20 Best Things to Do in the Manu'a Islands

There's no better place to take in the beauty of the Manu'a Islands than from the peak of Mt Tumu.

This challenging 5.5 km (3.4 mi) ascent through increasingly overgrown terrain offers one of American Samoa's most rewarding hiking experiences. The trail winds past ancient village sites (locals advise quiet respect for the spirits) before reaching a spectacular viewpoint overlooking Ofu Beach, Sunu'itao Peak and Olosega Island.

The steady-paced hike alternates between flat sections and uphill climbs, taking approximately 2 hrs 30 mins to reach the scenic lookout. Pink ribbons and markers help navigate fallen trees and overgrown vegetation, though a local guide from Ofu Village is highly recommended for less experienced hikers - ask around or your accommodation host.

Long trousers are essential for the grass-covered initial section, and the trail becomes easier on the legs after the first stretch.

An alternative route leads to the TV relay tower at the 494 m (1,621 ft) summit, though the main viewpoint offers superior scenery.

Wildlife, dramatic cliffs, wild waves and culminating at a secluded beach, the Oge Beach Trail offers all you could hope for from a South Pacific jaunt.

The trail traverses the shoulder between Mata'ala Ridge and Maga Point, where boobies and frigate birds soar overhead, before descending to emerge at the remote coral rubble beach facing Ta'ū. Once you reach the trail's end, turn left and walk 200 m (219 yards) down the beach to discover a magnificent stretch of sand.

The adventure continues as a scenic beach walk to Leala Point, creating a complete coastal out-and-back adventure. According to our very own editor-in-chief, Laura, this ranks among our favourite walks in American Samoa and the Pacific, with abundant wildlife discoveries awaiting along the way.

Time your visit for low or mid tide, as high tide brings water right up to the trees, making beach access challenging. Allow 2-3 hours to complete the trip (or more if you want to hang out at the beach).

Plus, be mindful that you are indeed following the correct trail - you should always have the coast to your right, not heading way up into the mountains.

The trail can be relatively overgrown in places but the local boys keep the trail chopped for coconut crab hunting.

The National Park of American Samoa's iconic trail in the Manu'a Islands, the Saua Trail (Si'u Point Trail) is a must-do!

This 5.7 mi (9.2 km) out-and-back trail (or, more appropriately, road) begins just beyond the last homes in Fiti'uta Village and follows the southeastern coast of Ta'ū.

The road winds through coastal vegetation, leading past the ancient village site of Saua, which is also believed to be the birthplace of Polynesian culture - you can learn more about it in the 10 Best Historical Sites in American Samoa.

Remnants of the village can be seen at various stone wells and grinding stones situated on the roadside, so keep an eye out as they're easy to miss.

You'll also have the opportunity to stop by various picturesque beaches, such as Luo Ma'a, meaning "Two Rocks", and Pu'a Vai, named after the springwater found in the area. The latter beach is also our favourite for snorkelling.

At the trail's end, you'll reach the remote Aufotu Cove, where rocky headlands meet the vast Pacific. It's best to take a guide if you want to venture along the coast to the Luifuta Waterfall.

Though the route is relatively gentle, the distance and heat can make it moderately challenging, so come prepared with plenty of water, sun protection and good shoes.

As always, we recommend starting early to avoid the midday heat. Allow 3 hours minimum to complete the hike, although you can easily spend longer with stops for swimming and revelling in nature's paradise.

One of many examples of Ta'ū's historical significance, this grinding stone is one of the first attractions you'll see along the Saua Trail.

This remarkable artefact showcases the ingenious craftsmanship of early Samoan communities, who used these specially carved stones to create essential tools and weapons for daily survival.

The stone's distinctive bowl-like appearance, created by countless hours of grinding and shaping, tells the story of generations who relied on these implements for crafting everything from fishing hooks to axes.

This outdoor display offers visitors a unique opportunity to connect with Samoa's rich archaeological heritage whilst enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.

It's easy to miss while driving, but you'll certainly notice it while walking.

The next stop on the Saua Trail, Moa Li'i Tele Grave is not only the territory's most scenic gravesite but also provides access to the start of many incredible beaches along this trail.

This sacred site serves as both a historical landmark and gateway to one of the island's hidden coastal treasures.

Beyond its cultural significance, the grave of Moa Li'i Tele provides access to a pristine coral beach that's perfect for beachcombing adventures. You'll discover an array of colourful coral fragments, shells and other marine treasures washed ashore by the Pacific's gentle waves.

As one of the first noteworthy stops along the renowned Saua Trail, this location perfectly combines cultural education with natural beauty, making it an ideal starting point for your hiking adventure.

The historical intrigue of Ta'ū Island continues with this stone well seen along the Saua Trail.

This remarkably preserved stone well represents one of the most accessible archaeological features within the National Park of American Samoa, offering visitors a tangible connection to the village that once thrived here centuries ago.

The distinctive semi-circular stone construction surrounding what was once a vital water source tells the story of ingenious Samoan engineering and community planning. Though the well has long since dried up, the carefully arranged stones remain as a testament to the craftsmanship and daily life of the original inhabitants.

Protected under the national park's conservation efforts, this historical site provides an excellent introduction to the cultural significance of the Saua Trail.

A sand and reef paradise that you'll no doubt get all to yourself, Lua Ma'a Beach is one of the gorgeous beaches along the Saua Trail.

This picturesque spot offers the perfect respite for those completing the challenging Saua Trail, providing a refreshing dip to cool off after your hike.

The crystal-clear waters here are ideal for snorkelling, particularly at mid-tide when conditions are calm and visibility is at its best. When the waves aren't raging, you'll discover a vibrant underwater world around the rocky formations.

Even if you're not planning to snorkel, Lua Ma'a remains a pretty beach destination that's worth the visit for its unique geological features and tranquil atmosphere.

One of the best beaches on Ta'ū can be found on the last leg of the Saua Trail, known as Pu'a Vai or Au Vai O Namo.

Named after the fresh springwater that once flowed here, a sacred element in the creation story of Tagaloa who placed the first humans near springs, this stunning beach offers a perfect combination of cultural significance and tropical paradise.

Easily identifiable by its distinctive small pyramid of stones on a clearing on the tailside, this secluded spot provides excellent snorkelling opportunities at mid-tide when it's not too shallow, and hopefully the waves are tame. Otherwise, it's an ideal place to cool off after hiking, offering a much more relaxing beach experience than the wild coast at the trail endpoint.

The end of the Saua Trail leads to your final breathtaking beach but don't stop there. Just around the corner of Aufotu Cove, a view opens up of the entire south coast of Ta'ū Island and its ancient caldera plummeting into the wild waves below. Here's how to get there:

Head down to the shoreline where remnants of old walking trail signs hint at the area's rugged past, though much has been claimed by the relentless ocean.

Round the corner and prepare to be awestruck by the epic south coast of Ta'ū, where dramatic bush-clad crater cliffs plunge into the raging Pacific below. The raw power of nature is on full display here, creating one of American Samoa's most spectacular and untamed vistas.

Back at the beach, wildlife enthusiasts will delight in spotting crabs scuttling across the sand, eels navigating the tidal pools, and other marine creatures that call this remote coastline home. This truly feels like the end of the world—a place where civilisation gives way to pure, untamed wilderness.

Heading back to Ofu now, we can't leave it too long without mentioning 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.

A tangible piece of history right behind Ofu Beach, the First Ofu Dispensary is worth a quick look.

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.

To'aga is considered one of the best parts of Ofu Beach to visit, whether it's for snorkelling or simply soaking in the views.

This remarkable location serves dual purposes as both a snorkelling paradise and an archaeological treasure trove. The crystal-clear waters provide exceptional snorkelling conditions, particularly during low to mid-tide when the waves and currents are gentler (high tide can make conditions challenging for swimmers).

Behind the pristine beach lies a fascinating archaeological site, with the easily accessible old dispensary signposted along the road serving as your gateway to this historical area. While the dispensary itself doesn't date back as far as some of the ancient artefacts discovered here, it offers visitors a tangible connection to the area's rich history.

Muliulu is another fascinating site on Ofu Beach, not only for its stunning beach access but for the history that surrounds the area.

This pristine stretch marks the dramatic end of Ofu Beach, where golden sands meet rugged coastline in spectacular fashion.

The site serves as the gateway to the challenging scramble that is the Sunu'itao Peak Base Trail, accessible only during low tide when the rocky shoreline becomes passable. Behind the beach, lush tropical vegetation conceals a haunting piece of local history—an ancient execution site steeped in traditional stories passed down through generations.

While archaeological evidence remains limited, the oral histories shared by locals provide the only window into this site's mysterious past.

For those seeking more hiking (or more like scrambling) adventures on Ofu Island, tackle the Sunu'itao Peak Base Trail.

Starting from the far eastern end of Ofu Beach, this unique trail requires timing your visit with low tide as you navigate a fascinating mix of volcanic rocks and tiny sandy beaches.

The 20-30 minute scramble takes you along the dramatic coastline to Asaga Beach, positioned directly under the bridge connecting Ofu and Olosega islands. The slow-paced journey allows you to fully appreciate the pristine marine environment and dramatic cliff formations that make this corner of the Pacific so special.

You can create a loop by returning via the road, adding just another 15 minutes to your adventure and offering completely different perspectives (and easier walking) of this stunning landscape.

A little-known beach on the northern coast of Ofu Island, Mafafa is where you may have a chance of spotting turtles.

This secluded stretch of sand, framed by swaying coconut palms, provides excellent protection from rough seas, making it an ideal alternative when southern coastlines become too choppy for comfortable swimming.

The crystal-clear waters create perfect conditions for snorkelling, whilst the sheltered bay ensures a peaceful swimming experience. According to locals, sea turtles are frequently spotted, potentially adding an extra touch of magic to your beach day.

The 15 to 20-minute coastal walk over rocks and sand becomes part of the adventure, leading you through stunning natural scenery with the beach in sight the entire way.

The Asaga Strait Bridge is something you can't miss on your visit to the Manu'a Islands!

This engineering marvel connects the twin islands of Ofu and Olosega, creating opportunities for adventure that go far beyond simple transportation.

Drive across to appreciate the stunning coastal views, or take a leisurely walk to soak in the scenery at your own pace. But here's where it gets exciting: locals have turned bridge jumping into an evening pastime, leaping from the eastern end where the water runs deepest.

The inviting waters below provide the perfect swimming spot, though timing is everything—you'll want to swim to the edge before the current carries you away.

The best approach is to join them for this exhilarating activity, as they know exactly where and when to jump safely.

Just across the Asaga Strait Bridge is the access trail to a long-abandoned village, Sili.

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.

There are more hiking trails to be had in the Manu'a Islands, and the Olosega Tsunami Evacuation Road happens to present another opportunity for magnificent vistas.

Transforming a practical emergency route into an unforgettable hiking experience, this 4WD track heads uphill from the back of the village, providing breathtaking panoramic views that showcase the entire settlement below, including the charming village church, pristine beach and the neighbouring island of Ofu in the distance.

The hour-long walk begins at the village's water tower, where you'll follow the gravel road to the left as it climbs steadily along the cliffside. The well-defined path makes navigation straightforward, whilst the gradual ascent ensures the hike remains accessible to most fitness levels.

You can loop back through the peaceful village streets, adding an extra 10-20 minutes to explore the local community and soak up the authentic island atmosphere.

Ofu Beach tends to get all the limelight in the Manu'a Islands, but we love the Le Loto Beach at Ofu Village with its islets and coral.

The beach offers a delightfully ironic twist; its name means "deep" in Samoan, yet this stunning stretch of coastline is wonderfully shallow, especially at low tide.

The shallow waters create a unique opportunity to walk out to the nearby rocky islet and explore on foot, making it feel like your own private adventure. While locals favour swimming here at mid tide when the water levels are perfect, it's also worth donning a snorkel mask to discover the vibrant coral formations and tropical reef fish that call these waters home.

The beach itself is absolutely lovely, fringed by swaying palms and soft sand. There's a convenient parking area complete with a traditional fale, providing the perfect shaded spot to relax between swims or snorkelling sessions.

Here lies the last of the Tui Manu'a (Kings and Queens of the Manu'a Island), a fascinating historical site on Ta'ū Island.

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.