Nuʻutele Island

Uninhabited Samoan volcanic island, dramatic cliffs and reefs

An uninhabited volcanic islet off Samoa's eastern coast, part of the Aleipata group. Boat trips bring snorkelers and wildlife watchers to its surrounding coral reefs and seabird colonies.

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Nuʻutele at a Glance#

About Nuʻutele#

Nubutele is a small, uninhabited islet off the east coast of Upolu in Samoa, one of the Aleipata Islands. The islet is formed from volcanic tuff and is noted for its steep coastal cliffs and natural vegetation.

A rugged nearshore environment popular for boat excursions from Upolu that include snorkeling and close-up views of seabird colonies. The shoreline and coral reefs attract fishers and day-trip visitors rather than permanent residents.

The islet has been uninhabited in modern times and is primarily valued for its natural features and wildlife rather than historical settlement. Local authorities and conservation groups recognize the Aleipata islets for their ecological importance.

Located off the eastern coast of Upolu in Samoa, Nubutele sits among a small chain of offshore islets visible from the main island; access is by small boat from coastal villages on Upolu.

  • Access and geology: Uninhabited and formed from volcanic tuff, it is commonly visited on day trips from the east coast of Upolu for snorkeling and wildlife viewing.
  • Wildlife: Important seabird habitat and part of local conservation efforts, with landing and visitor access typically arranged by boat operators from Upolu.

How to Get to Nuʻutele#

Nu’utele is reached by boat from Upolu (commonly from Lalomanu or nearby harbors). Local tour operators and village boatmen run day trips; sea conditions can determine whether landings are possible.

Tips for Visiting Nuʻutele#

  • Bring binoculars: the islet's cliffs and surrounding reef are bird magnets and marine life is often visible in clear water.
  • Respect local customs and restrictions-many small islets in Samoa are traditional spaces with no-camping rules.

Best Time to Visit Nuʻutele#

Best visited in the dry season (May-October) for predictable weather and safer sea crossings.

Dry season
May-October · 24-28°C (75-82°F)
Calmer seas and clearer skies; best for small-boat landings.
Wet season
November-April · 25-30°C (77-86°F)
Warmer with more rain-some days are stormy and boat transfers can be cancelled.

Weather & Climate near Nuʻutele#

Climate

Tropical climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 23°C to 30°C. Heavy rainfall (3207 mm/year), wettest in January.

Air Quality: AQI 12 Good
Temperature & Rainfall
Temperature Range
30°
Warmest Month
23°
Coldest Month
Monthly Conditions
Month Comfort Temp Feels Rain Sky Humidity Wind UV Daylight
January - 24° - 30° 27° 461 mm - - 3.2 m/s - -
February - 24° - 30° 27° 370 mm - - 3.2 m/s - -
March - 24° - 30° 27° 344 mm - - 3.0 m/s - -
April - 24° - 30° 27° 228 mm - - 3.0 m/s - -
May - 24° - 29° 27° 181 mm - - 3.2 m/s - -
June - 24° - 29° 26° 163 mm - - 3.6 m/s - -
July - 23° - 28° 26° 138 mm - - 3.8 m/s - -
August - 23° - 28° 26° 148 mm - - 3.9 m/s - -
September - 23° - 28° 26° 178 mm - - 3.9 m/s - -
October - 24° - 29° 26° 273 mm - - 3.7 m/s - -
November - 24° - 29° 26° 275 mm - - 3.2 m/s - -
December - 24° - 30° 27° 448 mm - - 3.3 m/s - -

Nearby Attractions to Nuʻutele#