Skip to main content
Apia - When to Visit

When to Visit Apia

Climate guide & best times to travel

Monthly Climate Data for Apia Average temperature and rainfall by month Climate Overview 18°C 22°C 27°C 31°C 36°C Rainfall (mm) 0 241 482 Jan Jan: 30.0°C high, 24.0°C low, 483mm rain Feb Feb: 30.0°C high, 24.0°C low, 406mm rain Mar Mar: 30.0°C high, 24.0°C low, 302mm rain Apr Apr: 31.0°C high, 24.0°C low, 231mm rain May May: 30.0°C high, 24.0°C low, 244mm rain Jun Jun: 30.0°C high, 23.0°C low, 140mm rain Jul Jul: 29.0°C high, 23.0°C low, 132mm rain Aug Aug: 29.0°C high, 23.0°C low, 112mm rain Sep Sep: 30.0°C high, 23.0°C low, 142mm rain Oct Oct: 30.0°C high, 23.0°C low, 221mm rain Nov Nov: 30.0°C high, 24.0°C low, 262mm rain Dec Dec: 30.0°C high, 24.0°C low, 414mm rain Temperature Rainfall
Apia sits comfortably in the tropics with remarkably consistent temperatures year-round—you're looking at highs around 85-87°F (29-31°C) pretty much every month. The real story here isn't temperature but rainfall, which follows a clear wet-dry pattern. The wettest months run from November through March, when you might see 16-19 inches of rain monthly, while the dry season from June through September brings things down to a more manageable 4-6 inches. Humidity holds steady at around 70% throughout the year, which is actually quite pleasant for a South Pacific island. The wet season coincides with the cyclone season (November-April), though direct hits are relatively rare. That said, the rain during these months tends to come in heavy bursts rather than all-day drizzle, so you'll still get plenty of sunshine between downpours. The dry season (May-October) offers the most predictable weather for outdoor activities, though even then you'll want to keep rain gear handy—this is the tropics, after all. The temperature barely budges between seasons, which means packing is refreshingly straightforward regardless of when you visit.

Best Time to Visit

Beach & Relaxation
June through September offers the best beach weather with minimal rainfall (4-6 inches monthly) and calmer seas, though the water stays warm year-round.
Cultural Exploration
May through October provides the most comfortable conditions for village visits and cultural events, with lower rainfall making it easier to get around the islands.
Adventure & Hiking
July and August are ideal for hiking and waterfall visits—the trails are less muddy but waterfalls still have good flow from earlier rains.
Budget Travel
January through March offers the best deals despite being wetter, as fewer tourists brave the wet season and accommodation prices tend to drop.

Ready to Plan Your Trip?

Browse tours, activities, and experiences in Apia. Book with free cancellation on most options.

Explore Tours & Activities

What to Pack

Year-Round Essentials

High SPF reef-safe sunscreen
The tropical sun is intense year-round, and reef-safe formulas protect Samoa's marine ecosystems.
Lightweight rain jacket or poncho
Even during dry season, tropical showers can appear without warning and pass just as quickly.
Insect repellent with DEET
Mosquitoes are present year-round, particularly after rainfall and near vegetation.
Quick-dry clothing
The combination of humidity, occasional rain, and limited drying time makes quick-dry fabrics essential.
Modest beach cover-ups
Samoa is conservative, and covering shoulders and knees when away from the beach shows cultural respect.
Waterproof phone case or dry bag
Protects electronics during water activities and unexpected downpours.
Reef-safe sunglasses with UV protection
The reflected sun off water and white sand beaches is particularly intense in the tropics.

Dry Season (May-Oct)

Clothing
Lightweight cotton or linen shirts, Breathable shorts and sundresses, Light long pants for evening and cultural sites, Swimwear for beach days
Footwear
Sturdy sandals for daily wear and water shoes for reef walking
Accessories
Wide-brimmed sun hat, Light sarong or lavalava, Sunglasses
Layering Tip
Evenings are still warm, so a single light layer is plenty for air-conditioned restaurants.

Wet Season (Nov-Apr)

Clothing
Quick-dry synthetic shirts, Lightweight waterproof pants, Extra swimwear for wet conditions, Moisture-wicking undergarments
Footwear
Waterproof sandals or shoes that can handle wet conditions
Accessories
Compact travel umbrella, Waterproof day pack, Microfiber towel
Layering Tip
Humidity stays high even when it rains, so breathable single layers work better than multiple pieces.

Shoulder Season (Mar-May)

Clothing
Mix of quick-dry and cotton items, Light rain-resistant jacket, Versatile shorts and casual pants, Modest tops for village visits
Footwear
Comfortable walking sandals that handle both wet and dry conditions
Accessories
Collapsible sun hat, Light scarf for temple visits, Reusable water bottle
Layering Tip
Weather can shift quickly, so having one versatile light layer gives you flexibility.

Shoulder Season (Sep-Nov)

Clothing
Lightweight tropical wear, One light rain layer as backup, Beach cover-ups, Casual evening wear
Footwear
Breathable sandals for daily activities and flip-flops for beach
Accessories
Packable day bag, Snorkel gear if you have your own, Light sarong
Layering Tip
Temperatures stay consistent, so focus on sun protection rather than warmth.
Plug Type
Type I (Australian-style three-pin)
Voltage
230V, 50Hz
Adapter Note
Most travelers will need an adapter unless coming from Australia, New Zealand, or certain Pacific nations

Skip These Items

Heavy jackets or sweaters—temperatures never drop enough to need them Excessive toiletries—basics are readily available in Apia's shops Formal business attire—even nice restaurants maintain a casual tropical dress code Hair dryer—the humidity will undo any styling within minutes anyway Too many shoes—you'll live in sandals and water shoes most of the time

Month-by-Month Guide

January

Peak wet season with heavy rainfall and high humidity. Temperatures remain warm and consistent, but expect frequent afternoon downpours and the occasional tropical storm. The lush landscapes are at their greenest, though outdoor plans might need flexibility.

31°C (87°F) High
24°C (76°F) Low
483mm (19.0in) Rainfall
Low Crowds
View Details →

February

Still firmly in the wet season with substantial rainfall, though slightly less than January. The cyclone risk remains present, but between storms you'll find beautiful sunny periods. Tourist numbers stay low, which means better deals and quieter beaches.

31°C (87°F) High
24°C (76°F) Low
406mm (16.0in) Rainfall
Low Crowds
View Details →

March

Rainfall begins to taper off as the wet season transitions toward drier months. You'll still see regular showers, but they're becoming less intense. Temperatures remain steady in the mid-80s, and tourist numbers start picking up slightly.

31°C (87°F) High
24°C (76°F) Low
302mm (11.9in) Rainfall
Low Crowds
View Details →

April

A pleasant shoulder month as rainfall continues to decrease noticeably. The weather becomes more predictable, making it easier to plan outdoor activities. Cyclone season officially ends, and you'll start seeing more consistent sunshine between showers.

31°C (87°F) High
24°C (76°F) Low
231mm (9.1in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View Details →

May

The transition to dry season is well underway, though you'll still get occasional rain. Conditions are generally excellent for most activities, with comfortable temperatures and improving weather reliability. Tourist numbers increase as word gets out about the better conditions.

31°C (87°F) High
24°C (75°F) Low
244mm (9.6in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View Details →

June

Proper dry season arrives with significantly reduced rainfall and more consistent sunshine. Temperatures dip slightly but remain warm, and the lower humidity makes everything feel more comfortable. This is when Apia really shines for outdoor enthusiasts.

30°C (86°F) High
24°C (75°F) Low
140mm (5.5in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View Details →

July

Peak dry season with the lowest rainfall of the year and the most reliable weather. Temperatures are at their coolest (though still pleasantly warm), and conditions are ideal for hiking, snorkeling, and beach activities. Tourist numbers reach their highest as this coincides with Northern Hemisphere summer holidays.

29°C (85°F) High
23°C (74°F) Low
132mm (5.2in) Rainfall
High Crowds
View Details →

August

The driest month of the year with minimal rainfall and consistently sunny days. Temperatures remain comfortably warm, and the trade winds provide a nice breeze. This is prime time for water sports and outdoor adventures, though you'll share the experience with more visitors.

29°C (85°F) High
23°C (74°F) Low
112mm (4.4in) Rainfall
High Crowds
View Details →

September

Still in the heart of dry season with excellent weather conditions continuing. Rainfall remains low and predictable, making it another strong month for beach activities and cultural exploration. Tourist numbers start to ease slightly as school holidays end.

30°C (86°F) High
23°C (74°F) Low
142mm (5.6in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View Details →

October

The dry season begins winding down as rainfall gradually increases. You'll still have plenty of good weather, but afternoon showers become more frequent. Temperatures tick up slightly, and the islands start feeling a bit more humid again.

30°C (86°F) High
24°C (75°F) Low
221mm (8.7in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View Details →

November

The wet season announces its return with noticeably increased rainfall. Cyclone season officially begins, though early-season storms are less common. The landscape greens up quickly, and tourist numbers drop as travelers shift to dry season destinations.

30°C (86°F) High
24°C (75°F) Low
262mm (10.3in) Rainfall
Low Crowds
View Details →

December

Firmly back in wet season territory with substantial rainfall and higher humidity. The holiday period brings a brief uptick in visitors despite the weather, particularly around Christmas and New Year. Expect warm temperatures and frequent tropical downpours.

31°C (87°F) High
24°C (75°F) Low
414mm (16.3in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View Details →

Plan Your Perfect Trip

Get insider tips and travel guides delivered to your inbox

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe anytime.

More Apia Travel Guides

Top Attractions → Budget Guide → Trip Itineraries →