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Apia Old Wharf

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The Apia Old Wharf, located along the waterfront of the capital city, is a central historical landmark that marks Samoa's economic development during the 19th and 20th centuries. As the primary hub for copra and cocoa exports, the port was a flashpoint for international interests, particularly the rivalry between Germany, Great Britain, and the United States. The original wharf was the site of the catastrophic 1889 hurricane, which sank several warships of the great powers and inadvertently de-escalated a major diplomatic crisis. The remnants of the port structures and the surrounding colonial-style warehouses testify to Apia's significance as a maritime crossroads in the South Pacific. In the mid-20th century, the port facilities were modernized, yet the old wharf remains a symbol of the colonial era and Samoa's path toward independence. Today, the area is part of a revitalized waterfront promenade, serving as a public space that commemorates the city's seafaring heritage.

Location: Samoa
Top sights: Siva Afi Entertainment Centre · Samoa Tourism Authority Visitors Village · Matafele Methodist Church
Nearby: Vailima (5 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	28	28	28	28	28	27	27	27	27	27	27	28
Rain mm	258	241	165	169	128	91	75	56	92	141	213	229

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?

The Apia Old Wharf was Samoa's most important trade port in the 19th century and the site of significant colonial events. Today it is a historic monument that recalls the island's maritime past and serves as a walkway.

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Visiting

The old wharf is publicly accessible and can be explored on foot at any time. The wooden piles and remains of the old jetty are clearly visible and invite photography.

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Where to view it

From the end of the pier, there is a wide view over Apia harbor and the offshore islands. The adjacent coastal park also provides a good perspective on the historic wharf.

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Local products

The wharf itself is no longer a trading place, but nearby souvenir shops sell historical postcards and maritime art. Local fishermen sell their catch on the surrounding beaches.

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Active season

The wharf is accessible year-round, but it is especially lively during the annual Samoan cultural festival with harbor celebrations. On weekends, many people stroll along the promenade.

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Nearby

A visit can ideally be combined with the nearby Apia Market to discover local crafts. The Robert Louis Stevenson Museum is also a short drive away, offering a cultural addition.

Geography

Coordinates

-13.83000, -171.76670

Facts

Apia was officially declared a free port in 1850.
The 1889 Apia cyclone destroyed six warships anchored in the bay.
German trading firms controlled most of the wharf's commerce until 1914.
Samoa's first international telegraph line was established at the port.
Author Robert Louis Stevenson first set foot in Samoa at this wharf in 1889.
Original cast-iron mooring bollards from the colonial era are still present.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Savalalo Fish Market<1 km · EExplore →

Vaimoso Mau Monument2 km · SExplore →

Lepua2 km · NEExplore →

Samoa College2 km · EExplore →

Apia Historic Observatory3 km · SWExplore →

Vaiusu Tai3 km · SExplore →

Tui-Samoa Cable Landing Station3 km · SEExplore →

Avele College3 km · EExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

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Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Apia Old Wharf (10)

Siva Afi Entertainment Centre

Venue for traditional Samoan dance and fire shows in Apia.

Samoa Tourism Authority Visitors Village

Tourist information center and craft market in central Apia.

Matafele Methodist Church⛪ church

Methodist church in the Matafele district of Apia.

Apia Methodist Church

Methodist place of worship in downtown Apia.

Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception

Roman Catholic cathedral in Apia, Samoa.

Mulivai Catholic Church

Catholic church in the Mulivai area of Apia.

Apia Harvest Centre Church

Christian church with meeting hall in Apia.

Samoa Arise 2025

Christian prayer and event group in Apia.

Seventh Day Adventist Church

Seventh-day Adventist congregation in Apia.

Palolo Deep

Beach with coral reef and snorkeling opportunities near Apia.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the Old Wharf of Apia?

A historical hub for trade and navigation.

Can you still use the wharf today?

It serves mainly as a historical monument today.

Is it a popular meeting point?

Yes, it is a great spot to walk and enjoy the ocean.

Are there cafes?

There are several small cafes in the immediate vicinity.

Is the wharf safe at night?

Yes, but stick to well-lit areas.

Apia Old Wharf: where is it located?

Apia Old Wharf is located in Samoa.

Apia Old Wharf: what is there to see?

Highlights include Siva Afi Entertainment Centre, Samoa Tourism Authority Visitors Village, Matafele Methodist Church.

Apia Old Wharf: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.

Apia Old Wharf: why is it worth visiting?

The Apia Old Wharf, located along the waterfront of the capital city, is a central historical landmark that marks Samoa's economic development during the 19th and 20th centuries.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →