To Sua Ocean Trench
To Sua
A 30-meter-deep sinkhole pool surrounded by tropical gardens. Visitors climb down a long wooden ladder into emerald seawater to swim. It is Samoa's flagship attraction.
To Sua Ocean Trench is on the south coast of Upolu at Lotofaga village. It is a huge sinkhole formed by the collapse of a volcanic lava tube. Its base connects to the sea through an underground passage, and the tides flow in and out, giving the water a bright emerald clarity. Visitors descend a nearly vertical long wooden ladder to a platform, then enter the water. Surrounding the trench are carefully tended gardens, lava shores by the sea, and blowholes. Entry costs about 20 tala and includes the whole site. It takes about 1 hour by car from Apia via the Cross-Island Road. Notes: the wooden ladder is slippery, so move slowly. When the tide comes in, the current can be strong, so non-swimmers should hold the ropes firmly. Bring a waterproof bag.
Opening hours
Approx. 08:00–17:00 (may close Sundays)
Nearby sights
- Sopoaga Falls
- Fuipisia Falls
- Lalomanu Beach
- Namu'a Island
- Togitogiga Waterfall
- Piula Cave Pool
- O Le Pupu-Pu'e National Park
- Uafato & Fagaloa Bay