10 Best Swimming Spots in American Samoa

If you're idea of a great swimming spot is one of the "finest beaches in the South Pacific", then don't miss Ofu Beach.

The breathtaking beach is approximately 3 km (2 mi) and runs just down the road from Va'oto Lodge (see Where to Stay on Ofu, Olosega & Ta'u (Manu'a Islands)) all the way to Muliu'u, where the Sunu'itao Peak Base Trail starts, offering spectacular views of towering bush-clad peaks behind and across to Olosega Island - it's simply too beautiful for words!

Recognised as one of the most beautiful undiscovered beaches in the world, this stunning stretch includes popular snorkelling spots like To'aga, located about 350 m (380 yards) east of the historic dispensary. The beach is best visited at low tide, as high tide can bring strong currents that make swimming and snorkelling more challenging.

With 140 ha (345 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.

For a great swim close to Pago Pago, follow the coastal road east to Alega Beach.

This exclusive destination combines guided snorkelling in protected waters where marine life thrives undisturbed, traditional Samoan dining experiences, and the famous weekly umu (earth oven feast) every Wednesday evening.

The marine reserve features turtle nesting sites and living sea walls, where guided snorkelling reveals abundant fish life that doesn't flee from human presence thanks to decades of low-impact tourism. Day passes include sanctuary access and traditional meals served at Tisa's Barefoot Bar that sits elevated above the beach, while the dramatic umu ceremony showcases banana leaves being removed amid spotlights and rising steam to reveal a slow-cooked feast of island staples.

The annual Tatau Festival in October celebrates traditional Polynesian tattooing arts, whilst the territory's only eco-accommodation and spiritual healing experiences complete this transformative destination.

For those who love a bit of snorkelling and hiking with their swimming, Fagatele Bay offers an awesome adventure.

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 200 species of coral, 1,400 species of algae and invertebrates, and 271 species of fish, making it a vibrant underwater paradise where sea turtles are frequently spotted gliding through the colourful reef systems. Snorkelling is good on a calm day. The best coral displays are beyond the waves if the conditions allow.

The adventure begins with a scenic forest trail accompanied by birds and coconut crabs as you navigate the rim of the ancient volcanic crater. After about 10 minutes, you'll reach a wooden staircase to a secluded beach.

Access costs US$10 per person, paid directly to the landowner who maintains the trail; simply call out or knock on their door to arrange entry.

In the next bay over from Alega, Avaio Beach is the perfect option for those looking for shallow swimming or a paddle with little ones.

Famously known as Two Dollar Beach (though entry is ironically US$5), this picturesque stretch of sand boasts a charming islet connected to the mainland by a natural sandbar, creating an incredibly scenic backdrop that's perfect for photography. As the only beach on the east side of the island, it offers pristine, clean waters ideal for swimming, particularly during high tide when water levels are at their best.

The beach operates from 7:30 am to 4:30 pm Monday to Saturday, remaining closed on Sundays. Beer is available for purchase, and visitors are advised to stay within designated swimming areas for safety.

For something totally different, take a deeper dip in the awesome tidal pool at the Maliu Mai Beach Resort!

The resort welcomes day visitors to enjoy their beach and swimming pool facilities, creating a laid-back atmosphere that's both welcoming and accommodating.

Whether you're looking for a quick dip or a full day of seaside lounging, you can access the facilities for a small fee or enjoy complimentary use when dining at their restaurant.

Learn more about their accommodation in Where to Stay in Pago Pago & Tutuila: 10 Best Accommodations.

An actual swimming pool, don't rule out Pala Lagoon Swimming Center for your morning workout or for a splash with the kids.

The swim centre near the airport offers excellent value, making it perfect for budget-conscious travellers seeking relief from the tropical heat.

This local swimming facility features water slides that operate during normal opening hours, adding an element of fun to your swim session. The centre provides convenient shower facilities, allowing you to freshen up before or after your flight.

For added convenience, you can grab a bite to eat poolside from Vila's, making it easy to spend several hours relaxing by the water without having to venture far for refreshments.

Opening hours are Tuesday to Friday from 6 am to 8 am and 2 pm to 6 pm, Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm, and Sunday from 12 pm to 6 pm.

Exploring the multiple tiers and having a splash is all part of the fun of Faga'alu Waterfall.

The journey begins with an unconventional route through a quarry before ascending the hill, where you'll need to follow faint trails worn by previous visitors through the grass to reach the first waterfall. You should be able to hear the cascading water to guide your way.

For those seeking more adventure, a second tier awaits: backtrack through the grassy area, turn left for a few paces to find another clearing, then follow a steep, faint trail on the right side of the stream.

The highlight comes when you discover the concrete staircase, a fascinating remnant from World War II military construction. Following the stream from here leads to the upper waterfall, which offers a refreshing pool for swimming and cliff jumping opportunities if you're feeling crazy.

A hidden gem of swimming beaches on Tutuila, venture to the northern coast to Sa'ilele Beach.

The best swimming spot is at the far eastern end where natural rock formations create a protected pool, perfect for a refreshing dip. As a village protected marine reserve, the area maintains its untouched beauty and abundant marine life.

The journey to this hidden gem is equally spectacular, driving through what we like to call "coconut boulevard" - a sandy road lined with towering coconut palms that creates a picture-perfect tunnel of green. Remember to greet any locals you encounter and ask permission before swimming, as this is customary and shows respect for the community.

Note that swimming isn't permitted on Sundays, so plan your visit accordingly.

A mix of swimming and scrambling comes with a trip to Cape Taputapu's Palagi Beach!

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 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.

Who would have thought that a waterfall oasis sits hidden behind Nu'uuli's strip of restaurants and convenience stores? Nu'uuli Falls offers a refreshing escape with its typically shallow but cool swimming hole at the base.

The surrounding rainforest creates a natural amphitheatre that muffles the sound of the 20 m (66 ft) cascades, making this hidden gem feel worlds away from the nearby commercial strip.

The 15-minute walk/scramble through lush tropical vegetation over mostly well-formed trails adds to the adventure, leading you across several stream crossings before revealing this spectacular cascade and natural pool.

It's polite to ask permission from locals if you see someone at the nearby house, though you're not usually charged an entry fee.

The relatively easy access, combined with the dramatic setting, makes this one of American Samoa's most rewarding waterfall experiences.