where you can swim in a nearly otherworldly environment. The tour continues with a stop at Tafatafa Beach for a tasty sandwich roll, and you’ll get to relax or swim at Vaiula Beach Fales afterward. The final stop is Papapapaitai Falls, Samoa’s highest at 110 meters, offering a grand finale of natural beauty.
This tour’s unique appeal lies in its combination of jungle hiking, volcanic geology, and swimming—perfect for travelers who want more than just a beach day. The reviews note the knowledgeable guides and the variety of experiences, making it a well-rounded day. It’s suited for physically active visitors comfortable with hiking and exploring.
Bottom Line: An adventurous choice for those eager to combine volcanic landscapes with swimming in pristine pools, all in one day.
3. Adventour Samoa: To Sua Trench/Swimming Hole
If you’ve seen photos of Samoa’s most famous attraction, the To Sua Ocean Trench and wondered what all the fuss is about, this 8-hour tour will satisfy your curiosity. You’ll begin with a scenic drive to the site, where the view from above showcases the stunning green landscape surrounding this giant sinkhole.
The tour includes a guided descent into the To Sua Ocean Trench, where you can swim in the clear tidal waters that fill the hole. Surrounded by lush foliage and connected to the sea through an underwater cave, this spot offers both a visual wow factor and a refreshing swim. The tour also covers other natural attractions, including a visit to the lagoon, and provides ample time to relax and absorb the scenery.
Rated highly for its ease of access and natural beauty, this experience is perfect for travelers seeking a straightforward, iconic Samoa experience. It’s a great choice for families or those with limited mobility who want to see the famous sinkhole without extensive hiking, and it’s an efficient way to enjoy a signature attraction.
Bottom Line: A must-do for first-timers to Samoa wanting the classic To Sua experience with minimal fuss.
4. Apia Port: Cruise Guests’ Shore Excursion
Cruise visitors with limited time should consider the Apia Port Shore Excursion, designed to give a broad taste of Samoa’s top sights in just six hours. Starting from Apia Cruise Terminal or your hotel, this tour covers key highlights such as Piula Cave Pool, Sopoaga Falls, and the To Sua Ocean Trench.
The itinerary packs in travel, sightseeing, and swimming, with a focus on efficient route planning. You’ll get to take memorable photos at landmarks like the Sopoaga Falls, which features a 50-meter drop, and enjoy a swim in the To Sua Ocean Trench, which is about 30-35 meters deep. The tour ends with a relaxing stop at Lalomanu Beach, where you can unwind and dip your toes in the sand.
Highly rated for its convenience and coverage, this tour is perfect for cruise passengers wanting to maximize their Samoa experience without missing the ship’s departure. The small-group setting and flexible schedule ensure you won’t feel rushed, and the inclusion of key natural and cultural sites makes it a well-rounded sampler.
Bottom Line: An excellent pick for cruise travelers short on time but eager to see Samoa’s top sights.
5. Apia: To Sua Trench, Waterfalls, and Piula Cave Pool Tour
For travelers based in Apia wanting a half-day adventure, the To Sua Trench, Waterfalls, and Piula Cave Pool Tour offers a good balance of natural wonders. Starting from Taumeasina Island Resort, this 4.5-hour guided tour covers the iconic To Sua Ocean Trench, a visit to the Fupisia or Sopoaga Waterfalls, and a swim at Piula Cave Pool.
What sets this tour apart is its convenience and focus on the most popular natural attractions. You’ll get panoramic views from the Le Mafa Pass, which sits 1,700 feet above sea level, and enjoy a relaxing swim in the cool waters of Piula Cave Pool. The tour also includes a pleasant lunch pack and time to relax on Lalomanu Beach, making it perfect for those who want a taste of Samoa without dedicating an entire day.
Reviewers appreciate the guided aspect and the ability to see several highlights with minimal fuss. It’s best suited for travelers with limited time or those who prefer a structured itinerary that still allows some flexibility.
Bottom Line: An efficient, well-organized tour for those seeking Samoa’s top natural sights in a short time.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When deciding among these options, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. If water-based adventures excite you, the Tour of Primeval Crystal Waters of Samoa offers a full day of swimming in varied environments. For those wanting a more adventurous day with hiking and volcanic scenery, the Cave Pool & Lava Tube Swims might be best.
If your cruise is limited on time, the Apia Port Shore Excursion provides a compact yet comprehensive sampler of Samoa’s highlights. Meanwhile, for a classic Samoa experience, the To Sua Trench delivers iconic scenery with minimal hassle. And if you’re based in Apia and want a concise tour, the Waterfalls and Piula Cave Pool hits all the major natural attractions.
Booking early is always wise, especially in peak seasons, and check availability to match your travel schedule. Consider your physical activity level—some tours involve hiking, while others are more relaxed. Whichever you choose, Samoa offers memorable options for every explorer.
Final Thoughts
Samoa’s tours and experiences highlight the islands’ stunning natural beauty and unique geological features. If you’re looking for a full immersion in water adventures, the Primeval Crystal Waters top our list. For a mix of adventure and volcanic exploration, the Cave Pool & Lava Tube Swims is hard to beat. Meanwhile, the To Sua Trench remains the quintessential Samoa photo op.
Travelers with limited time or on cruise excursions will find the Apia Port tour a practical way to see many highlights. No matter your interests, booking early and choosing the right tour will ensure you make the most of your Samoa visit. With such a diverse range of options, Samoa is sure to leave you with lasting memories—and maybe a new appreciation for volcanic landscapes and pristine waters.