The Complete Guide to Golf in American Samoa

American Samoa may have just one golf course, but it's nothing to turn your nose up at! 'Ili'ili Golf Course (also called 'Ili'ili Country Club) offers something truly special: a peaceful park-style layout where you can tee off with towering peaks as your backdrop and the Pacific Ocean stretching out before you.

The course is cleverly built on a gentle slope, which means you'll soak up those stunning views from practically every hole.

You'll find it nestled in the village of 'Ili'ili, about 30 minutes from Pago Pago and just moments from Pago Pago International Airport. This makes it perfectly positioned for visitors looking to squeeze in a round during their stay.

'Ili'ili Golf Course sprawls across 120 acres (49 ha), stretching to 6,496 yards (5,940 m) from the back tees (though according to locals and some visitors we talked to, the course feels a bit shorter than the scorecard suggests). You'll start with a short par three before tackling some memorable holes, including right-doglegged par fives at the 5th and 14th, plus the short par four 18th that makes for a satisfying finish.

Here's something that'll keep you on your toes: out of bounds comes into play on no fewer than 15 holes. The 3rd, 8th, 14th and 16th holes are particularly tricky, with OOB markers lining both sides of the fairway.

You can hire golf carts and clubs on-site. We love that you can choose between older carts for a budget-friendly option or splash out on one of the newer models.

There's also a driving range where you can warm up before your round.

From what we've experienced, the locals here are incredibly friendly and laid-back. This definitely isn't a pretentious golf course, which we personally find refreshing.

'Ili'ili Golf Course Statistics

Location: Route 014 & Golf Course Road, 'Ili'ili, Tutuila
Holes: 18 holes
Par: 72
Distance: 5,940 m (6,496 yards)
Club Hire: Yes
Cart Hire: Yes
Clubhouse: Yes
Course Type: Park-style

History of the American Samoa Golf Course

The course has quite a fascinating backstory. Originally known as the Lavalava Golf Course, it owes its existence to Fuga Tolani Teleso, who was released early from the U.S. Army specifically to oversee the construction of the 'Ili'ili golf course at the request of the American Samoa Government.

Remarkably, Fuga was self-taught in everything golf-related. After retiring from the military in 1972, he took on the ambitious project of building both the Ili'ili Golf Course and Veterans Memorial Stadium.

What makes this story even more impressive is that Fuga built the course using volunteer labour and contributions from local businesses and golfers. He was so committed to the project that he personally purchased land next to the golf course for a pro shop.

Events at 'Ili'ili Golf Course

The course regularly hosts fundraising tournaments organised by the local Rotary and Lions Clubs, which adds a wonderful community spirit to the golfing experience.

Playing golf in American Samoa is relatively inexpensive.

Approximate prices include:

• 9-Hole green fee: US$
• 18-Hole green fee: US$10
• Driving range including balls: US$
• Cart hire: US$
• Tournaments: US$

For more approximate costs for your holiday, check out American Samoa Travel Budget: How Much Does a Trip to Samoa Cost? LINK#TT008