How to Plan a Family Trip to American Samoa
A hidden gem in the Pacific, American Samoa LINK#TT038 is the perfect tropical escape for families seeking authentic adventures without the crowds.
If you've ticked off the usual suspects like Fiji or Hawai'i and fancy something completely different, American Samoa delivers that rare combination of untouched natural beauty and genuine Polynesian culture that'll have your kids talking about it for years.
Picture this: crystal-clear tide pools perfect for little explorers, dramatic volcanic landscapes that feel like stepping into Jurassic Park, and some of the friendliest locals you'll ever meet who'll welcome your family like long-lost relatives.
From our own experiences visiting these remarkable islands, we've discovered that American Samoa offers something truly special: a chance to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect as a family in one of the most pristine corners of the Pacific.
The best part? You won't find tourist traps or overpriced resorts here. In fact, you'll find the complete opposite: the ultimate destination for families to actively explore together.
So, how do you plan a family adventure to these remote islands? That's exactly why we've created this comprehensive guide: to give you everything you need to know about exploring American Samoa with kids, from the practical stuff like flights and accommodation to the unmissable experiences that'll make this trip unforgettable.
This is your complete family travel guide to American Samoa.
Table of Contents
An Intro to American Samoa
Location: American Samoa is a United States territory comprising five volcanic islands and two coral atolls in the South Pacific Ocean. It is located approximately 2,485 mi (4,000 km) northeast of New Zealand and 2,300 mi (3,700 km) southwest of Hawaii. It lies about 75 mi (120 km) southeast of independent Samoa. Find out more in Where is American Samoa Located?
Size: American Samoa's total land area is 77 mi² (199 km²) with Tutuila being the largest island at 55 mi² (142 km²), followed by the Manu'a Islands (Ta'ū, Ofu and Olosega) and Rose Atoll and Swains Island.
Climate: Temperature – 75-84°F (24-29°C), yearly average rainfall – 114 in (2,897 mm), and year-round high humidity.
Find out more in our guide to American Samoa Weather, Seasons & Climate.
Time zone: UTC/GMT -11.
Find out more in What is the American Samoa Time Zone?
Population: 49,710.
Find out more in Who are the People of American Samoa?
Languages: Samoan and English.
Find out more in What is the American Samoa Language?

How to Get to American Samoa
What is the best way to get to American Samoa? American Samoa can be accessed by flight, cruise ship or private sailing yachts. But if you're travelling with your family, then we're guessing you're coming via the most convenient and comfortable way: by international flight, so let's start with that.
Flying to American Samoa
Direct international flights to American Samoa come from Apia (Samoa) and Honolulu (Hawai'i). If you're coming from further afield, you'll find connecting flights at Honolulu, while you can connect to Apia via New Zealand, Australia, Fiji and French Polynesia. See our guide, Which Airlines Fly Directly to American Samoa? for more advice.
All international arrivals land at Pago Pago International Airport on the island of Tutuila, approximately 10-15 minutes from the nation's capital, Pago Pago. Find out more about the airport and what to expect in Which Airport to Fly into American Samoa.
Cruises to American Samoa
American Samoa is on the itinerary of several South Pacific cruises from New Zealand, Australia, the US and French Polynesia, as well as round-the-world cruises from Europe. There is one port of call in American Samoa, Pago Pago, where tours of the greater Tutuila island are easy to organise.
Find out about which cruise liners have American Samoa on their itinerary, as well as what to do at each port of call in the 10 Best Cruises that Go to American Samoa.
Sailing to American Samoa
American Samoa is situated on the Transpacific journey between the US and New Zealand. The yachting season is between May and October. Learn about the sailing formalities and the port of entry in our Sailing Guide to American Samoa.
A Note About Entry Permits
All overseas visitors, including children, need to apply for an Entry Permit before travelling to American Samoa, even if you are a U.S. citizen. Entry Permits/OK To Board are checked before your flight and on arrival. Anyone who does not have an OTB will be denied entry into American Samoa.
Learn more about this process in our guide, American Samoa Entry Permit: Do You Need a Visa to Visit American Samoa?
An Extra Note on Customs Declarations
American Samoa has strict biosecurity measures at the border to stop unwanted pests and diseases from entering the territory. Therefore, anyone arriving in American Samoa has to declare any "risk items" they have packed in their luggage – even common items like food and sports gear. Be sure to read up on Arriving in American Samoa: Airport Customs, Biosecurity & Arrival Process so you are prepared.
Check out our complete guide on How to Get to American Samoa for even more tips on making your way to the islands.

When to Visit American Samoa
American Samoa is a tropical paradise that offers families consistently warm temperatures throughout the year, making it perfect for year-round adventures with the kids. The territory has two distinct seasons that each offer unique family experiences: a dry season, which is drier and less humid but windier (ideal for outdoor activities and beach days), and a wet season, which is hotter and more humid but less windy (perfect for exploring indoor attractions and enjoying the lush, green landscapes).
Learn more about the climate in our guide, American Samoa Weather, Seasons & Climate + American Samoa Weather by Month.
Dry Season (May to October)
The dry season is the most popular time to visit American Samoa, not only for the temperatures of around 82-84°F (28-29°C) but the lower (but not exactly low) rainfall per month at an average of 5-9 in (125-233 mm). However, the tradewind season is in full swing, making it less ideal for water activities. The dry season is also the time for surfing, catching the occasional whale sighting, experiencing some popular events, and hiking the national park trails.
Wet Season (November to April)
The wet season is hotter and more humid, with temperatures around 86°F (30°C) and an average monthly rainfall of 10-16 in (250-395 mm). This is also the South Pacific's cyclone season, which means there's a risk of cyclones (but only a risk, which you can learn more about in A Guide to Cyclone Safety in American Samoa). Ironically, it's also when water conditions are calmest due to weaker tradewinds. The wet season is also the best time for catching marlin and yellowfin tuna, snorkelling from shore, or doing excursions on boat trips.
The Best Time to Visit American Samoa with Kids
American Samoa is a fantastic destination for families year-round due to its limited tourism industry, which means fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere. However, to get your first pick of family accommodations and flights, it's best to visit during quieter seasons when fewer Samoans are coming from overseas to visit families and there are no school holidays, like the low season (February to April) or shoulder seasons (May and September to November). During these periods, you'll have better availability of family rooms and holiday homes, making your trip with children much more comfortable.
Still can't decide when the best time is to travel to the islands? Check out our complete guide, The Best Time to Visit American Samoa, which dives much deeper into the subject.

What to Pack for American Samoa
The main thing you need to keep in mind when packing for American Samoa is having a tropical wardrobe that includes some more modest items of clothing for going out in villages.
A packing list for American Samoa might look a little something like this for each family member (where applicable):
- 4 Singlets/T-Shirts
- 2 Blouses/Shirts to cover the shoulders for church, visiting villages and exploring
- 2 Shorts/Skirts which are not too short so you can enjoy wearing them at both your resort and when out exploring
- 1 Light evening dress to impress at dinner
- 1 Dress/Skirt below the knee for church, going to town or villages, etc. We recommend light fabrics such as the sustainable bamboo dresses and skirts by Moso Morrow
- 1 Sarong (Lavalava) will be your best friend for hitting the beach and covering your swimwear in between swimming. You can bring your own or there are plenty for sale once you arrive in Samoa
- 1 or 2 Light sleepwear if you’re against sleeping in your undies
- 1 Light Cardigan/Pashmina/Poncho for windy/rainy days
- 1 Sports shorts/Leggings for hiking/active activities
- 1 Sports T-shirt/Singlet for hiking/active activities
- 1 Outfit to travel between Samoa and home
- 3 Bras including strapless, sports and comfortable bras
- 6 Underwear
- 4 Socks
- 1 Bikini for resort beach/pool
- 1 One-piece for swimming tours/public beaches
- 2 Boardshorts for guys
- 1 Rash vest (we like sustainable Sharkskin rashies)
- Sunhat
- Sunglasses
- Light shirt to cover arms and back
- Light rain jacket
- Flip-flops/Sandals
- Walking shoes/Sneakers
- Reef shoes/Water shoes.
Travel Accessories for Kids
- Baby mosquito net
- Waterproof kids camera
- Go!: Kids Interactive Travel Diary
- Reusable Swim Diaper Training Pants
- GPS tracker/child locator
- Travel games
- Baby carrier
- Portable steriliser
- Preferred baby formula
- Inflatables
And that's just the clothes and extras for kids! For a full packing list of everything to take, including accessories and toiletries, check out What to Pack for American Samoa: A Full American Samoa Packing List.
Health Products
With high UV levels and the presence of mosquitoes, certain health products are essential for keeping your family safe and comfortable in American Samoa. American Samoa also has a fragile marine ecosystem, so reef-safe sunscreens and repellents are a must to protect both your loved ones and the environment.
On a similar note, a reusable water purification bottle is perfect for families, ensuring everyone stays hydrated with clean water whilst reducing plastic waste—a great way to teach children about environmental responsibility.
See our health essentials packing list in What Medication to Pack in Your First Aid Kit for American Samoa, as well as tips for protecting the health of the environment in the 30 Ways to Travel More Sustainably in American Samoa.
Currency
The currency in American Samoa is the US Dollar. Cash is king in American Samoa and is the most accepted form of payment, so having enough with you while exploring the islands is essential. Some vendors accept MasterCard, while others also accept other credit card brands. More commonly, vendors accept PayPal. ATMs can be found around the town areas of Pago Pago and Tafuna, while there is one ATM on Ofu and another in Fitiuta, Ta'ū.
Get more money tips in What is the Best Way to Pay in American Samoa?
Travel Documents and Paperwork
As mentioned, visitors to American Samoa need an Entry Permit. You also need a passport that is valid for no less than six months after the intended date of departure, or a U.S. Government-issued photo ID. There may be other current entry requirements, which we keep up to date in What Documents Do I Need to Travel to American Samoa?

How Long to Spend in American Samoa
Let's get one thing straight: American Samoa is not your destination for chilling at a resort and relaxing. This is a place where families will absolutely love actively exploring together, not only for island-hopping adventures but mostly for memorable road-tripping around its main island.
We'd recommend the minimum number of days to spend in American Samoa is five days if just visiting Tutuila. However, 10 to 14 days are the recommended number of days for a truly satisfying family trip to American Samoa, especially if you include both Tutuila and the Manu'a Islands.
With all that in mind, here's what your family can achieve in certain timeframes… (And don't worry, we'll get onto the destinations in the next few sections).
3 Days / A Long Weekend in American Samoa
Over three days or a long weekend, your family has enough time to visit American Samoa's capital, Pago Pago, and perhaps explore one side of Tutuila together. Check out the American Samoa Itinerary: 3 Days for a suggested trip idea.
5 Days in American Samoa
Five days give you just enough time to explore the main island of Tutuila and its capital, Pago Pago, but not Aunu'u or the Manu'a Islands. See American Samoa Itinerary: 5 Days for a recommended vacation plan.
7 Days / 1 Week in American Samoa
Some families will find that seven days is enough to explore everything there is to see on Tutuila, including the island of Aunu'u, while more intrepid travellers might want to squeeze in a trip to Ofu and Olosega in the Manu'a Islands. Get some inspiration on what to do and where to go from the American Samoa Itinerary: 7 Days.
10 Days in American Samoa
10 days is a comfortable amount of time to enjoy both Tutuila and Ofu and Olosega in the Manu'a Islands. Check out our American Samoa Itinerary: 10 Days for an affordable holiday agenda.
14 Days / 2 Weeks in American Samoa
The perfect amount of time to experience American Samoa is two weeks. That will give you plenty of time to visit all of the territory's populated islands, including Tutuila, Aunu'u, Ofu, Olosega and Ta'ū, while not having the sense of "rushing it". See American Samoa Itinerary: 14 Days for a whole fortnight of awesomeness.
How Long Can You Stay in American Samoa?
Visitors to American Samoa can stay up to 30 days! Or, if you're a Samoan citizen, only 10 days. Learn more about how long you can stay in our guide, American Samoa Entry Permit: Do You Need a Visa to Visit American Samoa?

Which Island to Visit in American Samoa
American Samoa is made up of five main islands and two coral atolls, with the largest and most populated being Tutuila. The main island of Tutuila is home to the capital Pago Pago and the territory's only international airport, making it the perfect starting point for families looking to explore this Pacific paradise.
The Manu'a Islands (consisting of Ta'ū, Ofu and Olosega) lie about 62 mi (100 km) east of Tutuila and offer families seeking adventure a more secluded island experience where children can discover pristine beaches and unique wildlife in a safe, welcoming environment.
Compare the most popular islands to visit, as well as how to experience some of American Samoa's smaller islands in The Best Islands to Visit in American Samoa. Otherwise, here's a quick rundown of each destination.
Tutuila
As the most accessible island in American Samoa with the best range of family-friendly accommodations and attractions, Tutuila is our top pick for families visiting for the first time. This rugged beauty welcomes all international flights through Pago Pago International Airport, but don't just use it as a stepping stone; the island offers dramatic coastlines, gentle mountain trails and traditional villages that children will find fascinating.
Your family will love the mix of convenience and adventure, whether taking the kids on an easy hike up Mt ʻAlava, enjoying safe snorkelling in the calm waters of Fagasā or Fagatele Bay, or watching spectacular sunsets behind rainforested cliffs together. The cultural scene offers plenty for families with kid-friendly shops, beautiful churches and the educational Jean P. Haydon Museum where children can learn about local history and culture.
For easy access and diverse experiences, Tutuila is your perfect base. Start planning with The Complete Travel Guide to Pago Pago & Tutuila.
Ofu-Olosega
For pure family escapism, Ofu and Olosega offer untouched beauty without crowds; perfect for creating lasting memories with your children. Life moves at island pace, giving families time to reconnect, and you'll likely have pristine beaches and gentle trails all to yourselves for safe exploration and play.
Minimal tourism infrastructure is part of the magic, with just two or three guesthouses providing local hospitality (find options in our Where to Stay on Ofu, Olosega & Ta'u guide).
Snorkel world-famous Ofu Beach, hike to Mt Tumu or Oge Beach, or wander between villages. You might spot humpback whales between July and October. Just mind the aitu (ghosts) locals warn about!
Browse our 20 Best Things to Do in the Manu'a Islands, then plan with The Complete Travel Guide to the Manu'a Islands.
Ta'ū
The easternmost Manu'a Island, Ta'ū calls to families seeking an extraordinary adventure together. This remote island hosts fewer than 1,000 people, ancient legends and American Samoa's tallest peak, Mt Lata.
Getting here requires planning, a ferry or flight from Tutuila, but rewards your family with tranquillity and proud "Manukan" culture. Children will be fascinated by dramatic cliffs, wild beaches, rainforest and prehistoric archaeological sites. Explore the National Park of American Samoa trails together, creating unforgettable memories whilst protecting this rugged terrain.
It's raw, remote and rewarding for authentic island life seekers. Learn more in The Complete Travel Guide to the Manu'a Islands.
Aunu'u
Don't overlook Aunu'u, American Samoa's perfect family day-trip destination off Tutuila's southeast coast. This volcanic island combines scenic beauty with fascinating natural wonders that will captivate children and adults alike: unique red quicksand lakes and pristine postcard beaches perfect for family exploration.
Local boats make 10-15 minute hops from Auasi daily (except Sundays), delivering your family to gentle marshlands, easy hiking trails suitable for little legs, and breathtaking ocean views.
Start planning with The Travel Guide to Aunu'u.

How to Get Around American Samoa
The distances between islands in American Samoa are a short flight or a full-day ferry journey apart, making island-hopping by boat a wonderful and convenient option for families. Once you have arrived on Tutuila, getting around is also made extremely easy with the abundance of buses, taxis and vehicle rentals available. For the Manu'a Islands, getting around is more at a natural pace by walking or relying on the kindness of your host.
Ferries and Boat Transport
Ferries sail back and forth between Tutuila and the Manu'a Islands three times a month, providing a scenic journey that families will love. Boat transport to Aunu'u offers another delightful way to explore, while private boat hire between the Manu'a Islands gives families the flexibility to travel at their own pace.
Learn more in our American Samoa Ferry Guide: How to Use the Ferry for Interisland Travel in American Samoa.
Car Rental
Renting a car is the most popular way for families to get around Tutuila. You can choose from a range of vehicles, from compact cars perfect for navigating the island's roads to more spacious SUVs ideal for families with luggage and equipment. A valid driver's licence from your home country is sufficient for short-term visitors.
Find out everything you need to know about hiring in What You Need to Hire a Car in American Samoa.
Local Buses
Tutuila has a vibrant fleet of colourful buses that provide a fun and authentic way for families to explore the island alongside locals. These buses offer a genuine cultural experience, though they operate on island time rather than strict schedules, so it's best to allow plenty of time for your family adventures.
Find out more in our guide, Taking the Bus in American Samoa: Bus Fares, Routes & More.
Taxis
Taxis are also in abundance on Tutuila, offering convenient rides for short distances, whilst fares can be negotiated for longer journeys (for example, a trip between Pago Pago and the airport is easily arranged). Ask about drivers' hourly rates for sightseeing.
See Taxis in American Samoa: Taxi Fares, How to Use & More for more useful advice.
Whilst those are the main ways to get around American Samoa, you can dive into all of your options, including sightseeing tours and airport transfers, in the American Samoa Transport Guide: 15 Best Ways to Get Around American Samoa.
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Where to Stay: Family Accommodation in American Samoa
American Samoa does not have a well-developed tourism industry, so don't expect fancy resorts or for the infrastructure to be updated since the '70s. As American Samoa is a developing territory, accommodation standards might not be as high as you're used to. But where the country truly shines is its more authentic locally-owned hotels, homestays and B&Bs that offer families a genuine cultural experience and warm hospitality that children will remember for years to come.
Discover the best family-friendly accommodations across the islands in the 10 Best Family Accommodations in American Samoa.
Family-Friendly Hotels
Particularly in Utulei (Pago Pago) and Tafuna on Tutuila, hotels make up much of the family accommodation. Hotels often have facilities like an outdoor pool or tidal pool. Some also have a restaurant on site. Rooms are private and have an ensuite. Don't expect babysitting services or any extra facilities for families.
Check out some of these accommodations listed in the Where to Stay in Pago Pago & Tutuila: 10 Best Accommodations.
Homestays & Lodges
Most of the accommodations making up the Manu'a accommodation scene are small-scale accommodations like homestays and lodges that offer affordable rates, typically with meals available to purchase. Facilities usually include private rooms with a choice of shared or private bathroom, with communal areas such as a lounge and dining area or kitchen.
Some of these accommodations are listed in Where to Stay in Ofu, Olosega & Ta'ū (Manu'a Islands): 10 Best Accommodations.
Holiday Homes
In both Tutuila and the Manu'a Islands, locals are listing their properties on websites like Booking.com, Expedia and Airbnb, offering excellent value for families seeking comfortable accommodation. There's a wonderful selection ranging from cosy to more modern holiday homes, typically featuring at least two bedrooms and spacious open-plan kitchen/lounge areas perfect for family gatherings.
Other Family-Friendly Accommodations in American Samoa
For a complete listing of American Samoa's family-suitable accommodation options all in one place, check out 10 Best Family Accommodations in American Samoa.
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Family-Friendly Things to Do in American Samoa
Contrary to popular belief, there's more to do in American Samoa than walk the National Park trails! American Samoa excels in adventure, sightseeing and culture, providing a generous mix of water and inland experiences perfect for families. There's so much to do that we could hardly fit it all into our 101 Best Things to Do in American Samoa: The Ultimate List LINK#TTD066!
When it comes to family experiences, you'll find countless ways to create lasting memories together in American Samoa. Many of the biggest highlights are perfect for children and adults alike, such as:
- Snorkelling – Snorkel in the lagoons or bays of Fagatele Bay, Ofu Beach, Fagasa and more
- Watersports hire - Hire kayaks or SUPs with South Pacific Watersports
- Waterfalls – Swim at the base or admire from afar at Nu'uuli Falls or Faga'alu Falls
- Swimming pools – Maliu Mai's tidal pools, Pala Lagoon waterpark for kids and more
- Beaches – Uncrowded beaches like Lua Tala Beach, Fatumafuti, Ofu Beach, Mafafa Beach and more
- Hiking – Flat and easy-going walks on the Lower Sauma Ridge, Poloa Island Trail and Saua Trail
- Historical sites – Ancient Tia Seu Lupe star mounds and Blunts Point, and Tafuna Airbase WW2 sites
- Museums – Learn something new at the Jean P. Haydon Museum or Tauese P.F. Sunia Ocean Center
- Umu nights - Traditional hot-rock meal at Tisa's Barefoot Bar
- Canoe Tours – Join tours for fautasi canoes on the Pago Pago Harbor
- Fishing – Catch Pacific pelagics with Pago Marine Charters or Samriel Aunu'u Island Getaway
- Shopping – Pago Pago and Tafuna provide the opportunity to buy all sorts of amazing crafts
- Island tours – Explore the island with a local guide from Best Tours or North Shore Tours
Again, start making your bucket list with the 20 Best Things to Do in American Samoa with Kids.

Food in American Samoa
Food is an integral part of the Samoan culture. Despite there being limited dining options outside of main centres like Pago Pago and Tafuna, accommodation hosts will ensure you won't go hungry by either providing homecooked meals of Samoan fare (the cheapest option) or ensuring you have kitchen facilities to cook your own meals.
Everything you need to know about food in American Samoa can be found in The Food Guide to American Samoa: Places to Eat & Food Tours.
The Best Restaurants and Cafés for Families
Restaurants and cafés can be found across the town area of Pago Pago, as well as in and around Tafuna. They mostly serve up Asian and American dishes, catering more to local tastes rather than international tourists. There are no restaurants in the Manu'a Islands.
- Alora's Restaurant - Offers an extensive menu with familiar family favourites like pancakes, burgers, grilled cheese sandwiches, and chicken alfredo, plus they serve breakfast all day, which is perfect for families with different schedules.
- Tropical Chicken - A casual chicken restaurant with kid-friendly meals including a dedicated kids meal (chicken, fries, cookies & juice), plus they offer ice cream sundaes and other desserts that children love.
- Vila's Snack Bar - Features a diverse menu with something for everyone, including breakfast burritos, tacos, burgers, and mixed plates, while keeping all prices affordable, which makes it budget-friendly for families.
- Sadie's by the Sea (Goat Island Cafe) - Provides a good variety of options from pancakes and chicken wings to fish & chips and pasta, with a scenic harbour location that families can enjoy while dining.
- Good Vibes Bar & Grill - Offers sizzling dishes that can be entertaining for kids to watch, plus familiar options like burgers, pasta, and fish & chips in a welcoming atmosphere that attracts both locals and visitors.
- Paradise Pizza - Offers pizza, pasta, wings, burgers and salads with a stunning harbour view, making it perfect for families since pizza is universally loved by children and the scenic location provides entertainment.
- Samu's Ice Cream - A perfect family destination with an incredible variety of ice cream flavours (including kid favourites like Cake Batter, Oreo & Cream, and Snickers), plus they serve simple comfort foods like hot dogs, chilli, and pancakes with very reasonable pricing.
- ChEAT Day - A dessert paradise for families featuring their famous koko Samoa brownies, fresh-baked cookies, cupcakes, and fun drinks like their popular "Moana mix" (Sprite with blue raspberry), plus they offer ice cream sundaes and milkshakes that kids absolutely love.
Learn more about your options in the 20 Best Restaurants in American Samoa.
Self-Catering
Self-catering is perfect for families with holiday homes and B&Bs on Tutuila and in every accommodation in the Manu'a Islands. You'll find well-stocked convenience stores selling all the essentials you need for family meals across the territory.
As self-catering is such a big topic to cover, we have a separate guide in A Guide to Supermarkets & Food Shopping in American Samoa.
Special Diets
With tropical vegetables and coconut cream being staple ingredients in American Samoa, vegans and gluten-intolerant diners are usually easy to cater for, but you may struggle to find "creative" dishes. For the Manu'a Islands, let your accommodation hosts know about any dietary requirements before you arrive.
Check out American Samoa for Vegans & Vegetarians + 10 Best Restaurants, as well as The Gluten-Free Guide to American Samoa for more advice.
What Food to Try
And what are the foods worth trying in American Samoa? With traditional dishes, from rich and creamy palusami to refreshing oka, trying the local staples is one of the best things about visiting American Samoa. Look out for the items listed in the 20 Foods to Try in American Samoa.
Food and Water Safety
Family-friendly accommodations in American Samoa typically provide bottled water in your room for your first night of stay. After that, you'll find it convenient to purchase bottled water for the whole family or, for a more environmentally conscious approach, consider bringing reusable water bottles with built-in purification systems that allow everyone to safely drink from the tap. See Is the Water Safe to Drink in American Samoa? for more advice.
Food in American Samoa is generally cooked to safe hygiene standards, but check out American Samoa Safety Tips for precautions to take.
For all things "food" in American Samoa, including markets to attend, foodie tours, restaurant recommendations and more, head to The Food Guide to American Samoa: Places to Eat & Food Tours.
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Typical Costs for a Family Trip to American Samoa
We all travel very differently. Therefore, making a precise budget for everyone is an impossible task. Nevertheless, you can work out your family's needs, and therefore budget, by simply looking at the typical prices listed below or in our article, How Much Does a Trip to American Samoa Cost?
Note that American Samoa doesn't typically offer "child rates" for tours and experiences or offer any particular accommodation deals for families. You'll mostly find discounts for children with transport services.
The Cost of Accommodation
- Budget hotel room/night – US$90-$100
- Mid-range hotel room/night – US$170-$220
- Deluxe hotel room/night – US$280-$300
- Homestay or B&B/night – US$100-$150
- Homestay or B&B + meals/night – US$120-$170
- Holiday home rental/night – US$100-$300
The Cost of Food
- Main breakfast meal – US$8-$21
- Main lunch meal – US$12-$30
- Main dinner meal – US$15-$65
- Small coffee – US$2-$4
- Bottle of beer – US$4-$6
- Bottle of wine – US$8-$25
- Cocktail – US$8-$20
- Mocktail/Smoothie – US$5-$10
- Soft drink – US$2-$3
The cost of supermarket food can be found in The Cost of a Trip to American Samoa.
Land Activity Prices
- Beach access/person – US$0–$10
- Golf (18 holes) – US$10–$20
- Guided sightseeing tour/4–6 hrs per person – US$100–$360
- Taxi day tour/person – US$20–$40 per hour
- Umu experience/person – US$60–$120
- Museum entry – Free
- National Park trails - Free
Water Activity Prices
- Snorkel gear hire/hour – US$10
- Kayak hire/hour – US$10-$15
- SUP hire/hour – US$20
- Waterbike hire/day - US$50
- Snorkelling tour + beach day pass - US$130-$135
- Private boat charter (fishing, snorkelling, etc.) - US$1,200-$1,400
Road Transport Prices
- Car rental/day – US$60-$150
- Taxi/around Pago Pago – US$7-$20
- Taxi/airport to Tradewinds – US$7-$8
- Taxi/airport to Pago – US$15-$20
- Taxi/airport to Tisa's – US$40
- Bus/aiga bus one-way trip – US$1-$5
Water Transport Prices
Children are half price.
- Tutuila – Manu'a ferry/passenger one-way – US$30
- Ofu – Ta'ū alia boat charter – US$300
- Aunu'u – Tutuila alia boat transfer/person – US$5-$10
Air Transport Prices
Children are half price.
- Tutuila – Manu'a Islands/round trip – US$260
- Inter-island charter flights/one-way – US$5,000
Spending Money for American Samoa
Here are a few averages for a daily budget for American Samoa. These include food, activities, transport and miscellaneous expenses. Each price is per person per day, with child costs being marginally cheaper:
- Budget daily budget: US$90
- Mid-range daily budget: US$270
- Luxury daily budget: US$520+
We break down the budgets further in How Much Does a Trip to American Samoa Cost?
Family Accommodations in American Samoa
Tutuila
- Sadie's BnB 1
- Sadie's BnB 2
- Tradewinds Hotel
- Tisa's Eco Fales
- Sadie's By The Sea
- Maliu Mai Beach Resort
- Pago Pago Airport Inn
Manu'a Islands
- Va'oto Lodge (Ofu-Olosega)
- Esteta Homestay (Ta'ū)
- M&M Rental (Ofu-Olosega)
- Ma'atoa Rental Units (Ta'ū)
Learn more about each stay in the 10 Best Family Accommodations in American Samoa.
More About Planning a Family Holiday to American Samoa
That’s it for our complete travel guide to American Samoa for families, but it is by no means the end of our American Samoa advice! Check out the following articles for more tips for families:
- 30 Tips for Your Family American Samoa Vacation with Kids
- 20 Best Things to Do in American Samoa with Kids
- 10 Fun Facts About American Samoa
And if you simply can’t get enough Am Sam wisdom, head over to the 30 Tips for Travelling in American Samoa LINK#TT042.
Happy travels, and thanks for checking out this travel guide to American Samoa for families!