Where is American Samoa Located?

American Samoa is located on the Oceania continent in the Southern Hemisphere.

This U.S. territory lies in the South Pacific Ocean about 4,000 km (2,500 mi) southwest of Hawaii and 2,600 km (1,600 mi) northeast of New Zealand. It is situated approximately 1,500 km (930 mi) south of the Equator.

The South Pacific Islands Near American Samoa

American Samoa is surrounded by other South Pacific islands: Samoa lies just 70 km (43.5 mi) to the west, Tokelau is 465 km (289 mi) to the north, Wallis and Futuna are 370 km (233 mi) to the northwest, Fiji is 850 km (528 miles) to the southwest, and Tonga and Niue are 300–570 km (186–354 miles) to the south.

American Samoa covers a land area of approximately 199 km² (76.8 mi²).

It consists of five volcanic islands and two coral atolls. The largest and most populated island is Tutuila which includes the capital Pago Pago. Other main islands include Aunu'u, Ofu, Olosega and Ta‘ū, while the coral atolls are Swains Island and the uninhabited Rose Atoll.

Learn more about the islands in our guide, The Best Islands to Visit in American Samoa LINK#TT012.

Note that American Samoa is a U.S. territory, distinct from the independent nation of Samoa, which you can learn more about in What's the Difference Between Samoa and American Samoa?

American Samoa is made up of five rugged volcanic islands and two coral atolls, characterised by mountainous terrain, lush rainforests and narrow coastal plains.

The largest island Tutuila is home to the capital Pago Pago and features dramatic peaks and deep bays, including the scenic Pago Pago Harbour.

To the east of Tutuila lies Aunu‘u, a small volcanic island.

Further east are the Manu‘a Islands—Ofu, Olosega and Ta‘ū, known for their striking cliffs, secluded beaches and traditional way of life.

The highest peak in American Samoa is Lata Mountain on Ta‘ū Island, reaching 966 m (3,169 ft).

Two remote coral atolls, Swains Island and Rose Atoll, complete the territory. Rose Atoll is a protected wildlife sanctuary and is uninhabited.

Here are the answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about the location of American Samoa.

Where is the American Samoa Island Located?

American Samoa is located in the South Pacific Ocean, in the continent of Oceania. It lies roughly halfway between Hawaii and New Zealand, just east of the independent nation of Samoa.

What Country Does American Samoa Belong To?

American Samoa is an unincorporated territory of the United States. While it governs its own internal affairs, the U.S. is responsible for its defence and international relations.

What is the Physical Geography of American Samoa?

American Samoa consists of volcanic islands with steep mountains, narrow coastal plains, lush rainforests and two remote coral atolls. Its landscape is dramatic and rugged, especially on the main island of Tutuila.

Where is American Samoa in Relation to New Zealand?

American Samoa is located approximately 2,600 km (1,615 mi) northeast of New Zealand. The territory sits roughly halfway between Hawaii and New Zealand in the South Pacific Ocean.

Which Country is Closest to American Samoa?

The closest country to American Samoa is Samoa, located just 70 km (43 mi) to the west. Other nearby nations include Tonga to the south and Fiji to the southwest.

Is American Samoa Part of Hawaii?

No, Hawaii is a U.S. state, while American Samoa is a U.S. territory. They are both located in the Pacific Ocean but are over 4,000 km (2,500 mi) apart.

Is American Samoa Part of the USA?

Yes, American Samoa is an unincorporated territory of the United States. This means it belongs to the U.S. but is not a state, and residents are U.S. nationals rather than full U.S. citizens.

Can You See Samoa from American Samoa?

No, you cannot see Samoa from American Samoa with the naked eye. The two countries are separated by approximately 70 km (43 mi) of ocean. However, on very clear days from high vantage points on Tutuila, some locals claim you might be able to make out the faint outline of Samoa's mountains on the horizon.