Fagatele Bay National Marine Sanctuary
Fagatele Bay National Marine Sanctuary
Pago Pago, AS 96799
Phone:684-633-7354
Fax:684-633-7355
Web: fagatelebay.noaa.gov
Location:Fagatele Bay is located within an eroded volcanic crater off the southwest coast of Tutuila Island, American Samoa.
Activities:Diving and snorkeling.
Special Features:The land side of Fagatele bay is bordered by 200-foot vertical cliffs. Along these steep slopes are some of America's rare paleotropical rainforests. Endangered hawksbill turtles, green sea turtles, humpback whales, and sperm whales find refuge in the bay's protected waters. From June to September, visitors can hear numerous underwater whale-songs which the males use to attract mates and the females use to communicate with their young. Description:Description: The Sanctuary encompasses 163 acres (.25 square miles) of bay area off the southwest coast of Tutuila Island. It is the smallest and most remote of the national marine sanctuaries. Sanctuary borders extend from Steps Point, the southernmost point of the island, to Fagatele Point on the island's southwestern shore. Fagatele Bay embodies a fringing coral reef ecosystem with a terraced structure, which is typical of volcanic islands. The fringing coral reef contains nearly 200 species of coral, which provide shelter and habitat for a variety of marine life. It is the only true tropical reef in the sanctuary program. Facilities:The Sanctuary office is located in the village of Pago Pago. Although the staff does not sponsor or conduct diving or snorkeling tours, they will provide tour contact information for those interested in exploring the bay. Common Species: Many species of brightly-colored tropical fish, such as parrot fish and butterfly fish, octopus, giant clams, lobsters, crabs, and sharks. Environmental Issues: Illegal fish poaching with the use of dynamite, sewage outflow up-current of Fagatele Bay, rapid algal growth, and climate change. Habitats: Fringing coral reef. Access: Charter boats are available from Pago Pago Harbor for recreational diving and snorkeling trips. It is also possible to access the bay by foot. A trail runs north-south along the 200-foot-high Matautuloa Ridge. The trail opens up to a small sand beach.
Year Designated: 1986.
See other parks in American Samoa.