Apia in November

November weather, activities, events & insider tips

November Weather in Apia

30°C (86°F) High Temp

24°C (75°F) Low Temp

262mm (10.3 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

Ideal swimming and snorkeling conditions - water temperature reaches 27°C (81°F) with 15-20m (50-65ft) visibility around offshore islets
Traditional fiafia night season begins - authentic Samoan cultural performances happen weekly at resorts rather than tourist-only shows during dry season
Mango and breadfruit harvest season means street vendors sell fresh tropical fruits at half the imported prices (WST$2-3 vs WST$6-8)
Southeast trade winds pick up, making it perfect sailing weather to Manono Island with consistent 15-20 knot winds

Considerations

Afternoon thunderstorms arrive suddenly around 2-4pm lasting 45-90 minutes, disrupting outdoor activities without proper timing
Humidity combines with rain to create muddy conditions on popular hiking trails like Mount Vaea - proper footwear essential
Some local buses reduce frequency during heavy rain periods, making transport between villages less reliable

Best Activities in November

Lalomanu Beach Snorkeling and Swimming

November brings the clearest water conditions of the year to Samoa's southeast coast. Water temperature reaches 27°C (81°F) and visibility extends 15-20m (50-65ft). Morning sessions (8-11am) avoid afternoon storms completely. The coral gardens are most busy before cyclone season begins in December.

Booking Tip: No advance booking needed for independent visits. Snorkel gear rentals cost WST$15-25 per day. If booking day tours, choose morning departures and operators with covered transport vehicles. See current tour options in booking section below.

Apia Cultural Walking Tours

November's variable weather makes cultural sites ideal - indoor markets, churches, and museums provide natural rain shelters. The Maketi Fou (Kolkata) is bustling with seasonal produce, and morning temperatures of 24-26°C (75-79°F) make walking comfortable. Rain-or-shine activities that showcase authentic daily Samoan life.

Booking Tip: Self-guided walking works well, but guided tours provide cultural context. Tours typically cost WST$40-80 per person for 3-4 hours. Book morning slots to avoid afternoon showers. Licensed guides available through visitor center.

Traditional Fiafia Night Experiences

November marks the beginning of authentic fiafia season when local villages perform traditional Samoan fire dances and cultural ceremonies. Unlike tourist shows, these are community gatherings where visitors join genuine celebrations. Evening timing (7-10pm) avoids daytime humidity and rain.

Booking Tip: Resort-based shows cost WST$60-120 per person including dinner. Village-based experiences are WST$20-40 but require local guide arrangements. Book 3-5 days ahead as November starts popular season. Current options available in booking section.

Piula Cave Pool and Coastal Drives

November's warm temperatures make freshwater cave swimming perfect - natural pools stay 23-25°C (73-77°F) year-round. The cave provides natural shelter during afternoon showers. Combine with coastal drives when roads are less crowded but still accessible before heavy wet season begins.

Booking Tip: Entry fees WST$10-15 per person. Rent a car for WST$80-120 per day for flexibility with weather. Morning visits (9am-noon) offer best lighting for photography and avoid afternoon storms. No advance booking required.

Robert Louis Stevenson Museum and Mount Vaea Hiking

November offers the last month of relatively dry hiking conditions before peak wet season. Early morning climbs (6-9am) to RLS's grave provide spectacular harbor views and finish before daily heat peaks. The museum offers air-conditioned respite and cultural learning during midday hours.

Booking Tip: Museum entry WST$10 adults. Hiking is free but bring proper boots for muddy sections after rain. Start by 7am to complete 2-hour round trip before afternoon storms. Guided cultural tours available WST$35-55 per person.

Manono Island Day Trips

November's southeast trade winds create ideal sailing conditions with consistent 15-20 knot winds. The car-free island offers traditional village life experiences and excellent snorkeling. Afternoon return trips use prevailing winds for smooth sailing back to Samoa.

Booking Tip: Day trips cost WST$80-150 per person including boat transport and village tour. Book 5-7 days ahead as November weather attracts locals for weekend trips. Morning departures essential to return before potential afternoon storms.

November Events & Festivals

Throughout November

Teuila Festival Aftermath Activities

While the main Teuila Festival occurs in September, November features ongoing cultural workshops and traditional craft demonstrations in villages. Local artisans offer hands-on siapo (bark cloth) making and wood carving sessions for visitors.

Mid to Late November

Mango Season Harvest Celebrations

November marks peak mango harvest with informal village celebrations. Join locals in traditional fruit picking and tasting varieties unavailable elsewhere. Street vendors throughout Apia offer fresh seasonal fruits at local prices.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket with hood - afternoon storms in November are intense but brief, lasting 45-90 minutes

Quick-dry hiking boots with good grip - trails become muddy within minutes of rain starting, especially Mount Vaea path

SPF 50+ reef-safe sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 and reflects off water during snorkeling activities

Breathable cotton or linen clothing - avoid polyester in 70% humidity as it traps moisture and becomes uncomfortable

Waterproof phone case - essential for beach activities and unexpected rain showers during outdoor exploration

Lightweight long sleeves for cultural sites - many churches and traditional venues require covered shoulders and arms

Non-slip water shoes - rocky beach entries and wet surfaces around pools and caves can be extremely slippery

Small daypack with rain cover - for carrying essentials during variable weather conditions and island hopping

Insect repellent with DEET - mosquitos are most active after afternoon rains in November

Microfiber towel - dries quickly in humid conditions and essential for multiple swimming opportunities daily

Insider Knowledge

Morning activities (7-11am) are golden in November - you'll avoid afternoon storms, enjoy cooler temperatures, and experience Apia when locals are most active in markets and on beaches

Local buses (colorful 'aiga' buses) cost only WST$2-4 but run less frequently during heavy rain - keep small bills handy and always have backup transport planned for afternoon return trips

Samoan time runs 30-60 minutes behind scheduled times for cultural events - this is normal and expected, not a mistake or inefficiency to be frustrated about

Fresh coconut water from roadside vendors costs WST$3-5 versus WST$10-15 at resorts - look for vendors with machetes who crack them fresh, especially abundant during November harvest season

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling outdoor activities after 1pm without rain backup plans - November afternoon storms are predictable and intense, arriving almost daily between 2-4pm

Wearing inappropriate footwear for cultural sites - flip-flops are fine for beaches but many churches and traditional venues require closed-toe shoes for respect

Not carrying small WST bills for local vendors and bus fares - many real feels require exact change and vendors rarely accept large denominations or credit cards