The Best Scuba Diving in American Samoa: Top 5 Places to Scuba Dive

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.

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.

Here's the catch: you'll need special permission to visit, and unless you have your own sailing boat, your best bet is to go with Pago Pago Marine Charters. You can learn more about them in The Best Dive Shops & Operators in American Samoa guide, 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.

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 140 species of coral, making it a vibrant underwater paradise where sea turtles are frequently spotted gliding through the colourful reef systems.

The adventure begins with a scenic forest trail that leads you to the rim of the ancient volcanic crater, where you should turn left at the fork to go down to a secluded beach via a wooden staircase.

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

Remember to bring your snorkelling gear and prepare for an unforgettable underwater adventure in this protected marine sanctuary.

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.

This pristine beach provides excellent conditions for swimming and snorkelling, but what truly sets Alega Beach apart is Tisa's Barefoot Bar, perched on an elevated deck overlooking the shoreline.

The bar creates a vibrant atmosphere where you can sip a cold drink while taking in panoramic ocean views.

The beach access fee is US$5, but this is waived if you're purchasing something from the bar, making it an excellent value for a day of relaxation and refreshment.