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Fanuatapu Island

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

wildlife

Weather…

Fanuatapu is the easternmost island of Samoa, forming the terminus of the Aleipata island chain. The small islet is of volcanic origin and is crowned by a prominent automated lighthouse, which is of great importance for navigation in the treacherous waters east of Upolu. The topography of Fanuatapu is extremely rugged, with steep cliffs dropping directly into the Pacific Ocean, making landing on the island difficult even in calm seas. Ecologically, the island is an important sanctuary for seabirds that nest in the inaccessible cliffs. The strong currents around the island prevent the growth of extensive sandy beaches, resulting in a wild and untouched coastline. Geologically, Fanuatapu belongs to the younger formations of the Aleipata volcanic complex and consists mainly of basaltic rock. Due to its exposed location, the islet is subjected to the full force of the trade winds, which shapes the vegetation there, consisting predominantly of robust, salt-tolerant shrubs and ferns.

Location: Samoa
Top sights: Namu'a Island Beach · Mutiatele Congregational Christian Church · Lotopu'e Assembly of God Church
Nearby: Amaile (4 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	269	247	175	181	135	88	78	57	91	146	224	240

📋 Practical info

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Best season

The best season to visit Fanuatapu Island is typically the dry season from May to October, when seas are calmer and bird colonies are most active. These months offer handy conditions for boat trips and birdwatching.

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Best time of day

Early morning hours are optimal for watching seabirds depart to fish. At dusk, large flocks return, providing a spectacular sight.

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Etiquette

The island is a nature reserve; landing without permission is prohibited. Stay in the boat and avoid noise to avoid disturbing nesting birds.

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What to bring

Binoculars with stabilized optics are very helpful from the boat for observing birds on the cliffs. Sun protection and a waterproof camera bag are recommended due to the marine environment.

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Getting there

Fanuatapu Island is located east of Upolu in Samoa and is accessible only by boat. Trips are often offered from Upolu island, particularly from the southern coast.

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What to expect

Birds may be far off on the cliffs, so observation requires patience and calm behavior on the boat. With luck, you may also spot sea turtles or dolphins during the crossing.

Geography

Coordinates

-14.01200, -171.40200

Facts

Fanuatapu marks the easternmost point of the state of Samoa.
The automated lighthouse was built for the safety of maritime navigation.
The island is completely uninhabited with no permanent structures besides the tower.
Strong ocean currents make diving nearby extremely hazardous.
The cliffs are a major nesting site for the red-tailed tropicbird.
Fanuatapu is clearly visible from Upolu's eastern coast on clear days.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Namu'a Island2 km · SEExplore →

Satitoa4 km · SExplore →

Amaile4 km · SEExplore →

Lalomanu Beach6 km · SEExplore →

Lalomanu6 km · SEExplore →

Nu'utele Island6 km · EExplore →

Nu'ulua Island7 km · EExplore →

Saleapaga8 km · SExplore →

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 Fanuatapu Island (6)

Namu'a Island Beach

Sandy beach on Fanuatapu, suitable for swimming and relaxation.

Mutiatele Congregational Christian Church

Congregational Christian church in Mutiatele.

Lotopu'e Assembly of God Church⛪ church

Assembly of God church in Lotopu'e, used for worship services.

Lotopu'e Assembly of God

Assembly of God prayer house in Lotopu'e, meeting place for believers.

Saleaumua Catholic Church

Catholic church in Saleaumua, a place of Catholic faith.

Utufa'alalafa Church of Jesus Christ and the Latter-day Saints

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Utufa'alalafa.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Is Fanuatapu tourist-developed?

Hardly, it is a very remote and natural place.

Can one visit the lighthouse?

It is often not open to the public, but visible from the outside.

What is the best time for sailing?

In the morning with little wind and calm seas.

Are there beaches?

Yes, but they are wild and not very suitable for hanging out.

Is there drinking water?

No, you must bring everything with you.

Fanuatapu Island: where is it located?

Fanuatapu Island is located in Samoa.

Fanuatapu Island: what is there to see?

Highlights include Namu'a Island Beach, Mutiatele Congregational Christian Church, Lotopu'e Assembly of God Church.

Fanuatapu Island: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.

Fanuatapu Island: why is it worth visiting?

Fanuatapu is the easternmost island of Samoa, forming the terminus of the Aleipata island chain.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →