Day 13: Return to Upolu – Heading East
With my time on Savai’i coming to an end, I made my way back to Upolu, eager to explore the eastern coast of the island. This region is known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs, making it a paradise for both surfers and snorkelers.
I arrived in the village of Lalomanu, where I would be staying for the next few days. Lalomanu Beach is one of Samoa’s most famous beaches, renowned for its beauty and tranquillity. After settling into my beachfront accommodation, I couldn’t resist the urge to paddle out and catch some waves.
The surf at Lalomanu was smaller and more mellow than what I’d experienced on the southern coast, but the water was incredibly clear, allowing me to see the coral reef beneath as I rode each wave. The feeling of gliding over such vibrant marine life was surreal and added an extra layer of magic to the session.
Day 14: Surfing the Pristine Waters of Aleipata Islands
The next day, I took a boat trip to the Aleipata Islands, a group of small islands off Upolu’s eastern coast. These islands are famous for their pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs, making them a must-visit for any surfer or ocean lover.
We anchored near Namu’a Island, where the waves were perfect—long, peeling left-handers that broke over a shallow reef. The water was so clear that I could see every detail of the coral below, and the vibrant marine life added to the experience. Surfing in such a stunning environment was an absolute dream, and I spent hours in the water, completely lost in the moment.
After the surf session, I explored the island, finding secluded beaches and hidden coves. The tranquillity and beauty of the Aleipata Islands made this one of the most memorable days of my trip so far.
Day 15: Exploring the Coastal Treasures of Lalomanu
Feeling inspired by the beauty of the Aleipata Islands, I decided to spend the next day exploring more of Lalomanu’s coastal treasures. I began the day with a sunrise surf session, taking advantage of the early morning light and glassy conditions. The waves were small and playful, allowing me to relax and enjoy the beauty of the surroundings.
After surfing, I took some time to snorkel in the nearby coral gardens, which are home to a stunning array of marine life. The coral was vibrant and healthy, teeming with colourful fish and other sea creatures. It was an incredible experience to see the underwater world up close and personal, and it made me appreciate the importance of preserving these natural wonders.
In the afternoon, I hiked to the nearby To Sua Ocean Trench, a natural swimming hole surrounded by lush gardens. The turquoise water was inviting, and I spent the rest of the day swimming and relaxing in this magical setting.
Day 16: Farewell to Lalomanu – A Perfect Surfing Morning
My final day on the eastern coast of Upolu began with one last surf session at Lalomanu Beach. The waves were small but consistent, and the water was as clear as ever. I savoured each ride, knowing that my time in this beautiful part of Samoa was coming to an end.
After a few hours in the water, I took some time to reflect on the past few days. The eastern coast of Upolu had offered some of the most beautiful and serene surf spots I’d encountered on my journey, and the memories I’d made here would stay with me forever.
As I packed up my board and prepared to head back to the western side of the island, I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of gratitude for the experiences I’d had. Samoa had exceeded all my expectations, and I knew that the adventure wasn’t over yet—there were still more waves to be ridden and more memories to be made in the days ahead.
