Samoa has long been a hidden gem for seasoned surfers seeking uncrowded, world-class waves in the South Pacific. Its two main islands of Upolu and Savai’i are ringed by breaks catering to intermediate and advanced wave riders, some of which are renowned for their heavy, hollow power. Add to that the intense natural beauty of the islands and the welcoming culture of the Samoan people and you have the makings of a sustainable surf vacation like no other.
That being said, the surf scene here is not without its complexities, with many of the local villages imposing beach and surf fees that need to be paid on arrival. It’s also generally frowned upon to surf on Sundays, which is a day of rest for Samoa’s majority Christian population. All of the resorts and surf guides are well-versed in these local protocols and can seamlessly handle logistics or give you sound advice if you’re travelling independently.
In our opinion, respecting Samoa’s local customs and supporting land owners is a small price to pay to surf largely uncrowded and epic waves in a paradisiacal setting. Development here is blissfully minimal and the resorts that do scatter the coastline operate with an eco-conscious philosophy.
In this guide to surfing in Samoa, we’ll introduce the top places to surf in Upolu and Savai’i, as well as eco-friendly places to stay to access all the best breaks.
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Best places to surf in Upolu, Samoa
Tafatafa
Tucked away on the southern coast of Upolu, this reeling righthand break is easily accessible by boat from the coastline. Tafatafa is a powerful wave that can provide an extended ride when the conditions are right, particularly on a strong southwest swell and with northerly winds.
Top tip: While the break's name may be a nod to a local landmark, it's important to note that the beach itself is not located within Tafatafa village, but can be accessed via a signposted turnoff in the village of Malaemalu.
Boulders
For those seeking a big, powerful lefthander, head to Boulders, which can be reached either via a 10-minute boat road from Maninoa or down a 4WD track from Sa’agafou. When there's a south swell running (usually between April and September), this wave can be well overhead, providing a welcome challenge for experienced surfers. Not only that but it’s situated in one of the most breathtakingly beautiful bays in Samoa.
It’s worth keeping in mind that this is one of the only surf breaks in the area that tends to get quite crowded, particularly during the peak season.
Salani
Beloved by locals and visiting surfers alike, this powerful right-hander offers multiple take-off spots, allowing you to catch the wave at various sections and angles. What makes Salani Right so special is its ability to barrel at virtually any size, with hollow, tubing sections not uncommon. The ideal swell direction is from the south, as this produces a longer, more wall-like wave that allows for high-performance surfing.
In contrast, Salani Left offers up a long, fast-breaking barrel that pitches over a shallow, coral reef. This wave is best surfed at medium tide with a southeast swell direction when it will transform into a long, walling ride. Both can be reached from the end of Salani Road on the southeast coast of Upolu.
Coconuts
Coconuts is one of Upolu’s best surf breaks and can easily be accessed from the nearby resorts and beach fales of Maninoa. This fast-paced right-hander is a favourite among experienced surfers seeking an adrenalin-fueled ride, particularly when a southwest swell and northeasterly wind combine.
While many surfers opt to access the wave by boat, the more adventurous can embark on an 800-metre paddle to reach the lineup. There are several upmarket resorts in the area, providing plenty of creature comforts and a laid-back tropical vibe, making this a popular spot to stay for surfers travelling with their families in tow.
Guide to surfing in Samoa
Eco-friendly places to stay on Upolu
Best over-the-water resort on Upolu
At Coconuts, you'll find Samoa's only over-the-water fales, providing unparalleled views across the sparkling lagoon. This eco-friendly resort's low-key, unplugged ambiance - with no high-rise buildings, phones or televisions - allows you to fully immerse yourself in the Samoan way of life while being on the doorstep of all Upolu’s natural wonders.
“Paradise on Earth!” - Mirna (read more reviews here)
Best luxury resort on Upolu
This luxury resort on Upolu boasts a private ocean lagoon, as well as two sparkling swimming pools and a dreamy spa. Each of the well-appointed accommodations comes complete with a private balcony boasting stunning views across the ocean while some also feature indulgent bathtubs.
“Exceptional!” - Shelley (read more reviews here)
Best family resort on Upolu
Lush tropical gardens surround this family-friendly resort on Upolu, which overlooks an idyllic beach on the island's south coast. Aside from the comfortable accommodations, there are plenty of activities to keep kids entertained, including a cultural activities program that allows you to experience firsthand the traditions of Samoa.
“So picturesque and beautifully maintained.” - Kevan (read more reviews here)
Guide to surfing in Samoa
Best places to surf in Savai’i, Samoa
Aganoa Beach
Located on the ruggedly beautiful southern coast of Savai'i, Aganoa Beach offers a range of breaks to suit both intermediate and advanced surfers. Aganoa Right is a long, powerful righthand reef break that can produce towering walls while Aganoa Left offers goofy-footers a chance to showcase their skills.
In between these two waves lies Middles, a playful reef break that provides an intermediate-friendly option. But the surf riches of Aganoa don't end there - a short boat ride away leads to the long, winding walls of K-Land and the fun, rippable right at Pastor Point. For those seeking a more mellow experience, Little Left provides a gentle, beginner-friendly wave that breaks softly over the reef.
Satuiatua
Along the southwest shores of Savai'i are a number of ridable waves that can be accessed from the neighbouring coastal villages of Satuiatua and Salailua. There's a superb left-hand breaking wave that even manages to provide a short but hollow ride on smaller swells, peeling nicely towards a deep channel. On the other side of this channel, you can sometimes find a fun right-hander.
Further east along the point is another fantastic left-hand wave, which comes to life on larger swells. That being said, the inside section is extremely shallow and best left to only the most experienced surfers. Most of the surf breaks around Satuiatua and Salailua are best at high tide, so coincide your visit accordingly.
Asau
For the most dedicated surfers, the small coastal villages of Asau, Auala and Vaisala along the northwest coast of Savai’i represent the final frontier of Samoa's wave-riding opportunities. This particular stretch of coastline offers a dozen or more little-known surf breaks scattered across the bays and inlets that dot this rugged, volcanic region.
In addition to mellow left-hand walls, you can find challenging right-hand point breaks that can handle big swells. Where to head on any given day will depend entirely on the prevailing swell direction, as certain breaks perform better in certain conditions.
But the beauty of this surf zone is that the breaks are all relatively easy to spot and access directly from the coastal road. For those willing to make the journey, there’s a chance to ride some of the most pristine, uncrowded waves that Samoa has to offer, in a wild and dramatic natural setting.
Guide to surfing in Samoa
Eco-friendly places to stay on Savai’i
Best boutique resort on Savai'i
Located in the village of Fagamolo on Savai’i’s north coast, this boutique Samoan resort boasts just 10 intimate bungalows overlooking a golden beach. Just steps away, the Barefoot Bar and Restaurant offers all-day dining with a focus on fresh, local ingredients prepared with Samoan flair. The resort partners with Dive Savaii to provide easy access to the exceptional snorkelling and scuba diving sites nearby.
“Would come back again in a heartbeat!” - Jane (read more reviews here)
Best luxury resort on Savai'i
On the east coast of Savai’i, this luxury Samoan resort features 27 Polynesian-style bungalows, rooms and villas, plus an inviting swimming pool with a swim-up bar. With a menu co-designed by award-winning chef Joe La, the dining here is particularly special, combining traditional Samoan flavours with contemporary culinary techniques.
“Beautiful property.” - Megan (read more reviews here)
Satuiatua Beach Fale
Best budget resort on Savai'i
On the southern shores of Savai'i, this budget-friendly beachfront resort is the perfect base for surfers wanting to tackle the waves that break just offshore. It features a handful of charming fales (traditional bungalows) situated directly on the sands, plus elevated treehouse platforms where you can laze in a hammock in between sessions.
Guide to surfing in Samoa
Best time to surf in Samoa
The surf scene in Samoa is defined by its distinct seasonal patterns, with the dry and wet seasons each offering unique opportunities.
During the dry season (May to October), Samoa experiences the most consistent and sizeable swells, primarily originating from the south. This is the best time to hit the country's most popular surf spots along the southern coasts of Upolu and Savai’i. However, the tradewinds often pick up in the afternoons and can sometimes blow things out, so you’re better off heading out in the mornings.
In contrast, the wet season (November through April) brings a shift in the prevailing swell patterns, which tend to come from the north. While the waves during this time of year may not reach the towering heights of the dry season, the northerly swells open up a whole new array of surf breaks, particularly along Samoa's northern coastlines. What's more, the dwindling tradewinds during the wet season months of February through April create glassy, unspoiled conditions that are a surfer's dream.
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