Alofa'aga blowholes, Samoa
S 13° 48.074 W 172° 31.465
2L E 335218 N 8473733
The Alofa’aga blowholes, also known as the Taga Blowholes, are one of the best examples of blowholes in the world.
Waymark Code: WMFW1T
Location: Samoa
Date Posted: 12/06/2012
Views: 5
Blowholes occur where there are weak joints in the rock on the coastline. Water crashes into the raised edge of rock, eroding away at the rock to form a cave. Further erosion sees the cave extend further inland. Under certain conditions it begins to rise and become a vertical shaft, eventually opening up to the surface – turning the cave into a tunnel.
Waves breaking against the seaward end of the tunnel send water up through the tunnel, creating fountains that spray air and water. Typically, the width of the tunnel, from the ocean entrance to the vertical exit, becomes narrower. This compresses the air and water entering the tunnel, forcing both out at high speed. The escaping air causes the loud "oomph", which is followed by the waterspout.
Note:Most of the land in Samoa is under customary ownership. Therefore the village charges a small admission (typically ST10) for entry to view the blowholes.
You may meet a local who offers to throw coconuts into the holes, which are blasted into the air. Please be upfront and let them know whether you wish to watch this spectacle, and if so, agree on a price beforehand.
Waymark is confirmed to be publicly accessible: yes
Parking Coordinates: S 13° 48.120 E 172° 31.182
Access fee (In local currency): 10.00
Requires a high clearance vehicle to visit.: no
Requires 4x4 vehicle to visit.: no
Public Transport available: Not Listed
Website reference: Not listed
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Visit Instructions:
No specific requirements, just have fun visiting the waymark.
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