Nu'uuli, American Samoa

Nu'uuli Pala is Tutuila Island’s largest mangrove swamp. It borders nearly all of Pala Lagoon’s shoreline. The pala has been designated a special management area in recognition of its size and significance to wildlife and fish habitat. It is the largest and also the most threatened wetland in American Samoa; 33 percent of the mangrove swamp has been converted to dry land since 1961.[5]

The wetland, excluding the open water of the lagoon, covers 123 acres of mangrove forest and swamp. The majority of the swamp is covered with red mangrove and oriental mangrove. Several areas of other freshwater marsh vegetation are interspersed with the mangroves. A small area of saltwater marsh borders the end of Coconut Point. The wetland is an important wildlife and fish habitat, and also provides recreational opportunities as canoeing and fishing. Nu'uuli Pala has been designated a Special Management Area under the American Samoa Coastal Management Act of 1990.[6][7]

Rare species found here include Xylocarpus moluccensis (le’ile’i) and the uncommon shrub Sophora tomentosa, which is also reported on Aunu'u.[8] Nu’uuli Pala is a common feeding site for the Reef Heron (matu’u), a bird species which usually feeds on the coral reefs.[9]

Nu’uuli Falls is a 65-feet secluded cascade with a swimming hole beneath. To get here, turn left at Nu’uuli Family Mart when coming from the west. Follow this road veering left at the pig farm. Enter the trailhead and follow the hiking trail for about 15 minutes. Veer left at the first trail juncture, and follow until the trail reaches the stream.[10] Nu’uuli Falls is made up of seven individual waterfalls.[11]