The Best American Samoa Beaches for Swimming, Snorkelling, Scenery and Fun in the Sun
You didn't travel all the way to this remote country in the South Pacific not to get in some beach time. Luckily, American Samoa LINK#TT038 has many lining the shores of all its parasical islands.
With some sloping into tranquil lagoons full of fish life and others providing easy access to surf breaks on the reefs, there are beaches to suit all vibes in American Samoa.
Discover some of the best ones, as well as learn about customary beach fees, right here in this list of the best beaches in American Samoa.
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Paying for Beaches in American Samoa
In most cases, beaches in American Samoa are owned by local families and communities, who act as custodians. Some even provide additional infrastructure, such as access roads and trails, to allow the public to enjoy these beaches. To help fund and maintain these sites, however, you are usually charged a customary fee to access the beach.
Expect fees to be approximately US$2-$10 per person. Beaches by bars or accommodations typically have the option to either pay the beach fee, or it's included in your stay/meal purchase.
When in doubt, ask if it's Ok to use the beach.
On a similar note, avoid visiting village beaches on a Sunday.
For tips about respecting Samoan customs, check out our guide, American Samoan Etiquette: American Samoa Customs & Traditions.
1.Alega Beach Alega Beach (Pago Pago & Tutuila)
Just a short drive east of Pago Pago, Alega Beach offers one of the finest stretches of sand close to American Samoa's capital.
This pristine beach provides excellent conditions for swimming and snorkelling, but what truly sets Alega Beach apart is Tisa's Barefoot Bar, perched on an elevated deck overlooking the shoreline.
The bar creates a vibrant atmosphere where you can sip a cold drink while taking in panoramic ocean views.
The beach access fee is US$5, but this is waived if you're purchasing something from the bar, making it an excellent value for a day of relaxation and refreshment.
For more about Tisa's Barefoot Bar, check out The Food Guide to American Samoa LINK#TTD040, while more of their accommodation is listed in Where to Stay in Pago Pago & Tutuila: 10 Best Accommodations.
Route 001, Alega, east side of Tutuila.
2.Avaio Beach (Two Dollar Beach) Avaio Beach/Two Dollar Beach (Pago Pago & Tutuila)
Right next door to Alega Beach, Avaio Beach offers one of Tutuila's most picturesque coastal experiences.
Famously known as "Two Dollar Beach" (although entry fees have risen to the standard US$5), this well-maintained stretch of sand features a charming little islet connected to the mainland by a natural sandbar, creating an incredibly scenic backdrop that's perfect for photography.
Although the water is quite shallow, it's still worth bringing your snorkelling gear along for this adventure.
Don't forget to pay your beach fees upon arrival to help maintain this beautiful natural attraction.
Route 001, Avaio, east side of Tutuila. The next beach east of Alega Beach and Tisa's.
3.Palagi Beach Palagi Beach
Tucked away between Amanave and Cape Taputapu, Palagi Beach offers one of Tutuila's most secluded coastal experiences, accessible only by those willing to venture off the beaten path.
The name palagi (meaning "white person" in Samoan) hints at this beach's historical significance (or perhaps the only people crazy enough to venture to this beach).
And yes, getting there is half the adventure: you can either follow faint trails above the shoreline or wade along the reef at low tide for 10-15 minutes past Amanave village. In our experience, you have to do a bit of both, so low tide generally tends to be better.
It's worth the effort, however, as the real treasure lies at this incredibly scenic beach where there's a snorkelling pool near the offshore islet and seabirds nesting. However, exercise caution when snorkelling near the passage by the islet, as currents can be unpredictable.
Route 009, Amanave, west side of Tutuila. The walking trail begins at the end of Amanave Village.
4.Ofu Beach Ofu Beach (Manu'a Islands)
Described again and again as the "finest beach in the South Pacific", Ofu Beach makes it easy to see why with its 4 km (2.5 mi) of palm-fringed sand, turquoise lagoon and pristine solitude where only birds, crabs, fish and coral keep you company.
The breathtaking beach runs from Va'oto Lodge (see Where to Stay on Ofu, Olosega & Ta'u (Manu'a Islands)) to the Ofu-Olosega Bridge, offering spectacular views of towering bush-clad peaks behind and across to Olosega Island - it's simply too beautiful for words!
With 140 ha (346 acres) of offshore water protected as part of the National Park of American Samoa, the snorkelling here ranks amongst the best across both Samoa and American Samoa. The optimal swimming and snorkelling conditions occur during mid to high tide, though visitors should remain cautious of waves crashing over the reef and watch out for fire coral.
Ofu Beach, south coast of Ofu Island, Manu'a Islands.
5.Fagatele Bay Fagatele Bay (Pago Pago & Tutuila)
Hidden within a submerged volcanic crater, Fagatele Bay National Marine Sanctuary offers a spectacular snorkelling experience.
This pristine bay is home to Tutuila's last remaining coastal rainforest, where dramatic cliffs slope directly into waters teeming with marine life.
The sanctuary is thought to harbour 140 species of coral, making it a vibrant underwater paradise where sea turtles are frequently spotted gliding through the colourful reef systems.
The adventure begins with a scenic forest trail that leads you to the rim of the ancient volcanic crater, where you should turn left at the fork to go down to a secluded beach via a wooden staircase.
Access costs US$10 per person, paid directly to the landowner who maintains the trail; simply knock on their door to arrange entry.
Remember to bring your snorkelling gear and prepare for an unforgettable underwater adventure in this protected marine sanctuary.
Route 120, Fagatele Bay, west side of Tutuila. From Futiga Village, follow Route 120 all the way to the house at the end of the road. Take the road to the right of this house and continue to the next house (if the gate is open). Pay your fee at the house and follow the trail down to Fagatele Bay.
6.Fatumafuti Beach Fatumafuti Beach (Pago Pago & Tutuila)
One of the best beaches just a stone's throw from Pago Pago, Fatumafuti Beach offers good snorkelling and Samoan legends!
This small, intimate beach boasts gorgeous harbour views, decent snorkelling and a chance to explore Fatu and Futi Rock, also known as Flowerpot Rock, making it one of the top beach destinations in the area.
Flowerpot Rock, also known as Fatu Rock, is said to be connected to a legend about Fatu and Futi, who were lovers from the Manu'a Islands who got stranded on the reef and have remained there to this day.
The beach features convenient parking facilities right next to the shoreline, allowing easy access to both the sandy stretch and prime snorkelling spots.
The beach operates from 6 am to 6 pm Monday through Saturday, with swimming prohibited on Sundays.
Route 001, Fatumafuti, Pago Pago, Tutuila.
More About the Best Beaches in American Samoa
That's it for our list of the best beaches in American Samoa but that's not all the wonderful natural attractions that the country has to offer. For more marvels of nature, including more ways to enjoy American Samoa's glorious beaches, check out the following:
- 10 Best Swimming Spots in American Samoa LINK#TTD137
- 10 Best Walks & Hikes in American Samoa LINK#TTD130
- The Ultimate Guide to Surfing in American Samoa
Finally, if there's anything missing in your trip-planning, check out The Best American Samoa Travel Guide LINK#TT038 and complete your bucket list with the 101 Best Things to Do in American Samoa: The Ultimate List LINK#TTD066.
