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Blunts Point Battery: A WWII Coastal Fortress

Explore a well-preserved WWII coastal defense gun battery with panoramic views of Pago Pago Harbor in American Samoa.

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Hike to Blunts Point Battery, a historic WWII coastal gun installation on Matautu Ridge offering panoramic views of Pago Pago Harbor. Explore the well-preserved gun emplacements and bunkers, remnants of American Samoa's strategic role in the Pacific Theater.

A brief summary to Blunts Point Battery

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to enjoy cooler temperatures and stunning views.
  • Bring water and snacks, as there are no amenities available on-site.
  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking to fully enjoy the trails.
  • Consider packing binoculars for birdwatching and coastal views.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are already in Utulei, you can easily walk to Blunts Point Battery. From the main area in Utulei, head towards Road 001. Follow this road for about 1 mile, and you will find the entrance to Blunts Point Battery on your right. Walking is a great way to enjoy the scenic views along the way.

  • Public Transport

    Take a local bus from Pago Pago to Utulei. The bus stop is located near the main harbor. Inform the driver that you would like to get off at Utulei. Once you reach Utulei, walk along Road 001 towards Blunts Point Battery. It's about a 15-minute walk from the bus stop to the battery. Be aware that the bus schedule can vary, so check the latest timings. The bus fare is around $2.50 or less.

  • Taxi

    From anywhere in Utulei, a taxi to the Blunts Point Battery trailhead should be readily available. Taxis in American Samoa do not have meters, so it's important to negotiate the fare before starting your trip. A short trip within Utulei should cost no more than $2.00.

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Discover more about Blunts Point Battery

Blunts Point Battery, also known as Blunts Point Naval Gun or Matautu Ridge Gun Site, is a gun battery on Matautu Ridge near Pago Pago, American Samoa. This historic site stands as a testament to the fortification of the Samoan Islands following the attack on Pearl Harbor, offering a rare example of a World War II Pacific coastal gun in relatively pristine condition. In 1940, as tensions escalated during World War II, the United States government began fortifying American Samoa. The Marines installed two 6-inch naval guns at Blunts Point, with another battery positioned on the east side of the harbor at Breakers Point. Following the attack on Pearl Harbor in December 1941 and the subsequent capture of Guam, American Samoa became a critical American base in the Western Pacific, leading to further fortification in anticipation of a potential attack. Although no attack ever materialized, American Samoa played a vital role as a supply and training point for American military actions in the Pacific. Today, visitors can explore the well-preserved gun emplacements and bunkers by hiking the Blunts Point Trail. The battery has been recently restored and offers stunning views of Pago Pago Harbor. The site was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1987, preserving its historical significance for future generations.

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