Aufaga – Surfing on Upolu’s southeast coast

At Aufaga on Upolu, the reef on the southeast coast offers left- and right-breaking surf spots with smaller swell before the trade winds set in. May to October is considered the main surf season for the surf area near Aufaga. The surf spot is most easily reached from Seabreeze Resort or from the village of Aufaga, farther east. If you are considering Aufaga as a destination, the season, breaks, and accessibility can help you plan your surfing. Check current conditions and access before visiting. Left- and right-breaking describe the direction in which a wave breaks; smaller swell describes its size.

Samoa as a broader travel destination

Samoa comprises ten islands, four of which are inhabited: Upolu, Savai’i, Apolima, and Manono. The To-Sua Ocean Trench is in Lotofaga on Upolu. It is 30 meters deep, and a long ladder leads to a platform in the water-filled basin. A cave leads to the open sea and is recommended for experienced divers.

Piula Cave Pool is on the Main East Coast Road by Piula Theological College in the village of Lufilufi, about 45 minutes from Apia. Travel time may vary depending on conditions. Its underwater cave is connected to a second cave. Day-use fales and toilets are available at Piula Cave Pool. Check before you travel whether these facilities are still available.

Papase’ea Sliding Rocks are in Se’ese’e in the Faleata district, about a 15-minute drive from Apia; travel time may vary. There are two sliding areas: one for children and one for adults. Travel times to these destinations also differ by mode of transport: Palolo Deep Marine Reserve is about a five-minute walk from central Apia, while the Sliding Rocks are about a 15-minute drive away. Both estimates may vary.

Samoa Cultural Village is on Beach Road in central Apia. A popular hiking trail in Apia leads to Robert Louis Stevenson’s grave and offers views of Samoa’s capital. Check current access before planning your hike. The Robert Louis Stevenson Museum is said to be the place where the Scottish poet and author Robert Louis Stevenson fell in love.

Samoan traditions also give a place its own cultural significance: Pa Sopo’ia Cave is said to be an ancient route along which the spirits of the ancestors travel to Devil’s Haden at Cape Mulinu’u, the last meeting place before Pulotu, the spirit world. At Sopoaga Waterfall, there is an area for demonstrations of umu cooking and coconut husking. Afu Aau Waterfall is also known as Olemoe Falls.

Discover more destinations: Tuana’i, Tafatafa, Solosolo, Lalomanu, Falease’ela, Gagaifoolevao.

Return to the broader travel overview: Upolu.