Discover a fresh perspective on this fascinating piece of South Pacific paradise, with opportunities to admire coastal views and rock formations, visit two museums and stop at an intriguing archaeological site.
Leone Town, the Ancient Capital of Tutuila
Depart the pier aboard your open-air, island-style bus and journey to the southwest side of the island and the town of Leone, the ancient capital of Tutuila. It was here that Samoa's first missionary, John Williams, landed in 1832. Honoring Williams's arrival and the work of the London Missionary Society is the Leone Missionary Monument, which stands in front of the town's Zion Church. Stop at the monument and then venture along the beautiful Leala coast to appreciate breathtaking island vistas.
Tauese Museum
Next, continue to the Tauese Museum, a small museum dedicated to the life and times of Tauese P.F. Sunia, the first popularly elected governor of American Samoa. Elected in 1997, he governed this South Pacific collection of isles until his death in 2003. The museum is housed in Sunia's former home and displays furnishings, photographs and other memorabilia.
Tia Seu Lupe Star Mounds
Enjoy a refreshing drink before heading towards the Tia Seu Lupe Star Mounds, named for their star-like shape. The Samoan name "tia seu lupe" means "earthen mound to catch pigeons." Indeed, for centuries, pigeon-snaring was a popular sport in Samoa, with Samoan chiefs using mounds such as these to practice netting their prized, feathered catch. A stop at the mounds offers a look at this interesting archaeological site, located near the Catholic cathedral in Tafuna.
Flowerpot Rock
Afterward, view another island wonder, Flowerpot Rock. This large rock rising from the waters of Pago Pago Harbor sports a bushy carpet of vegetation sprouting from its crown, giving the rock the appearance of a plant in an enormous flowerpot, thus giving it its name, Flowerpot Rock.
Jean P. Haydon Museum
Stop to photograph this unique natural sight and then begin to wrap up your excursion with your visit to the Jean P. Haydon Museum. Housed in a building constructed in 1919 and originally serving as a naval commissary store, the museum hosts a collection of Samoan artifacts, books, canoes, jewelry and handcrafts representing Samoan history and culture. Of particular note is a small American Samoa flag and three moonstones gifted to American Samoa by President Richard Nixon following the space explorations of one of the Apollo missions.
From the museum, a short walk brings you back to the pier.
