Ta'u Travel Guide
Explore the natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and local cuisine of Ta'u in American Samoa with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, stay, eat, and shop while learning about the local culture and customs.
- Introduction to Ta’u
- List of Places to Visit in Ta’u
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Ta’u
- Best Things to Do in Ta’u: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Ta’u
- Food and Drink Scene of Ta’u
- Where to Stay in Ta’u: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Ta’u: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Ta’u
- Best Time to Visit Ta’u
- Do’s and Don’ts of Ta’u
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Ta’u: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Ta’u
- Where to Go Next from Ta’u: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Ta’u
Welcome to Ta’u, one of the most beautiful and culturally rich islands in American Samoa. If you are looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and experience nature at its finest, Ta’u is the perfect destination for you. This remote island boasts pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, stunning mountains, and a fascinating culture that dates back thousands of years. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through the best places to visit, things to do, places to eat, and where to stay in Ta’u.
List of Places to Visit in Ta’u
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
Ta’u is steeped in history and culture, and there are several must-visit landmarks that will give you a glimpse of the island’s rich heritage. Start your cultural tour at the Tau Heritage Center, where you can learn about the customs and traditions of the Samoan people. Another must-visit landmark is the Lata Mountain Cultural Park, which features ancient ruins, burial sites, and ceremonial grounds. You can also explore the three main villages of Ta’u - Faleāsao, Si’ufaga, and Luma - and discover the historical landmarks and traditional architecture that dot the landscape.
Natural Attractions of Ta’u: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Ta’u is famous for its natural beauty, and there are plenty of outdoor adventures to keep you busy during your stay. The island is home to the Mauna Loa Mountain, which is the highest peak in American Samoa. You can take a guided hike up to the summit and enjoy panoramic views of the island. Another popular attraction is the Tafeu Falls, which is a stunning waterfall that cascades down a lush green hill. You can also explore the stunning beaches and coral reefs that surround the island, and take part in water sports like snorkeling, scuba diving, and surfing.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Ta’u
For those who love outdoor activities, Ta’u offers a range of hiking and biking trails that are perfect for getting a workout while soaking in the island’s natural beauty. You can explore the Ta’u Wilderness Area, which is a protected forest that is home to a variety of endemic birds and plants. There are several trails that you can take, including the Lata Mountain Trail, the Mauga O Ali’i Trail, and the Tafuna-Ofu Trail. You can also rent a bike and explore the island’s villages and beaches at your own pace.
Best Things to Do in Ta’u: Activities and Tours
Aside from the natural attractions, Ta’u offers a range of activities and tours that will give you a deeper insight into the island’s culture and customs. You can take a guided tour of the Tau Heritage Center, visit the local markets to sample traditional Samoan cuisine, or attend a cultural ceremony or festival. You can also visit the local churches to witness the fervent devotion of the Samoan people to their faith.
Week-Long Itinerary for Ta’u
If you are planning a week-long trip to Ta’u, here is a sample itinerary that will help you make the most of your stay on the island:
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Explore the Tau Heritage Center and the three main villages of Ta’u |
| 2 | Hike up to the summit of Mauna Loa Mountain and enjoy the panoramic views |
| 3 | Take a guided tour of the Lata Mountain Cultural Park and learn about the island’s history |
| 4 | Rent a bike and explore the island’s villages and beaches at your own pace |
| 5 | Go snorkeling or scuba diving to explore the coral reefs around the island |
| 6 | Attend a local festival or cultural ceremony |
| 7 | Relax on one of the island’s stunning beaches and enjoy the beautiful scenery |
Food and Drink Scene of Ta’u
Must-Try Dishes
One of the best ways to experience the local culture of Ta’u is through its cuisine. The island is famous for its traditional Samoan dishes, which are characterized by their use of fresh seafood, coconut milk, and taro. Some of the must-try dishes include:
- Palusami - Taro leaves wrapped around coconut cream and baked in an umu (Samoan oven)
- Oka - Raw fish marinated in lemon juice and coconut milk
- Lu Sipi - Corned beef cooked with taro leaves and coconut cream
Local Beverages
In addition to the food, Ta’u is also known for its local beverages. Kava is a popular drink on the island, which is made from the root of the kava plant and is said to have relaxing properties. You can also try the locally-brewed beer, Vailima, which is a refreshing drink that is perfect for hot days.
Where to Stay in Ta’u: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
If you are looking for accommodation in Ta’u, your options are limited, but there are a few options available. The Ta’u Village Resort is the most popular hotel on the island and offers comfortable rooms with stunning views of the ocean. There are also a few guesthouses and hostels that offer affordable accommodation options.
What to Buy in Ta’u: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
If you are looking for souvenirs and local products to bring home, there are several options available. The local markets sell a variety of handicrafts, including woven baskets, carved wooden figurines, and traditional clothing. You can also buy Samoan honey, coconut oil, and other locally-made products as gifts for your friends and family back home.
Local Culture and Customs of Ta’u
The Samoan people have a rich and unique culture that is characterized by their deep respect for family, community, and tradition. Visitors to Ta’u are expected to respect the local customs and obey the rules and etiquette of the island. For example, it is customary to remove your shoes when entering someone’s home, and modest clothing is expected when attending cultural events or entering churches.
Best Time to Visit Ta’u
The best time to visit Ta’u is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. This is the time when the weather is cooler and less humid, making it perfect for outdoor activities. The wet season, which runs from November to April, can bring heavy rains and storms, which can make it difficult to get around the island and participate in outdoor activities.
Do’s and Don’ts of Ta’u
Do:
- Respect the local customs and traditions
- Try the local cuisine and beverages
- Wear sunscreen and insect repellent when participating in outdoor activities
- Keep your valuables safe and secure
Don’t:
- Disrespect the local customs or culture
- Take any natural items or artifacts from the island
- Wear revealing clothing when attending cultural events or entering churches
- Engage in any illegal activities
Safety and Health
Safety in Ta’u
Ta’u is a safe destination for travelers, but it is still important to take precautions to keep yourself and your belongings safe. Keep an eye on your valuables at all times, especially in crowded areas, and avoid walking alone at night. It is also important to be aware of your surroundings and to follow any safety instructions given by your tour guides or hotel staff.
Health in Ta’u
There are no major health risks associated with travel to Ta’u, but it is always a good idea to take basic precautions to ensure you stay healthy during your trip. This includes drinking bottled water, taking insect repellent, and wearing sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun’s rays.
Getting to Ta’u: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Ta’u
The main airport near Ta’u is the Pago Pago International Airport, which is located on the neighboring island of Tutuila. From here, you can take a domestic flight to the Fitiuta Airport on Ta’u.
Bus Stations Near Ta’u
There are no bus stations on Ta’u, but there are taxi services available that can take you around the island.
Other Options
You can also take a ferry from Tutuila to Ta’u, which is a scenic and affordable way to reach the island.
How to Get Around in Ta’u
The best way to get around Ta’u is by car, as there are no public transportation options on the island. You can rent a car at the airport or hire a taxi to take you around the island.
Where to Go Next from Ta’u: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
If you are looking for other destinations to visit in American Samoa, you can head to the neighboring islands of Tutuila, Ofu, and Olosega. Each of these islands offers its own unique blend of natural beauty, culture, and history.
Conclusion
Ta’u is a hidden gem in American Samoa, offering visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and local cuisine. Whether you are looking to explore the island’s rich heritage, participate in outdoor adventures, or simply relax on the beach, Ta’u has something for everyone. We hope this comprehensive guide has given you all the information you need to plan your perfect trip to Ta’u.