Usually a place we just pass through, on this interaction e were to spend longer in Samoa, which led us to visiting Namuai Island. And while it is quite the epic ride to get here, it is well worth it.
What the Namuai Island?
Namuai Island is a small, uninhabited island off the southeastern coast of Upolu, Samoa. Measuring just a few hundred meters across, it’s surrounded by clear blue waters and coral reefs, making it a popular spot for day trips. Accessible by a short boat ride from the village of Lalomanu, the island is perfect for snorkeling or a quiet picnic. Its size and remote location make it a peaceful escape from the mainland’s busier beaches
It is though located almost 90 minutes from the capital of Samoa. This means a very log drive in a Samoan Vengabus! Which is not only fun, but will also afford you the chance to see the beauty that is the Samoan countryside.
Click the link to read about Island Hopping in Bougainville.
What to do on Namuai Island?
While officially uninhabited there are actually a few buildings on here, as well as he ability to be able to stay on the island. There are also toilets and most importantly covered areas where one can sleep, change, or simply enjoy the views.
There is also a caretaker on the island offering “whatever you need” although this does not include cocktails, or indeed lunches. They will though provide coconuts for 5 Samoan moneys! Overall this means that you will need to get your provisions before you get to the island. We were provided a cooler, which made things that bit easier.
Other than that it is all about sampling paradise, with swimming and snorkeling being the order of the day, although you will need to bring your own snorkel. Alas there are not fish galore here, but there are starfish, stingrays and most impressively turtles that can be swam with.
And you know what? It was the perfect cure for the hangover given to me the Apia nightlife!
You can visit Samoa as part of the YPT Least Visited Countries Tour.