The Alofaaga Blowholes, also known as the Taga Blowholes, are one of the most spectacular and powerful natural attractions in Samoa. Located on the rugged southwestern coast of Savai’i island, this dramatic coastline is a testament to the island’s volcanic origins. Here, ancient lava tubes created by past volcanic eruptions act as natural conduits. When ocean swells surge into these tubes, immense pressure builds, forcing massive jets of seawater to erupt high into the air with a thunderous roar. The spectacle is a raw and impressive display of nature’s power.

Name and Address

• Name: Alofaaga Blowholes (also known as Taga Blowholes).
• Address: Located in the village of Taga, in the district of Palauli, on the southwestern coast of the island of Savai’i, Samoa.

How to Get There

The blowholes are a major attraction on Savai’i and are easily accessible from the main coastal road.

• By Car/Taxi (Recommended): This is the most convenient way to visit. From the Salelologa ferry terminal, the drive takes approximately 45-60 minutes. The turn-off from the main South Coast Road is clearly signposted. A small entrance fee (tala) is collected by the local village at the entrance to the site.
• Guided Tours: The blowholes are a highlight of nearly every full-day tour of Savai’i island, which can be arranged from either Savai’i or as a day trip from Upolu.
• Visitor Tip: The blowholes are most impressive during high tide when the ocean swell is stronger, resulting in higher and more powerful eruptions of water. Be sure to follow the instructions of the local guides and stay a safe distance from the blowholes, as the force is powerful and the surrounding lava rock is sharp and uneven.

Landscape and Ecosystem

The landscape is a rugged, windswept coastline composed of black, volcanic rock.

• Lava Field Coastline: The entire area is a flat, expansive field of black, jagged volcanic rock that meets the powerful waves of the Pacific Ocean. This stark, dramatic landscape was formed by ancient lava flows that cooled as they reached the sea.
• Lava Tubes: The key geological feature is the network of underground lava tubes that run from the ocean’s edge inland. These tubes were created when the outer surface of a lava flow cooled and solidified while molten lava continued to flow through the center, eventually draining out to leave a hollow tunnel.
• Powerful Blowholes: When waves crash into the submerged openings of these tubes, water is funneled through the narrow passages at high speed. When it finds a vertical opening to the surface, the compressed water and air explode upwards in a spectacular geyser-like jet.

What Makes It Famous

The Alofaaga Blowholes are famous for the sheer power and impressive scale of their eruptions.

• The “Coconut Test”: The most famous feature of a visit is the demonstration performed by the local guides. They will throw coconuts into the blowholes just before they erupt. The immense pressure then launches the coconuts high into the air like cannonballs, showcasing the incredible force of the water.
• A Powerful Display of Nature: Unlike a gentle waterfall or a calm beach, the blowholes are a raw, loud, and thrilling display of the ocean’s power. The thunderous roar and the high-pressure jets of water are an unforgettable sensory experience.
• Dramatic Scenery: The contrast between the black volcanic rock, the white spray of the blowholes, and the deep blue of the Pacific Ocean creates a dramatic and highly photogenic landscape.

Differences from Other Wonders

The Alofaaga Blowholes offer a unique experience that is very different from Samoa’s other natural attractions.

• A Display of Force vs. Serenity: The experience at the blowholes is about witnessing raw, explosive power. This is a complete contrast to the serene tranquility of a swimming spot like Piula Cave Pool or the idyllic beauty of Lalomanu Beach.
• Coastal Geology vs. Inland Nature: While both the blowholes and the Afu Aau Waterfall are natural wonders, the blowholes are a coastal, marine, and geological phenomenon. Afu Aau is a freshwater, inland, jungle oasis. They showcase two completely different sides of Savai’i’s natural environment.
• Interactive Demonstration vs. Passive Viewing: The famous “coconut test” makes a visit to the blowholes an interactive and engaging demonstration, guided by locals. This is different from the purely observational experience of a distant landmark like Papapapaitai Falls.
• A Thrill of Danger: The sharp lava rock and the unpredictable, powerful jets of water give the blowholes an element of thrilling danger that is not present at Samoa’s more placid swimming holes and beaches.