The Best Snorkelling in American Samoa: Top 10 Places to Snorkel

Part of the National Marine Sanctuary of American Samoa, Fagatele Bay is the place to go snorkelling from Tutuila LINK#D006, American Samoa's main island. It just requires a little bit of adventure to get there.

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.

One of American Samoa's most idyllic beaches also happens to offer some of the best and most accessible snorkelling in the Manu'a Islands LINK#D012.

The breathtaking beach runs from Va'oto Lodge (see Where to Stay on Ofu, Olosega & Ta'u (Manu'a Islands)) to the Ofu-Olosega Bridge, offering spectacular views of towering bush-clad peaks behind and across to Olosega Island - it's simply too beautiful for words!

With 140 ha (346 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. The optimal swimming and snorkelling conditions occur during mid to high tide, though visitors should remain cautious of waves crashing over the reef and watch out for fire coral.

Fatumafuti offers a surprisingly excellent snorkelling experience just minutes from the bustling heart of Pago Pago.

This small, intimate beach boasts gorgeous harbour views, decent snorkelling and a chance to explore Fatu and Futi Rock, also known as Flowerpot Rock, making it one of the top beach destinations in the area.

Flowerpot Rock, also known as Fatu Rock, is said to be connected to a legend about Fatu and Futi, who were lovers from the Manu'a Islands who got stranded on the reef and have remained there to this day.

The beach features convenient parking facilities right next to the shoreline, allowing easy access to both the sandy stretch and prime snorkelling spots.

The beach operates from 6 am to 6 pm Monday through Saturday, with swimming prohibited on Sundays.

A lovely stretch of sand east of Pago Pago, Alega Beach is not only famous for Tisa's Barefoot Bar, but it has some pretty interesting snorkelling too.

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.

Rose Atoll is hands down one of the most spectacular snorkelling 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.