Small volcanic island with a freshwater marsh, coastal cliffs, and traditional villages preserved as a protected natural landscape.
General Information
Boat schedules vary by weather and local operators
Boat transport fees may apply
How to Get There
From Pago Pago: Drive east on Route 001 to the village wharf, then board a small ferry or alia boat for a brief crossing to the island landing.
Overview
The Aunuʻu Island National Natural Landmark rises from the sea as a compact world shaped by volcanic forces and centuries of human connection to the land. Designated as a National Natural Landmark in 1972, the island is defined by its dramatic coastal rim encircling a central freshwater wetland known as Faimulivai Marsh. This rare ecosystem, formed within an ancient volcanic crater, supports unique plant life and migratory birds, making it one of the most environmentally significant landscapes in the territory.
Life on the island moves at an unhurried pace, guided by footpaths, subsistence farming, and deep-rooted cultural traditions. Visitors encounter taro patches nourished by marsh water, lava-stone shorelines shaped by constant surf, and sweeping views back toward the main island. With no cars and minimal modern development, the island offers an immersive experience where geology, ecology, and Samoan heritage remain tightly interwoven, rewarding travelers with a sense of stepping into a living natural sanctuary.
This article uses material from the Wikipedia articles and official tourism pages for Aunuʻu Island and Visit American Samoa, which are released under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share-Alike License 3.0.
