Tourism in American Samoa

Explore notable sights and destinations in this country

Oceania / Oceania

Tourist attractions

National Park of American Samoa

Region: Tutuila Island, Ofu Island, Ta'u Island

Natural

Only U.S. national park near the equator, encompassing mountain rainforest, coral reefs, and scenic beaches.

Ofu Island Beach

Region: Ofu–Olosega Island

Natural

Turquoise shallow lagoon with white sand beach, known as a snorkeling paradise.

Mount Alava

Region: Tutuila Island

Natural

Viewpoint at 491m elevation overlooking Pago Pago Harbor and volcanic ridges. Rainforest trail with suspension bridge popular.

A.P. Lutali Government Building

Region: Utulei

Modern Architecture

Impressive blue-roofed territorial government building. Lobby exhibits tapa cloth and photos of past governors.

Blunts Point Battery Ruins

Region: Pago Pago Harbor

Historical Ruins

WWII-era 6-inch guns preserved in original form, accessible via Gun Hill Trail.

Tauese P.F. Sunia Ocean Center

Region: Pago Pago

Cultural Facility

National marine sanctuary visitor center. Coral reef ecology exhibits and children's hands-on corners.

Aunu'u Island

Region: Off Tutuila

Natural

Entirely protected small island. Red Sand Beach and freshwater marsh, accessible by boat day trip.

Jean P. Haydon Museum

Region: Fagatogo

Cultural Heritage

Museum utilizing 19th-century colonial architecture. Exhibits voyaging canoes, photographic materials, and historical documents.

Mount Matafao

Region: Tutuila Island

Natural

Island's highest peak (653m). Rare plant and fruit bat habitat popular with birdwatchers.

Rose Atoll Marine National Monument

Region: Southeastern territorial waters

Natural

Uninhabited atoll rarely visited. Diving permit required, but one of world's finest pristine coral ecosystems remains.

Swains Island

Region: Northwestern outlying island

Natural

Private island surrounded by atoll lagoon and coconut groves. Special permit required—a true frontier.

Sadie Thompson Inn

Region: Pago Pago

Cultural Heritage

Inn associated with writer Somerset Maugham. 1920s-era wooden architecture offering accommodations.

Suggested itineraries

Tutuila Island 3-Day Highlights

Duration (days): 3

Highlights: Pago Pago Harbor cruise, Mount Alava Trail, Haydon Museum, Fautasi boat experience

Short course efficiently covering nature, history, and food based in capital. Beginner-friendly using local buses and taxis.

Manu'a Islands 5-Day Eco Adventure

Duration (days): 5

Highlights: Ofu Island beach snorkeling, Ta'u Island Shia Saka mountain trekking, Traditional village homestay

Travel to Manu'a by domestic flight and small boat to experience untouched nature and Samoan culture. Stargazing at night.

Culture and Food 7-Day Leisurely Tour

Duration (days): 7

Highlights: Ava ceremony observation, Taro digging farm experience, Tisa's Tattoo Festival participation, Spa and local cooking class

Stay in village immersed in fa'asamoa lifestyle rhythm while enjoying sea and mountains—slow travel plan.

Travel tips

  • As U.S. territory, entry follows U.S. visa system not ESTA; passport validity 6+ months recommended.
  • Cash is U.S. dollars. Credit card acceptance limited outside major hotels; prepare small bills.
  • Public 'aiga bus' service ends around 6 PM. Arrange taxis for evening travel.
  • Rainy season (Nov–April) brings frequent squalls; carry rain jacket and waterproof bag.
  • Strong sun and mosquitoes require SPF50+ sunscreen and DEET insect repellent at all times.
  • Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect coral and avoid restricted areas.
  • Village church bells ring morning and evening; road traffic may be restricted during worship times.
  • Drone photography prohibited in national park areas and within 5km radius of airfield. Obtain village chief permission elsewhere.
  • Emergency number is 911 for both police and ambulance. Main hospital is LBJ Trauma Hospital.
  • Tipping culture not strong, but 10% at restaurants, $1–2 per bag at hotels is customary.
  • Bottled water recommended for drinking. Boil village spring water if used.
  • Hurricane season (Dec–March) requires checking U.S. National Weather Service alerts before travel.

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