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National Park of American SamoaTutuila shoreline
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National Park of American Samoa
Your Safety
 
Snorkeler in Ofu Lagoon.
An NPS Photo by Peter Craig.
Snorkelers in Ofu Lagoon must be aware of currents and coral wounds.
 

The park's remote location, its lack of search and rescue capability, and the distance from expert medical care require extra precautions:

  • Solar radiation is intense!
  • Wear sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and protective clothing.
  • Carry insect repellent.
  • Always snorkel with a partner.
  • While on beach areas, watch out for falling coconuts.
  • Whatever beach you are on be aware of the tidal movements and be alert for the avas - tidal outflows from the reef. These are dangerous - their currents and undertows should not be underestimated.
  • Coral rubble beaches are difficult to walk on; watch your step. Be especially careful of rocky areas, which are slippery.
  • Ask the Visitor Center about trail conditions.
  • Never hike without water; carry 2 to 3 liters per person.
  • Don't touch the coral! Cuts from coral take a long time to heal.
  • Beware of dogs!  People Do get bitten.
  • Medical treatment is available on Tutuila.
 

Health

Samoa has few health risks of concern for normally healthy persons visiting the islands. Bring necessary medications with you, for supplies may not be available. Medical care is limited (there is none on the Manu’a Islands). Though the LBJ Tropical Medical Center on Tutuila was once a highly regarded regional health center, now it has fallen on hard times with staffing problems and has only marginal service. Visitors who come down with serious medical needs should get to Hawaii, Australia, or New Zealand.

Hikers wearing casual clothing
What to Bring and Wear
Comfortable and casual clothing is desirable
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Pacific golden plover in breeding plumage—soon to be flying 5,500 miles to the Alaskan Arctic  

Did You Know?
During northern summers, three shorebirds--plover, turnstone, and tattler--nest in Alaska and northern Canada. After nesting, they fly non-stop over 3,000 miles of open ocean to Hawaii. After briefly resting there, they fly more thousands of miles to Samoa. The round-trip is 11,000 miles.

Last Updated: November 20, 2009 at 23:09 EST