Fagaloa Bay

Fagaloa Bay is located on the north eastern coast of Upolu island in Samoa. The area is a significant region of conservation and culture. The bay is situated within the political district of Va'a-o-Fonoti.

John LaFarge, Portrait of Faase, the Taupou of the Fagaloa Bay (1881)

Satellite photo, east side of Upolu with Fagaloa Bay on the north coast. (NASA photo).

Geography

The geographic area consists of a mountain formation rising out of the sea. At the base of the bay lies the village Ta'elefaga at the mouth of the Malata river. To the east above the villages of Lona and Uafato are several waterfalls by mountain forests. On the western side is Mount Fao with spurs dissolving seaward into cliffs called Utuloa. Further east lies Uafato Bay at the eastern base of Malata river which displays spectacular landscape of lush rainforest and waterfalls.

History

The distinctive features of the Fagaloa area portrays some of the most interesting myths and legends in Samoan mythology which are considered invaluable and relevant to the peoples' cultural lifestyle.

During the war against Samalaulu for the Kingship of Samoa, Fonoti defeated Samaluulu and was made King of Samoa and ruled from his residence at Falefa. In return for the services rendered, King Fonoti granted Ulualofaiga rulership over the Fagaloa District as well as giving Ulualofaiga the village of Amanave in Tutuila. Among the many titles the King gave to those who helped him defeat Samalaulu's forces, he also gave Faleapuna and Fagaloa the title Vaa-o-fonoti in recognition of their skilled naval fleets who defeated Aiga i Le Tai at sea. These titles distinguishes the Districts down to the present day.