Kayaking & Fautasi (Canoeing) in American Samoa: Top Tours & Places to Paddle

If you're looking to explore Pago Pago's waters from a different perspective, South Pacific Watersports offers single and double kayak rentals at an hourly, half-day and full-day rate.

Location and Recommendations

This local operation is perfectly positioned on the Pago Pago Harbor in Utulei along the main road near Sadie's by the Sea.

Their base is well-positioned for exploring one of the world's largest natural harbours, which makes perfect sense for both beginners and experienced paddlers alike.

They also offer snorkel gear along with your kayak, so that you can head out to a coral reef not too far from base.

According to locals, the coral reef there is absolutely awesome, and turtle spotting is practically guaranteed. In fact, the owners have told us that they spot turtles just by looking from their porch!

It's important to note that you can't take rental gear away from the Pago Pago Harbor. This is not a freedom hire to pack up and take wherever you want.

More About South Pacific Watersports

South Pacific Watersports is open Monday through Friday from 5 pm to 6 pm.

Beyond kayaks, they also offer paddleboards, snorkel gear and canoe tours (see below), making them your one-stop shop for water adventures in American Samoa.

Learn more about their SUP offering in SUP in American Samoa: The Best Places for Stand-Up Paddleboarding, as well as canoe tours in the 10 Best Boat & Sailing Tours in American Samoa LINK#TTD138.

We've already covered their kayak rentals, but if you want to go a step further, and if you're travelling as a large group, don't miss South Pacific Watersports' fautasi outrigger canoe tours.

What to Expect

Experience the profound cultural significance of American Samoa's traditional fautasi outrigger canoes with South Pacific Watersports. These magnificent racing craft, once used for warfare and transport, now embody the Samoan values of teamwork and collective achievement that have been passed down through generations of boat-building families.

Your harbour tour offers a unique perspective of Pago Pago from the water, guided by experienced steersmen (and women). Learn how each fautasi represents not just a village but centuries of maritime heritage, whilst enjoying stunning waterfront views that can only be appreciated from this traditional vantage point.

These tours accommodate both small and large groups, providing an authentic cultural experience that connects you directly to the racing traditions that draw entire communities to Pago Pago Harbor during the celebrated fautasi races.

More About South Pacific Watersports

Pricing is on a case-by-case basis, depending on group size and demand - they evaluate each request individually.

SPW also organises outrigger canoe races, typically during Flag Day (April) or Coast Weeks (October), promoting sustainable ocean resource use.

Again, South Pacific Watersports is open Monday through Friday from 5 pm to 6 pm and is located on the Pago Pago Harbor in Utulei along the main road near Sadie's by the Sea.

For something truly unique, Adventures Unlimited, based on the northern coast of the Pago Pago Harbor, offers both waterbike rentals and fautasi canoe tours.

Waterbike Rentals

That's right, these wacky waterbikes let you pedal across Pago's sheltered waters with twin hulls keeping you perfectly stable. Adventures Unlimited offers these innovative watercraft complete with storage compartments for your belongings and convenient water bottle holders.

We personally recommend bringing your own snorkelling gear, as you'll discover some fantastic underwater spots during your adventure. If you head out to your right, turtles are frequently spotted, or paddle towards the coral areas near the reef break for snorkelling opportunities.

There's even a lovely shaded tree area that makes for a perfect rest stop – you can explore pretty much anywhere within the protective reef breaks.

Fautasi Longboat Tours

Beyond waterbikes, Adventures Unlimited also offers traditional fautasi longboat tours for groups upon request. It's a wonderful opportunity to experience this culturally significant American Samoa pastime in an authentic setting.

About Adventures Unlimited

You'll find Adventures Unlimited along the main road in the village of Aua, on the northern coast of the Pago Pago Harbor. Their base is on the left side just across the road bridge when approaching from Pago Pago.

Kayaking at Va'oto Lodge offers guests an incredible way to explore the turquoise lagoon surrounding Ofu Island in the Manu'a Islands LINK#D012. The lodge provides one complimentary kayak for guests to use, along with a paddleboard and snorkelling gear, making it easy to dive into aquatic adventures without any additional cost.

Location and Recommendations

Located on the edge of a protected marine reserve, the waters around Va'oto Lodge are teeming with vibrant coral formations and diverse fish life. According to locals, the best time to paddle is during mid-tide when water levels are ideal, as low tide leaves the lagoon too shallow, while high tide brings strong currents that can be challenging for paddlers.

For the most enjoyable experience, we recommend heading out in the morning when conditions are typically calmer. The wet season, from November to April, offers the most favourable kayaking conditions with gentler winds and smoother waters.

More About Va'oto Lodge

Whether you're a beginner or experienced paddler, the protected lagoon provides a safe and spectacular environment to explore American Samoa's underwater world. Learn more about accommodation in Where to Stay in Ofu, Olosega & Ta'ū (Manu'a Islands): 10 Best Accommodations.