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Tanumapua LDS Temple

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The Tanumapua Temple, officially known as the Apia Samoa Temple, is a significant religious landmark for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS). Perched on a hillside overlooking the capital city of Apia, the temple is distinguished by its brilliant white exterior and the iconic golden statue of the Angel Moroni atop its spire. The original structure was dedicated in 1983 but was tragically destroyed by a fire during renovations in July 2003. Demonstrating remarkable resilience, the local community and church rebuilt the temple, leading to its rededication in 2005. The architecture emphasizes purity and spiritual elevation, surrounded by meticulously maintained gardens and tropical flora. The temple serves as a sacred place for ordinances such as weddings and baptisms for church members across the region. Its location in Tanumapua provides a peaceful atmosphere and sweeping views of the surrounding landscape and the Pacific Ocean. It stands as a symbol of faith and a prominent architectural feature of modern Samoa.

Location: Samoa
Top sights: Faleata Nature Reserve · Talimatau Methodist Church · Lotopa Assembly of God Church
Nearby: Apia (4 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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Visiting

The temple grounds are open to the public, but the interior is reserved for members of the LDS faith. Visitors can walk around the well-maintained gardens and admire the striking white architecture from outside.

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Typical hours

There are no set visiting hours for the grounds, which are typically accessible during daylight. The temple itself is not open to tourists, so plan your visit accordingly.

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Photography

Photography of the exterior and gardens is allowed and highly recommended for the beautiful setting. However, taking photos inside the temple or of worshippers is strictly prohibited.

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Time needed

A brief visit to admire the exterior and walk the grounds typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes. Combine with a longer stay if you wish to explore the surrounding area.

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Combine with

Nearby attractions include the Apia city center with its markets and historic buildings. The temple's location in Tanumapua also allows easy access to coastal views and other religious sites.

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Getting there

The temple is located in Tanumapua, a short drive from central Apia. Taxis and rental cars are the most convenient ways to reach it, as public transport is limited.

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Insider tip

Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and to capture the best light for photos. The gardens are peaceful at these times, with fewer visitors around.

Geography

Coordinates

-13.84530, -171.80110

Facts

The original temple was first dedicated on August 5, 1983.
A massive fire destroyed the structure on July 9, 2003.
The current temple was completed and rededicated in September 2005.
The golden Angel Moroni statue is a hallmark of the temple's spire.
It is located in the Tanumapua district, just outside central Apia.
The temple serves LDS members from both Samoa and American Samoa.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Vaitele Industrial Park<1 km · WExplore →

Nu'u Agricultural Center2 km · SExplore →

Siusega2 km · SEExplore →

Former Mau Headquarters2 km · NExplore →

Vaiusu Tai2 km · WExplore →

Malietoa Tanumafili II Tomb3 km · NWExplore →

Papase'ea Sliding Rocks3 km · EExplore →

Samoa College3 km · NExplore →

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

Vehicle

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

Sights in the town Tanumapua LDS Temple (10)

Faleata Nature Reserve

Nature reserve in Faleata. Protects native animal and plant species of Samoa.

Talimatau Methodist Church

Methodist church in Talimatau. A place for worship services and community meetings.

Lotopa Assembly of God Church

Assembly of God church in Lotopa. Pentecostal congregation holds regular services.

Vailoa Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter-day Saints

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Vailoa. Meeting place for the Mormon community.

Supernatural Fellowship Samoa⛪ church

Christian church in Samoa. Gives worship services and spiritual fellowship.

Apia Samoa Temple

Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Apia, Samoa. A sacred site for Mormons.

Samoa Islamic Center

Islamic center in Samoa. A place for prayer and religious activities for the Muslim community.

Vaitele Fou Reserve

Nature reserve in Vaitele Fou. Preserves the natural environment and biodiversity.

Papase'ea Sliding Rocks

Natural sliding rocks in Samoa. Visitors slide down the smooth rocks into the water.

SPACE | Samoa Performing Arts & Creative Excellence

Performing arts and creative excellence centre in Samoa. Hosts performances and workshops.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the Apia-Samoa Temple?

It is a magnificent temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Can you visit the temple from the inside?

Only for members of the church; however, the gardens are often accessible to the public.

Where can the temple be found?

It is located in Tanumapua, not far from the capital Apia.

Is photography allowed?

Photography is allowed from the outside; please respect the privacy.

Are there dress codes?

Visitors to the gardens should dress appropriately and respectfully.

Tanumapua LDS Temple: where is it located?

Tanumapua LDS Temple is located in Samoa.

Tanumapua LDS Temple: what is there to see?

Highlights include Faleata Nature Reserve, Talimatau Methodist Church, Lotopa Assembly of God Church.

Tanumapua LDS Temple: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.

Tanumapua LDS Temple: why is it worth visiting?

The Tanumapua Temple, officially known as the Apia Samoa Temple, is a significant religious landmark for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS).

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