10 Best Places to Visit in American Samoa

The capital of American Samoa is a bit of a geographical puzzle, but don't let that put you off. Technically, Pago Pago is just one village tucked into the innermost part of Pago Pago Harbor, but locals (and most visitors) use the name to describe the entire urban area encompassing Pago Pago, Fagatogo and Utulei.

What makes this place truly special is its stunning natural harbour—the largest in the South Pacific, no less. You can explore it by kayak, SUP or waterbike, though the views from above are equally spectacular (the Aerial Tramway Site offers some of the best vantage points we've experienced).

History buffs will love wandering through the colonial-era heritage buildings scattered throughout town. The Courthouse and Jean P. Haydon Museum are particular highlights, whilst the Blunts Point Battery offers something quite unique: two perfectly preserved World War II cannons that you can actually get up close to.

From what we've personally experienced, Pago Pago delivers that perfect combination of natural beauty and fascinating history that makes it absolutely worth your time. It's earned its spot as one of American Samoa's must-visit destinations for good reason.

Here's something that might surprise you: when you visit the National Park of American Samoa, you're actually exploring three different islands! The park stretches across the central northern coast of Tutuila, the southern beach of Ofu and the southern coast of Ta'ū (we'll dive into the Manu'a islands later).

On Tutuila, the main island, you've got two ways to access the park. You can head through Fagasa Pass just behind Pago Pago, or venture a bit further out to Vatia over the Afono Pass.

We personally love the Afono Pass route. You'll soak in the stunning viewpoints overlooking Pola Island, and it gives you access to some brilliantly easy trails like the Lower Sauma Ridge and Pola Island Trail. This route also leads to the Mt 'Alava Adventure Trail, which we can't get enough of. Fair warning though: you'll find yourself clambering up all sorts of ropes and ladders (they call it Adventure Trail for a reason!).

Don't miss the National Park of American Samoa Visitor Centre – it's genuinely worth a visit as it's like stepping into a fascinating museum.

For the complete lowdown on all the trails, check out our 10 Best Walks & Hikes in American Samoa National Park.

Just a 10-minute boat ride from Tutuila's shore, Aunu'u Island is practically calling your name. This little gem has one village, zero cars and a wealth of natural wonders that'll leave you speechless.

From two stunning lakes to patches of quicksand (yes, really!), this island packs quite the punch. We personally love joining guided tours with Samriel Aunu'u Island Getaway, as they really know how to bring the place to life.

You'll get to meet friendly villagers and hear the captivating legends of Sina and Tigilau, plus discover the island's dramatic cove. Don't miss the snorkelling either; the island is surrounded by a marine reserve that's absolutely teeming with life.

For the full scoop, check out The Complete Guide to Aunu'u Island: Things to Do, How to Get There & More LINK#D008.

If you thought Tutuila was stunning, wait until you see Ofu-Olosega. These bridge-connected islands have dramatic jungle-clad peaks that plunge onto white sands, sloping into turquoise lagoons. It's perfect in every way.

What's more, hardly anyone visits and the population is so small that you rarely meet cars on the roads. With that, you have whole beaches to yourself! You can even drive practically on the runway—how laidback is that?!

According to our very own editor-in-chief, Laura, "It's one of our favourite places in the world". So get there now before others discover it.

Learn more about Ofu and Olosega in The Complete Travel Guide to the Manu'a Islands.

The other island in the Manu'a Islands, Ta'ū is where history comes alive in the most spectacular way.

This rugged beauty, whose entire southern coast forms a massive volcanic caldera, holds some of the most significant moments in Samoan history. It's where the last tui (kings) of the Samoan Islands formally ceded their power to the United States, marking the end of an era.

But the island's story goes back much, much further. As you explore the national park hiking trails, you'll discover fascinating remnants of long-forgotten villages: ancient stone wells and grinding stones that tell tales of communities that thrived here centuries ago.

According to Polynesian legend, this is where it all began. Ta'ū is believed to be the birthplace of human life itself, created under the watchful eye of the god Tagaloa.

We're absolutely captivated by this place. The combination of dramatic landscapes, deep cultural significance and authentic Polynesian heritage makes Ta'ū easily one of the best places to visit in American Samoa.

Check out some of its sights in the 20 Best Things to Do in the Manu'a Islands.

Back on Tutuila, Tafuna is where the action really happens. This bustling commercial hub gives Pago Pago a run for its money with its impressive collection of eateries, shops and attractions.

You'll find that most accommodations are based here (check out our Where to Stay in Pago Pago & Tutuila: 10 Best Accommodations guide for all the details).

Most visitors love exploring the ancient star mound of Tia Seu Lupe and the WW2 Tafuna Airbase Control Tower – we reckon these are some of the best historical attractions on the island.

For something completely different, you can tee off at the 'Ili'ili Golf Club with its incredible views.

And finally, don't miss marvelling at the airport landing strip that stretches dramatically out into the lagoon.

We're absolutely delighted by Fagatele Bay – it's hands down one of the Pacific's most extraordinary marine experiences.

This tiny 0.25 mi² (0.65 km²) bay is part of the National Marine Sanctuary of American Samoa, and it supports the greatest diversity of marine life in the entire National Marine Sanctuary System (we're talking over 200 coral species, 1,400+ algae and invertebrate species, and 271 fish species!).

The bay's calm(ish), crystal-clear waters create perfect conditions for swimming, snorkelling and diving. Dramatic ridges rising over 400 ft (122 m) that provide a stunning backdrop to your underwater adventures.

You might be lucky to spot hawksbill and green sea turtles gliding through the waters. You might even catch sight of dolphins or seasonal humpback whales.

What we find particularly fascinating is the bay's deep cultural significance. Ancient Samoan grinding holes are carved into the rocky shoreline, and there's an unexcavated coastal village site that speaks to centuries of Polynesian heritage.

The well-maintained trail system makes access easy, and the reasonable entry fees help keep this bay accessible.

Christina, the local warden, emphasises the bay's peaceful atmosphere; it's a place to "enjoy and have your own time" while experiencing world-class marine biodiversity in an unspoiled setting.

Tula is absolutely worth the journey. It's the perfect excuse to explore eastern Tutuila, and trust us, you'll love every minute of the drive.

The road trip itself LINK#TI043 is half the adventure. You'll discover stunning coastal lookouts with views across a scattering of islets, including one that locals say looks remarkably like a camel (we can definitely see the resemblance!).

Don't miss stopping at Dr Vaasa's Hideaway for their famous local panipopo buns.

Once you reach the village of Tula, make your way up to the Tula Observatory. You'll want to check out the dome telescope and wander through the beautiful hibiscus gardens, but here's the real gem: head to the back where you'll find a staircase of 178 steps leading down to a secluded cape.

This hidden spot happens to be the easternmost point of Tutuila—quite the claim to fame! The descent is manageable, but we'll spare you the details about the climb back up...

When you're ready to explore the western side of Tutuila, we highly recommend making 'Amanave your destination. This charming village serves as the guardian of Cape Taputapu, a stunning US National Natural Landmark.

Experience the cape by clambering along the rugged coastline to reach "Palagi Beach", an adventure that rewards you with incredible coastal views. If you're looking for something a bit easier on the legs, simply drive up past the village to a scenic viewpoint that offers wonderful panoramic views of both the village and its pristine beach below.

On your way out west, don't miss the village of Leone, where you'll find the territory's oldest church standing proudly. We're also big fans of the Atauloma Girls School historical site, and you'll be delighted by the waterfalls cascading dramatically from the cliffs right next to the road.

For the complete western adventure, check out A Self-Guided Day Trip West Side of Pago Pago & Tutuila: One Day Itinerary LINK#TI046 to help plan your perfect journey.

We'll be honest, Fagamalo isn't packed with must-see attractions. But here's the thing: this journey is absolutely worth it for the drive alone.

Most visitors never venture past 'Amanave to explore the northern coast, which means you'll have this stunning route practically to yourself. The road hugs the edge of lush verdant cliffs, and you'll pass through some of the most charming villages we've encountered.

Don't miss the lookouts scattered along the way. Each one offers breathtaking views that'll have you reaching for your camera. When we made this trip, we were constantly pulling over to soak in the scenery.

If you can, arrange a visit to Maloata Bay with the Gurr family (locals will point you in the right direction). And definitely push on to the "end of the road". You'll want that same triumphant photo we couldn't resist taking.