about gataivai (Blunts point battery)

Blunt's Point, situated on Matautu Ridge in Gataivai, offers sweeping views of the mouth of Pago Pago Harbor. Atop this ridge stand two sizable six-inch naval guns, installed in 1941. Accessible from Utulei, visitors can reach Matautu Ridge by walking southeast along the main road, passing the oil tanks. On the right-hand side, near a small pump house opposite two homes along the bayside street, the track up the hill to Matautu Ridge begins. The lower gun sits directly above a large green water tank, while the second gun is positioned 200 meters further up the ridge. Concrete stairways lead to both gun emplacements.

Of historical significance, one of the gun emplacements is listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places, while the other is designated as a U.S. National Historic Landmark, both maintained by the National Park Service. The 3-km World War II Heritage Trail, culminating at Blunt's Point, is Tutuila Island's most accessible and popular trail. Along the ridge-top trail, visitors encounter ancient archaeological sites and World War II installations, constructed in anticipation of a potential Japanese invasion. Further along, the trail delves into a lush, bird-filled rainforest.