Abandon any idea of a to-do list. Come and let the beaches, lagoons, reefs, forests and lava tubes beckon at the right moment. Samoa is about half way between Hawaii and New Zealand and its 10 islands are the result of countless volcanic eruptions. Apia is the capital and Upolu and Savai'i are the 2 main islands (separated by a 90-minute ferry trip).
Beach Hut
If you're inclined to move from your hammock or beach towel, you won't regret snorkelling or diving here: there are around 900 species of fish to spot, in addition to dolphins and whales, and 200 species of coral. Surfers will enjoy the islands too, with several breaks on both main islands to get the adrenalin going.
Upolu Island Waterfall
Beach walks, cliff trails, hikes to waterfalls and forest canopy walks allow leisurely and quick-paced (if you must) exploration of the geographic delights here. The more you explore the more you'll appreciate why Scottish writer Robert Louis Stevenson enjoyed his later life here.
Ready for an island break? Book a flight to Samoa or check out the Samoa holiday packages to keep your plans simple.