Tucked away in a country that few travelers have heard of lies a hidden paradise that’s quickly climbing to the top of every adventurer’s bucket list. Meet To Sua Ocean Trench, the world’s most stunning natural swimming pool—an unforgettable destination nestled in the heart of the Pacific.
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Discovering Samoa – The First Country to Welcome the New Year
Samoa, a small island nation in the South Pacific, is the first country in the world to ring in the New Year thanks to its location just west of the International Date Line. While it may not be as widely known as its neighbor New Zealand (just a 4-hour flight away), Samoa is an untouched gem, rich in natural beauty and raw, tropical charm.
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One of the crown jewels of this paradise? To Sua Ocean Trench—a surreal, emerald-green swimming hole that has captured the hearts of thousands across social media and travel platforms.
To Sua Ocean Trench – Nature’s Perfect Masterpiece
The name To Sua Ocean Trench translates to “big hole,” and it’s exactly that—an enormous sinkhole filled with impossibly clear, turquoise seawater. This natural pool was formed centuries ago when a volcanic eruption caused the land to collapse, leaving behind a vertical crater approximately 30 meters (98 feet) deep.
Located in the peaceful village of Lotofaga on the island of Upolu, To Sua is often described as a gift from Mother Nature herself—a magical place where tropical wilderness meets the raw power of geology.
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Surrounded by Jungle, Connected to the Ocean
Encircled by lush rainforests and swaying palm trees, the tranquil waters of To Sua are connected to the Pacific Ocean through an underground network of lava tubes and sea channels. This natural connection ensures a constant flow of fresh seawater, keeping the pool clean, cool, and always inviting.
Look down from the wooden platform above, and you’ll spot colorful tropical fish gliding through the crystal-clear water, their scales shimmering under the sunlight. With its soft sandy bottom and serene surroundings, To Sua feels like a secret lagoon carved straight from a fairytale.
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A Bucket-List Experience for Nature Lovers and Adventurers
Reaching the water requires a steep descent down a wooden ladder—not for the faint of heart, but definitely worth the effort. Once you plunge into the refreshingly cool waters, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to another world. Floating in this sunken paradise, surrounded by jungle cliffs and the sound of the waves in the distance, is a soul-soothing experience that stays with you forever.
It’s no surprise that travel bloggers, influencers, and adventure seekers have been flocking to To Sua Ocean Trench in recent years. With its natural beauty and peaceful ambiance, this spot has become one of the most Instagrammable places in the South Pacific, drawing thousands of visitors each year.
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Is To Sua Worth the Trip? Absolutely—To Sua Ocean Trench is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that combines raw natural beauty, adventure, and cultural discovery all in one. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple seeking a hidden romantic escape, or a family looking for unique experiences, this magical swimming hole promises memories you’ll cherish forever.
So if you’re planning a South Pacific escape, don’t just stick to the usual tourist spots. Add Samoa to your itinerary—and make sure To Sua Ocean Trench is at the top of your list.
Don’t forget your waterproof camera—you’ll want to capture every second.
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FAQ
What exactly is To Sua Ocean Trench?
To Sua, meaning “giant swimming hole” in Samoan, is a 70-foot-deep (about 20 meters) natural sinkhole filled with crystal-clear ocean water, connected to the sea by underwater lava tubes. It’s located in the village of Lotofaga on the south coast of Upolu island.
You descend into the pool by a steep wooden ladder, leading into a turquoise paradise surrounded by lush jungle and volcanic rock.
How was it formed?
To Sua was created by volcanic activity. Over time, collapsed lava tubes and underground channels connected this trench to the ocean, filling it with seawater. The result is a stunning mix of geology and natural beauty — a rare, otherworldly place unlike anywhere else on Earth.
Is it safe to swim there?
Yes — as long as you’re comfortable with heights and can swim confidently. The water is deep but calm, and the area is monitored by staff. There’s a ladder with handrails, and a platform at the bottom where you can enter the water slowly.
However, swimming is not recommended for small children or anyone who’s not a strong swimmer.
What makes To Sua so popular with travelers?
To Sua isn’t just a swimming spot — it’s a bucket-list experience. Here’s why it stands out:
- Visually stunning: From above, it looks like a magical portal hidden in the jungle
- Photographer’s dream: The contrast between green cliffs, wooden ladder, and blue water is unmatched
- Remote & peaceful: It’s far from mass tourism – peaceful, tropical, and unforgettable
- Swim of a lifetime: Floating in a natural trench surrounded by jungle is truly surreal
Many travel bloggers and content creators call it one of the most beautiful places they’ve ever seen.
How do I get to To Sua Ocean Trench?
It’s located about 90 minutes’ drive from Apia, the capital of Samoa. You can:
- Rent a car for a self-drive adventure
- Join a guided tour that includes stops at waterfalls and nearby beaches
- Hire a private driver through your accommodation
The roads are scenic and fairly easy to navigate.
Is there an entrance fee?
Yes. As of now, the entrance fee is approximately 20 Samoan Tala (around 7 USD) for adults and less for children. It helps support the local community and maintain the site.
What should I bring?
- Swimwear
- Towel
- Waterproof bag for valuables
- Water shoes (optional but helpful)
- Camera or GoPro
- Cash for the entrance fee
Also, don’t forget sunscreen and mosquito repellent, especially if you plan to explore the gardens or nearby coastlines.
Are there facilities nearby?
Yes. The site includes:
- Changing rooms and toilets
- Small garden area with benches
- Picnic spots
- A second, smaller trench (not swimmable) that’s also worth seeing
It’s a peaceful, well-maintained area perfect for relaxing after your swim.
When is the best time to visit?
- Dry season (May to October) is ideal — less rain and calmer seas.
- Early morning or late afternoon offers fewer crowds and the best lighting for photos.
- Avoid visiting after heavy rain, as the water might be murkier and the ladder slippery.
Can kids or older travelers visit?
The site is family-friendly for visiting and viewing, but swimming is better suited for teens and adults who are confident in the water. The ladder is steep, so it may not be ideal for the elderly or anyone afraid of heights.
Is it really worth the hype?
Absolutely. To Sua Ocean Trench is more than a beautiful photo spot — it’s a spiritual, sensory, and unforgettable experience. The moment you step onto the wooden platform and look down into the glowing emerald pool, you’ll understand why people call it “the world’s most beautiful natural pool.”
What else can I see nearby?
Combine your visit with:
- Lalomanu Beach – a postcard-perfect white sand beach nearby
- Sopoaga and Togitogiga Waterfalls – refreshing and photogenic
- Piula Cave Pool – another natural freshwater swimming hole
- Faofao or Matareva Beach – peaceful places to unwind
You can easily spend a full day exploring the south coast of Upolu.
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If you’re craving a travel experience that feels like discovering a secret part of the Earth, To Sua Ocean Trench delivers. One climb down the ladder, one swim in its glowing waters — and you’ll carry that moment for the rest of your life.
