American Samoa is a group of seven islands lying east of Western Samoa.
The largest island is Tutuila, which has a beautiful natural harbor at Pago Pago.
The humid climate is ideal for growing crops such as taro, pineapples, bananas, and coconut.
This tropical climate also attracts a growing number of tourists, which helps to boost the economy.
Polynesian people came to these islands 2,000 years ago.
By the late 1800s, ships from the United States of America were using Pago Pago as a refueling stop.
The islanders granted trading rights to the United States, which took control of the islands in the early 1900s and still administers them today.
However, the Samoans elect their own government and send a delegate to the U.S.
House of Representatives.
Fishing is a major industry here, with large catches of tuna canned for export.
Large crates of tuna are usually offloaded on the docks at Pago Pago harbor.
Best things to do in American Samoa
To have the best adventure along the Pacific Islands, explore these not to be missed places in the islands of the American Samoa.
Mount Alava
Climb Mount Alava along with a 4 wheel drive excursion into its rainforest.
This mountain is blessed with lush green all the way to the top and some incredible perspectives along the way.
Once you arrive at the peak of Mount Alava, take lots of pictures of the area encompassed by white clouds.
It’s the best views on this side of the American Samoa.
It is truly a worthwhile experience despite the treacherous hike along the mud, river, and jungle.
Discover an excellent trek along the edge of the trail to the highest point of Mt.
Alava.
There are loads of delightful birds and other migratory winged animals, a superb perspective of the Pacific Ocean on one side and a glimpse of the Pago harbor across it.
The trail is decently kept up, yet be sure to take the more drawn out climb that begins closer to town, instead of the steeper ascension that uses the stairs.
My favorite stuff to do in American Samoa
Tauese P.F. Sunia Ocean Center (National Marine Sanctuary of American Samoa)
The short tour of the Tauese P.F.
Sunia Ocean Center is a must to experience while on the island of American Samoa.
The site was developed as an innovative, advanced and enlightening lesson on mother earth.
Inside, there’s a colossal globe that seems to simply float, with four cams giving 360-degree perspectives of the earth, sea, and marine life to the encompassing gathering of people.
The provided audio and sound bites are given by popular celebrities.
It is certainly worth a visit while in Pago, so explore the Ocean Center as well as the 3D exhibits and have an invigorating yet informative experience.
Popular American Samoa tourist attractions
Leone Church
The town of Leone is the second-biggest community on Tutuila and once served as the official capital city of the island.
It was likewise the arriving site of the first evangelist, John Williams, who landed on 1832 after residing for more than two years in Samoa.
The fruit of all his hard work is the creation of Leone Church , the first ever Christian church on the island of Samoa.
The town of Leone really has two places of worship – head for the one with three towers, facing the ocean.
It’s decently kept up and has ravishing stained-glass windows and some delightful woodwork on the roof.
There’s a landmark dedicated to Williams’ endeavors constructed in front before arrival to the congregation area.
Fun things to do in American Samoa
Fagatele Bay National Marine Sanctuary
The Fagatele Bay National Marine Sanctuary is an immersed volcanic crater that is bordered by Tutuila’s final stretch of beachfront jungles and its rocky cliff areas that contain more than 130 types of coral.
It’s also inhabited by various turtle species, and if you schedule a visit from the months of June until September, there is an excellent chance to see huge humpback whales trailing along its spacious waters.
With these grand natural characteristics, it is not surprising that the straight was designated an official marine asylum in 1986, despite the fact that it lies outside the national park limits.
An easy trail runs along this enchanted coastline between the town of Vailoa (an admission charge must be paid to an authorized resident here) and the Turtle & Shark Lodge, which is substantially more hard to get to (you’ll require a 4wd).
In the middle of this tour are abandoned white-sand shorelines deserving of your most stunning tropical dreams and an assortment of lavish scenes.
The trail has some short, tougher area, yet other than that, it is pretty easy to navigate.
It should take around four hours to fully absorb everything.
What else to do in American Samoa?
Tisa’s Barefoot Bar
American Samoa is an excellent island that is not explored much by most travelers.
On the off chance that you stay here, grab the opportunity to rent a vehicle so you can visit the whole island.
One basic accommodation that you’ll be able to find is Tisa’s Barefoot Bar.
It has a delightful v and you can have the best views of the ocean (even from the comfort of your bunk).
The food here is excellent at and the ambiance is extremely laid back and not that crowded (they only have 2 rooms).
The snorkeling is magnificent and it is only 40 ft away from the coastline.
The shower area can be found in front of the beach.
If you are looking for Hilton type accommodations, this is a very far cry from it, but if you want a typical stay in American Samoa, this place will suffice.
Is American Samoa worth visiting?
Yes American Samoa is worth visiting, because it is such a beautiful place.
Don’t forget to visit:
Jean P. Haydon Museum
The Jean P.
Haydon Museum is a well-spaced gallery where you can see a tad bit about the life and history of this country.
It is free and has a considerable amount of antiquities, artifacts, old tools, ocean pontoons, pictures, and sculptures.
These aren’t long lines, shows, and exhibits, but it does highlight the latest exhibitions to be found on the small island.
It is a great way to learn about the communities, local customs, and traditions of this region.
Another admirable feature of the museum is that it is found in a traditional building in Pago Pago.
This structure was built in true Samoan style with a smooth yet wavy roof top and equipped with proper air conditioning.
They offer quality postcards that cost less than everywhere else ($1.00 per postcard).
The cards here aren’t about the great sceneries in American Samoa, but rather the daily or typical scenes around the city of Pago Pago.
The displays make up a small collection and the most noteworthy piece is the cannon that is placed near the entrance hall.
The museum mainly shows pictures of recognized personages in American Samoan history, yet there is little to no clarification on why they are important.
There also are not very many ethnological antiquities or many photos of old Samoa or the capital.
Other than that, it’s free and in any case, still worth a visit.
What else to see in American Samoa?
National Park of American Samoa
The National Park of American Samoa is located in the town area primarily on the street going towards Vatia.
This is a stunning national park on a delightful island.
If you need to know more about the history of the park during a tour, the staff at the National Park Visitor Center are always on hand to provide it.
Before you go for a walk, you should know that the walking trails are quite challenging and steep with rocks and roots.
Nonetheless, the recreation center administration has kept the admission fees low, which is about right for the value.
Made in 1988, the region’s sole national park secures colossal swaths of idyllic landscapes scenes and marine administrations on Tutuila, Ofu, and Ta’u.
The 1000-hectare Tutuila area takes after the north drift between the towns of Fagasa and Afono.
The trails located inside park limits are frequently maintained and extremely preserved.
If you need guides, the National Park Visitor Information Center is the best source of factual information about the island.
From there, you can learn the best paths to take inside the recreation center and the range of difficulties to face along the hike.
Popular places to visit in American Samoa
Pola Island Trail
Vatia is a quiet town arranged on a flawless, coral-bordered cove.
Strategically placed along the open mouth of the inlet, the little Pola Island has sheer, over 100m-high bluffs populated by seagulls.
To view the animals and birds at close range, head through the town and park at the school, then walk more than 200m.
You will see a magnificently segregated shoreline at the base of the precipices included in the Pola Island Trail.
Things to do in American Samoa with kids
Two Dollar Beach
Two Dollar Beach offers snorkeling, swimming (albeit exceptionally shallow) and unwinding on the gorgeous region of American Samoa.
On this beach, you can find blue starfish and stacks of tropical fish.
The convenient bar there serves ice cold frosty lager and local cuisine at a location where guests can unwind.
There are sun beds, parasols and huts for rent.
As you stroll through the beach, there are shops with souvenirs and bars with free Wi-Fi and excellent food.
Using the Internet is pretty easy; just approach the counter and ask for the password.
Even the bathrooms are festive.
The toilets shimmer like they are new and shells and designs adorn throughout, making it feel like the comforts of a hotel room.
If you plan to swim and walk on the sand, bring your reef shoes.
Anywhere you go on this South Pacific Island has a high percentage of sharp coral.
Outside of the bar, there also food stalls and shops if you get hungry.
The entrance fee to enjoy this beach comes at a small fee – only $2.00.
If you need a quick place to sleep, there is Tisa’s, which is also a very affordable solution for a one or two-night stay.
To get here easily, from the center of the city, take a taxi, of you can try a bus if you are on a tight budget.
Bus transportation is much more practical than a cab ride, but you need to be patient while waiting.
Once you arrive at the beach, savor the quiet atmosphere, blue waters, and coral-rich shoreline.
Must see places in American Samoa
Pago Pago Tradewinds Tour
The island of Tutuila, with its capital of Pago Pago, completes the 6 other islands that are part of the United States.
The island is volcanic and can be seen everywhere along the prominent Pago Pago Harbor.
It is one of the finest natural harbors in the Pacific Ocean and is surrounded by a huge volcanic crater.
If you need guides and additional information about the country do not hesitate to use the package tour around the islands from Pago Pago Tradewinds Tour.
The said landmark is located on the opposite side of the harbor of Mt.
Pioa, which is more popular under its nickname “The Rainmaker Mountain”.
The reason behind such name; it’s because when temperatures are high and it gets cloudy enough, the peak disappears in the cloud and heavy downpours ensue.
Despite the weather, there is an exciting cable car ride, where for 1650 meters, a 3.8 cm thick cord supports your car as it travels along Mount Alava.
During the trip, you’ll see majestic ocean sights and the entire city of Pago Pago.
My vacation activities in American Samoa
Fagatogo Market
The Fagatogo Market is an official social meet up point every Friday night.
Local people come here to talk, try out different food and search for freshly delivered coconuts, breadfruit, and other organic products.
By Saturday, all the good stuff is gone and the business slows down for the week.
There are a couple of local dining places at the back offering Samoan-sized plates of sustenance (some with crisp fish) for $5, as well as buffet lunch, served mostly on weekdays.
If you need to explore the rest of the market, bring along or better yet hire a local guide who can accompany you as you walk through the narrow alleys.
Haggling here is imperative and the guides know or can help you get the best discount that will stretch your allotted budget.
There are local crafts to purchase and the market is neatly divided into sections from dry to wet goods.
Be sure to buy only what you can fit in your luggage- you will likely be tempted to buy more!
Free things to do in American Samoa
Massacre Bay
The Massacre Bay trail is a pleasant 3 km hiking trail (almost four hours back and forth) that leads from the scenic village of A’oloaufou going high up on the rocky spine of Tutuila, and ascending towards the A’asu.
It completes its journey in the Massacre Bay memorial.
This area was named as such because of an intense battle between French sailors and Samoan villagers that occurred in 1787, leaving 45 people dead.
Hikers should consider hiring a guide when climbing the heights of the A’oloaufou (costs per guide and porter ranges between US$10 and US$15) because the trail is a bit challenging.
Unique things to do in American Samoa
Ofu Beach
The magnificent green mountains matched with the water of the pacific is worth every penny and effort to get to this remote island.
You must make the trip before the break of dawn or before the sun rises because the view of the whole sea and shoreline turns into an enviable glitter of gold.
The sunsets are fantastic as well and equally captivating.
Because the reef is protected and preserved by the proper authorities, the corals are vibrant and flourishing, and fish of every color and size can be seen hurriedly flashing across its ocean floor.
A huge percentage of the loveliest corals, you will ever see in American Samoa are contained within the range on Ofu Beach.
A wealth of other marine life creatures can also be admired.
Another noteworthy charm of this place is that it is not that crowded because of its secluded territory.
There are no local inhabitants because this is an area of conservation for the reef and other animals endemic to this part of the island.
A tip to avid snorkelers, too much movement along the waters of the reef may drive the fish from their corals.
If you plan to snorkel, stay on one side of the shoreline and keep still so as not to scare the fishes away from their natural habitat.
Allow them to come to your side, minimize activity and just observe.
If you need to do more than unwind and would like to seek new adventures on your holiday, a visit to the enchanting islands of American Samoa is something you must try when in the South Pacific.
You not only will adore Oceania’s beauty, you also get to explore its untouched natural resources in a paradise like environment.
If you must visit any island in the territory, include the island of American Samoa on your list.
