The Complete Travel Guide to Pago Pago & Tutuila

Ready to explore all that Pago Pago and Tutuila have in store? We can tell you from experience, this island delivers some truly spectacular adventures.

The Top Experiences on Pago Pago & Tutuila

What are the absolute must-dos? We've been there, done that, and here are the highlights that'll make your trip truly special:

• Challenge yourself on the Mt 'Alava Adventure Trail – it's tough, but the pristine rainforest, archaeological sites and those panoramic harbour views are worth every step.
• Dive into world-class snorkelling and diving at the National Marine Sanctuary at Fagatele Bay.
• Head to Pola Island to witness nesting seabirds like red-footed boobies and frigatebirds in their natural habitat.
• Take a boat trip to Aunu'u Island and hike to the famous quicksand lake (yes, you read that right!).
• Uncover ancient Polynesian history at Tia Seu Lupe's mysterious stone structures.
• Check out the massive cannons at Blunts Point for a dose of military history with spectacular views.
• Get out on the water in Pago Pago Harbor – whether you fancy kayaking, paddleboarding or pedalling on a waterbike, the harbour's your playground.

And honestly, this is just scratching the surface. You'll find loads more adventures in our 30 Best Things to Do in Pago Pago & Tutuila.

Rainy Day Activities

Being a tropical island, Tutuila does get its fair share of sudden downpours. We'd actually recommend embracing the rain – it often passes quickly and adds to that lush, tropical atmosphere we love so much.

But if you're after some sheltered alternatives, here's what we suggest:

• Pop into the Jean P. Haydon Museum in Fagatogo to discover American Samoa's fascinating link to the Apollo Moon Missions (complete with actual moon rocks!)
• Browse the bustling new Fagatogo Market for local crafts, tropical produce and traditional garments.
• Experience the soul-stirring atmosphere of local churches, where you'll hear rousing sermons and melodic Samoan singing that'll give you goosebumps.

There's plenty more rainy day inspiration in our 10 Things to Do in American Samoa on a Rainy Day.

Things to Do at Night

Tutuila comes alive after dark with evening activities that beautifully blend natural beauty and rich cultural experiences.

• Treat yourself to a traditional umu feast at Tisa's Barefoot Bar.
• Experience the harbourfront bars in Pago Pago or venture to the clubs in Tafuna for a proper night out.
• Take an evening drive up to the mountain village of Aoloau for breathtaking views of the Tafuna Plain and northern Pacific Ocean under a blanket of stars.

Discover more evening magic in our 10 Things to Do in American Samoa at Night.

Guided Tours to Pago Pago & Tutuila

If you prefer to let the experts show you around, several local operators offer comprehensive tours that make experiencing Tutuila's diverse attractions a breeze.

We're big fans of Best Tours, which offers fun, informative and reliable excursions perfect for private groups and cruise ship passengers alike.

North Shore Tours provides authentic and unique experiences – think tropical rainforest hikes, medicinal herb walks, traditional fishing trips and customised excursions tailored to your interests.

Alofas Tours offers relaxed, scenic sightseeing experiences ideal for travellers wanting a warm, welcoming introduction to Tutuila. Their guided drives highlight the island’s most beautiful viewpoints, cultural landmarks and local stories.

For marine adventures, Pago Pago Marine Charters specialises in scuba diving, fishing charters for yellowfin tuna and mahimahi, and snorkelling trips to pristine reefs that'll leave you speechless.

For more tour options, check out the 10 Best Day Tours in Pago Pago & American Samoa.

When it comes to accommodation on Pago Pago and Tutuila, you'll discover a wonderfully diverse mix that ranges from boutique eco-lodges to comfortable business hotels and charming family-run B&Bs. The island offers something quite special, whether you're seeking the authentic barefoot luxury of a beachfront retreat or the reliable comfort of a modern hotel with all the amenities.

The beauty of staying here lies in the variety and genuine Samoan hospitality. You'll find everything from sustainably-built oceanfront sanctuaries where meals are cooked in traditional earth ovens, to well-appointed hotels perfect for business travellers, to cosy guesthouses where hosts treat you like family.

Hotels & Resorts

Tradewinds Hotel - The island's most established hotel offering four room categories from Standard rooms to luxurious Plaza Suites. What sets it apart is the exceptional cleanliness standards, plus continental breakfast and complimentary airport transfers are included. You'll appreciate the conference facilities, swimming pool, small gym and Tafuna location.

Sadie's by the Sea - A popular choice offering mid-size SUV rentals exclusively for in-house guests, plus the famous Goat Island Cafe with live bands every Friday. The property features 40 rooms where guests have the option to face the hotel's private beach.

Maliu Mai Beach Resort - An intimate 10-room beachfront resort with two room types: ocean view rooms and standard rooms. The resort features two conference rooms, a tidal swimming pool, and their popular restaurant serving everything from fresh seafood to their famous salt beef burger.

Pago Pago Airport Inn - Perfect for budget-conscious travellers, this family-run establishment (30 years in business) offers 20 identical rooms, starting for up to four guests each. You'll love the exercise-focused deep pool and meeting fale. The homestyle hospitality and convenient location near Tafuna make it ideal for practical stays.

Hidden Hibiscus - A tranquil, boutique-style retreat tucked away in a quieter part of Tutuila, offering thoughtful design, lush gardens and a relaxed pace that’s perfect for travellers seeking both comfort and island serenity.

Eco-Accommodation

Tisa's Barefoot Bar - This is truly unique - a 25-year-old sustainable structure built entirely off-grid using local materials. Stays include two meals daily, you'll experience authentic Samoan living with outdoor showers. The property sits within a 30-year-old marine sanctuary with pristine reefs and turtle nesting sites, perfect for those seeking an authentic, low-impact experience.

Guesthouses & B&Bs

Moana o Sina and Le Falepule - A sophisticated choice includes continental breakfast and free WiFi. All rooms feature air conditioning, ensuite bathrooms, and king-size beds (one queen). Guests have access to a full kitchen and coin-operated laundry. Popular for its reliable comfort and professional standards.

Sadie's B&Bs - Two self-contained properties perfect for longer stays. Property #1 features 5 bedrooms across two floors with a swimming pool, while Property #2 offers 7 rooms with extensive facilities, including a pool table and a large kitchen. Both properties provide twice-weekly housekeeping with fresh linens and basic supplies.

For complete details, including exact locations, booking information, and comprehensive amenities lists, check out our full accommodation guide: Where to Stay in Pago Pago & Tutuila: 10 Best Hotels, Resorts & Guesthouses.

You’re in the heart of American Samoa’s dining scene, with Pago Pago and the wider island of Tutuila home to everything from simple roadside BBQs and bakeries to sit-down restaurants, cafes, and bustling markets.

Whether you just need quick meals to fuel your island adventures or you’re chasing down a more local foodie experience, The Food Guide to Pago Pago & Tutuila: Places to Eat & Food Tours has you covered. Otherwise, here’s a quick dining rundown…

The Best Cafes and Restaurants in Pago Pago & Tutuila

1. Goat Island Cafe (Utulei)
2. Dr Vaasa's Hideaway (Utumea East)
3. Good Vibes Bar & Grill (Tafuna)
4. DDW Beach Cafe (Utulei)
5. Koko Bean Cafe (Tafuna)
6. Flying Fox Gastropub (Pava'ia'i)
7. Oasis Restaurant (Tafuna)
8. Paradise Pizza & Restaurant (Satala)
9. Sadie Thompson Inn (Pago Pago)
10. Fish Market (Fagatogo)

Check out the complete listings of our top recommendations in the 10 Best Restaurants in Pago Pago & Tutuila.

Things to Do in Pago Pago & Tutuila for Foodies

• Experience the hot-rock oven of the umu at Tisa'a Barefoot Bar
• Mingle with the local growers and sellers at the Fagatogo Market
• Experience fishing with Pago Pago Marine Charters
• Taste tropical fruit and tour a garden with North Shore Tours
• Experience Destination Dining at Dr Vaasa's Hideaway
• Tour plantations and experience cooking demonstrations with Samriel Aunu'u Island Getaway

For elaboration on each activity, check out The Food Guide to Tutuila: Places to Eat & Food Tours and 10 Best Foodie Experiences in American Samoa.

Despite being the main island, Tutuila remains refreshingly untouristy, which makes budget travel here an absolute breeze. You can easily explore on a shoestring by checking out our 40 Free & Cheap Things to Do in Pago Pago & Tutuila and hopping on the iconic aiga buses that locals use every day.

Even if you want a few extra comforts, you'll find older rental cars at budget-friendly prices, and a day of kayaking on Pago Pago Harbor won't break the bank either. Forget the Big Island of Hawai'i; Tutuila is truly a backpacker's best friend.

For more tips on planning a budget-friendly adventure, check out The Complete Backpacking & Budget Travel Guide to American Samoa.

Things to Do on Tutuila on a Budget

• Explore historical sites like Tia Seu Lupe or the WW2 Tafuna Control Tower
• Hire a kayak and snorkel mask with South Pacific Watersports
• Swim and beachcomb at the marine reserve of Fagatele Bay
• Learn about the world's oceans at the Tauese P.F. Ocean Center
• Hike the National Park hiking trails, such as the Fatifati Auala Trail to Mt 'Alava.

Find out more about each activity in the 40 Free & Cheap Things to Do in Pago Pago & Tutuila.

Cheap Accommodation on Tutuila

Budget hotels in Tafuna make up Tutuila's cheapest accommodations, such as Pago Pago Airport Inn and Maliu Mai Beach Resort. All rooms are private and come with an ensuite bathroom. There are typically extra facilities like a swimming pool and restaurant. Check them out in the 5 Best Budget Accommodations in American Samoa.

Certainly a romantic getaway for the unconventional couple, if you're more into unique and authentic experiences than a superficial resort experience, then Tutuila is perfect. Begging to be explored to seek out its amazing natural attractions, Tutuila is the ideal place for couples to adventure together and reconnect along the way. That's not to say you won't find a few modern comforts, such as cute cafes and shopping opportunities along the way.

There’s a lot to go through, so check out The Couple's Getaway Guide to American Samoa to ensure your trip is ignited with romance.

Romantic Activities on Tutuila

• Chase waterfalls together, such as Nu'uuli Falls and Faga'alu Falls
• Experience an exclusive charter for just the two of you with Pago Pago Marine Charters
• Enjoy an intimate flight with Pago Flight Charters
• Treat them to Pago's premium dining experience at Sadie Thompson Inn
• Watch a romantic sunrise from Tula Observatory.

Get plenty more ideas from the 10 Most Romantic Things to Do in American Samoa for Couples.

Romantic Accommodation on Tutuila

Some of our recommendations for couples include the endearing B&Bs of Moana O Sina and Le Falepule Lodge, the unique on-the-beach experience of Tisa's Eco-Fales, and the more upmarket Tradewinds Hotel. Learn more about these picks in the 10 Best Hotels & Resorts in American Samoa.

For families seeking a unique and safe destination to educate the kids (and yourselves) about the ecosystem and cultural customs of an exotic island, both vibes can be catered to on Tutuila. With short National Park walks, wonderful waterfalls, safe swimming holes and pristine beaches, Tutuila puts on an amazing playground for families to experience together.

Plan the activities, places to stay and even where to eat with The Complete Family Travel Guide to American Samoa.

Family Activities on Tutuila

• Enjoy safe swimming at Lua Tala Beach (Two Dollar Beach)
• Ride some wacky waterbikes with Adventures Unlimited
• Check out the WW2 cannons at Blunts Point
• Get up close to huge volcanic islets on the Pola Island Trail
• Look out for large fruit bats!

We go into detail on all of those points and more in the 15 Best Things to Do in Pago Pago & Tutuila with Kids.

Family Accommodation on Tutuila

Tribes have plenty of options when it comes to accommodation on Tutuila, from hotels with swimming pools to large and modern vacation rentals. Start browsing the 10 Best Family Accommodations in American Samoa.