The Best Scuba Diving in American Samoa: Top 6 Places to Scuba Dive

Established as part of the National Marine Park of American Samoa, Fagatele Bay is a top dive site. You can access it independently from shore (more on that below) or take a deep dive with a local operator, which offers encounters with larger species like sharks and turtles.

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.

Sheltered on Tutuila's northern coast, Maloata Bay is the dive site you've never heard of that's bound to take your breath away.

The site tends to offer calm conditions even when strong winds affect other coastal areas. This pristine bay hosts an incredible diversity of marine life, from vibrant coral formations and dramatic wall-like structures to giant clams nestled amongst the reef.

Divers can explore depths of around 70 ft (20 m) along gradual wall formations, discovering hidden caves and encountering an extraordinary variety of fish species. The site's unique underwater topography and rich biodiversity have made it a favourite amongst both recreational divers and marine scientists.

While reaching this secluded spot requires some effort from shore, the reward is an untouched underwater paradise that feels worlds away from crowded dive sites.

Although most know it for its beachfront bar and as a nice to place to relax, Alega Beach also makes for some excellent scuba diving. The protected bay is perfect for beginners and experienced divers alike, with easy shore access and rich coral formations.

Watch as CandyMann dramatically unveils the earth oven by removing the encompassing banana leaves at 7 pm sharp, revealing perfectly cooked traditional food whilst Tisa shares fascinating insights about this ancient cooking method.

The spectacle takes about 15 minutes to unfold, creating both a dining experience and educational opportunity that immerses you in authentic Samoan culinary traditions. Guests dine at traditional tables in a communal setting on the elevated deck overlooking Alega Beach, which captures the true essence of Samoan hospitality, with piña coladas and fruit punch served throughout the evening.

For those who can't make the Wednesday schedule, Tisa offers flexible alternatives to ensure no visitor misses out on experiencing genuine local cuisine during their stay, whether you're a cruise ship passenger or wanting a place to stay inside their eco-fales.

Venture into the depths at Taema Bank, one of American Samoa's most spectacular offshore diving destinations.

This unique underwater bank rises to within just 6 m (20 ft) of the surface in some areas, creating an extraordinary habitat that supports an incredible diversity of marine life.

The site's deeper reefs offer exceptional visibility and the chance to encounter large pelagic species, including the magnificent whale shark. The bank's distinctive topography and rich biodiversity once made it a candidate for Marine Protected Area status, highlighting its ecological significance.

Advanced divers will appreciate the challenging depths and the opportunity to explore pristine coral formations rarely disturbed by human activity. The remote location ensures an exclusive underwater experience, where schools of large fish patrol the reef walls and rare species thrive in this protected environment.

For those lucky enough to get their scuba gear to Big Momma, a megalithic coral structure awaits in the depths off the coast of Ta'ū.

This gargantuan Porites coral formation is one of the largest discovered in the world.

This ancient marine giant stands over 20 ft (6 m) tall with an impressive circumference of 134 ft (41 m), having grown steadily for more than 500 years. The sheer scale of Big Momma is breathtaking—you can easily spot the coral's crown, which is about 50 ft (15 m) down, while snorkelling at the surface.

For those with diving equipment, descending to explore the full majesty of this underwater monument offers an unforgettable experience.

Rose Atoll is hands down one of the most spectacular scuba diving spots you'll find in American Samoa—if you're lucky enough to make it there.

Located 100 km (62 mi) east of the Manu'a Islands, this pristine atoll is protected as the "Rose Atoll Marine National Monument," a US National Wildlife Refuge that offers absolutely incredible underwater experiences.

Named after its pink reefs that are abundant in coralline algae, the atoll supports the highest giant clam densities in the Samoan archipelago and is the primary site for green turtle and seabird nesting in American Samoa.

The area is also home to the Vaililu‘u Seamount, which hosts a diverse biological community including marine worms, sea fans, corals, sponges and eels.

Here's the catch: you'll need special permission to visit, and unless you have your own sailing boat, your best bet is to hire a private boat charter. Options are highlighted in The Best Dive Shops & Operators in American Samoa guide and 10 Best Boat & Sailing Tours in American Samoa LINK#TTD138, and get all the sailing details in our Sailing Guide to American Samoa: Tips for Yachting in American Samoa.

Learn more about Rose Atoll in The Complete Guide to Swains Island & Rose Atoll LINK#D014.