about vatia

Vatia, nestled on the shores of Tutuila Island in American Samoa, is a picturesque north shore village cradled by Vatia Bay. Accessible only via the scenic Route 006, winding through the National Park of American Samoa, Vatia offers breathtaking views at the base of Pola Ridge, surrounded by lush greenery. While once connected by a hiking trail from Leloaloa, now overgrown, Vatia remains a tranquil community embraced by jungle-clad peaks. Within its bounds lie remnants of World War II bunkers, while the road to Afono is adorned with vibrant gardens. At its end lies the village school, marking the beginning of a trail leading into the national park, culminating in a cliff overlooking Pola Island across Vai'ava Strait. Vatia, with its rich history as one of Tutuila Island's oldest settlements, continues to be a cultural and scenic gem, drawing visitors to its serene shores and iconic Pola Island vista.

Vatia literally translates to “between the tombs of those with paramount status.”

HISTORY

Vatia stands as one of the ancient villages on Tutuila Island, with its roots tracing back to the 18th century inhabitants who dwelled upon the narrow ridge of Toafaiga. In the 1980s, archeologists unearthed remnants of various structures and house foundations, including one constructed from coral slabs, possibly serving as a ceremonial or communal gathering place. Dating back to 1300 AD to 1750 AD, Old Vatia reveals well-preserved house platforms atop earthen mounds, encircled by basalt boulders, offering invaluable insights into the history of Polynesian Samoans. Designated a U.S. National Register of Historic Places site in 2006, Old Vatia, nestled on Faiga Ridge above Vatia, remains a testament to the island's rich heritage, enveloped by dense vegetation within the National Park of American Samoa. Additionally, the waters near Vatia witnessed the return of Apollo 11 to Earth in 1969, with a copy of the American Samoan flag carried by the mission, now displayed at the Jean P. Haydon Museum in Pago Pago.

NATIONAL PARK

Pola Island

Pola Island, home to the only known breeding colonies of Red-footed Boobies in American Samoa outside Rose Atoll, is a popular attraction. North Shore Tours offer boat tours to witness this natural wonder.

Vai'ava Strait

Vai'ava Strait National Natural Landmark, encompassing 250 acres, boasts stunning sea arches and a cobblestone beach. Pola Island Trailhead, situated at the end of the road in Vatia, provides access to this remarkable site.

Mount 'Alava

Mount ‘Alava Adventure Trail, a challenging 5.6-mile loop with 56 ladders and 783 steps, traverses the ridges of Mount ‘Alava to the summit and back through Vatia Village.

Tuafanua Trail

Tuafanua Trail, spanning 2.2 miles, winds through the rainforest from Vatia to a mountain ridge peak, offering stunning vistas of Vai'ava Strait National Natural Landmark and Pola Island. The trailhead is located near Mount ‘Alava Elementary School.

Lower Sauma Ridge Trail

Starting at a scenic overlook on the road to Vatia, this interpretive trail leads to an ancient star mound archaeological site. The trail, spanning 0.4 miles roundtrip, showcases exhibits and views of Vai'ava Strait National Natural Landmark and Pola Island.