Plizio Visual Lab

Asau Port

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Port

Weather…

Asau Port, located in the northwest of Savai'i island, is a strategic maritime facility with a storied industrial past and significant future potential. Situated within a deep-water bay sheltered by a barrier reef, the port reached its zenith in the 1960s as the hub for Samoa's timber exports, hosting large international cargo vessels. However, its modern utility is restricted by the narrow entrance channel, which has become obstructed by coral growth and siltation, preventing large deep-draft ships from entering safely. The Samoan government has long-standing plans to dredge the channel to revitalize Asau as a second international gateway, aiming to boost the economic development of Savai'i island. Geographically, the bay is one of the best-protected natural harbors in the South Pacific, making it a handy location for fishing fleets and potential cruise ship visits if accessibility is improved. While the existing wharves and shore facilities require modernization, the port remains a vital national asset. Its redevelopment is seen as a key driver for regional growth, trade diversification, and improving the logistical connectivity of the western islands.

Location: Samoa
Top sights: Asau Seaside Resort · Asau Church · Mormons
Nearby: Vaisala (7 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	28	28	28	28	28	28	27	27	27	28	28	28
Rain mm	262	254	166	154	129	101	81	64	89	141	208	220

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?

Asau Port serves as a vital maritime hub on the northwest coast of Savai'i. Historically central to the timber industry, it now handles regional shipping and trade. For travellers, it is a key point to see the economic life of the island.

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Visiting

The port is an active industrial facility and not usually open to the public. Visitors can watch operations from the nearby public road and beach.

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Where to view it

The best public viewpoint is from the waterfront road near Asau village, offering views of the quay and vessels. The beach to the east gives a scenic harbour perspective.

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Local products

Fresh fish and seafood from local fishermen are often available at markets near the port. Seasonal produce like breadfruit and coconuts are typically traded here.

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Active season

The port is busiest during the dry season from May to October, when shipping is most reliable. This period also sees increased inter-island ferry and fishing activity.

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Nearby

Combine a visit with exploring Fagaloa Bay and its beaches, or experience cultural life in Asau village. Hiking trails to Mount Silisili are also nearby.

Geography

Coordinates

-13.51200, -172.63800

Facts

Once the primary export hub for the national timber industry.
Features one of the most sheltered natural harbors in the Pacific.
Channel access is currently limited by silt and coral growth.
Key focus of government plans to decentralize maritime trade.
Located in the Vaisigano district of northwest Savai'i.
Has potential to serve as Samoa's second international port.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Asau Historic Port<1 km · NEExplore →

Vaisala Historic Mission4 km · NExplore →

Sataua Ancient Mounds6 km · SWExplore →

Vaisala7 km · SExplore →

Neiafu Archaeological Mound10 km · SEExplore →

Aopo Lava Tube Refuge10 km · NExplore →

Mount Olotapu10 km · NEExplore →

Aopo Lava Field13 km · NExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Asau Port (4)

Asau Seaside Resort

Beach resort in Asau on Savai'i, offering accommodations and ocean access.

Asau Church

Church in Asau on Savai'i, a place for worship by the local community.

Mormons

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints congregation in Asau, Savai'i.

Auala Congregational Christian Church

Congregational church in Auala on Savai'i, used for worship and gatherings.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the Asau port?

A former industrial port in the north of Savai'i.

Is it still used today?

It only plays a very minor role nowadays.

Are there tourist facilities there?

No, the area is quiet and little developed.

Is the area safe for travelers?

Yes, like almost everywhere in Samoa, it is very peaceful.

What can you do nearby?

Exploring the untouched nature of northern Savai'i.

Asau Port: where is it located?

Asau Port is located in Samoa.

Asau Port: what is there to see?

Highlights include Asau Seaside Resort, Asau Church, Mormons.

Asau Port: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.

Asau Port: why is it worth visiting?

Asau Port, located in the northwest of Savai'i island, is a strategic maritime facility with a storied industrial past and significant future potential.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →