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Nu'usafe'e Island

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Nu'usafe'e Island (Samoa)

Weather…

Nu'usafe'e is a tiny, uninhabited island off the south coast of Upolu, near the village of Poutasi. The island is of volcanic origin and is surrounded by a dense ring of white sand and an animated coral reef. Despite its small size, Nu'usafe'e is of ecological significance as it provides a pristine habitat for various seabirds and marine life. The island is only accessible at low tide or by small boats, making it a quiet retreat away from the main tourist flows. The interior vegetation consists of robust coastal plants and a few coconut palms that brave the tides and storms. Underwater, the reef around Nu'usafe'e has excellent snorkeling opportunities, where colorful coral fish and occasionally reef sharks can be spotted. The island serves the local communities as an important symbol for coastal protection and is protected as part of a community marine resource management system.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C282828282828272727282828
Rain mm26924717518113588785791146224240

📋 Practical info

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Best season
The best time to explore the rich marine biodiversity around Nu'usafe'e is the dry season from May to October. During these months underwater visibility is best and the sea is calmest.
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Best time of day
Morning hours between 7 and 10 am are best for snorkelling as the sun is still low and the water clear. In the afternoon the current may increase, so morning trips are recommended.
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Etiquette
As Nu'usafe'e is uninhabited and has a fragile ecosystem, it is important to leave no litter. Do not touch the coral and do not collect shells or other marine life.
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What to bring
Snorkelling gear and a wetsuit or rashguard are recommended for protection against coral and sun. Also bring plenty of drinking water as there is none on the island.
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Getting there
Nu'usafe'e lies off Upolu's south coast and is reachable only by boat. Most operators depart from the coast near Lefaga or Siumu; the trip takes about 20-30 minutes.
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What to expect
The underwater world is rich, but you need to take time to explore hidden corners. Float quietly over the reef and watch as gradually more fish and invertebrates appear.

Geography

Coordinates
-14.04500, -171.68800

Facts

  • Nu'usafe'e is one of only a few volcanic islets directly off Upolu's south coast.
  • The island can almost be reached on foot during extremely low tides.
  • It is a designated marine resource protected area.
  • The surrounding reef houses over 50 different species of coral.
  • The island has been shaped and altered by historic tsunami events.
  • Nu'usafe'e is a popular spot for picnics among the local population.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

To-Sua Ocean TrenchTo-Sua Ocean Trench3 km · SExplore →
Togitogiga Agriculture AreaTogitogiga Agriculture Area3 km · WExplore →
Falealili Cocoa PlantationsFalealili Cocoa Plantations6 km · NWExplore →
Pe'ape'a CavePe'ape'a Cave7 km · SWExplore →
Mount SalaniMount Salani7 km · WExplore →
Togitogiga WaterfallTogitogiga Waterfall7 km · SWExplore →
O Le Pupu-Pu'e National ParkO Le Pupu-Pu'e National Park7 km · SWExplore →
Poutasi TaiPoutasi Tai7 km · NWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

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

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Nu'usafe'e Island (7)

Vaovai Congregational Christian Church

Vaovai Congregational Christian Church on Nu'usafe'e Island.

Matautu Congregational Christian Church

Congregational church in Matautu, a gathering place for worshippers.

Poutasi Catholic Church

Catholic church in Poutasi, a place of worship.

Poutasi Congregational Christian Church

Congregational Christian Church in Poutasi, used for prayers.

Saleilua Congregational Christian Church

House of worship of the Congregational Christian Church in Saleilua village.

Maota o Maa Beach Fales

Beach fales (huts) at Maota o Maa, simple accommodation right by the water.

Vaiula Beach Fales

Traditional beach fales in Vaiula, offering overnight stays by the sea.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Can one step on the island?
The island is small and often private; ask locals.
Are there beaches?
Yes, there are small, secluded sandy spots.
What is special?
The absolute seclusion and peace.
Is the water safe?
Beware of strong currents near the reefs.
Is a boat needed?
Yes, there is no other way to get there.
Nu'usafe'e Island: where is it located?
Nu'usafe'e Island is located in Samoa.
Nu'usafe'e Island: what is there to see?
Highlights include Vaovai Congregational Christian Church, Matautu Congregational Christian Church, Poutasi Catholic Church.
Nu'usafe'e Island: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Nu'usafe'e Island: why is it worth visiting?
Nu'usafe'e is a tiny, uninhabited island off the south coast of Upolu, near the village of Poutasi.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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Nearby cities

Siusega — Nu'usafe'e Island (Samoa)
Siusega
Siusega is a growing urban settlement near Apia.
Vaiusu — Nu'usafe'e Island (Samoa)
Vaiusu
Vaiusu is a suburb of Apia located on a bay.
Solosolo — Nu'usafe'e Island (Samoa)
Solosolo
Solosolo is located east of Apia and is famous for its surfing spots and the heavy surf on the coast.
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Luatuanu'u
Luatuanu'u is a village on the north coast known for its martial history and strategic location.
Moata'a — Nu'usafe'e Island (Samoa)
Moata'a
Moata'a is a well-known village east of Apia, famous for its mangroves and strong community.
Siumu Tai — Nu'usafe'e Island (Samoa)
Siumu Tai
Siumu Tai is the coastal part of Siumu, known for its upscale resorts and beautiful lagoon.
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Siumu
Siumu is a significant village on the south coast of Upolu.
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Siumu Uta
Siumu Uta is the higher-lying part of Siumu, distinguished by its fertile soils and lush plantations.
Falefa — Nu'usafe'e Island (Samoa)
Falefa
Falefa is situated on a picturesque bay and is known for the Falefa waterfall and its rich mythological history.
Poutasi Tai — Nu'usafe'e Island (Samoa)
Poutasi Tai
Poutasi Tai is the waterfront part of Poutasi, a model example of reconstruction after natural disasters.
Vailele — Nu'usafe'e Island (Samoa)
Vailele
Vailele is located east of Apia and is one of the largest settlements in Samoa.
Lufilufi — Nu'usafe'e Island (Samoa)
Lufilufi
Lufilufi is a historical political center on Upolu.
Vailima — Nu'usafe'e Island (Samoa)
Vailima
Vailima is located above Apia and is famous as the former residence of author Robert Louis Stevenson.
Vaitele — Nu'usafe'e Island (Samoa)
Vaitele
Vaitele is a large settlement west of Apia and is considered one of the country's most important industrial zones.
Eva — Nu'usafe'e Island (Samoa)
Eva
Eva is a small village on the north coast of Upolu, nestled between green mountains and the Pacific Ocean.

History & landmarks

Apia Old Town Hall — Nu'usafe'e Island (Samoa)
Apia Old Town Hall
The old town hall served as the civic center of Apia during the period of New Zealand administration.

Nature

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To-Sua Ocean Trench
To-Sua is a natural swimming hole formed by a collapsed lava tube.

More places

Togitogiga Agriculture Area — Nu'usafe'e Island (Samoa)
Togitogiga Agriculture Area
Togitogiga is a major region for commercial fruit and vegetable farming on Upolu's south coast.
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Falealili Cocoa Plantations
The Falealili region is historically and currently a center for cocoa production in Samoa.