The Best Islands to Visit in American Samoa

As the easiest island to visit in American Samoa with the most accommodations, services and land area to explore, Tutuila is hands down the best island to visit in American Samoa... For most travellers, and we’ll get to the exceptions in a moment...

Tutuila is the main arrival point for the territory, welcoming all international flights via Pago Pago International Airport. But don’t treat it as just a launchpad to the outer islands; this rugged island is packed with dramatic coastlines, mountain trails, traditional villages and the bustle of Pago Pago, which is more of a laid-back port town than a polished capital.

Here, you’ll find the best mix of conveniences and adventures. Whether it’s hiking up Mt ʻAlava, snorkelling in Fagasā or Fagatele Bay, or just watching the sun set behind the rainforested cliffs, there’s always something to do. And if you’re after culture, Tutuila delivers: the shops are lively, the churches are grand, and the Jean P. Haydon Museum gives a glimpse into local life past and present.

Accommodation is also the most varied here, from B&Bs on the cliffside to family-friendly hotels and the island’s only real "resort". Take a look at Where to Stay on Tutuila: The Best Accommodations for more ideas.

So, if you’re after ease of access, a bit of everything, including beaches, hikes, culture and convenience, or even if you have a weird craving for American-style fast food, make Tutuila your top choice for visiting American Samoa.

Start with The Complete Travel Guide to Pago Pago & Tutuila.

Similar in natural beauty to Tutuila but a world away from its relative hustle and bustle, Ofu and Olosega are places to truly disconnect and soak up the wild, untouched charm of American Samoa. Life moves slowly here; there’s no rush, no crowds, and there’s a very solid chance you’ll have an entire beach or mountain trail all to yourself.

The tourism infrastructure is very minimal, but that’s part of the magic. There are just two or three guesthouses (depending on who's on the island), all offering warm local hospitality and just about your only real touchpoint for arranging transport and experiences. For accommodation options, check out Where to Stay on Ofu, Olosega & Ta'u (Manu'a Islands).

As for things to do, it’s more about natural immersion than ticking off attractions. Snorkel in the coral gardens of Ofu Beach (often named among the most beautiful beaches in the world), hike the rainforest-covered ridges to Mt Tumu or Oge Beach, or simply wander from one village to the next across the connecting bridge between the two islands. Wildlife encounters are part of the everyday, and you might even humpback whales between July and October just offshore. Just be careful not to disturb the aitu (ghosts) that locals will no doubt tell you about. Browse our 20 Best Things to Do in the Manu'a Islands for ideas.

So, if you're looking to escape the modern world entirely and experience raw island beauty in near solitude, Ofu & Olosega are the islands to visit in American Samoa.

Begin your dream trip with The Complete Travel Guide to the Manu'a Islands.

All the islands mentioned so far may get most of the attention, but the easternmost of the Manu‘a Islands, Taʻū, quietly beckons the more adventurous traveller. Remote, mountainous and steeped in legend, Taʻū is home to fewer than 1,000 people, ancient Samoan myths, and the tallest peak in American Samoa, Mt Lata.

Reaching Taʻū takes some effort - either an arduous journey on the interisland ferry or a short flight from Tutuila, weather permitting - but those who make it are rewarded with absolute tranquillity and the raw culture and sense of community pride of the self-called "Manukans". There are only a handful of places to stay, and while services are minimal, the scenery is anything but. Picture dramatic sea cliffs, wild beaches, thick rainforest, archaeological sites and hiking trails that feel like they’re straight out of a prehistoric film set.

Wander inland to see the remains of ancient villages, explore traditional plantations or trek through the National Park of American Samoa, which protects much of the island’s rugged terrain.

Learn more about what to do, where to stay and how to get there in The Complete Travel Guide to the Manu'a Islands.

American Samoa might not have a huge spread of outer islets (or at least, ones you can visit), but it does have one perfect for a day trip just off the southeast coast of Tutuila: Aunu‘u. Small, scenic and steeped in tradition, this volcanic island is a gem often overlooked by visitors.

A local boat makes the short hop across from Auasi multiple times a day (except on Sunday), taking just 10-15 minutes. Once you’re there, explore the inland marshlands, check out the red quicksand lake (yes, really), and hike the coastal trails for sweeping ocean views.

The beaches here are postcard-worthy, and while it’s not uninhabited like other day-trip isles, the quiet village life adds to the charm. Bring your snorkelling gear for the marine reserve and a sense of adventure.

Start planning your day trip or overnight visit using The Travel Guide to Aunu‘u.

Rose Atoll is a tiny, pristine coral atoll, one of the smallest in the world, nestled about 290 km (180 mi) east-southeast of Pago Pago in American Samoa.

Despite its modest land area (just over five hectares across two islets), it plays an outsized role in biodiversity, hosting roughly 97% of American Samoa's seabird population, along with nesting sea turtles, giant clams, rare fish and other threatened marine life.

But visiting isn't easy, the refuge is closed to the general public and can only be accessed via special permit or escorted by refuge staff.

Swains Island is a small, uninhabited coral atoll under American Samoa's administration, roughly 563 km (350 mi) northwest of Tutuila.

Though politically part of the territory, it's geographically isolated and largely off-limits, access is limited to an unscheduled ferry from Pago Pago, coordinated through the Department of Port Administration.

No permanent residents live there today, the island retains symbolic political representation despite its unpopulated status, and visiting requires careful planning and permission.