Ocean trench · Upolu
To Sua Ocean Trench
Photo: Rickard Törnblad / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
To Sua Ocean Trench is a 30-metre-deep collapsed lava tube on Upolu's south coast, connected to the open Pacific by an underwater channel. A wooden spiral ladder descends to a floating dock where you can swim in pools fed by the tides. The site is set in manicured native gardens with showers, picnic fales and a small shop. Skilled divers can swim through the cave passage to the open sea. Open year-round, with the calmest conditions during the dry season from May to October.
A 30-metre-deep collapsed lava tube on Upolu's south coast, fed by an underwater channel that lets the open Pacific flow in and out with the tide. A long wooden ladder spirals down to a small floating dock — the climb makes the swim feel earned. Surrounded by manicured native gardens with showers, picnic fales and a small mini-mart selling cold drinks. Skilled divers can swim through the cave passage to the open sea.
Also known as: Lotofaga Ocean Trench, To Sua, To Sua Lotofaga, To Sua Ocean Trench Samoa, To Sua Trench, To-Sua
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Activities that visit To Sua Ocean Trench
6 tours include this stop on their itinerary.
Coconut Tours & Transport Samoa· 5.0★ (2)
- Day tour
- 6 to 7 hours
- Upolu
Featured in our guides
Dedicated guide
Visiting To Sua Ocean Trench — full guide
Stays nearby, activities that include To Sua Ocean Trench, practical info — all on one page.
Best stays in Upolu, Samoa
Upolu is where most Samoa trips start. Faleolo International Airport, the capital Apia, and the bulk of the country's resort-tier accommodation all sit here. The south coast (Lalomanu, Lotofaga, Siumu) is the postcard side; the north has Apia and the working harbour.
Things to do in Samoa: tours, activities, and day trips
Samoa rewards travellers who get out of the resort. Most of the iconic photos (To-Sua, Lalomanu, Alofaaga blowholes, the canopy walk) are 60–90-minute drives from wherever you're staying — and the easiest way to see them is on a guided tour with a local operator who knows the village fees and the best swimming windows.
Stay nearby on Upolu
To Sua Ocean Trench in detail
- About
- A 30-metre-deep collapsed lava tube on Upolu's south coast, fed by an underwater channel that lets the open Pacific flow in and out with the tide. A long wooden spiral ladder descends to a small floating dock.
- Best time to visit
- Year-round, calmest in the dry season (May–Oct)
- Getting there
- Main South Coast Road, Lotofaga, Upolu
- What to expect
- A swim in the trench surrounded by manicured native gardens. The site includes showers, picnic fales and a small shop selling cold drinks. Skilled divers can swim through the cave passage to the open sea.
About To Sua Ocean Trench
Is there an entry fee?
Most Samoan waterfalls, natural pools, and caves sit on village or family land and charge a small access fee (typically WST 5-30) paid at the entrance. Bring small notes.
Can I swim here?
Most freshwater pools at the base of waterfalls are swimmable when water levels are reasonable; rope swings or ladders may be present. Swim at your own risk — there are no lifeguards, and rocks can be slippery. After heavy rain, swimming may be unsafe due to debris and stronger currents.
When is the best time to visit?
Morning to early afternoon for the best light and photography. Avoid visits during or just after heavy rain when access tracks can be slippery and pools turbid.
What should I bring?
Reef shoes or sandals with grip, swimwear, towel, drinking water, a small denomination of cash for the entry fee, and insect repellent.
Last updated 16 September 2026