Upolu · South Coast · Samoa
Getting to Lalomanu
The drive to the quiet corner of Upolu
Lalomanu sits at the south-eastern tip of Upolu, about 50 km from Apia — the end of the road, where the island runs out of land and the south coast beaches begin. Getting here is part of the trip: you cross the mountains through rainforest, then follow the coast east past waterfalls and swimming holes until the road ends at the sand. There is one road in, and it is easy to drive.
Your Options
Four Ways to Arrive
Rental Car
The most flexible option, and the one we recommend. You can pick a car up at Faleolo International Airport or in Apia. Drive on the left, cross the island over the mountains on the Cross Island Road, then turn east and follow the south coast road all the way to Lalomanu. Roughly 1 hour 30 minutes from Apia, or about 2 hours from the airport. Fill up with fuel in Apia before you leave — petrol stations get sparse along the south coast, and you will want the car for day trips once you are here.
Taxi or Private Transfer
Taxis meet the international flights at Faleolo. Agree the fare before you get in, and allow around 2 to 2.5 hours for the drive. A private transfer is the easiest arrival if you land in the evening or would rather not drive on the left for the first time.
Village Bus
Samoa’s colourful wooden buses run from Apia out along the south coast. They are cheap and cheerful, but they leave when they are full, not to a timetable, and the last buses out of Apia tend to go by mid-afternoon. Very little runs on a Sunday, when Samoa rests.
Ask Us First
Tell us your flight number and arrival time and we will advise on the best option for your day — the drive, a transfer, or staying a night in Apia first. Get in touch through our contact page before you travel.
On the Way
What You Pass on the Coast Road
Driving east from Apia, the road runs past the Togitogiga Waterfalls and the To Sua Ocean Trench before it reaches Lalomanu — around 35 and 15 minutes before us. Both are easy to visit on the way in, or as day trips once you are settled.
Before You Set Off
The last stretch is the best part
Coming from Apia, the coastal road passes the To Sua Ocean Trench and the Togitogiga Waterfalls roughly 15 and 35 minutes before you reach Lalomanu. Both are worth breaking the drive for — and both are easy day trips once you are settled in.
Arrive before dark
The coast road is unlit and villages are quiet at night. If you are driving yourself, aim to leave Apia with enough daylight — dusk comes early in the tropics.
Take the villages slowly
Samoa drives on the left, and speed limits through villages are low with speed humps to match. Samoan villages are private land, so slow down, keep noise down, and enjoy the drive.
Carry a little cash
Village stalls, roadside fruit stands and boatmen are cash only. There are ATMs in Apia, but very few opportunities to withdraw money along the south coast.
Apia 1h30 · Faleolo Airport 2h · Namua Island 8 min
Once you are here, everything worth seeing is a short drive: Namua Turtle Island 8 minutes west, To Sua 15 minutes, and the Ma Tree, Coastal Walk and giant clams of Savaia along the same coast road.
Getting Here FAQs
How far is Lalomanu from Apia?
Lalomanu sits at the south-eastern tip of Upolu, about 50 km from Apia. The drive over the mountains and east along the coast takes roughly 1 hour 30 minutes.
How long does it take from Faleolo International Airport?
Allow about 2 to 2.5 hours, including the run through Apia. If your flight lands in the afternoon, a private transfer or a night in Apia makes for an easier first day.
Do I need a four-wheel drive?
No. The main road all the way to Lalomanu is sealed and suitable for any car. A standard vehicle is fine.
Can I get to Lalomanu on a Sunday?
Sunday is a day of rest in Samoa — most buses do not run, shops are closed and families are at church. If you are travelling on a Sunday, arrange your own car or a private transfer in advance.
How do I get around once I am there?
Most of the south coast sights — Namua Island, To Sua, Togitogiga, the Ma Tree and Coastal Walks, and the giant clams at Savaia — are between 8 and 40 minutes’ drive from us. There is no real public transport, so a rental car or a taxi is the way to explore. Our cultural walking tour and island tours run from the property at reception.
Read more: Lalomanu Beach guide · Namua Turtle Island day trip · Best time to visit Samoa
Plan Your Stay
Arrive, Then Slow Down
Beachfront fales and villas on Lalomanu Beach — every stay includes sunrise breakfast and sunset dinner.