30 Best Historical Sites in American Samoa

One of the best-maintained and accessible star mounds in American Samoa, Tia Seu Lupe is a must-visit for history buffs and casual travellers alike.

Tia Seu Lupe translates to "earthen mound to catch pigeons", so you can guess the purpose of this ancient stone mound.

A plaque on the significance of the tia-style of star mounds that once covered the Tafuna plain, but are now only visible on the mountainsides at places like Tia Seu Lupe.

What makes this historic site particularly special is its location adjacent to a pristine rainforest reserve, creating a perfect mix of historical insights and natural beauty in one easily accessible location. We saw several birds and toads when we were there last (and ironically, the cooing lupe now thriving in the area).

Note that there has been some rubbish dumping in the area, which taints the experience a little bit, but don't let this deter you from visiting one of American Samoa's most accessible ancient sites.

Along the east coast of Ta'ū, the Saua Site is perhaps American Samoa's most legendary site, where it's said that life itself began.

According to ancient tradition, this windswept stretch of volcanic coastline is where the legendary god Tagaloa first created humans before sending them across the vast Pacific to populate Polynesia.

"Saua" also refers to the ancient village that once resided along the coast here, which you can learn more about in the 5 Best Walks & Hikes in American Samoa National Park.

The site also holds the distinction of being where the first Tui (king) of the Manu'a Islands was crowned, cementing its importance in Samoan royal history.

Dramatic volcanic boulders scattered along the wave-battered shore create a mystical atmosphere that perfectly complements the site's spiritual significance.

Archaeological discoveries have revealed fascinating remnants of an ancient village all along the coast, along with traditional grave sites extending south towards the southwestern tip of the island, offering tangible connections to the area's history.

Take a look at the Manu'a Islands' most significant historical site at the Tu'i Manu'a Graves Monument, where the last kings (and queens) of Manu'a rest in eternal dignity.

The centrepiece is the striking black stone pyramid-style tomb of Margaret Young, also known as Tui Manu'a Matelita or the Queen of Manu'a, who reigned from 1891 until her untimely death in 1895. Her well-maintained gravestone states the years of her short-lived but significant reign, and locals are always eager to share tales of her life and mysterious death.

Surrounding her tomb, you'll discover the graves of her parents alongside several other members of the royal family. According to historical literature, Tui Manu'a Elisala is also buried here—the pivotal Samoan leader whose signature granted the United States sovereignty over these islands in 1900, and who famously declared that the last of the tui line would die with him rather than surrender his people's independence.

One of the best (of many) examples of WW2 history on American Samoa's main island, the Tafuna Airbase Area Control Tower is a hidden gem that's pretty fascinating to explore.

This fascinating historical site preserves artefacts from what was once the largest World War II installation on Tutuila, including original control tower buildings, a concrete pill box, and the underground bunker that once supported the towering control structure. The 1,829 m (6,000 ft) runway and numerous support buildings of Tafuna Air Base served as a crucial hub for military aviation and fuel storage, accommodating both heavy and medium bombers during the Pacific campaign.

Today, whilst much of the former airbase has been transformed into Pago Pago International Airport, these preserved structures offer a tangible connection to the island's strategic wartime role. A garden area enhances the walking experience around these historical remnants, creating an atmospheric setting for reflection and exploration.

If you shamelessly love to see big guns, then you'll find the biggest here still intact at the Blunts Point Battery, accessible via the Blunts Point Trail.

This uphill forest hike takes you up a wide and well-defined gravel road that gradually ascends past a water tank.

The first viewpoint rewards hikers with stunning harbour views and the opportunity to explore one of the huge WWII guns up close. A short continuation up some stairs, also built during WWII, leads to the second gun turret positioned in the forest, offering even more impressive historical features engulfed by nature.

For those wanting to extend their historical exploration, the trail connects to the broader WWII Heritage Trail, as outlined in the 15 Best Walks in American Samoa. Be prepared for mosquitoes.

As the first, and therefore the oldest, church in American Samoa, Leone's EFKAS Church, also known as the Siona Le Mauga Paia, is well worth a visit for its historical significance.

As the oldest church in American Samoa, it's a remarkable testament to the islands' devotion to Christianity.

Built to commemorate missionary John Williams' historic arrival on 18 October 1832, this beautifully maintained church offers visitors a glimpse into the spiritual heart of American Samoan culture. The interior is absolutely stunning, featuring intricate stained glass windows that cast colourful light across the sanctuary and exquisite woodwork adorning the ceiling.

A monument to John Williams stands proudly at the front of the church, serving as a reminder of the pivotal moment when Christianity was introduced to American Samoa.

Needless to say, if you're looking for a place to experience one of American Samoa's iconic church services, this is a top contender. The Sunday service starts at 9 am and is spoken in Samoan.

A fabulous piece of colonial architecture still in use today is the Governor's Mansion in Pago Pago.

Perched majestically atop Maunga o Ali'i (Chief's Hill), this magnificent two-storey colonial mansion has served as the official residence of American Samoa's governors since 1903. Built by skilled Samoan workers under Naval supervision, the 10,400 ft² (967 m²) wooden structure showcases stunning colonial architecture and offers breathtaking panoramic views across the island.

This National Historic Landmark tells the fascinating story of American Samoa's political evolution, from its days housing Naval commanders to becoming the Department of Interior's territorial seat in 1951. Following a comprehensive US$2 million renovation in 2003, the mansion has been restored to its former glory, preserving its historical significance while maintaining its role as the current governor's residence.

For visitors, experiencing the Governor's Mansion is simply a case of admiring its exterior from afar (the best views are from boats in the Pago Pago Harbor, if you're sailing or taking the ferry from the Manu'a Islands, for instance).

Alternatively, you can access the Governor's Gardens from a staircase that starts directly opposite the Port of Pago Pago, which leads to a cliffside fale that's probably almost as good as from the Governor's Mansion, right?

Another architectural marvel, the Courthouse of American Samoa is one of the best examples of colonial architecture gone relatively unchanged.

A striking two-storey wooden courthouse, this architectural gem has stood the test of time (and cyclones, tropical downpours, termites and what have you) for over a century.

Built between 1900 and 1904 for US$46,000, this handsome colonial structure originally housed the territorial executive and naval offices before becoming home to the judiciary. The building underwent expansion in 1929 and received a comprehensive renovation in 1975, ensuring its preservation for future generations.

Listed as "Naval Administration Building, Navy No. 21" on the US National Register of Historic Places, the courthouse features classic colonial architecture with its distinctive wooden frame construction.

Perched along a dramatic stretch of black lava rock coastline, the Turtle & Shark Site in Vaitogi village is home to Tutuila's most beloved legend.

According to locals, there are many versions of this captivating story, but one tells of a young husband from Upolu (Samoa) who was selected as a "guest of honour" for a cannibalistic feast by King Malietoa Faiga. The husband declined the invitation, so he and his wife set out in a canoe to escape, but a storm blew them to Tutuila, where the pulenu'u of 'Ili'ili, Letuli, took them in. When cannibalism became outlawed, Letuli offered them a free trip home, but they refused and repaid his kindness by jumping into the sea (?!) —the husband transforming into a shark and the wife into a turtle.

There is another version of the story shown on an interpretation panel at the site, but we'll leave you to discover this version on your own...

Today, it's said that if the villagers sing, a turtle and a shark will magically appear in the waters below. The words to the song are written on the interpretation panel at the site if you want to give it a go.

From firsthand experience, we have literally seen a turtle from the site, but no shark. Will you be lucky?

A quirky historical site in American Samoa, the Aerial Tramway Site not only offers some interesting remnants but epic views.

Operating from 1965 to 1992, the Aerial Tramway was once American Samoa's most spectacular tourist attraction, before Hurricane Val brought its journey to an end.

The cable car system soared from 58 m (191 ft) elevation up to an impressive 1,554 m (5,100 ft), crossing the stunning Pago Pago Harbor and reaching the summit of Mt 'Alava at 491 m (1,612 ft).

Originally built to transport television engineers servicing transmitters, it quickly became beloved by locals and tourists alike for its breathtaking panoramic views.

The tramway served as a vital link to remote Vatia Village on Tutuila's north shore, but perhaps its most charming feature was the traditional "shower of flowers" ceremony, where Samoans would drop beautiful garlands onto visiting cruise ships below.

Also at the Aerial Tramway Site, a monument to the 1980 Plane Crash tells more of Pago Pago's history.

On 17 April 1980, during the 80th Flag Day celebrations, a U.S. Navy P-3 Orion aircraft carrying six paratroopers from Hawaii's U.S. Army Twenty-Fifth Infantry Parachute Division was performing demonstration jumps over Pago Pago Harbor. After two successful passes, the aircraft flew too low on its third approach and struck a tramway cable spanning the harbour.

The collision severed the plane's tail stabiliser, causing it to crash into the Rainmaker Hotel parking lot and west wing. The resulting explosion and fire destroyed three buildings, killing six crew members, a local NASA worker and a Tokyo tourist whose names are now memorialised on this monument.

The following day, memorial services were held at the Malae o le Talu, attended by Governor Peter Tali Coleman, High Chiefs and hundreds of mourners, with traditional Samoan fine mats presented in tribute.

Scattered across the main island of Tutuila, Pill Boxes are just about the easiest historical sites to spot as you drive along the main road.

81 World War II pill boxes stand as silent sentinels of American Samoa's wartime history. These concrete fortifications were manned by crews with automatic weapons, serving as the initial line of defence against potential Japanese amphibious invasions during the Pacific Theatre.

You'll encounter many of these fascinating relics on any coastal road trip around the island. Some of our favourites include the well-preserved examples at the Turtle and Shark site, another one peaking out of someone's garden at the west end of Leone, and one particularly photogenic pill box sitting lopsided on the reef at Aumi, slowly surrendering to the relentless Pacific waves.

While not as "historic" as some of the other items on this list, the two Fono at least play a significant role in the historical district of Fagatogo.

You'll find two impressive legislative buildings here: the original Fono built in 1973 for US$1 million, designed in traditional Samoan fale style, and its modern counterpart right next door.

The newer building has certainly stolen the spotlight, but both serve as the heart of American Samoa's democracy, where all the important decisions are made.

Here's something special you won't want to miss: you can actually watch democracy in action by attending a parliamentary sitting. The main legislative sessions happen in January and July, so if you're visiting during these months, we highly recommend calling ahead to secure your spot (contact details are available on the American Samoa Government website).

Speaking of the historic district of Fogatogo, Malae O Le Talu continues to play a significant role within the village community.

This park serves as the central meeting ground where government affairs and cultural celebrations come together in perfect harmony.

This expansive grassy area is surrounded by important government buildings and features a traditional fale with a stage, creating an authentic backdrop for official ceremonies and community gatherings. As evening approaches, the space transforms into a vibrant sports ground where locals gather to play football and cricket, offering visitors a genuine glimpse into daily Samoan life.

The malae represents the traditional village green concept that remains central to Samoan culture, where important decisions are made and community bonds are strengthened.

See a fascinating piece of American Samoa's colonial history at the Afioga Galeai Moaaliitele Tuufuli Central Police Station in Fagatogo.

This building once served as the barracks for the Fitafita Guard, a local security force during the US Navy's administration of the territory in the early 20th century.

The historic structure offers visitors a glimpse into American Samoa's unique past when the islands were governed by naval officers. While the building has weathered challenges over the decades, including fires in the 1970s and 2017, it remains a testament to the territory's colonial heritage.

The site also housed the original fono building, which locals affectionately called "fale seila," adding another layer to its governmental significance. Renamed in 2019 to honour former commissioner Afioga Galeai Moaaliitele Tuufuli, this working police station continues to serve the community while preserving its historical importance.

Continuing the historical sites around the Pago Pago Harbor, the Navy Nurses' Quarters is one of many heritage Navy buildings located in Utulei.

Housed within a beautifully preserved timber Navy building from American Samoa's military past, DDW Beach Cafe offers visitors a unique mix of history and hospitality in the heart of Pago Pago. The former Navy Nurses' Quarters, Navy Building No. 133, has been lovingly transformed into a charming cafe that serves excellent coffee and delicious homemade cakes.

The well-maintained timber structure provides an atmospheric setting where you can sip your morning coffee whilst soaking up the maritime heritage of this historic building. Beyond the cafe, the venue also houses South Pacific Watersports and Gym, making it a convenient stop for those looking to fuel up before or after kayaking and snorkelling.

The combination of historical significance, quality refreshments and stunning harbour views makes this a memorable stop during your exploration of American Samoa's capital.

Yes, even the building itself is a heritage building! Needless to say, any history buff should take the time to explore the Jean P. Haydon Museum.

Like taking a journey through American Samoa's captivating past, the museum is housed within a gorgeous 1917 Naval-style building that has stood the test of time beautifully.

Originally built as a commissary before becoming the post office, this concrete gem with ornate pillars showcases architecture unlike anywhere else in the South Pacific Islands. It earned its spot on the National Register of Historic Places back in 1972, and once you see it, you'll understand why.

Needless to say, the main event is the impressive collection of over 650 cultural and historical artefacts that really bring American Samoa's unique Pacific island story to life. From traditional Samoan crafts to fascinating exhibits documenting how the territory developed over time, there's something here that'll capture your imagination.

Our favourite features are the maritime exhibits, showing traditional ocean-faring va'a (canoes) and tools like fishing baskets, but there's a lot to unpack, so allow at least 30-45 minutes to explore it all.

The Jean P. Haydon Museum is open from 7:30 am to 4 pm, Monday to Friday.

As you leave Utulei and the historic precinct of the Pago Pago Harbor, stop by the Shimasaki Building for its ironic wartime story (and grocery supplies).

Originally built as the Shimasaki General Store, this Japanese-owned merchant establishment became an unintended casualty when Japanese forces attempted to shell the fuel storage depot from the north side of the island in 1908. While most shells missed their targets and landed harmlessly in the water, one found its mark on this very building - or so the locals tell us.

The building's story is well documented in local history pamphlets, and locals are often happy to share tales of this memorable wartime incident.

A stunning example of early Samoan craftsmanship, the Atauloma Grinding Stone is a historical site that's delightful to stumble upon.

This easily spotted ancient grinding stone sits prominently along the Atauloma Stream along the main road.

These weathered basalt stones were once essential tools for grinding and shaping implements in ancient Polynesian society. Tutuila and American Samoa were renowned throughout ancient Polynesia for their superior basalt quarries, with stone tools and weapons crafted here being highly revered across the Pacific islands.

You can easily see the worn depressions that tell the story of countless hours of tool-making by ancient artisans.

Signposted along the west coast's main road, the Alataua-Lua Girls School is an intriguing place to discover.

Originally established as an all-girls school associated with the London Missionary Society (LMS) and the Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa (CCCAS), this significant historic site tells a remarkable story of transformation and progress.

Initially designed to prepare girls to become wives for missionaries, the school underwent a dramatic shift in 1901 when the first doctor arrived and established the island's first hospital annex. Recognising the critical need for trained healthcare workers, particularly in infant care and breastfeeding education, the school evolved into a pioneering centre for nursing education.

The doctor's innovative teaching methods included hands-on anatomy lessons, showing students what a baby's oesophagus looks like and explaining proper feeding practices. This transformation made the school instrumental in producing trained nurses and establishing a foundation for women's healthcare education in American Samoa.

Though the school closed in the 1960s, its legacy as a trailblazer in women's education and healthcare training remains an important chapter in the territory's history.

Today, you can admire the grounds as close as the guard dogs will allow.

American Samoa's oldest business is still here at the Pritchard's Bakery!

This beloved institution that has been serving freshly baked bread and sweet treats to generations of families for nearly 135 years. Founded in 1890 by Alfred James Pritchard, whose Samoan mother hailed from Manono in Independent Samoa and whose father was the son of an LMS missionary, this historic bakery has weathered hurricanes, relocations and changing times whilst maintaining its commitment to quality baking.

Today, under the leadership of Kishon Pritchard Lua (CEO since 1986), the bakery continues the family tradition of baking their own bread daily, opening super early and closing around 7-8 am—so you'll need to get there quick!

Moving over to the Manu'a Islands now, you'll often hear stories of how American Samoa's original buildings were inland in the mountains. One such village was Aofa, which is accessible along the Mt Tumu Trail.

The 3-hour trek winds through ancient village sites where locals will respectfully ask you to lower your voice to honour the aitu (spirits) believed to inhabit this mystical area.

At the trail's fork, turning left leads to the old village site where whispers are the only acceptable form of communication, reflecting the deep spiritual beliefs that Manu'ans hold dear. Here, you'll encounter the haunting remains of traditional houses, offering a tangible connection to the island's rich past.

The experience combines physical adventure with cultural immersion, as you'll learn about the archaeological significance of these sites through detailed research documentation that chronicles the West Manu'a archaeological findings.

A living piece of history on the island of Olosega is the Olosega Taufusi.

A muddy back trail leads behind the village to expansive marshlands where you'll witness the cultivation of a specific type of taro that has made Olosega renowned across American Samoa. The short 5-10-minute walk takes you through lush banana groves and diverse agricultural plots, offering an authentic glimpse into traditional Samoan farming practices.

You can access the marshlands by 4WD vehicle, bicycle (though challenging), or on foot—just be prepared for muddy conditions in certain areas. The return journey through the village's main road is shorter and more pleasant, with friendly locals and notably no aggressive dogs to worry about.

While not as impressive as its Olosega counterpart, Ofu Taufusi now firmly sits in the "historical" category.

This culturally significant swampland once served as the primary growing ground for the marshland taro that made Ofu and Olosega famous throughout American Samoa.

While the airport runway now sits directly in front and imported goods have largely replaced local agriculture, this heritage site remains an important window into the islands' agricultural past. The lush greenery that blankets the area offers visitors a peaceful retreat and a chance to imagine how this fertile wetland once sustained entire communities.

Though most taro cultivation has shifted to the Olosega Taufusi, the Ofu Taufusi stands as a living testament to traditional Polynesian farming practices and the self-sufficient lifestyle that defined these remote islands for generations.

The first Ofu Dispensary is the most tangible piece of history at this site that has been extensively studied by archaeologists.

This substantial concrete structure is a small piece of the island's past healthcare infrastructure, now transformed into an intriguing archaeological site that offers visitors a unique glimpse into Ofu's historical development.

Located in the archaeologically rich To'aga area behind the stunning Ofu Beach, this abandoned dispensary requires just a short scramble over coconuts and tropical foliage from the roadside to reach. The juxtaposition of man-made architecture against the relentless tropical vegetation creates a captivating scene that photographers and history enthusiasts will find irresistible.

A less ancient but eerily abandoned village, Sili can be found on the northern coast of Olosega, on the eastern side of the Ofu-Olosega Bridge.

The journey begins with a scenic 20-minute walk from the main road to reach the former village site, where concrete housing structures now stand as haunting reminders of the past, slowly being reclaimed by tropical vegetation.

From the initial village ruins, it's another 25 minutes to reach a dramatic rocky coastline, perfect for those who love rugged natural landscapes. For beach lovers willing to venture further, an additional 30 to 40 minutes of hiking leads to pristine sandy shores that feel completely untouched.

The village was evacuated in 1981 due to devastating waves, creating an eerie yet captivating atmosphere that tells the story of nature's power. The well-maintained road allows access via high-clearance vehicles, making this hidden gem accessible to various types of explorers.

The unassuming grave of Tafeaga is easy to miss but interesting to see once you know the story.

This humble yet significant memorial honours a remarkable man who (as the story was told to us at least) served in both the Spanish-American War and World War I as a Seaman Second Class in the US Navy.

Born on 20 September 1880 and passing away on 28 December 1953, Tafeaga's weathered headstone tells the story of early Samoan-American military service that predates the formal territorial relationship between the islands and the United States.

Finally, one of the many clearly visible remains from the ancient village of Saua, the second well along the Saua (Si'u Point) Trail, offers another fascinating archaeological site to stumble upon.

Notably larger than the first you'll encounter, this well features an impressive semi-circular stone arrangement that showcases the craftsmanship of early Samoan communities.

Located conveniently on the inland side of the trail, directly opposite the beautiful Pu'a Vai Beach, this archaeological site offers an easy stop during your coastal walk. While the well has dried up over time, like its predecessor along the Saua Trail, it remains a captivating example of traditional infrastructure that once served the local village.