Day 9: Journey to Savai’i – The Adventure Begins
With my time on Upolu coming to an end, I decided to venture to Samoa’s largest island, Savai’i, known for its raw beauty and untamed surf spots. The journey began with a ferry ride from Upolu, which provided stunning views of the surrounding islands and the deep blue Pacific Ocean.
Upon arriving in Savai’i, I could immediately feel the difference in atmosphere. The island was less developed and more rugged, with vast stretches of untouched coastline. I made my way to the village of Salelologa, where I would be staying for the next few days. After settling in, I took some time to explore the local area and get a feel for the island’s vibe.
The excitement was building as I prepared for the days ahead, knowing that Savai’i had some of Samoa’s most epic and challenging surf breaks.
Day 10: Surfing the Legendary Lano Beach
My first surf session on Savai’i took place at Lano Beach, a well-known spot among locals for its consistent and powerful waves. The beach itself was stunning, with fine white sand and a backdrop of lush, green hills. The waves were pumping, with long, hollow left-handers breaking over a shallow reef.
Lano Beach offered some of the most challenging waves I’d encountered so far, demanding precision and focus. The power of the waves and the sharpness of the reef added an element of danger, but the reward was worth it—each ride was exhilarating, with fast, hollow sections that allowed for deep barrels and powerful turns.
The locals were out in force, and I had the pleasure of surfing alongside some incredibly skilled Samoan surfers. They made navigating the tricky reef look effortless, and their friendly demeanour made me feel welcome in their line-up.
Day 11: Exploring Savai’i’s Hidden Spots
With the thrill of Lano Beach still fresh in my mind, I decided to spend the next day exploring some of Savai’i’s lesser-known surf spots. I rented a car and set off on a coastal adventure, driving along winding roads that hugged the island’s dramatic cliffs and dense rainforests.
One of the highlights of the day was discovering a remote break near the village of Falealupo. The waves here were less intense than those at Lano, but they were perfectly shaped, with long, peeling right-handers that broke over a sandy bottom. The setting was breath-taking—crystal-clear water, swaying palm trees, and not another surfer in sight. It felt like I had stumbled upon my own private surf paradise.
I spent the afternoon enjoying the solitude and pristine waves, grateful for the opportunity to experience such untouched beauty.
Day 12: Sunset Sessions at Manase Beach
After a day of exploring, I decided to end my time in Savai’i with a sunset surf session at Manase Beach. Manase is known for its tranquil atmosphere and gentle waves, making it the perfect spot to wind down after the more intense sessions earlier in the week.
The waves at Manase were mellow and fun, offering long rides that were perfect for practicing my style and flow. As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in shades of pink and orange, I caught one final wave and rode it all the way to shore.
Sitting on the beach, watching the last light fade, I reflected on my time in Savai’i. The island had delivered everything I’d hoped for—epic waves, untouched beauty, and a deep sense of adventure. I knew that Savai’i would always hold a special place in my heart as one of the highlights of my surfing journey.
