Samoa is a wonderful family destination, but the airport-to-hotel journey requires more planning than you might expect. The 35-kilometer drive from Faleolo to Apia takes about 45 minutes, and the transport infrastructure is basic by Western standards.
The airport experience
Faleolo is a small, single-terminal airport. Immigration and customs can move slowly when a full flight arrives, so prepare for a wait of 30–60 minutes. There are no play areas or family facilities in the arrivals hall. Keep snacks and water accessible in your carry-on — tired, hungry children and a long customs queue are not a good combination.
Fixed-price private transfer
APW Apia & North Coast
From€68for 2 passengers
4 passengers: €92 per vehicle, about €23 per person
- Fixed price, no meter
- Flight tracked
- 60 min free waiting
- Driver meets you at arrivals
- Free cancellation up to 24 h before pickup
Car seats
This is the big one. Car seat use is not enforced in Samoa the way it is in Australia, New Zealand, or the US. Most taxis do not have car seats, and many drivers have never installed one. If your children are young enough to require a car seat, bring your own. A pre-booked transfer service is more likely to accommodate your car seat installation, but confirm this at the time of booking. Do not assume anything.
The drive to Apia
The road from the airport to Apia is a two-lane coastal road through villages. It is paved but narrow in sections, with speed bumps through village areas. The pace is slow — this is a good thing with kids in the car. The scenery is beautiful, with palm trees, traditional fale houses, and ocean views. If your children are awake, they will have plenty to look at.
Air conditioning matters on this drive. Samoa is tropical, and a 45-minute car ride without AC can be uncomfortable for adults, let alone children. Pre-booked transfers typically use newer, air-conditioned vehicles. With taxis, AC is not guaranteed.
Luggage with kids
Families traveling with strollers, beach gear, and multiple suitcases need a vehicle that can handle the load. A standard taxi sedan may not fit everything. When booking a transfer, specify your total luggage count so the service can send an appropriately sized vehicle.
Heading to a resort outside Apia
Many family-friendly resorts are on the south coast of Upolu, which is 1.5 to 2 hours from the airport. That is a long drive for young children, especially after a flight. If this is your destination, a comfortable pre-booked vehicle is not a luxury — it is a necessity. Ask your resort about their airport pickup service, as many include it or offer it at a reasonable charge.
Practical tips
- Bring your own car seat — do not rely on local availability
- Have Samoan Tala ready for any purchases at the airport
- Pack snacks and water for the drive to Apia
- Book your transfer in advance and confirm vehicle size
- If heading to the south coast, plan for a 2-hour drive and travel during daylight if possible
When a private transfer from APW is the right choice
- Travelling with small children: child seats are requested at booking for the exact ages, so you are not relying on a taxi that may have none.
- Strollers, cots and luggage: a minivan takes everything in one go, door to door, with no stairs or platform changes.
- Three or more people: a 4-seat car to Apia & North Coast is from €92, about €23 per person, usually level with or below separate public-transport tickets once you count the walk, the wait and the last mile with bags.
APW → Apia & North Coast from €68Fixed price, flight tracked, free cancellation up to 24 h before pickup.
Fixed-price private transfer
APW Apia & North Coast
From€68for 2 passengers
4 passengers: €92 per vehicle, about €23 per person
- Fixed price, no meter
- Flight tracked
- 60 min free waiting
- Driver meets you at arrivals
- Free cancellation up to 24 h before pickup