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Inside Look: A Day in the Life of a Surf Shop Owner

If you’ve ever dreamed of owning your own surf shop, you might be wondering what a typical day looks like for those who already live the dream. From early mornings to late nights, running a surf shop is no easy feat. Here’s an inside look at a day in the life of a surf shop owner.

Opening Up Shop

The day starts early for most surf shop owners. They arrive at the store before sunrise to open up and start preparing for the day ahead. This means turning on all the lights and music, restocking inventory, and cleaning up any messes left over from the previous day. It’s important to create an inviting atmosphere that makes customers feel welcome as soon as they walk through the door.

Helping Customers

As soon as customers start trickling in, it’s time to put on your customer service hat. Surf shop owners need to be knowledgeable about surfing equipment and gear so they can help customers find exactly what they need. This includes answering questions about different types of boards, fins, wetsuits, and more. In addition to being informative, it’s important to create a friendly rapport with customers that keeps them coming back time and time again.

Managing Inventory

One of the biggest challenges for any retail business is managing inventory effectively. For surf shops, this means keeping track of multiple sizes and styles of various products while also ensuring that everything stays organized on shelves or racks. Surf shop owners need to have an eye for detail so they can quickly spot when inventory is running low or when certain products aren’t selling well.

Closing Up Shop

As closing time approaches, it’s important to finish any tasks that didn’t get done earlier in the day such as restocking or rearranging displays. Once all customers have left for the day, it’s time to close up shop. This means turning off all the lights and music, locking up, and setting the alarm. However, just because the store is closed doesn’t mean the work stops. Surf shop owners need to continue managing inventory, answering emails and phone calls, and planning for future events or promotions.

In conclusion, owning a surf shop is a lot of work but also incredibly rewarding. It takes dedication and hard work to create a successful business that serves the surfing community. Whether it’s helping customers find the perfect board or organizing inventory, surf shop owners have their hands full from sunrise to sunset.

This text was generated using a large language model, and select text has been reviewed and moderated for purposes such as readability.

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Surfing Holidays in Samoa

Planning a Surfing Holiday in Samoa

With their sprawling coastlines, countries like the US, Australia, and South Africa are well trodden surfing destinations, but there’s something extra special about surfing around the islands of Samoa. Offering world-class waves, warm clear waters, and a stunning tropical island backdrop, Samoa should be on every surfer’s bucket list of places to visit. With so many top surfing spots around the archipelago, you’re guaranteed to experience something new every day – and better still, without the crowds.   

Samoa’s surf seasons

You’ll find great surf in Samoa all year round, but each season brings its own character which might affect where you choose to go at different times of the year. Throughout April to October (northern hemisphere summer), consistent swells develop in the Southern Ocean which hit the southern shores of Upolu and Savai’i creating excellent surfing conditions. 

The months of February to April usually bring the most picture-perfect conditions as dwindling trade winds create sparkling rolling seas and glassy conditions. The southern hemisphere summer, which starts around November and goes through to January, generates swells in the North Pacific which travel to Samoa and make the north shores of Upolu and Savai’i more favourable for surfers.    

Surfboard hire

If you don’t want to bring your own surfboard to Samoa, especially if you’re only planning a one-off surf trip, or even if a surfing experience is a lastminute idea once you arrive, you’ll always be able to find a board to hire. While many hotels and resorts will offer a limited selection of surfboards for hire, your best hire options will be around the capital of Apia on Upolu island.  

Top surfing spots

You’ll discover some of Upolu’s best surfing spots from Apia east on the north of the island to Cape Utumau’u, and on the south of Upolu, from Maninoa to Matatufu. On Savai’i, popular surfing destinations include Aganoa Beach, Manase, Lano, and Fagamalo. But there’s so much more. Here’s an overview of some of Samoa’s best surfing locations and experiences.    

Ti’avea Bay – Upolu north shore

Situated on the north-east coast of the island, there are a few breaks on offer here offering varying degrees of difficulty. While the most experienced surfers might venture further out to catch the big waves, the most ‘playful’ area can be found in front of the river mouth. Tiavea Bay is best accessed by four-wheel drive which means it might be best experienced as part of a guided tour.  

Boulders – Upolu south shore

On one of the southernmost tips of Upolu island, Boulders is an exposed left hand reef break with dependable surfing conditions and big waves throughout the year. Breaking off a lava cliff and swinging into a coral reef, the location is best accessed by boat, and you’ll need to be careful of rocks in the water. 

Salani – Upolu south shore

A long paddle from the shore, Salani is usually accessible by boat as part of a guided surfing expedition. With waves breaking on the exposed coral reef generating large and small barrels, Salani is known for good wave conditions all year, even outside the trade wind season. 

Aganoa Beach – Savai’i east coast

A popular host destination for surfing competitions, Aganoa Beach offers a surf reef break in the waters just off the beach. Unlike many surfing hotspots around the islands, surf breaks are within easy paddling distance and don’t require boat access. Ideal for all experience levels, breaks vary in size from small to large and are reliable in every season. 

Surfing tours and accommodation

Many of Samoa’s top surfing hotspots can be difficult to reach but you’ll soon see that the journey is a small price to pay when you get there. Unsurprisingly, if you want to enjoy some of the world’s best and most exhilarating surfing experiences, staying in a surf resort which offers boat transport and experienced local guides could be the best way to go.   

Vaiula Beach Fales

No trip to Samoa is complete without a stay in a traditional beachside fale. Vaiula Beach Fales have a huge range of fales on offer to suit all types of groups and sizes. Samoa Surf Secrets is based in Vaiula, providing tours to several great surf spots within a 15-minute boat trip.

Aganoa Surf Lodge 

Situated on a five-acre parcel of land next to the border of Tafua Rainforest Preserve in Savai’i, the picturesque Aganoa Surf Lodge offers exclusive access to a white sand beach and crystal-clear lagoon. Surfing experiences can be enjoyed from the beach while the accommodation is all-inclusive and guided expeditions are offered as part of your stay.  

Salani Surf Resort

Perfectly located on the mouth of the Mulivai Fagatoloa River and before a vibrantly coloured blue lagoon on Upolu’s south shore, Salani Surf Resort is a dedicated surf resort with beautiful natural surrounds. The resort offers its guests fully trained boatmen and surf guides to ensure you reach the best waves safely. Boats are available from dawn to dusk, so you can catch the waves right out front or travel to other breaks around the islands. Lodging includes well-appointed fan-cooled fales and the resort also offers a bar and restaurant serving delicious meals to keep you energised. 

Manoa Tours

You can take your pick of surfing experiences all around the islands by joining Manoa Tours for a day (or a few). Guided by an experienced local surfer, you’ll be taken to secret surf spots only the locals know, but most importantly of all, you’ll always be promised the best surfing conditions on any given day. Manoa Tours gives you the advantage of boat or four-wheel drive access to the best spots, depending on what’s most suitable for the day.  

Maninoa Surf Camp

For a truly authentic Samoan surf experience and stay, Maninoa Surf Camp is a collective of wall-less beach fales next to the Sinalei Resort on the south shore of Upolu, but deluxe and executive apartment-style accommodation is also available here. As part of your stay, you’ll have access to experienced local guides and boat access to the best surf spots all through the day. 

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SURF LOHIS FOR LESS! 40% OFF ENDS SOON

The jewel of the Pacific, Samoa is an unspoiled natural paradise with crystal clear waters, pristine rainforests and warm hospitality. It’s a true tropical paradise that offers visitors a glimpse into an untouched world of beauty and tranquillity. 

World Surfaris has hand-picked a range of stunning Samoan destinations, offering a variety of surf packages and holiday packages perfect for families, small groups, solo travellers and couples alike. Whether you’re a surfer or non-surfer, these resorts provide a gateway to experience everything this beautiful region of the Pacific has to offer. 

Both the Samoan Islands of Upolu and Savaii attract swell all year round, with a multitude of world-class reef breaks scattered from north to south, east to west. This region offers an incredible array of waves that should be on the bucket list of every surfer around the globe. 

While some resorts such as Aganoa Lodge and Salani Surf Resort have breaks within paddling distance from the beach, most surf breaks are only accessible by boat. Thankfully, with the help of an expert World Surfaris surf guide, you can explore them all. 

During the May to September season, the most consistent swells come from the southern ocean and intensify before exploding onto Upolu Island’s south shore. During this period, the southeast trade winds that are prevalent in the South Pacific can impact the surf breaks that are more exposed to the wind, whilst other breaks remain unaffected, e.g. Boulders is protected by the headland and Devils Island is off-shore in southeasterly winds.  

The southeasterly trade winds can be extremely strong and there may be times when conditions are not ideal (unsafe) for boat travel to the surf breaks.  On these occasions, our experienced surf guides will do everything they can to track down the best surf that is accessible by vehicle (even travelling to the north coast where the breaks will be smaller in size, but not wind-affected). 

During the peak southerly swell months, there will be days when there is very little wind and conditions are perfect.

From February to October, the south shore breaks can be epic, with glassy, clean conditions due to lack of winds during this time. Southwest swells (generally not as large as May to September months) are common over this period, being the favoured swell direction of some of the right-handers on the south coast, for example, Coconuts. During this same period, the north shore of Upolu can have good waves due to northerly swells pushing down from Hawaii. 

Summer (November to January) is when the north shore of Upolu is at its best. North swells originating in Alaska travel via Hawaii and hit Samoa’s north shore, approximately three to five days after hitting Oahu (Hawaii). 

Savai’i (Savaii)

The surf breaks off Savaii are incredibly accessible, and unlike Opolu, most waves can be reached within a short paddle from the beach. This area offers various left and right-handers from 2 to 10 ft, for surfers of a variety of skill levels. Unlike other areas, surfing is even allowed on Sundays at certain breaks on Savaii. 

There are over 10 different surf breaks within an hour of the resorts, with the majority being within 30 minutes away. With ultra-consistent surf and waves that work in a variety of conditions, surfing in Samoa has never looked so good!

Explore Samoa with us

A stay at Samoan Surfaris is for surfers who appreciate simplicity and the pursuit of the ultimate surf experience. If you enjoy the simple things and are looking to escape the crowds, this budget-friendly destination is for you. 

Salani Surf Resort is a Polynesian haven for surfers and is one of the most unique surfing destinations we offer here at World Surfaris. At...

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Surfing Samoa / Everything You Need to Know

Samoa is a lush tropical paradise. There’s heaps of palms trees, waterfalls, beaches, warm weather, and some killer surf. What makes Samoa an especially nice surf destination is that its waves are largely uncrowded. Yep, uncrowded waves in paradise, for realz.

With that said, Samoa ain’t like Bali or Costa Rica where everything is easy and caters to surfers. While the surf has been long discovered, the surf culture is still kinda finding its place in a way. It’s not easy to just roll up, scout the waves, and figure it all out on your own within a 10-day trip.

Matter of fact, you might get skunked without some guidance. The waves can be very fickle and so can the local norms. But don’t be deterred, we’ll help you sort it out and make sure that you’re pointed in the right direction. And with a little luck on a swell standpoint, you’re bound to score some unreal waves and have an epic trip.

Table of Contents

Travel Basics

Surf Trip Costs

Transportation

Where to Stay

Travel Insurance

Surfing Samoa

Travel basics.

WEATHER:  Samoa’s weather is tropical all year round, with two distinct seasons – the wet season running from November to April, and the dry season running from May to October. The average daily temperature in Samoa is 83F, with the ocean temperature averaging in the 80s.

MONEY: The unit of currency in Samoa is the Western Samoa Tala (dollar), divided into 100 sene (cents).

TIPPING: Not expected or encouraged, though it is acceptable for outstanding service at nicer restaurants.

STAYING CONNECTED:  There’s almost no such thing as free wifi in Samoa and internet access can be challenging and confusing. A few upscale hotels in Samoa offer a free hour of internet per night, but otherwise, it’s a paid service. Budget accommodations typically don’t have any internet access available. Or often they claim they do and it doesn’t work. The hotels that do offer internet have a few different paid options that typically run around $20 tala for 2 hours (around $8 US dollars). If you need reliable internet access, we recommend getting a Samoan SIM card with Digicel . You can buy packages of data for your phone and then hotspot your computer. Your phone needs to be unlocked for this to work. Visit a Digicel shop in Apia and they can set it all up for you.

LANGUAGE: The official language in Samoa is Samoan. Many Samoans in the tourism industry will speak some English, but English is fairly limited in more remote areas.

• Hello:  Talofa
• Please:  Fa’amolemole
• Thank you: Fa’afetai
• Goodbye:  Tofa

GOOD TO KNOW: Almost everything in Samoa is closed on Sundays, besides hotels. There are a couple small shops open, but most everything else and all restaurants that aren’t inside a hotel are likely closed.

Sundays are considered a day for rest and family in Samoa, and it is disrespectful to the local villages if you participate in activities that are not Sunday-approved. That includes surfing and swimming. The exception being at hotels that are private from the local villages. If you take out a boat from certain locations that are far enough off the coast then you can surf, but otherwise, there’s no surfing on Sundays. We’ve seen some other exceptions, for example, a handful of Samoan families joined us swimming at a waterfall one Sunday, and when we asked them about the “no swimming on Sunday rule” they said that the rules were a bit more lax during the holidays (January) when the kids are out of school. The best rule of thumb is to ask someone where you’re staying or in the area you’re traveling to.

You can read more about Samoan culture, known as Fa’a Samoa (Samoan Way) here .

Types of Surf Breaks

Most of the waves in Samoa break over coral reef. Some reefs are quite jagged and sharp, and some are more worn, flat, and forgiving from the pounding surf wearing it down. With a little size and glassy conditions or offshore wind, most of the best waves are fast and hollow with barrel sections on offer.

Level of Difficulty

Since most of the breaks in Samoa have dangerous characteristics such as sharp, shallow reefs and heavier hollow waves, surfing in Samoa is best left to the experienced surfer. Samoa is not a great destination for beginners or those interested in learning how to surf. The waves tend to be fast and technical and rip tides can be a force to reckon with.

Season and Swell Info

Like many tropical islands, Samoa has a wet season and a dry season. The dry season is from May – October and this is when the south swells are rolling through. It’s also when the southeast trade winds are blowing so it’s best to get on it early when the wind is likely to be lighter. There are a couple of breaks like Nusafe’e Island (Devils Island) which favor the SE winds and Boulders which is protected.

The wet season is from November to April. The swells aren’t typically as big as they are from May – September, but they can be and they still run in the head high to double overhead range. You also have the luxury of scoring both sides of the island. The north swells that pound the North Shore of Oahu roll on through the Pacific to find the North Shore of Upolu, they’re just quite a bit smaller by the time they show up in Samoa.

You can also score south swells during the wet season, so there can be times where you have the chance to surf both sides of the island on the same day. There is usually something fun and surfable somewhere on the island.

Samoa is an epic surfing destination with waves throughout the entire year. A crowded session typically has no more than a handful of surfers out with a terribly crowded session having a dozen or so at most. But don’t fret, you can still easily score breaks all to yourself if that’s what you’re hoping for.

The water temperature in Samoa is so nice ranging from about 78 – 84 degrees Fahrenheit (26-29 celsius). The only reason you might want to wear a rashguard at times is to protect your precious skin from the powerful Samoan sun. The sun is quite strong so be sure to pack quality sunscreen and zinc so you can endure those long marathon sessions.

Getting to the Surf

It can be difficult to navigate on your own. First, you’ll need a 4×4 as some roads can be very rugged. As you drive around and explore you’ll quickly learn that nothing comes easy or free in Samoa.

You are expected to pay local villagers a fee (often 10-40 tala) to use the beach access roads to some of the best breaks on the north side of Upolu. It can get very confusing on who to pay and how much.

For instance, if you plan on making the trek to Tiavea, you can expect to pay 40 tala at the first village and 10 tala at the next one just to get down to check the surf. And if you’re not a familiar face, you might get hit up to pay an additional 5 – 10 tala per surfer at the parking area by the locals.

Second, many of the quality surf breaks in Samoa are outer reef passes and best accessed by boat. There are a few breaks that you can paddle out to, but the paddle is quite long. At a couple breaks with nearby resorts there are attempts of privatization going on so you might find yourself being told to leave if you are not staying at their resort.

Good to Know

• There is only one surf shop on the island and it’s in Apia. Horizon Surf Shop has a basic assortment of wax, leashes, reef booties, rash guards, and beachwear. When we stopped by to check out the shop, they only had two boards for rent. The boards were old, yellow, and rather outdated pin tail step-ups. Probably not something you’d want to rent. They didn’t have any boards for sale. Case in point, Samoa is a place where you’ll need to bring all your own equipment, and you should definitely bring backups of everything as well. Check out this Surf Trip Packing List to make sure you’re covered.
• A Strong Recommendation: For multiple reasons, we highly recommend connecting with a surf guide to help you score the best waves the island has on offer and to help with navigating the often complicated surf scene in Samoa. We hooked up with Neil from Manoa Tours . Neil has been living in Samoa for 16 years and he has the place wired.
• Here’s some more info on some of the top surf breaks on Upolu .

SURF TRIP COSTS IN SAMOA

As with any travel, the cost of your surf trip will vary depending on what time of year you go, where you stay, and your overall travel style.

After traveling in Samoa for some time, we found that many surfers had misconceptions about the cost of a surf trip in Samoa. We can consider ourselves a couple of those surfers.

From first glance, it looks like Samoa is a budget surf destination and you can put together a trip on the cheap, but here’s the bottom line. Samoa is NOT a budget surf destination. I repeat, Samoa is NOT a budget surf destination.

Yes, you can find cheap accommodation, but food in Samoa is first-world prices, and the biggest hidden costs are transportation. Transportation around the island itself and boat trips out to the surf add up.

And as mentioned in the surf lowdown above, the mass majority of breaks in Samoa are best accessed by boat. Or quite long paddles… like 30-45 minute paddles.

For example, here’s what a typical single day of surfing Samoa can add up to. This is without transportation .

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• Budget room per person (the most basic fale ): 60 WST ($24 USD) breakfast and dinner included
• 1st boat trip to the morning surf: 80 WST ($32 USD)
• Lunch: 35 WST ($14 USD)
• 2nd boat trip for afternoon or evening session: 80 WST ($32 USD)
• 2 beers: 12 WST ($5 USD)
• Grand Total for a single day would be about $107 USD, and that’s being super conservative.

Can you possibly go a bit cheaper by eating nothing but ramen noodles and limiting yourself to only one surf per day? Maybe, if you’re a vigilant budget traveler. But when all is said and done you wouldn’t really be saving that much money since you have to factor in taxi rides to the store and the cost of groceries.

TRANSPORTATION

When we were planning our trip to Samoa we saw that rental cars were quite expensive so we thought we’d go for a scooter. But between the intense Samoan sun, feral dogs that will come after you, and dirt roads that need a 4×4, a scooter really isn’t a great option. We opted to rent a car but wish we had got a 4×4 with some clearance.

If the sole focus of your trip is surfing and not so much sightseeing, we’d suggest saving the money you’d otherwise spend on car rentals and putting it towards a surf guide who would likely provide transportation either by boat or 4×4 to the surf.

Although, there are a lot of beautiful sights to see in Samoa such as the To Sua ocean trench and heaps of stunning waterfalls. So if budget is not a concern, then renting a car is a must if you value having any kind of independence when exploring the island.

Taxis can quickly add up and are not always a reliable source of transportation if you have firm plans to be somewhere at a specific time.

We used AA Rent-a-car and they were great. They delivered the car to a remote location on the south coast of Upolu, and then picked it up for free from a hotel in Apia when we no longer needed it.

You can rent a Subaru Forester for 140 WST ($56 USD) per day which should get you anywhere you want to go since they are all-wheel drive and have a bit of clearance. And you get a discount if you rent for 7 days or more, so it would be 120 WST ($48 USD) per day if you take advantage of the incentive.

WHERE TO STAY

In Samoa, many of the top beaches are lined with beach fales from bare-bones basic ones to souped-up fancy beach bungalows. A traditional fale is typically an open-air form of shelter with a roof (like a hut), no walls, wooden construction, and may or may not come with a sleeping pad and mosquito net.

Basic fales are definitely the most budget option, but when I say basic, I mean seriously basic. You’re essentially paying for an open-air space to lay your head with a roof for protection from the sun and rain. There would likely be a shared bathroom set up and potentially a restaurant or kitchen on premises with complimentary breakfast.

The mid-range is where you’ll find the most accommodations. From cool hilltop treehouses to private enclosed beach fale inspired bungalows with air conditioning, there are plenty of options for a comfortable place to crash.

If you can swing it, Samoa has a couple of nice hotels on the coast with direct access to surf boats, which makes them the most convenient and easy way to navigate a surf trip in Samoa. A top-notch breakfast is likely included in the rate, along with an onsite restaurant with a view, and the sweet respite of air conditioning, which is quite handy in the Samoan heat.

For the best access to surf, you’ll want to stay on the south coast of Upolu. Here are a few recommendations for every budget:

BUDGET • up to $100 per night

If you’re interested in hopping over to the island of Savai’i, check out Satuiatua Beach Resort . We heard there’s a fun wave you can paddle out to right from the beach.

MIDRANGE • $100 – $200 per night

HIGH-END • $250+ per night

The cost of food in Samoa is probably more than you’d imagine. It’s not like Bali where you can get a solid meal just about anywhere for $3 – 5 USD. Expect to pay first-world prices at most restaurants in Samoa.

The least expensive meal you can find are local barbecue stands on the roadsides where 6 – 8 WST will get you a plate of barbecue chicken, sausage, and rice. If you’re going super budget, your best bet is a trip to the store and stocking up on pasta and ramen noodles to cook. But then you have to have some sort of kitchen to cook it in, and most budget accommodation do not have kitchens in Samoa.

Restaurants on the south coast of Upolu (where you should be staying for the surf) are all on the expensive side because they’re all located in hotels, and it’s more remote so there aren’t many options. Restaurant prices are similar to what you would find in the US.

Around town in Apia, you can expect to pay 25 WST ($10 USD) for a burger, which is usually one of the less expensive items on the menu. A good meal at a restaurant in Apia or just about anywhere on the south coast of Upolu will cost you about 35 – 45 WST ($14-18 USD).

RESTAURANTS

We rounded up a few of our favorite restaurants below. A gentle reminder: Almost all restaurants besides hotel restaurants are closed on Sundays. And beware of posted hours, as they’re not always accurate.

TIFIAMOANA serves up delicious authentic Indian food at great prices. The huge homemade Samosas are some the very best we’ve ever had, and the Chicken Tikka Masala is perfection.

LEGENDS is one of the best restaurants in Samoa (in our humble foodie opinions). Open for breakfast and lunch, the menu features a mix of western classics and Samoan dishes made with local produce. Try the black rice and coconut cream, Mediterranean omelet, or the lagoon burger… but really, you can go wrong here. Open 8am – 3pm (Mon – Sat).

KRUSH is a smoothie and juice bar conveniently located on the Cross Island Road in Apia. Krush has a huge selection of smoothies and tasty vegan and vegetarian dishes.

AVA I TOGA is one of the best places in Samoa for dinner and drinks at sunset. If you’re looking for a romantic locale, hands down, go here. Located at Sinalei Reef Resort, this gorgeous overwater restaurant has delicious food and amazing views to match. The menu is fresh Samoan-inspired cuisine with a focus on local ingredients and sustainability. Try their signature dish, Masi Masi Samoa: fresh Masi Masi fish marinated in coconut cream, lemongrass, ginger, fresh chili, tomato, and lemon basil wrapped with banana leaf and served with coconut rice and crispy taro. Absolutely divine.

GIORDANO’S serves up fresh Italian food in Apia and is one of the only restaurants (besides hotel restaurants) open on Sunday. A lovely outdoor patio, tasty pasta and pizza, and great service makes Giordano’s a hit.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

While we’d all rather not think about getting injured, there are too many cases of people who didn’t think about insurance and get nailed with crazy medical bills after the matter.

That being the case, many hotels and surf properties actually require that you have approved travel insurance in case of a serious inquiry or trip cancellation, especially in the wake of COVID.

You know the deal—better safe than sorry. We recommend  battleface  or  World Nomads Insurance . Both companies offer very comprehensive travel insurance and cover heaps of activities, including surfing and ocean sports. You can easily check them out and get a fast quote below.

Get a battleface Insurance Quote >>

Get a World Nomads Insurance Quote >>

So there you have it. We spent nearly a month surfing Samoa and learned a lot about the surf scene. Here’s our Samoa Travel blog all about our stay in Samoa — the good times and a few not-so-good times!

And in case you missed it, here’s a write-up on some of the top surf breaks on the island of Upolu , which is home to the majority of the breaks in Western Samoa.

Have any questions or comments about surfing Samoa?

Let us know in the comments below.

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14 thoughts on “Surfing Samoa / Everything You Need to Know”

That was fantastic.Thank you

You’re welcome! Glad you liked it, cheers

fantastic Samoa information,, I may be moving there for a couple years – please resend this article to me and all other info you have on Samoa. I am from maui Hawaii but currently living in Phuket William

Glad you found it helpful, info sent! Cheers

Looking for a place that can handle 8-10 couples (with no kids) where we can surf. There is only 4 or 5 surfers in the group.

Hi Scott, thanks for getting in touch. One of our Surf Travel Specialists will be happy to help and will be reaching out to you directly soon. You can also always submit a Surf Trip Inquiry here as well. We’ll be in touch soon! Cheers, Eric

Hi mate. Nice blog and great information on surfing in Samoa. My wife and I are looking at staying at Saletoga Sands Resort in September, is there any good surf breaks in that area for a intermediate to advance surf?

Yea, that’s right near Salani. You’d have to get a boat which I don’t have a referral for in that area and when we surfed there the surf resort at the break was trying to claim it as their own and being pretty harsh to outsiders who weren’t staying there, just a heads up and something to keep in mind.

Nice blog. Looking at either Aganoa or Saleni’s. Whats the best for accom an ease of getting to the wave and waves close by. Experienced surfer with my missus who’s intermediate. Basically looking for wave quality/quantity and nice digs.

Thanks bro Richie

Hey Richie, thanks! You really can’t go wrong with either option. Both properties have access to a wave out front although the paddle from Aganoa is quite a bit shorter. That said, at Sinalei you have super easy access to boat trips which opens up a handful of wave options depending on the swell direction, winds, and overall conditions. How long you going for? If for a couple of weeks, maybe you do 1 week at each! My wife and I had an awesome stay stay at Sinalei and scored a nice variety of waves for intermediate to advanced levels. Cheers

I would like to say thanks to you for writing this article. Very informative and looking forward for your next post. Keep doing.

Our pleasure, Warren. Cheers!

Hey bud this is Ariel, met you in the water the other day at Swami’s with my bro. Sweet site! Stoked you’re killing it in such an epic way

Hey Ariel, thanks man! Great chatting with you guys. Hope you have an awesome rest of your trip in Encinitas and beyond! Cheers

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The Ultimate Guide to Surfing in Samoa 🏄 [2023]

Everything you need to know about surfing in samoa.

Samoa  has long been a destination for seasoned surfers in the South Pacific who prefer to keep it their best-kept secret. Waves are heavy, hollow and uncrowded, yet organising a surf trip isn’t such as mission thanks to the small but well-established selection of surf camps on the southern shores of the country’s two main islands. Those who are keen to learn, on the other hand, have a place here too with at least one surf operator offering lessons in paradise.

On the flip side, surf customs with the local villages are a bit of a hurdle; there are customary beach fees to pay, as well as surf fees on top. What’s more, surfing is not allowed on Sundays. Needless to say, the surf scene is a bit complicated if you’re going out on your own. Luckily, the surf camps and independent surf guides can not only handle all of that but provide boat transfers to the best waves.

So, plan the ultimate surf-cation in the South Pacific with this ULTIMATE guide to surfing in Samoa!

5 Tips for Surfing in Samoa

Before we jump into the guide, here are just a few quick tips and things you need to know about surfing in Samoa:

• Surfing in Samoa is only suitable for intermediate to advanced surfers – you need to at least be able to comfortably pull into a barrel wave
• Beginners can find one operator that offers surf lessons in Samoa, Manoa Tours , however, Samoa’s wave conditions don’t make it the best place to learn
• It is generally frowned upon to surf on a Sunday
• Samoa is not a cheap surf destination ; anywhere you go on your own you’ll not only have beach access fees to pay but there are usually extra charges for surfing (ST$10-$40 per person); while most breaks are only accessible by boat (ST$50-$80 per person)
• Bring your own gear and backups! There is little to no opportunity to hire boards and there’s only one surf shop in Apia.

As long as you keep all of the above in mind, you’re sure to have a blast surfing Samoa’s amazing waves. For more general tips for visiting Samoa, make sure you also take a look at the 30 Tips for Travelling in Samoa .

When to Surf: The Best Seasons for Surfing in Samoa

Samoa has two distinct seasons, the dry and the wet season, which each bring their own characteristics to the surf scene.

Samoa’s dry season , from May to October , brings the most consistent and largest swells from the south, making this the best time of the year to hit the country’s most popular surf spots along the south coasts. On the downside, tradewinds can often spoil some of the waves in the afternoons, making it better to surf in the mornings during this time of year. Some surf guides may be able to take you to more sheltered breaks, however, like Nu’usafe’e Island and Boulders.

The wet season is from November to April but the best time to surf during this season is between February and April. The prevailing swells at this time come from the North Pacific, which although are not as big as during the dry season, open up more surf breaks, particularly along the northern coasts. What’s more, the dwindling tradewinds make for more glassy and unspoiled waves.

Go into much more detail on Samoa’s surf seasons in The Best Time to Surf in Samoa .

Where to Surf: Surf Breaks in Samoa

While new surf breaks are often discovered (and kept secret) in Samoa, there are a few great surf spots found across Samoa’s two main islands: Upolu and Savai’i . For all of the reef breaks ranked, head to the 10 Best Places to Surf in Samoa .

Surfing in Upolu

Home to Faleolo International Airport, Upolu is the easiest island in Samoa to get to. With that, the island is well equipped with a tourism infrastructure to plan an effortless surf holiday.

You’ll find multiple surf camps and resorts working with surf guides, particularly along the south coast. Although there are some breaks you can paddle to, most are only accessible by boat, which is why it’s highly recommended to stay at a surf lodge – see the 7 Best Surf Resorts & Lodges in Samoa – or book a surf guide and boat – see the 6 Best Surf Operators & Guides in Samoa .

Plan your surf-cation to Samoa’s main island with  The Complete Travel Guide to Upolu , as well as see the surf breaks to hit in the 10 Best Places to Surf in Upolu .

Surfing in Savai’i

Take the ferry over the Apolima Strait and you’ll arrive at Samoa’s largest yet less populated island, Savai’i , where traditions play a major role (so, remember to avoid seeking out surf spots on a Sunday).

While the list of surf breaks isn’t quite as brimming as Upolu, Savai’i’s surf scene is still excellent where it has been established, particularly around Aganoa Beach , which is essentially the territory of the upscale Aganoa Lodge , and the down-to-earth villages of Satuiatua and Salailua .

Learn more about the surf breaks in the 6 Best Places to Surf in Savai’i . Plus, check out other things to do while on the island in The Complete Travel Guide to Savai’i .

Surfboard Hire, Surf Shops and What to Pack

Erm, well, this is awkward. We absolutely recommend that you bring your own surfing gear to Samoa. Surfboard hire is inconsistent in where it is available and is usually not of very good quality. What’s more, there is only one surf shop in Samoa, Horizon Surf Shop in Apia, which is more of a surf aesthetics shop than a go-to for gear – although, they do have a small assortment of wax, leashes, reef shoes, rash vests and swimwear. With this in mind, we also recommend bringing your own backup gear too.

What to Pack for Surfing in Samoa

• 1 all-rounder surfboard
• 1 fish or semi-gun surfboard
• 1 reef shoes/booties
• 1 or 2 rash vests (we like sustainable Sharkskin rashies)
• 2 bottles of reef-safe sunscreen (see  10 Best & Reef-Safe Sunscreens )
• Tropical wax
• Ding repair kit

And for the rest of your Samoa packing list, take a look at What to Pack for Samoa: FULL Samoa Packing List .

Learn to Surf in Samoa

Considering most of the breaks in Samoa have dangerous characteristics such as shallow reefs, heavy hollow waves and strong currents, it is certainly not a suitable place for beginners or the inexperienced to surf on their own.

On the other hand, surf lessons are available for first-timers, as well as those wanting to hone their skills, with Manoa Tours . Your instructor is first aid and lifeguard certified and knows the surf breaks of Samoa like the back of his hand, so you’re in good hands. You’ll either surf at a safe beach break or at a reef break where the waves are small and the tide is high enough to reduce the risk of injury.

Long soft boards are provided during the lessons, so this is the rare time for surfing in Samoa when you won’t need your own gear. However, we still highly recommend wearing a rash vest (rashie) if you have one, which is also great for snorkelling – see the 20 Essentials You Need to Pack for Samoa .

Where to Stay: Surf Camps in Samoa

From beach fales with locals keen to show you some casual surf spots to dedicated surf camps with their own boat and guides to upscale resorts that happen to work closely with surf operators, there’s a wide variety of vibes when it comes to surf stays in Samoa.

Budget Beach Fale Surf Camps

• Vaiula Beach Fales – Beach fales with its own surf guides and boats
• Sina PJ Beach Fales and Surf – Beach fales in a village stay with locals who can show you where to paddle to enjoy some casual surf
• Lupe’s Beach Fale – Units on Maninoa Beach offering surf packages.

Mid-Range Surf Camps

• Salani Surf Resort – Dedicated surf camp with ensuite units, surf guides and boat
• Maninoa Surf Fales – Hotel-style rooms or beach fales with surf guide and boat packages
• Troppo Fishing Adventures – Liveaboard surf experience.

Luxury Surf Resorts

• Aganoa Lodge – Surf lodge on Savai’i with surfing off the beach, surf boats and all-inclusive meals
• Sinalei Reef Resort & Spa – Luxury resort working with Manoa Tours to offer surf trips
• Coconuts Beach Club Resort & Spa – Luxury resort working with Manoa Tours to offer surf trips.

Learn more about all of the accommodations listed above in the   7 Best Surf Resorts & Lodges in Samoa and 6 Best Surf Operators & Guides in Samoa .

More About Surfing in Samoa

That’s it for our ultimate guide to surfing in Samoa! Although we’ve hit many of these links already in this Samoa surf guide, here’s a quick reminder of some tips you might be interested in:

• 10 Best Places to Surf in Samoa
• The Best Time to Surf in Samoa
• 6 Best Surf Operators & Guides in Samoa

Finally, when you’re not surfing, make sure you tick some of these off the  101 Best Things to Do in Samoa: The Ultimate List .

This article was reviewed and published by Robin, the co-founder of Samoa Pocket Guide. He has lived, worked and travelled across 16 different countries before settling in the South Pacific, so he knows a thing or two about planning the perfect trip in this corner of the world. Robin works and consults regularly with the Samoa Tourism Authority, a local government body representing the tourism industry. Robin is also the co-founder of several other South Pacific travel guides and is a regular host of webinars with the South Pacific Tourism Organisation.

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A Complete Guide to Surfing Samoa

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Thinking about surfing Samoa?

This is our complete surf travel guide. Read for everything you need to know about surfing Samoa.

Samoa is a country consisting of two main islands, and four smaller islands. The capital city is Apia, and Samoa is classed as one place of sheer natural beauty. The islands themselves are based in the Pacific ocean and are classed as having some of the best surfing hotspots around. Samoa has been seen to be a lush tropical paradise, with many palm trees, waterfalls, beautiful beaches, gorgeous weather and let’s just say, some amazing surf. One of the biggest reasons is because the waves are largely uncrowded.

However, while there is no hiding the fact that the waves and surf here have been discovered for some time, it is fair to say that it isn’t like your usual holiday destination in which you can rock up and get on with what you have gone there for. This is why we wanted to put together this guide to help you have all the facts and information when it comes to surfing Samoa. Without further ado, here’s what you need to know. 

How to get to Samoa

Located in the South Pacific Ocean, and approximately halfway between New Zealand and Hawaii, Samoa is a five hour flight from Australia’s East Coast. There are a range of flight options available, so once you are in the east of Australia, you should find it quite easy to arrange and book a flight to Samoa. You can also get direct flights from Auckland in Australia. 

The main international airport is Faleolo International Airport and this is on the island of Upolu, which is around 40km from the main capital city of Apia. When you arrive, you will find shuttle transfers, taxis, and public transport readily available to take you to your chosen destination. You could even rent a car here if you wanted, which might be ideal given the amount of gear you could be bringing along with you. If you happen to be staying on the other island of Savai’i there are regular ferries that can take you. The journey between the two islands takes around one hour and ferries depart regularly from Monday through till Saturday. There are some reduced departures available on Sundays. 

Transport in Samoa may be a little different than you are used to. If you plan on taking a bus, they will be marked with their destination, but there are no regular bus stops. So you may just need to flag the driver down if you want to jump off in that particular destination. Taxis are very reasonably priced and are in abundance so you may find that this could be a better option for you to get where you need to be. 

Surfing Samoa

There are around 40 coral reefs around the islands of Samoa, which makes the surf difficult to beat. There are a number of different locations that you could try, some on the more tourist popular island of Upolu and then on the less crowded island of Savai’i. Here are some of the ones to look out for if you are planning on surfing Samoa. It is worth noting that there are many surf camps and resorts along the coastline, but if you happen to not be staying at one of them, you can still catch the swell but may have to pay a local fee to access the beach. 

Surf spots in Upolu

When it comes to finding the right surf spots, you may need to look no further than Upolu and the main city of Apia. This is where most surf camps and resorts are located, and the area offers some of the best surf you can find in Samoa. We thought it might be a good idea to share with a few of the hot spots for surfing in Uplou, here is what we found. 

Boulders is one of Samoas best known waves. Boulders is a lava rock point that swings into a coral reef meaning it can give some incredible waves and swell. It is often seen as a challenging area to surf but there are sections of the beach that you will find that may be suitable for less experienced surfers. This spot is best accessed by boat. Many of the locals or taxi drivers will be able to take you to this place. 

Coconuts is another well known surf spot in Upolu. You can paddle out or reach the location by boat from Coconuts Resort . To access this spot you need to be staying in one of the resorts or be with a tour. It is a hollow mechanical right hander, and is also one of the most picturesque places to surf in Samoa.

Wackas is about a 50 minute boat ride southwest from the beach by Sinelei. There are also some great tours that will include this location in their guides. It is known as the place where the waves have many faces. When it is under head height, it can be very fun and fast-paced. When it is overhead it becomes quite fast and more suited to experienced surfers.

Surf spots in Savai’i 

While most spots on the neighboring island of Upolu require a boat ride to access them, nearly all of Savai’i’s waves are only short paddle from shore, making it the more accessible island to stay on when surfing Samoa.

Aganoa Beach

Aganoa Beach is situated on the East coast of Savai’i island. The waters off the beach are a surf reef break in the region and because of this, it has played host for the surfing competition in the South Pacific Games. They are paddling distance from the beach, so no need to worry about using a boat to access this one. 

Pastor Point

This location is as fun as it gets for beginners when it comes to surfing Samoa. Most locations require you to have a certain level of skill to cope with the waves. This spot provides a clean open-faced wall for surfers to glide down the slower-moving right-hander. However, experienced surfers can still enjoy it here where there is a Snapper Rocks break barrel section to experience. 

You will need a four-wheel drive to get you to Tiavea, and you may also need to pay a fee to the local village for access. This is why this location may be more advantageous when going with a guide or a tour. But it is worth it once you do arrive. It has a few different breaks to offer. Farthest out, you will find that it is a heavy barrelling right hander swell, which needs some size to work. In front of the river mouth is a perfect playful area with rippable faces in different directions. To the left is a more challenging area with epic barrels on a lower tide. This area has something for all levles of surfers, so definitely one to add to the list or add a tour if you are interested in heading there. 

Surf Camps in Samoa

Coming to Samoa, you may be wondering where you should stay. Often staying in a surf camp or resort gives you great access to some of the more hidden or difficult to access spots so you can enjoy surfing, as well as being able to enjoy the plusher surroundings. Samoa is not very built up or commercialised, so these options could be the best ones to consider. 

There are plenty of surf camps and resorts to choose from when looking for somewhere to stay in Samoa. We would, however, recommend that you choose a destination that is close to the waves you want to surf and offers on-site services such as surf guiding, surf hire or surf tours, as these resorts will have plenty of experience in getting their guests to some of the more hidden and hard to reach surf spots in Samoa.

Here are some of our top recommendations for resorts and surf camps in Samoa.

Sa’Moana Resort

Sa’Moana Resort has beautiful luxurious bungalows that are right on the beach in Upolu’s south coast. While this can be a great hub for some of the best locations to surf in Upolu, there are also plenty of non-surf options that people with you can enjoy when not out on the waves. It is definitely a little bit of luxury and isn’t too costly either at $55/night.

Sinalei Reef Resort and Spa

Sinalei Reef Resort and Spa is a five star rated location and is a mere 300-meter paddle to one of Samoa’s best loved surf spots, Coconuts. There are surf guides on hand to take surfers by boat to seven world-class breaks, so this could be the ideal location for you to stay. Especially if you are wanting a little bit of extra luxury. 

Coconuts Beach club

Located right beside the Sinalei is Coconuts Beach C lub . It has all the luxuries that you would expect but is a high-end island resort that caters especially for surfers. There is a lot to experience here, and if you are heading to Samoa purely to enjoy surfing and nothing else, then this is the location to stay in. 

Maninoa Surf Camp

Last suggestion would be the Maninoa Surf Camp . This is a more authentic island-style option to consider when it comes to accommodation as you will be staying in wall-less huts built meters from the lagoon beside the Sinalei Resort. However, you can also opt to stay in their beachside apartments if you prefer. This accommodation gives you boat access to some of the best surf spots on the island. 

Surfboard hire in Samoa

When it comes to surfboard hire in Samoa, you will only find options on the island of Upolu and close to the capital of Apia. The south island has very little in the way of tourism, so you will only find the odd shop selling the basics. You may find that when it comes to surfboard hire, you will only be able to do this through some of the larger surf resorts, and even then, their board selections will be limited.

We would strongly recommend taking your own board with you to Samoa to make the most of the amazing waves on offer.

Surfing Samoa Conclusion

There is a lot to see and do when it comes to the islands of Samoa and the best thing about it is that the tourist side of things is just starting out. This is your chance to see some of the most beautiful beaches and catch the most epic waves in the heart of a place that hasn’t been too commercialized.

You can enjoy the local surroundings, the tropical weather, and the great surfing opportunities. The main island of Upolu is a little more ready for tourists, but if you are happy to just go there for the swell and the waves then the south island is still one to consider. Just make sure you are aware that surf rentals may be few or far between in that part of Samoa.  

Enjoyed our  Complete Guide to Surfing Samoa ? Check out some of our other Surf Travel Guides  here .

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Privacy overview.

Surfing in Samoa

Samoa is a lush tropical paradise with stunning natural scenery. The island is located in the South Pacific Ocean and offers some of the best waves in the area. There are lots of palm trees, waterfalls, beaches, warm weather, and some amazing waves scattered all over the place. What makes Samoa an ultimate surf destination is that the surf spots are mostly uncrowded. The islands are usually compared to other countries that are famous for their perfect powerful waves but without the crowd factor. Thanks to the strategic position in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, Samoa enjoys outstanding surf conditions throughout the whole year. Most of the breaks consist of reef-pass waves that require a certain level of skill to be surfed but there are still mellow waves for those who are learning how to surf. No matter what your level of surf is this trip is totally worth it and you’re bound to score some unreal waves and have an epic time in paradise.

Climate in Samoa  

The climate in Samoa is tropical with distinct wet and dry seasons. There is little variation in the air temperature throughout the year and the average is around 27° C. The sea temperature is also warm with average temperature around the low 20s all year round. This makes it a perfect destination to swim, snorkel and surf all year around. In the country’s eastern and south-eastern coast, trade winds arrive usually in the afternoons messing up the surf conditions but also a cooling effect during the hottest part of the day. Dry season is from May to October, making this the most popular time for visitors. This is the best time to surf with consistent swells ranging from 6-8 ft on average. The wet season, from November to April, experiences less swell but amazing glassy conditions. It might not rain every day, but there are occasionally short but intense thunderstorms. The wettest months of the  season are in between December to March.

Best surf spots in Samoa

The island of Upolu is where the international airport is located. There are many surf spots in Upolu and surfing conditions are ideal all year round. The resorts spread along the coast are perfect for those who are looking for an easy and comfortable way to explore the best surf spots in the island and at the same time enjoy the traditional culture and natural beauty of Samoa. The best surf spots are located far away from the shore and can only be accessed by boat. For those not staying at a surf resort, there are still a few accessible surf spots around Samoa, although you will need to pay a local to  take you around. The archipelago of Samoa has many well known reef breaks that will provide plenty of waves to ride. The most popular surf spots on Upolu are: Coconuts, Wackas, Boulders and Tiavea. Savai'i is another Samoan island that offers incredible surf breaks. The island is way less populated by tourists, meaning you will probably have waves to yourself there. The most famous breaks are Agona, Pastor Point, K-Land and Middles and are located on Savaii’s northern coastline.

Budget Planning

Meal price range

Simple meals start at $7 USD. Mid-range meals start at $14 USD. Dining & drinking at high-end restaurants can cost anywhere from $90-150 USD

Equipment rental

You should bring your own gear.

Prepaid SIM cards

BlueSky Samoa is a good choice. SIM cards can be purchased from official shops on Apia. Prepaid packages start at $14 USD.

Public transport

Brightly colored buses drive around Samoa. There is only one main bus terminal and no official stops, so just wave your hand and flag one down when you need it. All buses prominently display the name of their destination in the front window.

Taxis are cheap and reliable. But not metered so negotiate the price before you get in. You can easily take a ferry between the islands.

Car rentals start at $45 USD. 

Note: almost everything in Samoa is closed -including public transport- on Sundays, besides hotels.

Gas prices  

$0.96 USD a liter.  

Types of risks

Sharp, shallow reefs and heavier hollow waves.

How to prepare

Citizens from all countries can enter Samoa without a visa for anywhere from 60-90 days, depending on your nationality. Your passport must be valid for 6 months at time of entry and you must have proof of onward/return travel. 

Although it's not mandatory, it’s recommended that you have been vaccinated for hepatitis A & B, yellow fever, typhoid, rabies, meningitis, polio, Tdap, chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia, influenza, measles, mumps and rubella. You’ll be asked to show proof of your yellow fever vaccination if you come from a country with a risk of yellow fever.

Things to know

Language & Currency

The official language in Samoa is Samoan. Many Samoans in the tourism industry will speak some English, but English is pretty limited in more remote areas.

Best time to go

Samoa has surf all year round. The two different seasons bring changes in wind and swell directions. In the dry season (May-October) there are big south swells (3-10ft) and mainly south-east trade winds, so the early session is the go to get those glassy conditions.

Checking Surf forecast 

Checking the forecast about a week before your trip is always a good idea. Understanding what the waves will be like and knowing what gear to pack is essential. You can check the forecast for the waves here .

Do I need pack a pharmacy kit

You should bring a basic kit. Including ear drops, eye drops, bandaids, ear plugs, gaze, alcohol, mosquito repellent and broad spectrum antibiotic ointment.

Travel/Surf Insurance

World Nomads has great travel insurance packages that are not super expensive and they cover surfing.

Dial 995 for the police and 999 for an ambulance.

Check surf pictures of Samoa at #surfsamoa .

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Contact our team, what our guests are saying.

Surfed some great waves and had memorable sessions with Neil from Manoa Tours! He knew the breaks of Samoa and which ones would be working even when the Tradewinds were blowing. It was our first time in Samoa and surfing with Neil took the guess work out of it, making it easy to get onto good waves. Manoa Tours also took us on some nice sightseeing trips around the island and gave us good tips on what to do while we were there. We’ll be back!

Manoa Tours was great to communicate with and we found the team easily to start the tour at Coconuts Resort. Our guide was really informative and helpful, and took us inside the lagoon to find turtles and go on a snorkeling tour. The gear he provided was in really good condition, almost brand new! We saw lots of turtles and really enjoyed our time snorkeling. Would hope to come back one day! Thanks again!

The surf guide Neil is the most knowledgeable person you will find in Samoa on good waves, amazing snorkeling and adventures to go on. I was lucky enough to get some of my best waves in Samoa thanks to Neil and Manoa Tours. Not only that but Manoa Tours gives back to the youth of the island through surfing events for them and Stoke a Local board donations. Much Aloha!!

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Samoa Surf Trip: Eight Girls and an Island

Words and photos by Claire Murphy @clairemrphy  Video by Silvia Yom   @silviayom

Eight girls, seven days, two broken boards, one island, nonstop surfing and a lot of laughter; WaterWays and Salani Surf Resort know how to put together a pretty epic surf trip. Claire Murphy gives us the lowdown. 

I was just ending two weeks in Fiji when I got the call to meet up with a group of girls heading to Samoa. At around 8am in Nadi airport, Fiji, I easily spotted them across the terminal taking shots of tequila and sharing stories. After proper introductions and a couple of margaritas, we boarded the plane to Apia’s Faleolo airport.

When we landed in Apia, a large Samoan man with a strange Australian accent greeted the group. None of us could really understand what he was saying, but he talked the whole hour and a half ride educating us on all the important facts about the island; including showing us the house that Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson was born in, and revealing that he was the father of 15 children. Drained by our day of travel and brief history lesson, we filled up on burritos and went to bed early, prepping for the week ahead.

The next day, while we waited for the other half of the girls to arrive, we grabbed our gear and took the van to check out Fagaloa Bay. The drive felt as though we were cruising through the set of Jurassic Park. Honestly, I would not have been surprised if a dinosaur popped up from behind the trees, took our van, and we were never seen again. Thankfully, this did not happen, and we arrived safe and sound.

With no one else around besides the group that we came with, we surfed a fun right-hander for a few hours, constantly in awe of the beauty surrounding us. Sea turtles swam by as I dove under waves, multiple waterfalls flowed down lush mountains that formed the bay, it was the definition of a surfer’s paradise. Over the next week, we ventured to a handful of different surf spots around the island. The main break, Salani Right, was a heavy reef pass just a short boat ride from the resort.

Once the rest of the girls had arrived, we all eager to check it out. When the swell came through and conditions turned on, we woke up early and stayed out most of the day. Even though none of the girls had surfed this spot before, and the wave can be tricky to read, everyone was sending it. A couple of girls broke boards and all ended up with battle wounds, but it was worth it.

By the end of the week my expectations of what this group could do was completely blown out of the water. From doing backflips off bridges, jumping off waterfalls, making friends with the locals, drinking Taula and fishing in the afternoon, this trip was one for the record books. It is a good thing we have plenty of photos to remind and remember.

Thanks to www.waterwaystravel.com  

@ waterwaystravel @salani_surf_resort

Surfers on the trip: Delia Kang   @deals_bk  Emily Wratschko   @surfwrat  Alexandra Berning   @alebebeblue  Kirra Belle Olson   @kirrabelleolsson  Alyssa Spencer   @alyssa_spencer1  Nakia Fleuren   @nakiafleuren

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Surfing in samoa.

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Our Samoan surf holiday packages offer the perfect solution for those looking to get the most out of a beachside getaway.

Along Upolu’s south coast and directly in front of the resort, some of Samoa’s best surf breaks challenge surfers from all over the world. A fast-emerging surfing destination, yet still relatively undiscovered, Samoa’s surf spots are rarely crowded.

Get front row access to the best of our local breaks through our preferred surf partner Manoa Tours, whose operation is set-up within walking distance of the resort.

With their knowledge of local conditions, currents, wind and waves, you will find yourself in the best hands possible. Proximity of breaks to often means you’re the first in the water and last to leave.

Experience surf the Sinalei way.

Nearby Breaks:

• Coconuts (Right hand reef pass)
• Salani (Right hand reef pass)
• Boulders (Large lava rock left hand point),
• TafaTafa (Right hand reef pass)
• Nuusafee Island (An unforgettable left hander that wraps around a nearby deserted island).

Hours: Tide and weather dependant

• Tale Of Sinalei
• Your Destination
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• Traditional Ocean View Villa
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