Turtle and Shark, Aunu U Travel Guide

4.3 (11)

Discover the legendary Turtle and Shark Cove in Vaitogi, American Samoa, where stunning natural beauty meets rich Samoan folklore.

A scenic U-shaped cove in Vaitogi, American Samoa, steeped in legend. According to local lore, the cove is where a grandmother and granddaughter transformed into a turtle and shark, respectively, during a time of famine. It's a beautiful spot to experience the island's natural beauty and rich culture.

A brief summary to Turtle and Shark

J7V7+6PG, Vaitogi, Western District, AS

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Turtle and Shark.

Visit early in the morning for the best light for photography and a quieter experience.
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the surrounding trails and viewpoints.
Respect the natural environment by not disturbing wildlife and taking all trash with you.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Fagatele Marine Sanctuary

Fogamaa Crater National Natural Landmark

Tia Seu Lupe

National Park of American Samoa

Blunts Point Battery

Explore Turtle and Shark on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Turtle and Shark, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From Vaitogi Beach, follow the coastline south along the marked trail. The walk to the Turtle and Shark cove viewpoint is short, approximately 5-10 minutes, but can be rocky in places. There are no fees associated with accessing the viewpoint.
Public Transport

From the main road in Vaitogi, near the bus stop, walk south towards the coast. Follow the road as it curves towards the shoreline. The Turtle and Shark cove is a short walk from the main road, approximately 15 minutes. Local buses are available from major towns like Tafuna and Pago Pago to Vaitogi. Bus fares typically cost around $1 - $3 depending on the distance.

Discover more about Turtle and Shark

Turtle and Shark Cove, known locally as Laumei ma Malie, is more than just a picturesque spot on the coast of Vaitogi, American Samoa; it's a place where legend comes to life.The cove's story tells of a time of great scarcity when a woman and her granddaughter, neglected by their family, leaped into the sea from the rocky cliffs. In a moment of divine intervention, the granddaughter transformed into a shark, while the grandmother became a turtle. This tale is deeply embedded in Samoan culture, with villagers believing that the animals appear when the traditional song of 'Fonuea' is sung from the cliffs.The U-shaped cove itself is a sight to behold, framed by Vaitogi Beach to the north and basalt cliffs to the south. The cove is subject to powerful wave action, often resulting in dramatic sprays that reach high into the air. While swimming in the cove is not recommended due to the strong currents and rocky shoreline, the views and cultural significance make it a worthwhile visit.Visitors can experience the magic of the Turtle and Shark legend at the lookout point, offering panoramic views of the cove and the surrounding coastline. The site was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 2014, solidifying its importance as a cultural landmark.