By Arianne Torres and Alfred Acenas
Eagle News Service

PAGO PAGO (Eagle News) – Located on the coastal side of Samoa’s Upolu Island in the village of Lotofaga is the To Sua Ocean Trench.

To Sua, which literally means “giant swimming hole,” measures around 100 feet (30 meters) deep and is accessible via a ladder where a long platform sits for easy access to the crystal-clear pool.

Further inside is a cave that leads to the open ocean. Only skilled divers, however, are recommended there due to the undercurrents.

Overlooking the ocean is a small beach known as Fagaoneone meaning “white sand.” Opposite the beach is a lava field with blowholes, mini pools and ideal fishing spots.

According to many tourists and even residents, To Sua is an absolute must-see place when visiting Independent Samoa.

For those planning to travel to the South Pacific nation between mid-September and November, they may be fortunate enough to spot some whales nearby.

(Eagle News Service)