In modern times, the main centre is Mulifanua where the inter-island ferry terminal is located for ocean crossings between Savai'i and Upolu.

Historically, the naval power of Manono and Apolima played a major role in political power-struggles between the national clans.

[3] Today, the ferry terminal at Mulifanua, situated on the northwest coast of Upolu, is the second-most important port on the island, after the busiest harbour in the capital Apia.

Archaeology in Samoa has uncovered pre-historic Lapita pottery sherds and adzes at Mulifanua, discovered during expansion work on the wharf in 1973.

The oldest date so far from pre-historic remains at Mulifanua has been calculated by New Zealand scientists to a likely true age of circa 3,000 BP (Before Present).