Apia Map

About City :

Apia, the capital city of Samoa was founded in the 1850s and was originally a village. The city has a population of just over 37,000. The architecture of Apia reflects Samoan, colonial and modern Western influences. It handles about 97% of the country’s trade and is considered a lifeline to the nation.

In March 1889, Apia witnessed the infamous naval standoff when 7 ships, belonging to the German, American and British navy refused to stand down and leave the harbor during an impending typhoon, in the fear of being humiliated. Except for Calliope, a British cruiser, all ships sank, killing almost 200 people.

Scottish novelist Robert Louis Stevenson spent his last years in Apia, in the village of Vailima. The Samoans were greatly influenced by his life and work. He is buried on Mount Vaea and his tomb overlooks the sea.

Apia became the official capital of Samoa in 1859. The official languages are English and Samoan.

Geography :

Apia covers a total area of 60 sq km and is situated on the north of Upolu, Samoa’s second largest island. It is located at the mouth of the river Vaisigano with Mount Vaea to its south.

How to Reach (Transport) :

Apia is accessible via two airports. About 20 miles away is the Fagalii Airport which is used for both domestic flights and international flights. The Faleolo Airport, closer to Apia, is only responsible for Samoa’s main domestic flights. Apia is one of the biggest and busiest harbors in the country and international cargo ships of many nations dock at Apia. Ferries to Tokelau and American Samoa are easily available from here.

Apia has no train or tram services. However, the city has a well maintained road network.

Much of Apia is within walking distance, although with the hot and humid weather, it might not be quite a comfortable experience. There is an extensive taxi and bus system available all over the city. Buses are cheap and mainly available close to the main market and the Apia flea market. The best way to get around Apia is by a local taxi. Taxis are generally found on the Beach Road in front of the Government Office building.

When to Visit :

Apia has a tropical climate and features a uniform temperature of about 30 degrees all throughout the year. The year is roughly divided into dry and wet seasons, the driest months being July and August. The best time to visit is the period between July to September when the weather is relatively cooler and dry with low chances of hurricanes taking place.

Fairs and Festivals :

Apia celebrates the Teuila Festival in the month of September. Celebrations go on for about a fortnight and various events like Fatusi (ancient Samoan boats) racing, fire knife dancing, and wood carving take place throughout the city. Started in 1991, it is one of the most prominent events in the country. Different ethnic groups display their colors and talent at this prominent event and it is one of the most vibrant cultural festivals in South Pacific.

Points of Interest (Places to Visit) :

Some noteworthy places of visit in Apia are as follows :

• The flea market of Apia, located to the west of the Clock Tower, offers a wide range of items, from local handicrafts to imported goods.
• Paolo Deep Marine Reserve, mostly full of coral gravel is an official underwater park.
• Robert Louis Stevenson’s House, now a well kept museum in Valima.
• Robert Louis Stevenson’s grave, overlooking his home is at the top of Mount Vaea. It is an easy walk on a dry day and offers an amazing view across the Pacific Ocean.
• The Faleata’s Oval, a stadium with four cricket grounds, used for the ICC World Cricket League Division Eight tournament in 2012.

Other places to visit are the Museum of Samoa, Botanical gardens of Vailima, Apia fish market, etc.

Accommodation :

Apia offers a variety of options for accommodation. Hotel Elisa doubles as a budget hotel with cheaper rooms at the back of the hotel and as a luxury hotel with newer and more expensive rooms in the front. Other budget hotels include Hennies Motel and Samoan Outrigger Hotel. Mid range hotels include Lynn’s Gateway, a colonial style bed and breakfast, Apia Central Hotel, Eden’s Edge and Leric Housing Motel. Hotel Millenia Samoa and Hotel Tanoa Tusitala are the luxury hotels in the area.