The Complete Travel Guide to American Samoa

What is the best way to get to American Samoa? Samoa can be accessed by flight, cruise ship or private sailing yachts. The most popular way to get to American Samoa is 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 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.

American Samoa is a tropical territory and experiences consistently warm temperatures throughout the year, as well as high humidity. It has two distinct seasons: a dry season, which is drier, less humid but windier, and a wet season, which is hotter, more humid but less windy.

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

American Samoa offers excellent value all year round due to its limited tourism industry. However, to secure your first choice of 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, such as the low season (February to April) or shoulder seasons (May and September to November).

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.

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:

• 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.

And that's just the clothes! 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 to take to American Samoa. American Samoa also has a fragile marine ecosystem, so reef-safe sunscreens and repellents are a must.

On a similar note, a reusable water purification bottle is preferable to buying bottled water for obvious environmental reasons.

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?

Let's get one thing straight: American Samoa is not your destination for chilling at a resort and relaxing. This is a place where you're definitely going to want to actively explore, not only for island-hopping but mostly for 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 satisfying trip to American Samoa, especially if you include both Tutuila and the Manu'a Islands.

With all that in mind, here's what you 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, you have enough time to visit American Samoa's capital, Pago Pago, and perhaps one side of Tutuila. 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 travellers 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?

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 primary entry point for visitors. The Manu'a Islands (consisting of Ta'ū, Ofu and Olosega) lie about 62 mi (100 km) east of Tutuila and offer a more remote island experience.

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 accommodations and attractions, Tutuila is our top pick for first-time visitors. 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, mountain trails and traditional villages.

You'll love the mix of convenience and adventure, whether hiking Mt ʻAlava, snorkelling in Fagasā or Fagatele Bay, or watching sunsets behind rainforested cliffs. The cultural scene thrives with shops, churches and the Jean P. Haydon Museum.

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 escapism, Ofu and Olosega offer untouched beauty without crowds. Life moves at island pace; no rush, and you'll likely have beaches and trails to yourself.

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 of the Manu'a Islands, Ta'ū calls to adventurous souls seeking something special. This remote island hosts fewer than 1,000 people, ancient legends and American Samoa's tallest peak, Mt Lata.

Getting here requires effort—ferry or weather-dependent flight from Tutuila—but rewards you with tranquillity and proud "Manukan" culture. Discover dramatic cliffs, wild beaches, rainforest and prehistoric archaeological sites. Trek the National Park of American Samoa trails 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 day-trip destination off Tutuila's southeast coast. This volcanic island combines scenic beauty with quirks: red quicksand lakes and postcard beaches. Local boats make 10-15 minute hops from Auasi daily (except Sundays), delivering you to marshlands, hiking trails and ocean views.

Start planning with The Travel Guide to Aunu'u.

The distances between islands in American Samoa are a short flight or a full-day ferry journey apart, making island-hopping by boat a very viable and affordable option. 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 by bike.

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 travellers will love. Boat transport to Aunu'u offers another delightful way to explore, while private boat hire between the Manu'a Islands gives travellers 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 travellers 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 those 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 and work out your budget using The Cost of Renting a Car in American Samoa.

Scooter Rental

Although not as popular as in nearby destinations like Rarotonga, scooter rental in American Samoa is available as an exciting and adventurous way to explore the islands. Renting a scooter offers travellers the perfect opportunity to discover hidden gems and scenic coastal roads at your own pace, creating unforgettable memories as you ride through this beautiful Pacific paradise.

See a cost breakdown in Scooter Hire in American Samoa: Where to Rent, Cost & More.

Cycling

Bicycles and e-bikes are available to hire in the Manu'a Islands, with many accommodations offering complimentary use for their guests, while others provide rental services for travellers looking to explore the islands. Check out The Ultimate Guide to Cycling in American Samoa for more details.

Local Buses

Tutuila has a vibrant fleet of buses that cart around locals and tourists for less than five bucks per trip. On the downside, they don't run on schedules, so getting anywhere fast isn't usually an option. 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.

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 homestays and B&Bs.

Discover the cheapest accommodations across the islands in our guide, Where to Stay in American Samoa: 15 Best Accommodations.

Hotels

Particularly in Tafuna on Tutuila, hotels make up much of the accommodation category. Hotels often have facilities like an outdoor pool or tidal pool. Some also have a restaurant and bar on site. The largest hotel offers additional services, such as a spa, coffee shop and more. Rooms are private and have an ensuite.

Check out some of these accommodations listed in the 5 Best Hotels & Resorts in American Samoa.

B&Bs

The rest of Tutuila's accommodation is primarily bed & breakfasts, with a small selection of private ensuite rooms. Guests share communal areas such as a lounge, a kitchen where an included breakfast is served, and, in some cases, gardens or a swimming pool.

Some of the stays listed in our guide, Where to Stay in Pago Pago & Tutuila: 10 Best Accommodations, are B&Bs.

Homestays & Lodges

Most of the accommodations making up the Manu'a accommodation scene are small-scale accommodations like homestays and lodges, 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): 5 Best Accommodations and 5 Best Budget Accommodations in American Samoa.

Holiday Homes

In both Tutuila and the Manu'a Islands, locals are listing their properties on websites like Booking.com, Expedia and Airbnb, especially for families and groups. There's a mixed bag of basic to more modern holiday homes, usually with at least two bedrooms and an open-plan kitchen/lounge.

Check out your holiday home options, among other styles of accommodation, in the 10 Best Family Accommodations in American Samoa.

Other Accommodations in American Samoa

For a complete listing of American Samoa's accommodation types all in one place, check out Where to Stay in American Samoa: 15 Best Accommodations.

Contrary to popular belief, there's more to do in American Samoa than walk the National Park trails (which are free, FYI)! American Samoa excels in adventure, sightseeing and culture, providing a generous mix of water and inland experiences. 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!

Water Activities in American Samoa

American Samoa offers incredible aquatic adventures that showcase the pristine beauty of the South Pacific. Whether you're seeking relaxation or excitement, the crystal-clear waters provide endless opportunities for memorable experiences:

• 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
• 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
• Surfing – Hit uncrowded reef breaks if you have your own gear on Tutuila
• Canoe Tours – Join tours for fautasi canoes on the Pago Pago Harbor
• Scuba diving – Hire tanks or take a charter with Pago Pago Marine Charters
• Fishing – Catch Pacific pelagics with Pago Marine Charters or Samriel Aunu'u Island Getaway

Land Activities in American Samoa

The dramatic landscapes and rich culture of American Samoa provide equally compelling experiences on land:

• Waterfalls – Swim at the base or admire from afar at Nu'uuli Falls or Faga'alu Falls
• Hiking – Jungle and coastal hike on the Mt 'Alava Trail, Lower Sauma Ridge 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
• Market – Mingle with the locals and browse local handicrafts at the Fagatogo Market
• Cycling – Experience villages at a natural pace in the Manu'a Islands
• Umu nights - Traditional hot-rock meal at Tisa's Barefoot Bar
• 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
• Spa treatments – Visit All About Me Spa or Golden Spa for beauty treatments.

Again, for a comprehensive guide to all activities, check out 101 Best Things to Do in American Samoa: The Ultimate List LINK#TTD066.

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 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.

Restaurants and Cafés

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.

Learn more about your options in the 20 Best Restaurants in American Samoa.

Self-Catering

Self-catering is viable with holiday homes and B&Bs on Tutuila and in every accommodation in the Manu'a Islands. There are well-stocked convenience stores, at least selling the essential dry goods, 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

Tourist accommodations in American Samoa typically provide bottled water in your room for your first night of stay. After that, you'll have to rely on buying bottled water or, more sustainably, using a purification water bottle in order to 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.

We all travel very differently. Therefore, making a precise budget for everyone is an impossible task. Nevertheless, you can work out your own 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?

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
• Spa treatment/1 hr massage – US$55–$60
• Golf (18 holes) – US$10–$20
• Bike rental/day – US$0–$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

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, scuba, snorkelling, etc.) - US$1,200-$1,400
• Scuba gear hire - US$40

Road Transport Prices

• Bicycle rental/day – US$0-$20
• Car rental/day – US$60-$150
• Scooter rental/day – US$16-$58
• 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

• 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

• 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:

• 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?