Turtle Island: A Samoan Sanctuary
Discover Turtle Island, Samoa: Swim with turtles, explore pristine beaches, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of a secluded tropical paradise.
Escape to Turtle Island (also known as Namua Island), a small, picturesque island off the southeastern coast of Upolu, Samoa, offering unspoiled beauty, crystal-clear waters, and a vibrant ecosystem. It's a true sanctuary where you can relax, snorkel, and observe turtles in their natural habitat.
A brief summary to Turtle Island Samoa
- XHJM+25, Malaela, WS
Local tips
- Visit during the dry season (May to October) for the best weather and clearer waters.
- Bring your own snorkeling gear to fully enjoy the vibrant underwater life, as rentals may not be readily available.
- Pack snacks and water, as there are limited facilities on the island.
- Respect local customs and the environment to help preserve the island's natural beauty.
- Look out for turtles while on the boat ride to the island.
Getting There
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Car
If traveling by car from Apia, take the main road (Cross Island Road) east towards Tuamasaga. Continue for about 30 kilometers until you reach Malaela village. Turtle Island is signposted at XHJM+25, Malaela. Park in the village and arrange a boat to the island. Confirm the boat's schedule in advance. There is no direct road to the island itself.
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Public Transport
From Apia's main bus terminal, take a bus heading towards the eastern villages. Confirm with the driver that they will take you to Malaela. The bus ride takes approximately 30-45 minutes. From Malaela, walk to the shore and negotiate a boat ride to Turtle Island with a local operator. Boat rides typically cost around 20-30 WST per person. Confirm the return time with the boat operator.
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Taxi
Hire a taxi from Apia for a direct route to Malaela, approximately a 30-minute drive. Discuss the price beforehand; fares may range from 50-70 WST. In Malaela, arrange for a boat to Turtle Island. Ask your taxi driver for recommendations on reliable boat operators. The boat ride typically costs 20-30 WST per person.
Discover more about Turtle Island Samoa
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Litia Sini Beach Resort
4.2 km
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Taufua Beach Fales
4.3 km
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Aga Reef Resort
6.9 km
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Jaymy Beach Fales
8.7 km
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Faofao Beach Fales
9.2 km
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Manusina Beach Fales
9.5 km
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Saletoga Sands Resort & Spa
19.5 km
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Mount Fealofani
22.5 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Namua
0.2 km
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Lalomanu Beach
2.3 km
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Cape Tapaga
3.8 km
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Lalomanu Beach Fales
4.3 km
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Lua-o-fafine
5.7 km
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Ti'avea Beach
7.4 km
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Sarai Seluia Beach Fales
7.5 km
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Saleapaga Beach
7.8 km
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Uafato Tiavea Conservation Zone
8.8 km
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Lotofaga
10.8 km
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Vavau Beach Fales
14.6 km
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Vavau Beach
15.3 km
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To Sua Ocean Trench
15.9 km
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Faga-loa Bay
16.9 km
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Monsignor Ioane Vito Memorial Park
17.1 km
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Essential places to dine
LuluLosa Beach Fales Bar & Grill
4.7 km
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Seabreeze Resort
13.9 km
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JOJOs DINER
38.5 km
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Sinalei Reef Resort & Spa
40.1 km
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Ocean Club Maninoa
40.3 km
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Lupe's Beach Fale and Resort
40.4 km
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Kala’s and Tui’s
40.5 km
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Penny and Malama
40.9 km
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Forest cafe
40.9 km
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Le Petit Cafe Samoa
41.0 km
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The Curry House Restaurant
41.2 km
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Taumeasina Hidden Gem Restaurant & Bar
41.5 km
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Taumeasina Restaurant & Bar
41.5 km
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Lapita's Restaurant
41.5 km
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Lapita Restaurant
41.5 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Lemoe's Mart
2.3 km
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Samusu Convenience & Bakery Store
3.0 km
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A&J Enterprise
3.8 km
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Atua Minimarket
9.3 km
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Mavi's Dairy & Bakery
19.9 km
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Nicholas Fuimaono Store
20.8 km
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Bella Minimart
21.4 km
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Falevao Store
21.8 km
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Faapusi Store
21.8 km
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Minimart
21.9 km
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Salesatele Village
22.0 km
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Morris
24.5 km
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Faileaso's Shop
25.6 km
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Saoluafata Mart
26.0 km
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christa shop
29.1 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Anita's Beach Bungalows Lalomanu
4.3 km
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Anita's Beach Bar/Restaurant
4.3 km
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Leuaina Beach Resort
25.2 km
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Vaiula Beach Fales
26.4 km
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Koka Bar
41.2 km
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