Apia in February

February weather, activities, events & insider tips

February Weather in Apia

30°C (87°F) High Temp

24°C (76°F) Low Temp

406 mm (16.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is February Right for You?

Advantages

Palolo deep-sea fishing season peaks in February - yellowfin tuna and mahi-mahi are most abundant, with charter boat availability highest before Easter crowds arrive
Cultural calendar is rich with village fa'a festivities after January recovery period - authentic celebrations without tourist-focused modifications
Fresh fruit season delivers peak mangoes, breadfruit, and soursop at Fugalei Market for 5-8 WST ($1.80-2.90) per kilogram versus 12-15 WST ($4.30-5.40) in dry months
Southwest trade winds create ideal sailing conditions with 15-20 knot (28-37 km/h) consistent breezes and calmer seas on the south coast beaches

Considerations

Cyclone season remains active through February - while direct hits are rare (last major impact was 2012), weather systems cause 2-3 day periods of heavy rain and cancelled boat tours
Humidity at 70% combined with 30°C (87°F) temperatures creates intense midday conditions that drain energy quickly - most locals avoid outdoor activities 11am-3pm
Rainy season mud affects many hiking trails including parts of Mount Vaea and Papaseea Sliding Rocks access roads, requiring 4WD or significant walking

Best Activities in February

Upolu Island Cultural Village Tours

February coincides with post-harvest celebrations when villages are most active with traditional activities. The cooler morning temperatures (24-26°C/75-79°F) make walking tours comfortable, and afternoon rain provides natural breaks. Village demonstrations of siapo making, fire dancing, and traditional cooking happen organically rather than staged for tourists.

Booking Tip: Book through cultural centers or hotels 5-7 days ahead. Tours typically cost 80-120 WST ($29-43) including lunch and run 4-5 hours starting at 8am to avoid afternoon heat. Look for operators offering village stays or authentic family connections rather than resort-based tours.

Apia Harbor Deep-Sea Fishing Charters

February marks peak season for yellowfin tuna and mahi-mahi as warm currents bring baitfish close to shore. Early morning departures (5:30am) take advantage of calmer seas before trade winds strengthen. Rain showers are brief and boats continue fishing - locals know the fish bite better during light rain.

Booking Tip: Charter boats typically cost 400-600 WST ($144-216) for 6-8 hours for up to 6 people. Book 10-14 days ahead as local fishing tournaments reduce availability mid-month. Ensure boats have rain covers and GPS - weather can change quickly. See current charter options in booking section below.

Manono Island Day Trips

The smaller island offers respite from Samoa's humidity with constant ocean breezes. February's variable weather actually enhances the experience - quick rain showers cool temperatures and create dramatic cloud formations over the lagoon. Traditional village life continues uninterrupted by weather, offering authentic cultural immersion.

Booking Tip: Boat transfers run 40-60 WST ($14-22) per person and depend on weather conditions. Book through Apia waterfront operators morning-of or day-before as weather determines departure. Pack waterproof bag for electronics and expect 45-minute each way crossing. Tours typically include village walk and traditional lunch for 120-150 WST ($43-54).

Apia Rainforest Waterfall Swimming

February rainfall keeps waterfalls at peak flow, making Papaseea Sliding Rocks and Fuipisia Falls spectacular. The natural pools remain refreshingly cool (22-24°C/72-75°F) providing relief from humidity. Morning visits (7-10am) avoid crowds and afternoon storms while enjoying the best light for photography.

Booking Tip: Self-guided access costs 10-20 WST ($3.60-7.20) entrance fees. Guided tours cost 60-100 WST ($22-36) including transport and lunch. Avoid during heavy rain periods as rocks become extremely slippery. Rent reef shoes in Apia for 25-35 WST ($9-13) per day - essential for safe rock navigation.

Traditional Samoan Cooking Classes

February's abundant fresh produce makes cooking classes exceptional - breadfruit, taro, coconut, and tropical fruits are at peak ripeness. Indoor activities provide perfect rainy day alternatives, and learning umu (earth oven) techniques works regardless of weather. Classes typically include market visits during cooler morning hours.

Booking Tip: Half-day classes cost 100-150 WST ($36-54) including ingredients and meals. Book through accommodations or cultural centers 3-5 days ahead. Morning classes (8am-12pm) include market tours before heat peaks. Look for authentic family-run experiences rather than resort demonstrations for genuine techniques.

South Coast Snorkeling and Beach Time

February's southwest trade winds create calmer conditions on Samoa's south coast beaches compared to the north. Water temperature reaches comfortable 28-29°C (82-84°F) and visibility improves between rain showers. Beaches like Samoa and Return to great destination offer protected snorkeling when north coast sites are too rough.

Booking Tip: Beach access typically costs 10-30 WST ($3.60-11) parking and facilities. Snorkel gear rental runs 20-35 WST ($7-13) per day. Transportation to south coast beaches costs 60-120 WST ($22-43) return by taxi or bus. Check morning weather forecasts as afternoon storms can create dangerous surf conditions.

February Events & Festivals

Throughout February

Teuila Festival Preparation Activities

While the main festival occurs in September, February sees intense preparation work in villages across Samoa. Visitors can observe traditional craft making, dance practice sessions, and costume preparation - offering authentic cultural experiences without festival crowds or inflated prices.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Quick-dry synthetic clothing instead of cotton - 70% humidity means cotton stays damp for hours and becomes uncomfortable

Lightweight rain jacket with ventilation - afternoon showers last 20-45 minutes and umbrellas are useless in trade winds

Reef-safe sunscreen SPF 50+ - UV index reaches 8 and reflection off water intensifies exposure during water activities

Waterproof phone case and electronics bag - sudden rain showers and boat spray are daily realities in February

Insect repellent with DEET - standing water from rain increases mosquito activity, especially around waterfalls and villages

Comfortable walking sandals with good grip - wet surfaces are extremely common and flip-flops are inadequate for safety

Electrolyte powder or tablets - high humidity and heat cause rapid dehydration that water alone doesn't address

Small towel that dries quickly - you'll be wet frequently from rain, swimming, or sweat and need something practical

Light long-sleeve shirt for cultural sites - many churches and traditional areas require covered shoulders regardless of temperature

Reef shoes or water shoes - essential for waterfall visits, snorkeling, and walking on coral or volcanic rock beaches

Insider Knowledge

Local buses ('aiga buses) run less frequently during heavy rain periods but cost only 3-5 WST ($1.10-1.80) versus taxis at 40-80 WST ($14-29) for similar distances - build flexibility into transportation timing

Fugalei Market vendors offer best prices and selection between 6-8am before heat builds and after overnight deliveries arrive - mangoes drop from 8 WST to 5 WST ($2.90 to $1.80) per kg by shopping early

Village guest house stays (fale tourism) cost 60-120 WST ($22-43) per night versus resort rates of 300-600 WST ($108-216) and provide real feels during February's cultural season

Cyclone warnings trigger 48-72 hour advance alerts through local radio and hotel networks - monitor Radio 2AP 93.3 FM for English weather updates and follow local advice about beach and boat activities

Avoid These Mistakes

Booking rigid day-trip schedules without weather flexibility - February requires 'plan B' indoor options when rain disrupts outdoor activities for 2-4 hours at a time

Underestimating hydration needs in 70% humidity - tourists frequently experience fatigue and headaches by drinking only at meals rather than consistently throughout the day

Wearing white or light colors to waterfall visits - volcanic rock and red clay soil create permanent stains that local laundrettes charge premium rates (15-25 WST/$5-9) to remove