Tuafanua Trail: A Rainforest Hike to a Secluded Beach
Hike through lush rainforest to a secluded beach on the Tuafanua Trail, offering stunning views of Pola Island in American Samoa's National Park.
The Tuafanua Trail offers a moderately challenging 2.2-mile roundtrip hike through the lush rainforest of American Samoa's National Park, leading to a secluded rocky beach with stunning views of Pola Island. It's an adventurous trek with switchbacks, rope ladders, and rewarding coastal scenery near Vatia village.
A brief summary to Tuafanua Trailhead
- Q83G+QJX, Vatia, Eastern District, AS
Local tips
- Start your hike early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and humidity.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes for the varied terrain, including switchbacks, rocky sections, and rope ladders.
- Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated in the tropical climate.
- Be cautious on the beach, as strong waves and currents make swimming dangerous.
- Check the weather forecast before hiking and be prepared for rain showers, even during the dry season.
Getting There
-
Public Transport
From Pago Pago, take the Aiga bus to Vatia. Buses labeled for Vatia can be found at the main bus terminal in Pago Pago. The bus ride takes approximately 30-40 minutes. From the bus stop in Vatia, walk towards Mount 'Alava Elementary School; the trailhead is located to the left of the 'Old Hotel,' just before the school. Check the bus schedule for return trips. A one-way bus fare is around $2-$3.
-
Car
From Pago Pago, take Route 1 (main coastal road) east for approximately 14 miles until you reach Vatia. Look for signs directing you towards Vatia Beach. Just before the beach, a small road leads to the hills; this is the entrance to Tuafanua Trailhead. The trailhead is located near the Mount 'Alava Elementary School. Parking is available near the 'Old Hotel'. There are no parking fees.
Discover more about Tuafanua Trailhead
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Taafua/Saleaumua Family Cemetery
0.6 km
Discover the profound cultural significance of the Taafua/Saleaumua Family Cemetery in Vatia, an essential stop for those exploring Samoan heritage.
North Pioa Mountain
3.6 km
Hike to the summit of North Pioa Mountain for panoramic views and experience the lush, rain-soaked beauty of American Samoa's volcanic heart.
Satala Cemetery
3.6 km
Explore the serene beauty and cultural significance of Satala Cemetery in American Samoa, a peaceful tribute to the island's rich history.
Port of Pago Pago
3.7 km
Discover the heart of American Samoa at the Port of Pago Pago, a stunning harbor steeped in history and vibrant Polynesian culture.
Sadie's by the Sea
3.7 km
Experience Samoan charm and beachfront relaxation at Sadie's by the Sea in Utulei, overlooking Pago Pago Harbor and Rainmaker Mountain.
Samoa News
3.8 km
Immerse yourself in the Samoan culture at Samoa News, the island's leading newspaper publisher, capturing the heart and soul of local life.
United States Postal Service
3.9 km
Experience the essential postal services of Pago Pago, where locals and tourists connect through mailing, logistics, and friendly service.
American Samoa Visitors Bureau (ASVB)
3.9 km
Discover American Samoa's hidden gems with expert guidance from the American Samoa Visitors Bureau in Pago Pago.
Downtown Ink Tattoo Studio
4.0 km
Experience the essence of American Samoa through stunning body art at Downtown Ink Tattoo Studio, where every tattoo tells a story.
Fagatogo Square
4.0 km
Experience the heart of American Samoa at Fagatogo Square, a vibrant hub for shopping, dining, and local culture in Pago Pago.
Western Union
4.0 km
Experience seamless money transfers at Western Union in Pago Pago, the ideal solution for tourists needing financial services in American Samoa.
Tedi Of Samoa
4.0 km
Experience the heart of Fagatogo at Tedi Of Samoa, where shopping meets Samoan culture in a vibrant atmosphere.
Unmissable attractions to see
Vatia Bay
0.3 km
Discover Vatia Bay: A scenic escape on Tutuila's north shore, offering natural beauty, cultural immersion, and outdoor adventures.
Tufu Beach
0.6 km
Discover Tufu Beach in Vatia, American Samoa: a serene escape with pristine sands, lush rainforest, and captivating Polynesian charm.
Vai'ava Strait National Natural Landmark
0.9 km
Discover dramatic volcanic cliffs, nesting seabirds, and stunning Pacific views at this American Samoa natural landmark.
Pola Island
1.3 km
Experience the unspoiled beauty and vibrant marine life of Pola Island, a hidden gem perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Pola Island Viewpoint
1.3 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Pola Island and the stunning Vai'ava Strait from this tranquil viewpoint in Vatia, American Samoa.
National Park of American Samoa
1.9 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture of the National Park of American Samoa, a unique tropical paradise in the Pacific.
Mount 'Alava
2.6 km
Hike to the summit of Mount 'Alava for breathtaking panoramic views of Pago Pago Harbor and Tutuila's stunning landscapes.
Fautasi boat Samoa
2.8 km
Experience the thrill of fautasi boat races in Samoa, a vibrant display of Samoan culture, athleticism, and community pride. A must-see spectacle!
Pago Pago Harbour
3.3 km
Discover Pago Pago Harbour: A stunning volcanic harbor in American Samoa, rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. A must-see South Pacific gem.
Tauese P. F. Sunia Ocean Center
3.6 km
Explore American Samoa's marine wonders at the Tauese P. F. Sunia Ocean Center, featuring interactive exhibits on coral reefs and ocean conservation. Temporarily closed until August 2025.
Aua
3.6 km
Explore the serene natural beauty of Aua Park in the Eastern District, a peaceful escape perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Jean P Haydon Museum
3.9 km
Discover Samoan heritage at the Jean P. Haydon Museum in Fagatogo: artifacts, history, and culture await!
Fagatogo Market
4.0 km
Experience the heart of Samoan culture at Fagatogo Market: fresh produce, local crafts, and the spirit of American Samoa.
Utulei Park
4.0 km
Relax and enjoy the scenic views, recreational activities, and historical landmarks at Utulei Park, a vibrant hub in American Samoa.
Su'igaula Park
4.1 km
Discover Su'igaula Park in Utulei, American Samoa: a peaceful coastal retreat with stunning ocean views and a taste of local culture.
Essential places to dine
Moon Korean Restaurant
2.5 km
Discover authentic Korean cuisine at Moon Korean Restaurant in Leloaloa—where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Kings Pizzeria
2.6 km
Experience mouthwatering pizza perfection at Kings Pizzeria in Leloaloa - where tradition meets flavor in every slice.
Goat Island Cafe
3.7 km
Savor authentic Samoan flavors at Goat Island Cafe - where every dish tells a story.
Fiafia Restaurant
3.8 km
Discover authentic Asian cuisine at Fiafia Restaurant in Fagatogo, where every dish tells a story of rich flavors and cultural heritage.
Matai Restaurant
3.9 km
Experience the best of American and Chinese cuisine at Matai Restaurant in Fagatogo - where flavors unite in a delightful dining adventure.
Little Mexico
3.9 km
Savor authentic Mexican cuisine in a vibrant setting at Little Mexico - your gateway to delicious flavors in Fagatogo.
Fagatogo Fish Market
4.0 km
Discover Fagatogo Fish Market: A vibrant destination for fresh seafood and authentic local culture in Eastern District.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Sallie's
0.6 km
Discover local charm and essential supplies at Sallie's Convenience Store in Vatia, your go-to stop for snacks and souvenirs in the Eastern District.
LYC (SJ MART)
2.5 km
Discover local culture and unique souvenirs at LYC (SJ MART) in Leloaloa, a must-visit shopping destination for tourists.
‘ai Love Boba (east)
2.6 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of the tropics at ‘ai Love Boba (East), a fast-food haven for boba enthusiasts and food lovers alike.
Tutuila Store
2.6 km
Tutuila Store in Leloaloa: Your go-to convenience store for local snacks, essentials, and a taste of American Samoa's vibrant culture.
Skyview Incorporated
2.8 km
Discover the flavors of Samoa at Skyview Incorporated, your go-to grocery store in Pago Pago for local products and fresh essentials.
SJ Mart Aua
2.8 km
SJ Mart Aua: Your one-stop convenience store for local snacks and essentials in the heart of Eastern District.
Huang mart (wholesale and retail)
3.0 km
Explore the convenience of Huang Mart in Leloaloa, your one-stop shop for snacks, drinks, and essentials during your travels in the Eastern District.
XABOR
3.4 km
Discover XABOR in Pago Pago, the ultimate print shop for personalized quality prints and local artistry in American Samoa.
JS MART
3.5 km
Explore Aua's vibrant culture at JS MART: your destination for unique local products and authentic souvenirs in the Eastern District.
Amy's Gifts Shop
3.5 km
Explore Aua's local culture through unique gifts and handcrafted treasures at Amy's Gifts Shop, your perfect souvenir destination.
EZFIX (Fagatogo)
3.8 km
Explore Fagatogo with confidence—EZFIX offers expert mobile and computer repair services to keep you connected during your travels.
Paradise Pizza
3.8 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Pacific at Paradise Pizza, where every slice tells a story of freshness and creativity.
The Toolshop
3.9 km
Explore Fagatogo's trusted hardware store, The Toolshop, for all your DIY needs and quality tools during your visit to American Samoa.
Trophies & Things
4.0 km
Explore Trophies & Things in Fagatogo for unique trophies and memorabilia celebrating the spirit of the Pacific Islands.
Manu’a Store
4.1 km
Discover the essence of Samoan culture at Manu’a Store, a unique clothing store in Fagatogo offering a variety of stylish apparel and local crafts.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bee’z Beauty Bar
3.9 km
Discover relaxation and rejuvenation at Bee’z Beauty Bar in Fagatogo, the ultimate beauty salon for tourists seeking pampering and self-care.
Sadies Thompson Inn
4.0 km
Discover the serene beauty of Pago Pago at Sadies Thompson Inn, where comfort meets hospitality in a stunning island setting.
PJK Fish Market
4.2 km
Savor the Pacific's freshest seafood at PJK Fish Market in Utulei, where local flavors and vibrant culture meet.
Fast Food EOB
4.2 km
Explore Utulei's vibrant fast food scene at Fast Food EOB, where convenience meets flavor for every traveler.
Samus Ice Cream
4.2 km
Experience the delightful flavors of Samus Ice Cream in Utulei, where each scoop is a taste of paradise.
Evie's Mexican Food
4.3 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors in a vibrant setting at Evie's Mexican Food, a fast-food gem in Pago Pago, perfect for tourists and families.
Emelio's Restaurant
4.3 km
Savor the flavors of Pago Pago at Emilio's Restaurant, where local ingredients meet exceptional culinary artistry in a vibrant dining setting.
DDW
4.5 km
Discover the best seafood dining experience in Pago Pago at DDW, where fresh flavors and island vibes come together in perfect harmony.
South Pago Fusion
4.5 km
Discover the delightful fusion of local flavors and international cuisine at South Pago Fusion, your top takeout destination in Pago Pago.
