How to plan the boat crossing from ʻAuʻasi to Aunuʻu

There are two harbors to keep straight at the eastern end of a Tutuila trip. ʻAuʻasi is the village and wharf you reach by road. Aunuʻu is the inhabited volcanic island offshore. The channel between them is short, but crossing it changes how you plan the rest of the day.

Where does the boat to Aunuʻu leave from?

Go to ʻAuʻasi Harbor on Tutuila and ask locally about a crossing to Aunuʻu Harbor. American Samoa’s Port Administration describes the service as boats operated by private alia owners. Students and workers use them as well as visitors. Confirm where to board, what the operator charges and how you will arrange your return before leaving the wharf.

What should I know about exploring Aunuʻu on foot?

The National Park Service describes a densely vegetated volcanic island with basalt, layers of volcanic tuff and sections of coast shaped by the waves. Decide what you want to see and ask which paths visitors may use. The island is home to a village. Ask before walking onto family land, taking photographs or using a beach, even when a place looks easy to reach from the harbor.

How should I plan the return to eastern Tutuila?

Agree on a return point and ask the operator how changing sea conditions affect the crossing that day. Keep enough time to walk back to the village and the wharf before your planned departure. If the crossing does not fit, ʻAuʻasi itself still makes a worthwhile end to a coastal drive. From the harbor you can see the island that the boats serve.