Spend an afternoon browsing the fresh produce, exotic fish and arts and crafts on sale in Salelologa’s colourful marketplace. Stroll out of town to the nearby beaches or flag down one of the local buses to head to the waterfalls, lava field and other delights on the island of Savai’i.
Salelologa is the entry point to the island of Savai’i, because both the ferry terminal and the airport are located here. It is the island’s largest town and makes for a good place to base yourself to explore the rest of the island. You’ll find the largest range of restaurants and hotels here, as well as banking and other facilities. Don’t expect a bustling metropolis though this is still Samoa and everything happens at a leisurely pace.
Head straight to the market in the sleepy town centre. Year-round, from Monday to Saturday, the stalls are filled with colourful produce, freshly caught fish and crafts such as carvings and textiles. Sample some of the exotic fruit or shop for souvenirs. If you’re feeling hungry, visit one of the food carts at the market to try a traditional keke pua’a, a tasty pork bun.
Getting around the town is easy. Walking or cycling are both safe options. You can also catch a bus. To do so, simply stand by the side of the road and flag one down, as there are no designated bus stops.
Hire a car or a taxi to take you to the waterfalls, the surf beaches, the Satoalepai Turtle Sanctuary or any other attraction that the locals recommend. All the major sights on the island are within an hour’s drive of Salelologa. Return to the township in the evening and enjoy freshly cooked, Samoan-style fish in one of the restaurants.
You can visit Salelologa on a daytrip from the capital Apia on Upolu Island or book a longer stay. It is only a 15-minute flight or hour-long ferry journey from Apia. Ferries run every 2 hours during the day.
