Plizio Visual Lab
Matatufu
ℹ️Practical info — Matatufu
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🌤 Weather — 5 days
📍 Nearby
Sights nearby
💡 Tips
- Pay the customary small entrance fee to the local village when visiting beaches or swimming holes.
- The tides change drastically; swimming is often safer inside the reef at high tide.
- Sun protection is a must, as shade can be scarce right on the white sand.
- Renting a sea kayak is a great way to explore the nearby coral reef.
🍽 Food
Baked sweet root, occasionally prepared for special festive occasions.
Fresh papayas and bananas, often available at local accommodations.
A delicious, freshly caught fish served in seaside dining spots.
🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots
Find basic snacks, water, and cool drinks here.
Often sold by local children or families near the beach.
Enjoy walks along the pristine white sand before the heat of the day.
Find a quiet, shaded spot under the trees away from the main resort areas.
Water temperature…
Matatufu is a peaceful coastal village in the Lotofaga district on the southern coast of Upolu, known for its pristine natural environment and proximity to some of Samoa's premier surf breaks. Geographically, the village occupies a narrow coastal strip bordered by dense coconut plantations and tropical forests. The local community maintains a highly traditional lifestyle centered around subsistence farming of taro, breadfruit, and bananas. Matatufu benefits from a deep channel in the coral reef that facilitates boat access for local fishermen while creating world-class waves for visiting surfers. Despite its location near major tourist attractions like To-Sua, Matatufu remains a quiet retreat that has preserved its authentic Samoan character. The village architecture reflects local adaptability, featuring robust structures designed to withstand seasonal storms. Culturally, the village takes great pride in its Matai traditions and the communal stewardship of nearby sacred sites and resources.
- Location: Samoa
- Nearby: Saleapaga (4 km)
- Population: ~23
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 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 28 |
| Rain mm | 269 | 247 | 175 | 181 | 135 | 88 | 78 | 57 | 91 | 146 | 224 | 240 |
Geography
Facts
- Located in the Lotofaga electoral district on the south coast
- Renowned for excellent surfing conditions (Matatufu Lefts)
- A significant site for traditional root crop cultivation
- Features a deep natural channel through the coral reef
- Moderately impacted and recovered from the 2009 tsunami
- A center for local weaving and crafts using Pandanus leaves
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Frequently asked questions
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