A Self-Guided Day Trip on Pago Pago & Tutuila: East Coast Itinerary

Distance: 9 mi (14.5 km), Drive time: 30 minutes.

Starting Point: National Park Visitor Centre

Begin your journey at the National Park of American Samoa Visitor Centre, where you'll discover fascinating exhibitions and can grab that coveted national park stamp for your collection. While Pago Pago is technically a small village, the name encompasses the entire town area, making this visitor centre your perfect launching pad.

Historical Discoveries Along the Harbour

From the visitor centre, head east and follow the innermost curve of Pago Pago Harbour. About 1.2 mi (2 km) along your route, you'll find Satala Cemetery, a peaceful resting place for early colonial settlers that offers a glimpse into the island's past.

For a deeper dive into the area's rich history, we recommend checking out our 15 Best Historical Sites in American Samoa guide.

Through the Industrial Heart

Next, you'll drive past American Samoa's industrial powerhouse—the StarKist Tuna Cannery (you might want to hold your breath here!). Keep an eye out for the quirky sculpture of Charlie the Tuna, a fun photo opportunity that perfectly captures the island's industrial heritage.

Once you've escaped this surreal industrial zone, you'll pass several Filipino and Korean eateries like 'Ai Love Boba and Moon. These are some of your last dining opportunities before heading further east, so consider grabbing a bite if you're feeling peckish.

Aua Village and Harbour Adventures

The next major village you'll encounter is Aua, complete with its own picturesque bay. Just after crossing the road bridge, look for Adventures Unlimited on your right—this is where you can hire those wonderfully wacky pedal bikes to explore the harbour.

We're big fans of this unique way to spot sea turtles, and you can even bring your own snorkelling gear to explore some nearby reefs. It's a delightfully different perspective of the area that most visitors miss.

The Scenic Afono Pass

Follow the National Park of American Samoa sign that points inland to tackle the Afono Pass. About 1.2 mi (2 km) up this winding road, you'll find a lookout parking area nestled right beneath Mt Pioa (also known as Rainmaker Mountain).

This spot offers absolutely stunning photo opportunities of Pago Pago Harbour spread out below—trust us, you'll want to linger here for a while.

Exploring the National Park's Northern Coast

Once you've crossed the pass, you'll emerge in Afono, where the road continues along the spectacular north coast within the lush boundaries of the National Park. You can't miss the roadside parking and traditional fale at Pola Island Lookout.

Here, you can read interpretation panels, admire the Pola Islands from afar, and choose your adventure. The 30-minute Lower Sauma Ridge Trail leads to fascinating tidal pools, whilst the Mt Alava Adventure Trail starts from the Upper Sauma Ridge Trail across the road (though this is a full-day commitment).

Vatia Village and Trail Options

Continue as the road winds down towards Vatia Village. At the northern end of the village, behind an extravagant red building, you'll find the Tuafanua Trail: a challenging 2.2 mi (3.5 km) trek that rewards hikers with access to a secluded beach.

Most visitors, however, carry on to the end of the Vatia road to experience the Pola Island Trail. This short walk takes you beneath an impressive volcanic sill that's absolutely breathtaking in its scale and geological significance.

For comprehensive details about all these trails and more hiking options, explore our 10 Best Walks & Hikes in American Samoa National Park guide.

Distance: 14 mi (22 km), Drive time: 45 minutes.

Return to Pago Pago Harbour

Once you've had your fill of the National Park, it's time to leave Vatia and make your way back over the Afono Pass towards Pago Pago harbour. You'll be heading south along the South Pacific's largest natural harbour to continue your east coast adventure.

Lafiga Point Scenic Stop

Your next worthy stop is a small roadside parking area at Lafiga Point, which offers stunning views across the picturesque island of Aumi village. Don't miss continuing to the other end of the village where you'll find another, larger roadside parking area.

From here, look back across Aumi to spot the islet known as Camel Rock – we're sure you'll see why it earned this name!

Alega Bay and Tisa's Barefoot Bar

The next bay along your route is Alega Bay, home to the private beach of Tisa's Barefoot Bar. We highly recommend booking ahead for a day pass that includes a guided snorkel of the marine reserve here, plus lunch at the bar overlooking the bay.

It's one of those experiences that combines great food with incredible underwater adventures.

Avaio Village and Lua Tala Beach

The next village over is Avaio, home to Lua Tala Beach, which translates to "Two Dollar Beach". Ironically, this more affordable swimming spot now costs US$5, but it's still great value for a refreshing dip.

Hidden Gem: Sa'ilele Village

For an alternative swimming spot that's a real hidden gem, take the road over the pass at Faga'itua. Keep right over the pass and you'll descend into Sa'ilele village, where the road transforms into what looks like a sandy coconut boulevard.

Park up and ask permission to swim if there are locals around. Otherwise, enjoy some peaceful beachcombing at this hidden paradise – it's one of those spots that feels like your own private slice of American Samoa.

Learn more about the beaches mentioned in our 10 Best Beaches in American Samoa guide.

Distance: 9 mi (14.5 km), Drive time: 25 minutes.

Return Journey and Island Adventure

After exploring Sa'ilele, make your way back over the mountain pass and continue heading east—your adventure is far from over!

If it's still morning, we highly recommend hopping on an alia boat from 'Auasi to Aunu'u Island. This car-free paradise is absolutely delightful to explore on foot, with a trail that winds around the entire island.

You'll discover some truly unique natural sites, including two stunning lakes, fascinating quicksand formations, and the picturesque Sina & Tigilau Cove. The waters around the island are also perfect for snorkelling—something we've experienced ourselves and can't recommend enough.

Allow three to five hours for this island excursion. If time doesn't permit today, make a note to return later—it's well worth the visit.

Lunch Stop at Dr Vaasa's Hideaway

Continue to the village of Utumea East, where you'll spot a charming blue building on the coastal side. This is Dr Vaasa's Hideaway, a ridiculously cute café that we have a real soft spot for.

The menu features both Samoan specialities and Western favourites, but don't miss their panipopo buns—they're absolutely divine. You can choose to dine on the deck with ocean views or inside in air-conditioned comfort.

As a paying customer, you're welcome to take a dip at their private beach. If you're not quite ready for lunch, remember this spot for your return journey—it makes a perfect pit stop.

Final Stop: Tula Observatory

Your final destination is the Tula Observatory. Drive through Tula village and look for the sealed road on your right that winds uphill—follow it all the way to the end.

According to the signage, you can arrange guided tours in advance (there's a phone number to call). However, most visitors are perfectly happy exploring independently.

The hibiscus gardens are lovely to wander through, but the real treasure lies at the back of the property. Look for the wooden steps that lead down to the easternmost point of the island—it's an absolutely spectacular spot with panoramic views stretching in all directions.

The Pacific Ocean spreads endlessly before you, creating one of those moments that makes travel so rewarding. Just remember, what goes down must come up—you'll have 179 steps to climb on your return journey!

Journey's End

Once you've soaked in those incredible views, retrace your route back the way you came to complete your east coast itinerary. It's been quite the adventure, hasn't it?