Apia in April

April weather, activities, events & insider tips

April Weather in Apia

30°C (87°F) High Temp

24°C (76°F) Low Temp

231 mm (9.1 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is April Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect water temperature at 27°C (81°F) - ideal for swimming and water activities without wetsuit requirements
Lush tropical scenery at its peak - waterfalls flow at maximum capacity after March rains, creating spectacular photo opportunities
Comfortable evening temperatures around 24°C (76°F) make outdoor dining and cultural events pleasant after 6pm
Lower tourist crowds compared to June-August peak season, meaning shorter lines at popular sites and better availability for accommodations

Considerations

Afternoon rain showers occur 10 days of the month, typically between 2-5pm, which can interrupt outdoor activities
High humidity at 70% makes midday activities feel more strenuous - you'll sweat more during hiking or walking tours
UV index of 8 requires constant sun protection and limits comfortable outdoor time to early morning and late afternoon

Best Activities in April

Piula Cave Pool and Waterfall Tours

April's recent rains create the most spectacular waterfall displays of the year. The natural spring-fed pools maintain a refreshing 24°C (75°F) temperature, perfect for cooling off in the humid weather. Morning visits (8-11am) avoid both crowds and afternoon rain.

Booking Tip: Book through local operators 5-7 days ahead, typically costing 60-90 WST per person including transport. Look for operators who provide morning departure times to avoid afternoon showers. See current tour options in the booking section below.

Apia Harbor and Mulinu'u Peninsula Walking Tours

April's variable weather creates dramatic cloud formations perfect for photography along the harbor. The 3 km (1.9 mile) peninsula walk is best done early morning when temperatures are coolest at 24°C (76°F). Cultural sites include the this destination and ancient star mounds.

Booking Tip: Self-guided walks are free, or join cultural walking tours typically costing 40-60 WST. Start by 8am to complete the circuit before midday heat. Tours usually include traditional stories and historical context.

Papapapaitai Falls and Highland Village Tours

The 100m (328 ft) waterfall is at peak flow in April following wet season rains. Highland villages offer cooler temperatures, typically 3-5°C (5-9°F) lower than coastal areas. Cloud forest walks showcase tropical flora at its most busy.

Booking Tip: Full-day tours cost 120-180 WST including lunch and transport. Book 7-10 days ahead through operators with reliable 4WD vehicles for wet season road conditions. Morning departures essential to avoid afternoon mountain clouds.

Traditional Cooking and Market Experience

April brings seasonal tropical fruits like breadfruit and young coconuts to local markets. Indoor cooking classes provide perfect rainy day activities while learning to prepare oka (raw fish salad) and palusami (coconut cream dishes) using fresh seasonal ingredients.

Booking Tip: Half-day experiences cost 80-120 WST per person including market tour and meal. Book 3-5 days ahead. Choose morning sessions starting at 9am when markets are freshest and weather is coolest.

Coastal Snorkeling and Reef Tours

Water visibility reaches 15-20m (49-66 ft) in April with calm morning conditions. Coral spawning activity increases marine life visibility. Water temperature of 27°C (81°F) eliminates need for wetsuits, making snorkeling comfortable for extended periods.

Booking Tip: Half-day tours typically cost 100-150 WST including equipment and transport. Book morning departures (8am) as afternoon wind and possible rain reduce visibility. Operators with covered boats essential for weather protection.

Cultural Village Night Shows and Fiafia

Evening temperatures around 24°C (76°F) create comfortable outdoor conditions for traditional performances. April's cultural calendar includes preparation activities for upcoming May festivals, offering authentic cultural experiences beyond tourist shows.

Booking Tip: Evening cultural shows cost 60-100 WST including traditional meal. Book 5-7 days ahead as local groups have limited performance schedules. Shows typically run 6-9pm, perfect timing to avoid daytime heat and rain.

April Events & Festivals

Early April

Easter Weekend Cultural Celebrations

Extended family gatherings and church services showcase authentic Samoan culture. Many villages hold traditional feasts (to'ona'i) open to respectful visitors. White clothing is traditional and expected for church attendance.

April 25th

Anzac Day Commemorations

Memorial services at Apia War Cemetery honor fallen soldiers with dawn service at 6am. Local RSL and cultural groups participate in ceremonies combining military tradition with Samoan customs.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Quick-dry synthetic shirts - cotton stays damp in 70% humidity and takes hours to dry

Lightweight rain jacket with hood - afternoon showers last 20-30 minutes but are intense

SPF 50+ reef-safe sunscreen - UV index of 8 causes burns within 15 minutes, and chemical sunscreens damage coral

Closed-toe water shoes - volcanic rocks and coral can cut feet, essential for waterfall pools

Insect repellent with DEET - mosquito activity increases after rain showers

Portable phone charger - high humidity drains batteries faster in tropical conditions

Cash in small denominations (WST 5, 10, 20) - many local operators and markets don't accept cards

Lightweight long pants for evening cultural events - required for church visits and formal dinners

Microfiber towel - regular towels won't dry between uses in humid conditions

Waterproof phone case - essential for water activities and unexpected rain showers

Insider Knowledge

Banks close at 3pm weekdays and all day Sunday - exchange money early in the week or use ANZ ATMs which have the best exchange rates

Local buses (bright colored) cost 3 WST anywhere in Apia but stop running by 5pm - plan afternoon activities within walking distance of accommodation

Sunday is sacred in Samoa - most businesses close and beaches are quiet from 6am-6pm for family time and church, making it perfect for respectful cultural observation

Tipping isn't customary in Samoa - instead, say 'fa'afetai tele lava' (thank you very much) which is more culturally appropriate than monetary tips

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling outdoor activities during 2-5pm peak rain and heat hours - plan indoor cultural experiences or rest during this time

Wearing revealing clothing to cultural sites - shoulders and knees must be covered at churches and traditional villages

Not carrying cash - many local experiences, markets, and transport require Samoan Tala (WST), not credit cards