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

Distance: 2.8 mi (4.5 km), Drive time: 8 minutes.

Starting Point: National Park Visitor Centre

Pago Pago might technically be just a small village, but locals use the name to refer to the entire town area.

We recommend starting your exploration at the National Park of American Samoa Visitor Centre, it's the perfect place to get your bearings, check out fascinating exhibitions and snag that all-important national park stamp.

Historical Sites and Local Markets

Head west along the main road for about 547 yards (500 m) and you'll spot the historic Sadie Thompson Inn.

Keep going another 219 yards (200 m) to reach Fagatogo Market, where you can mingle with friendly locals and soak up the authentic atmosphere.

Don't miss the magnificent pe'a tree just across the road. Around the back of Fagatogo Market, you'll find the Fish Market, and we're big fans of the fresh seafood here (the poke nachos are particularly delicious).

Government Buildings and Cultural Sites

Continue east and you'll come across the High Court, impressively housed within a historic courthouse. The expansive green space you see is Malae O Le Talu, the community meeting grounds.

Also in the area is where you'll find The Fono, both the old and new legislative buildings, where American Samoa's government conducts its business.

Museums and Historical Attractions

A short stroll further east brings you to the Jean P. Haydon Museum, housed in a charming old naval building. We love exploring the collection of artefacts, modern artwork and traditional seafaring canoes.

Look up and you'll see the impressive Governor's Mansion. While the building itself is off-limits to visitors, you can walk up the garden steps below to enjoy lovely views from the pavilion.

For more information about the historical attractions, check out the 15 Best Historical Sites in American Samoa.

Coastal Walk and Dining

Continue around the corner to Sadie's By The Sea, where you'll find the Goat Island Café open to the public, which is a brilliant spot for breakfast or a relaxing drink by the beach.

From here, you'll love the lovely stroll along Utulei Park with its traditional fales.

Blunts Point Trail

From Utulei Park, continue for around 820 yards (750 m) until you spot a sign pointing inland to the Blunts Point Trail. It's a 10-15 minute walk uphill that leads you to two fascinating gun encampments. The views from up there alone are well worth the effort!

Faga'alu Falls Adventure

After exploring Blunts Point, continue south to Faga'alu where adventurous travellers can try their luck at finding the stunning Faga'alu Falls.

Turn up the road to the hospital and follow it all the way to the end, then head on foot across the quarry to reach the waterfall.

It's a bit of a treasure hunt, but the reward of discovering this hidden gem makes it all worthwhile.

We have more directions in the 10 Best Swimming Spots in American Samoa.

Distance: 8 mi (13 km), Drive time: 25 minutes.

Fatumafuti Beach and Flower Pot Rocks

After exploring Faga'alu, you'll want to continue your coastal adventure just 0.6 mi (1 km) south to Fatumafuti Beach. This stunning stretch of coastline is home to the iconic Flower Pot Rocks, two dramatic towering islets that rise from the turquoise waters just offshore.

We personally love paddling along the shoreline here, where you can get up close to these natural sculptures. The calm waters make it perfect for a leisurely swim or snorkel session.

Scenic Coastal Drive to Nu'uuli

From Fatumafuti, you'll embark on one of American Samoa's most picturesque coastal drives. The impressive sea walls along this stretch protect the road from the powerful Pacific waves that crash dramatically against the shore.

After about 3 mi (5 km), you'll arrive in Nu'uuli, where you'll spot the clearly signposted turn-off for Nu'uuli Falls. Don't miss this detour; it's one of our favourite hidden gems on the island.

Nu'uuli Falls Adventure

Follow the road all the way to its end for a delightful 15-minute bush walk to Nu'uuli Falls. The journey is half the fun with several stream crossings that'll have you hopping from rock to rock.

For detailed walking directions and what to expect, check out our 10 Best Swimming Spots in American Samoa guide.

Nu'uuli Shopping and Dining

Nu'uuli has evolved into quite the local hub, with an impressive collection of shops and eateries that'll tempt your taste buds. Check out ChEAT Day, where their "Koko Samoa" brownies are absolutely divine.

If you're after something refreshing, See U serves up irresistible egg waffle cones filled with creamy ice cream, ideal for cooling down after your waterfall adventure.

Airport Route and Lions Park

Once you pass Laufou Shopping Center (the one with Carl's Jr), take the first left towards the airport. This route takes you past Lions Park, where locals gather for tennis matches on the well-maintained courts.

Feeling hungry? Vila's Snack Bar serves up surprisingly authentic Mexican food, or if you fancy a swim instead, the Pala Lagoon Swim Center offers a refreshing dip in their pool.

Tafuna War Memorial and Historical Sites

As you round the corner, you'll be struck by the imposing War Memorial standing proudly across the green. Take the first right and park by the Office of Veterans Affairs; this is your gateway to some fascinating World War II history.

Behind the building, you'll discover remnants of the past: a concrete pill box and the original WW2 Tafuna Area Control Tower. There's a lot to explore here, from underground bunkers to foundations of the area control tower.

Tia Seu Lupe Star Mound

History buffs, you're in for a treat! Tia Seu Lupe in Tafuna is home to one of American Samoa's most remarkable ancient star mounds, which is a fascinating window into pre-European Polynesian culture.

To reach this archaeological treasure, take Route 014 south past the Veterans Memorial Stadium and Cost U Less. (If you're feeling peckish, A&E Café here does excellent coffee and snacks.) Continue towards the Tradewinds Hotel, take the first right after the hotel, then turn left at the Latter Day Saints Temple. Follow the road to its very end to reach the star mound.

Cathedral of the Holy Family

Whilst you're exploring Tafuna, the Cathedral of the Holy Family is well worth a visit. This impressive structure showcases beautiful architecture, and you're welcome to step inside and admire the peaceful interior.

Distance: 8.4 mi (13.5 km), Drive time: 30 minutes.

From Tia Seu Lupe to Turtle and Shark Site

From Tia Seu Lupe, you'll want to head south back onto the main Tafuna road and cruise west towards the golf course. Keep your eyes peeled for the first turn-off towards Vaitogi – it's easy to miss if you're not watching for it.

Once you hit the intersection at Route 010, head south towards the coast. You'll know you're on the right track when you spot a green area dotted with some graves.

Take the fork to the right and follow the coastal route. You'll pass a Rotary plaque along the way – keep your eyes open for a fascinating piece of history as you look out over the coast for a WWII pillbox before reaching the car park.

Here's where it gets exciting: you'll find yourself at a long boardwalk that stretches out over the rocks. This is the Turtle and Shark Site, and trust us, it's absolutely worth the visit.

The site is steeped in local legend (the interpretation panels will fill you in on all the details), and the views are simply stunning. We love watching the waves crash against the rocks here.

Journey to Fagatele Bay

Back on the road, you'll follow Route 010 all the way north, then merge onto Route 014 before connecting to Route 001 in Futiga. It's a straightforward drive, but keep an eye out for road signs.

You'll want to watch for the signpost indicating Fagatele Bay – this is your next destination. If you're travelling during trade wind season (October to May) and you want to snorkel, visit the bay in the morning; otherwise, it's worth a look and the short hike down on the way back. This famous marine reserve offers excellent underwater experiences when conditions are right.

Le'ala Shoreline Exploration

From Futiga, you'll drive for about 0.6 mi (1 km) before turning left onto Route 003 towards Taputimu. Keep an eye out for the car park for Le'ala Shoreline in a grassy area just before you reach the shore (if you spot a chain fence with a "no swimming Sunday" sign, you've gone a bit too far!).

At the shoreline, which happens to be a National Natural Landmark, take a leisurely 30-minute walk along the coast and you'll discover some absolutely stunning tidal pools that are perfect for a closer look at marine life.

Scenic Coastal Route to Leone

Back on the road, we recommend continuing along the coastline for what's truly one of the most scenic drives on the island. You'll pass the Korean Fishermen's Cemetery and then drive through the beautifully maintained village of Vailoatai with its well-kept gardens.

The road eventually connects with the end of Route 001 in Leone, but don't miss stopping at the Leone EFKAS Church first (you can't miss it with its distinctive yellow trim). This is actually the oldest church in American Samoa, and you'll also find the John Williams Memorial here, which is well worth a visit.

Distance: 5 mi (8 km), Drive time: 15 minutes.

Leone Healing Garden and Grinding Stone

From Leone EFKAS Church, head west along the main coastal road. Just a few metres down, you'll spot the Healing Garden memorial, which is a moving tribute to those who lost their lives in the 2009 tsunami.

As you reach the western end of the village, keep your eyes peeled for a grinding stone just off the road bridge, followed by what looks like a pill box tucked away in someone's driveway (a fascinating reminder of the island's wartime history).

Scenic Coastal Drive

Here's where things get absolutely spectacular. The road transforms into one of the most scenic drives you'll experience, winding along dramatic coastline with sparkling islands on one side and lush, bush-clad cliffs rising on the other.

You'll pass through villages where each church seems to outdo the last in magnificence.

Afao Village and Historical Site

In the charming village of Afao, watch for a signpost that leads up a short gravel road. You'll cross over a small ford before reaching the historical Alataua-Lua Elementary School, a glimpse into the island's educational heritage that's well worth the brief detour.

Learn more about its significance in the 15 Best Historical Sites in American Samoa.

Brown Sand Beach and Villages

The beach in the next bay is unique with its brown sand. Here are also the villages of Nua and Utumea West.

There are some more rocky points to admire as you round the winding roads, like Leisi Point and Utusiva Rock. Keep an eye on the cliffs where you usually also see waterfalls.

'Amanave Village and Beach

Finally, you'll touch down into 'Amanave with one of the nicest beaches on the drive. There is a village shop here if you want supplies, and if it is low tide, take the hike along the coast to Palagi beach - see 10 Best Beaches in American Samoa. You're also facing Cape Taputapu, another National Natural Landmark.

Before turning around, head a little further up the mountain pass road to reach an awesome lookout across 'Amanave - the best photo spot on the drive.

Return Journey

Return the same way, hitting the spots you might have missed on the way here.