Where Samoa happens.

Beach · Upolu · Aleipata

A perfect crescent of white sand on Upolu's south-east tip, framed by the offshore islets of Nu'utele and Nu'ulua — the postcard view of Samoa. The lagoon stays calm and shallow well out from the shore; snorkel is gentle and the sunset is the kind that ends a holiday well. Beach fales and small resorts line the road behind, so you can step from your room straight onto the sand. Pay the small village fee at the kiosk on the way in.

Beach · Upolu · Lefaga

White-sand lagoon beach at Lefaga that took its name from the 1953 Gary Cooper film shot here. Reef just offshore for snorkelling, picnic fales for shade and a long stretch of empty sand that feels worlds away from Apia despite being only an hour's drive. Best at low tide for tide pools, high tide for swimming. Small village fee at the gate.

Beach · Savaii · North Coast

A long crescent of white sand on Savai'i's north coast, lined with a string of low-key beach-fale resorts and family-run cafés. Easy reef snorkelling at the calm end and the launch point for hikes to Mt Matavanu and the Saleaula Lava Fields. The classic Savai'i sunset. Most accommodation is paid in cash.

Beach · Upolu · South Coast

Volcanic black-sand beach on Upolu's south coast, reached via a short 4WD track or a 15-minute walk in from the road. Wild and rarely crowded — lava flows extend out under the water and the contrast against the surf is striking. Best at low tide; bring shoes for the rocky entry.

Beach · Upolu · East Coast

Quiet east-coast beach on Upolu with reef just offshore — sheltered swimming and gentle snorkelling. A few small fales tucked into the trees, no resorts. Worth a stop on the drive between Apia and Lalomanu.

Beach · Savaii · Falealupo

White sand and wild blue lagoon at the westernmost tip of Samoa — the last sunset of any day on Earth, technically. Excellent reef snorkelling, deep historical significance to the village (the gates of the spirits are said to be near here).

Beach · Savaii · North Coast

Quiet north-coast beach with freshwater springs bubbling up where the lagoon meets the sand. Excellent snorkelling, sparse facilities — bring your own picnic.

Beach · Savaii · East Coast

Pristine east-coast beach with turquoise lagoon waters and several beach-fale operators. Turtles regularly seen in the lagoon. Day-trippers welcome at the village fales.

Beach · Savaii · South Coast

Long sweeping bay on Savai'i's south coast popular for swimming and snorkelling at low tide, surfing at high. Beach-fale resort runs lunch service for day-trippers.