Fanuatapu, Desert island near Upolu, Samoa.
Fanuatapu is a small volcanic tuff ring island located off the eastern coast of Upolu, formed from volcanic material with a rocky shoreline. The island has limited land area and sits surrounded by clear water suitable for snorkeling and marine exploration.
The island forms part of the Aleipata Islands, which French explorer Bougainville named as part of the Navigator Islands in the late 1700s. This island group was historically known by this European name before later becoming incorporated into the modern Samoan archipelago designations.
The island stands as an element of the Samoan archipelago, where the indigenous population maintains strong connections to fa'a Samoa traditions and fa'amatai governance.
Visitors need to take a boat from Upolu to reach the island, which is typically arranged through local boat operators in the area. The best conditions for snorkeling and exploring occur when the water is calm and underwater visibility is good.
The island houses an automated lighthouse system that guides ships through these waters despite having no permanent residents. This automated facility allows the island to serve mariners without requiring any human occupants.
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