Surfing in Samoa: Best surf spots + eco-friendly places to stay
Planning a surf trip to Polynesia? Discover everything you need to know about surfing in Samoa, including the best surf spots in Upolu and Savai’i + eco-friendly places to stay for a sustainable surf adventure.
Samoa has long been a hidden gem for seasoned surfers seeking uncrowded 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 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. Many of the local villages impose 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. As such, they 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 something all surfers should strive for. In response, you’ll get to surf largely uncrowded and epic waves in a paradisiacal setting.
Development here is blissfully minimal and most of the resorts that do scatter the coastline operate with an eco-conscious philosophy.
In this guide to surfing in Samoa, we’ll introduce the best surf spots in Upolu and Savai’i, as well as eco-friendly places to stay to access all the best breaks.
If you’re heading to Polynesia to surf, check out our articles about surfing in Fiji and Tonga.
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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. It works particularly well on a strong southwest swell and with northerly winds.
Top tip:
While Tafataha’s name may be a nod to a local landmark, it’s important to note that the break is not located within Tafatafa village itself. Instead, it can be accessed via a signposted turnoff in the village of Malaemalu.
Boulders
For those seeking a big, powerful lefthander, head to Boulders. It can be reached either via a 10-minute boat ride 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. 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. What makes Salani Right so special is its ability to barrel at virtually any size. Hollow, tubing sections are not uncommon.
The ideal swell direction is from the south. 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 resorts and beach fales of Maninoa.
This fast-paced right-hander is a favourite among experienced surfers, 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. As such, Coconuts is a popular Samoan surf destination for families.
Eco-friendly places to stay on Upolu
Coconuts Beach Club Resort & Spa
Best over-the-water resort on Upolu
At Coconuts, you’ll find Samoa’s only over-the-water fales. They provide wonderful views across the sparkling lagoon.
This eco-friendly Samoan resort’s low-key, unplugged ambiance – with no high-rise buildings, phones or televisions – allows you to fully immerse yourself in the local way of life. All while being on the doorstep of Upolu’s natural wonders.
“Paradise on Earth!” – Mirna (read more reviews here)
Aga Reef Resort & Spa
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. Some also feature indulgent bathtubs.
“Exceptional!” – Shelley (read more reviews here)
Saletoga Sands Resort & Spa
Best family resort on Upolu
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. Saletoga Sands runs a cultural activities program that allows you to experience firsthand the traditions of Samoa.
“So picturesque and beautifully maintained.” – Kevan (read more reviews here)
Best places to surf in Savai’i, Samoa
Aganoa Beach
Located on the ruggedly beautiful southern coast of Savai’i, Aganoa Beach offers breaks to suit both intermediate and advanced surfers.
Aganoa Right is a long, powerful righthand reef break that can produce towering walls. Meanwhile, 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 manages to provide a short but hollow ride on smaller swells. It peels 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. Coincide your session 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. Most are 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. 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 Samoa’s most uncrowded waves in a wild and dramatic natural setting.
Eco-friendly places to stay on Savai’i
Savai’i Lagoon Resort
Best boutique resort on Savai’i
Located in the village of Fagamolo on Savai’i’s north coast is this boutique Samoan resort. It boasts just 10 intimate bungalows overlooking a golden beach.
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 snorkelling and scuba diving sites nearby.
“Would come back again in a heartbeat!” – Jane (read more reviews here)
Amoa Resort Savai’i
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, there’s 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. It combines 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 is this budget-friendly beachfront resort. It’s the perfect base for surfers wanting to tackle the waves that break just offshore.
Satuiatua Beach Fale features a handful of charming fales (traditional bungalows) situated directly on the sands. Plus, there are several elevated treehouse platforms where you can laze in a hammock in between sessions.
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.
The waves during this time of year may not reach the size of the dry season. But 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.
FAQs about surfing in Samoa
Does Samoa have good surfing?
Samoa is a hidden gem for surfers seeking uncrowded waves in Oceania.
The main island of Upolu is home to several renowned breaks, including Tafatafa, Boulders and Salani. Meanwhile, the island of Savai’i hosts the famed break at Fagamalo, where seasoned pros can test their mettle against the region’s most thrilling waves.
Beyond the world-class surf, Samoa offers untamed natural beauty, idyllic beaches and authentic village culture. The Samoan people are renowned for being warm and hospitable to those seeking an off-the-beaten-path surf adventure in Polynesia.
When is the surf season in Samoa?
The best time to surf in Samoa is usually from May to October (during the dry season). This is when the most reliable swells roll in from the south. It’s the prime time to hit up the surf spots on the southern shores of Upolu and Savai’i.
That being said, it’s worth keeping in mind that the tradewinds can kick in during the afternoons and mess things up. So it’s best to get out in the early morning.
On the flip side, the wet season runs from November to April. It changes up the swell game, with waves rolling in from the north.
While the waves might not be as big as in the dry season, the northern swells fire up different breaks, especially on the northern coast. Plus, from February to April, the lighter tradewinds create super smooth conditions that it’s hard not to love.
Do you have to pay to use the beach in Samoa?
Many of Samoa’s natural attractions (including its beaches) are located on land that is communally owned by local villagers. Some impose a small entry fee for use by outsiders. This not only helps to preserve these areas but also provides an important source of income for the local communities.
It shouldn’t come as a surprise if you are asked to pay a small fee to access beaches and offshore breaks when surfing in Samoa.
Hiring a local guide can help when navigating these logistics. They’ll let you know upfront how much you’ll need to pay.
How much experience do you need to surf in Samoa? Is Samoa good for beginner surfers?
Surfing in Samoa is really for intermediate and experienced boardriders as the waves can be hollow and the reefs shallow. Even seasoned surfers should check with locals before heading out and (ideally) surf with a local guide.
Generally speaking, Samoa isn’t a great place for beginners to surf due to the challenging nature of the waves and the jagged underwater terrain.
Rental boards are in short supply and many of the waves are only accessible by boat.
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About the authors
We are a team of passionate divers and surfers with decades of combined experience in the water and travelling to all corners of the globe. After years of chasing waves and descending into the deep blue, we’ve created this resource to highlight sustainably run surf camps, eco-friendly dive resorts and conservation-focused ocean trips to help inspire your next adventure.
Eco Ocean Escapes was born out of a love of the ocean, an obsession with travel and a concern about the impacts of our adventures on the environments we explore. Despite the benefits that surf and dive tourism can bring to local communities, we recognised that ocean-based adventures are not always managed in a sustainable manner.
Through our articles, we hope to inspire those seeking a responsible surf or dive trip that is all about supporting local communities, preserving our coastal environments and the incredible marine species that inhabit our oceans.
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We are a team of passionate divers and surfers with decades of combined experience in the water and travelling to all corners of the globe.
After years of chasing waves and descending into the deep blue, we’ve created this resource to highlight sustainable surf camps, eco-dive resorts and conservation-focused ocean trips to help inspire your next adventure.
Eco Ocean Escapes was born out of a love of the ocean, an obsession with travel and a concern about the impacts of our adventures on the environments we explore.
