Turtle and Shark: A Legendary Cove

Turtle and Shark, or Laumei ma Malie in Samoan, is more than just a picturesque cove; it's a place steeped in Samoan legend and history. Located on the southern shore of Tutuila, near the village of Vaitogi, this U-shaped cove is where, according to local lore, a mother and child leapt to their deaths during a famine and were transformed into a turtle and a shark.The legend tells of a blind woman, Fonueau, and her daughter, Salofa, who were neglected during a time of scarcity. After being denied food, they jumped off a cliff into the ocean. The gods, witnessing their plight, transformed them into a turtle and a shark. It is said that if villagers sing a specific song, a turtle and a shark will appear in the cove.The cove itself is a dramatic landscape, with high-energy waves frequently crashing against the basalt cliffs. The area is not safe for swimming due to the dangerous waves, blowholes, and slippery rocks. However, it can be viewed safely from the road or a viewing platform. Turtle and Shark was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2014, recognizing its significance to the people of American Samoa and their cultural heritage.