Where It's Located
The Apia Samoa Temple is located on Vaitele Street in Pesega, just west of Apia, the capital of Samoa. The temple sits adjacent to the Church College of Western Samoa and is surrounded by several Church facilities, including administrative offices, a meetinghouse, and patron housing. Beautiful tropical landscaping and a welcoming entrance make the temple grounds a memorable landmark in the area.
Getting There
The nearest major airport is Faleolo International Airport (APW), Samoa's primary international airport. Travelers from the United States typically connect through hubs such as Auckland, New Zealand, or Nadi, Fiji, before arriving in Samoa. From the airport, the temple is approximately a 40-minute drive to Pesega near Apia.
A Bit of History
The Apia Samoa Temple was announced on October 15, 1977, by President Spencer W. Kimball. Groundbreaking took place on February 19, 1981, and the temple was dedicated over seven sessions from August 5–7, 1983, by President Gordon B. Hinckley, then serving as a counselor in the First Presidency.
The temple holds several significant milestones in Church history. It was the first temple built in Samoa and the third temple constructed in Polynesia. Originally, plans called for a regional temple in Pago Pago, American Samoa, but the location was changed to Apia after additional temples were announced for Tonga and Tahiti.
In July 2003, while the temple was closed for renovation, a fire destroyed the building. Just one week later, President Gordon B. Hinckley announced that the temple would be rebuilt. Construction began later that year, and the rebuilt temple was rededicated on September 4, 2005. The reconstruction preserved the temple's familiar appearance while providing additional space, improved materials, and a more efficient interior layout.
The temple is scheduled to close for an extensive renovation beginning on December 23, 2026.
Design and Architecture
The Apia Samoa Temple occupies a two-acre site and features a granite exterior with a single attached end spire topped by an angel Moroni statue. The current building stands approximately 75 feet tall and contains 18,691 square feet of floor space.
Inside are two instruction rooms, two sealing rooms, and one baptistry. The rebuilt temple increased the original building's size by more than 4,000 square feet while maintaining a design that reflects the character of the original structure. Patron housing and an arrival center are also available on the temple grounds.
Final Thoughts
The Apia Samoa Temple has one of the most remarkable histories of any temple in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. From its pioneering role as Samoa's first temple to its complete reconstruction following the 2003 fire, it stands as a symbol of faith and resilience. Today, it continues to bless members throughout Samoa and American Samoa while serving as an important destination for temple travelers visiting the South Pacific.
Scott & Riah
Brough Made
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