Ofu Beach Sea Temperature Today

Beaches

Ofu Beach runs for several kilometres along the island's south shore, protected by a fringing reef with a shallow lagoon between the reef crest and the sand. The national park recommends snorkelling at mid-tide; there are no lifeguards or facilities, currents can be strong near the reef edge and in the channel by the bridge to Olosega, so ask locally about conditions, and reef shoes help on the coral rubble. The sea temperature on this page is measured in the lagoon off Ofu Beach.

Things to do

Snorkelling in the lagoon shows corals, giant clams and reef fish, and scientists study the corals in Ofu's back-reef pools because they survive unusually warm water. A bridge connects Ofu with the neighbouring island of Olosega, and walks lead along the coast road and into the forest. In the villages, life follows fa'a Samoa, the Samoan way: Sunday is a quiet day of church and rest, visitors dress modestly, and it is polite to ask before using a village beach. Leave coral and shells in place; traditional subsistence fishing is permitted only under specific park and village rules.

Weather and best time to visit

At Ofu Beach the sea stays above 27 °C / 81 °F all year, even in the coolest month.

Ofu is warm and humid all year. Rain is generally heavier in the southern summer, which includes the tropical cyclone season, while June to September is usually cooler and relatively drier, with south-east trade winds. Showers can come at any time of year, and the sun is strong, so shade and water are important on a beach without facilities.

Hotels and where to stay

Accommodation on Ofu is very limited, with one small lodge near the airstrip, so arrange lodging in advance and confirm any homestay directly. The island has only small shops, so bring essential supplies from Tutuila, and you may need to stay on Tutuila between connections.

Airport and getting there

Pago Pago International Airport (PPG) on Tutuila is reached via Honolulu or Samoa; check current schedules and the departure airport in Samoa. From Tutuila, small planes fly to Ofu's airstrip, next to the beach, and a government ferry sails to Manu'a, but both run infrequently and schedules change, so confirm your connection before booking. American Samoa has its own entry rules, separate from the rest of the United States; check them before travelling.