Ocean trench · Upolu
To Sua Ocean Trench
Photo: Rickard Törnblad / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
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 at a glance
To Sua Ocean Trench is a 30-metre-deep collapsed lava tube on Upolu's south coast, fed by an underwater channel that connects to the open Pacific. A long wooden ladder spirals down to a small floating dock where you can swim in the natural pool. Skilled divers can swim through the cave passage to the sea. The site has manicured gardens, showers, picnic fales and a small shop with cold drinks. Entry costs 20 WST and it's accessible year-round, with the calmest conditions during the dry season from May to October.
- Good to know
- Entry fee is 20 WST. Open Monday–Saturday 8 am–5 pm, Sunday 12:30 pm–5 pm.
- 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 ladder spirals down to a small floating dock — the climb makes the swim feel earned.
- Best time to visit
- Year-round, calmest in the dry season (May–Oct)
- What to expect
- 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.
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 25 July 2026