Apia in December

December weather, activities, events & insider tips

December Weather in Apia

31°C (87°F) High Temp

24°C (75°F) Low Temp

414 mm (16.3 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is December Right for You?

Advantages

Peak tropical fruit season - December brings the sweetest mangoes, breadfruit, and soursop. Local markets overflow with produce at 30-40% lower prices than other months
Ideal water temperatures of 26-28°C (79-82°F) for swimming and snorkeling, with calmer seas and 20-25m (65-82 ft) visibility around offshore reefs
White Sunday cultural festivities create real feels - children perform in churches wearing white, families gather for traditional feasts, and cultural centers host special programs
Fewer international tourists than June-August peak season means 25-30% lower accommodation rates and better access to popular sites like Robert Louis Stevenson Museum

Considerations

High humidity at 70% combined with afternoon heat makes midday outdoor activities uncomfortable - locals retreat indoors between 11am-3pm
Unpredictable rain showers occur on 10 out of 31 days, typically lasting 45-90 minutes but can disrupt outdoor plans without indoor backup options
Some tour operators reduce schedules during holiday periods between December 24-January 2, limiting day trip options to outer islands

Best Activities in December

Traditional Village Cultural Tours

December coincides with White Sunday preparations and summer school holidays, when villages showcase authentic fa'a Samoa traditions. Extended families gather for traditional umu (earth oven) cooking demonstrations, and children practice cultural performances. The cooler early morning temperatures of 24-26°C (75-79°F) make walking tours comfortable, while afternoon programs move to covered fales during rain showers.

Booking Tip: Book cultural village experiences 5-7 days ahead through licensed cultural operators. Tours typically cost WST 80-120 ($30-45) and include traditional meals. Morning departures (8am-9am) offer the best weather conditions and most active village life.

Coastal Snorkeling and Swimming

December offers peak underwater visibility of 20-25m (65-82 ft) and ideal water temperatures of 26-28°C (79-82°F). The summer season brings calmer trade winds, reducing wave action around Palolo Deep Marine Reserve and coastal reefs. Rain showers actually improve snorkeling conditions by reducing surface glare and keeping air temperatures comfortable at 28-30°C (82-86°F).

Booking Tip: Half-day snorkeling tours range WST 100-150 ($37-55) per person. Book morning departures (7am-8am) to avoid afternoon showers and benefit from calmest water conditions. Equipment rental typically costs WST 25-35 ($9-13) per day.

Waterfall Hiking and Swimming

December's rainfall fills waterfalls to maximum flow while maintaining safe swimming conditions. Papapapaitai Falls and Fuipisia Falls offer the most dramatic cascades, with pool temperatures of 22-24°C (72-75°F) providing refreshing relief from humid conditions. Trail conditions remain good with recent rain settling dust, though proper footwear becomes essential.

Booking Tip: Waterfall tours cost WST 120-180 ($44-66) including transport and guide. Start early (7am departures) to complete hikes before afternoon heat peaks at 31°C (87°F). Licensed guides charge WST 40-60 ($15-22) for half-day hikes to multiple falls.

Traditional Cooking Workshops

December's abundant tropical produce season creates ideal conditions for authentic Samoan cooking experiences. Fresh coconut cream, seasonal vegetables, and newly harvested root crops allow participants to learn traditional umu (earth oven) techniques and tropical fruit preparation. Indoor cooking fales provide perfect shelter during afternoon rain showers.

Booking Tip: Cooking workshops range WST 90-140 ($33-52) per person including meals and ingredients. Book through cultural centers or licensed operators 3-5 days ahead. Half-day sessions typically run 4-5 hours and accommodate 6-12 participants.

Harbour and Coastal Walking Tours

December's variable weather creates perfect conditions for exploring Apia's waterfront and colonial architecture during cooler periods between showers. The harbour area stays lively with increased inter-island ferry traffic, local fishing activity, and market vendors. Rain provides natural air conditioning, dropping temperatures 3-5°C (5-9°F) and reducing humidity temporarily.

Booking Tip: Self-guided walking tours cost nothing beyond transport. Guided historical walks range WST 50-80 ($18-30) per person for 2-3 hours. Start early morning (7am-9am) or late afternoon (4pm-6pm) to avoid peak heat and catch golden hour lighting.

Island Day Trips and Ferry Excursions

December offers excellent conditions for day trips to nearby Manono Island or Nu'utele Island, with calmer seas and comfortable ferry temperatures. The summer schedule provides more frequent departures, while December's fruit season means better picnic options and lower costs for local provisions. Light rain showers create dramatic cloud formations perfect for photography.

Booking Tip: Inter-island day trips cost WST 150-250 ($55-92) including ferry, meals, and activities. Book 7-10 days ahead during December holiday period. Ferry schedules increase frequency with 3-4 daily departures versus 1-2 in off-season months.

December Events & Festivals

Ongoing celebrations through December

White Sunday (Lotu Tamaiti)

The second Sunday in October extends cultural celebrations through December as families maintain special church services and children continue wearing traditional white clothing for religious performances. This creates ongoing opportunities to witness authentic Samoan Christian traditions and family gatherings throughout the month.

Mid December through January

Summer School Holiday Programs

Local schools close for summer holidays, creating increased cultural activity as children participate in traditional arts, dance, and sporting competitions. Community centers host special programs showcasing Samoan heritage, making December an ideal time to witness authentic cultural transmission between generations.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket or poncho - December showers last 45-90 minutes and occur suddenly, but temperatures stay warm at 28-30°C (82-86°F) during rain

Quick-dry shirts and shorts in cotton or linen blends - synthetic fabrics become uncomfortable in 70% humidity and 31°C (87°F) afternoon heat

Water shoes or reef-safe sandals with good grip - wet rocks around waterfalls and coral areas require traction, plus protection from sea urchins

SPF 50+ broad-spectrum sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 even on cloudy days, and water reflection intensifies exposure during snorkeling

Insect repellent with 20% DEET minimum - increased rainfall creates more breeding areas for mosquitoes, particularly around waterfall pools

Waterproof phone case or dry bag - sudden showers and water activities make electronics vulnerable, and you'll want photos of December's dramatic skies

Light cotton sleepwear - accommodation air conditioning varies, and 24°C (75°F) nighttime temperatures with humidity make heavy pajamas uncomfortable

Reef-safe sunscreen specifically - Samoa's marine reserves require biodegradable formulas, and December's excellent snorkeling conditions make this essential

Compact umbrella in addition to rain jacket - provides shade during 31°C (87°F) heat and quick rain protection while walking between indoor venues

Moisture-wicking undergarments - high humidity makes cotton underwear uncomfortable, synthetic moisture-wicking materials perform better in tropical conditions

Insider Knowledge

Shop at Fugalei Market early morning (6am-8am) when vendors offer the best selection of seasonal fruits and temperatures stay comfortable at 24-26°C (75-79°F) - prices increase 20-30% after 10am

December flights from New Zealand and Australia book solid for holiday travel - secure accommodation and rental cars by October, or expect 40-50% price premiums for last-minute bookings

Local buses (colorful aiga buses) reduce schedules during holiday periods but offer real feels - carry exact change in WST coins and expect 15-20 minute delays during rain showers

Banking hours change during December holidays with some branches closing early - withdraw cash before weekends and use ANZ or BSP ATMs which have most reliable service during busy periods

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling all activities for midday hours - locals avoid outdoor activities between 11am-3pm when heat index reaches 35-37°C (95-99°F) combined with high humidity

Bringing only one pair of shoes - December's mix of rain, beach activities, hiking, and cultural sites requires multiple footwear options including water shoes and hiking sandals

Underestimating holiday closures - many tour operators, restaurants, and shops reduce hours December 24-January 2, leaving fewer options than advertised online