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Vai'ava Strait National Natural Landmark: Where Volcanic Cliffs Meet the Pacific

Discover dramatic cliffs, vibrant marine life, and stunning views at this iconic American Samoa landmark.

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Vai'ava Strait National Natural Landmark, located on Tutuila Island in American Samoa, is a stunning coastal area known for its dramatic cliffs, clear waters, and vibrant ecosystems. This landmark offers breathtaking views of Pola Island and the powerful forces of nature that have shaped this unique landscape.

A brief summary to Vai'ava Strait National Natural Landmark

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
  • Bring snorkeling gear to explore the vibrant marine life in the clear waters.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic overlooks throughout the park.
  • Respect local customs and the environment; take all trash with you.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Fagatogo, take the local Aiga bus towards Vatia. These colorful buses operate frequently but without a set schedule. Look for buses with signage for Vatia in the Pago Pago Village area. The bus ride costs between $0.50 and $2.00, depending on age. The bus will take you along the main road, where you can disembark at the Vatia stop. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the entrance of Vai'ava Strait National Natural Landmark. Be prepared to wait up to an hour for the bus, as there are no established schedules. Buses do not operate on Sundays.

  • Driving

    From Pago Pago, follow Route 1 east towards the airport. Continue past the airport and follow the signs for Vatia. The drive takes you along the scenic American Samoa Highway 006, the only road through the National Park of American Samoa. Limited free parking is available at the Pola Island Viewpoint and the Lower Sauma Ridge Trailhead. Arrive early during peak seasons to secure a spot.

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Discover more about Vai'ava Strait National Natural Landmark

Vai'ava Strait National Natural Landmark is a captivating destination showcasing the raw beauty of American Samoa's Tutuila Island. Designated a National Natural Landmark in 1972, this 305-acre site protects a narrow strait carved by relentless wave action against volcanic rock, creating a dramatic scene of steep cliffs and erosion-resistant formations. The strait separates the mainland from Pola Island (also known as Cock's Comb), a towering islet that serves as a nesting ground for seabirds like brown boobies and white-tailed tropicbirds. The surrounding waters teem with marine life, making it a haven for snorkelers and divers eager to explore the colorful coral reefs. Visitors can soak in panoramic views from the Pola Island Viewpoint, easily accessible from Route 006. The Lower Sauma Ridge Trail, a short but rewarding hike, leads to even more spectacular vistas of the strait and the coastline. The area holds cultural significance for the local Samoan community, who have traditionally held the lands surrounding the strait communally. Exploring Vai'ava Strait offers a unique opportunity to witness the power of nature and appreciate the rich natural heritage of American Samoa. The area is also home to several concrete bunkers from World War II, located on and around the beach. The scenic road between Vatia and Afono is lined with gardens of ornamental plants and flowers. At the end of the road in Vatia is the school, and beyond the school begins a trail leading into the national park. It ends at a rocky cliff which points across Vai'ava Strait to Pola Island.

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