Samoa: surfers have over 400 kilometers of coastline to explore | Photo: SSA

The Independent State of Samoa is an archipelago located in the Pacific Ocean with over 250 miles (400 kilometers) of coastline to explore.

With a total population of around 190,000 people, Samoa is surrounded by swells and offers splendid conditions for the development of surfing.

The Samoa Surfriders Association (SSA) was formed in 2012 and aims to make its debut in the international competitive scene at the 2017 ISA World Junior Surfing Championship, in Hyuga, Japan.

"For more than a decade our surf team have been training and competing in Oceania events to improve the performance standard of the young surfers," explains Keith Martin, president of the SSA.

"Now these talented Samoans are able to compete against the world 's best, which was just a dream before, but now is a reality."

Three Samoan surf instructors have recently participated in ISA's first Olympic solidarity supported course and completed the ISA Coaching Course.

"Surfing is spreading to all regions of the globe to areas that had traditionally been overlooked, such as Asia, Africa, and Oceania, enriching the lives of millions with the joy and energy that is so unique to our sport," added Fernando Aguerre, president of the ISA.

The world governing body for the sport of surfing hopes that all 103 member nations of ISA will be able to enter the qualification process to compete in the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.

The largest Samoan islands - Upolu and Savaii - offer pristine surfing conditions. In Upolu, the best breaks are Coconuts, Wackas, Boulders, and Tiavea. In Savaii, look for Aganoa, Lano, Manase, and Fagamalo.

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