Rugged coastline

Take a paddle on the wild side

Rocky coast line near Tafua village, Savai'i  

A lava flow that occured about 5 000 years ago on the Tafua peninsula south coast of Savai'i has created a rugged coastline with dramatic scenery. Blow holes are common along this type of coastline. 

Most of the Samoan coastline is protected by coral reef even though much of it is exposed to the forces of the ocean swells. The most recent lava eruptions occurred on Savai'i where a barrier reef has not yet developed and long stretches of the coastline are exposed to the ocean swells. 

Upolu island has an older geology than Savai'i although this only counts for the surface geology and it's unknown which of the islands emerged first. The norheast coastline of Upolu island is generally steeper than other parts of Samoa whereas the mountains on Savai'i are more gently sloping but reach higher altitudes at the centre of the island.

More rocky coast: Click on pictures