American Samoa, a U.S. territory often overlooked by tourists, offers a unique blend of traditional culture, stunning natural beauty, and incredible hiking opportunities. While many visitors arrive on day trips via cruise ships, this destination is well worth a longer, more immersive visit. Here’s what you need to know when planning your trip on How To Travel To American Samoa.
American Samoa comprises five islands: Tutuila, Aunu’u, Ta’u, Ofu, and Olosega. Most travelers begin their journey on Tutuila, home to the international airport, the capital city of Pago Pago, and the majority of the population. However, venturing beyond Tutuila is highly recommended. Aunu’u is easily accessible as a day trip, while reaching Ta’u, Ofu, and Olosega (collectively known as Manu’a) requires more planning but is entirely feasible and incredibly rewarding.
The National Park of American Samoa has land on Tutuila, Ofu, and Ta’u and also maintains trails outside the official park boundaries. Uniquely, the land within the park is leased to the National Park Service (NPS) by local families, respecting the traditional Samoan system of familial land ownership. This means the NPS works closely with local villages on conservation efforts, and locals continue to use park land for traditional activities like fishing and harvesting, with the NPS seeking permission and cooperation from village chiefs.
Getting There: Flights to Pago Pago
Hawaiian Airlines operates two weekly flights to Pago Pago from the U.S., which are currently the only direct flights from the mainland. Keep an eye on Expedia for occasional deals. Another strategy is to explore Hawaiian Airlines’ Mastercard offer for signup bonuses that can be redeemed for flights.
For those preferring indirect routes, Talofa Airways offers flights to Pago Pago from both Western Samoa and Tonga. A more extensive trip, such as the one that included the Philippines, Australia, New Zealand, and Western Samoa, can be cheaper than a direct flight from the U.S. Use Google Flights and Skyscanner to find the best deals on one-way flights to Pago Pago as a part of a larger itinerary.
Aerial view of Pago Pago harbor, American Samoa
Map showing the location of American Samoa in the South Pacific.
Close-up of a traditional Samoan fale (house) with lush greenery in the background.
Day Trip to Aunu’u
Aunu’u is perfect for a day trip from the eastern side of Tutuila. A short boat ride from the dock at Au’asi costs $2 each way. Before heading to Aunu’u, confirm the boat’s schedule to avoid missing the last ride back.
A small passenger boat approaching the dock at Aunu'u Island, American Samoa.
Aunu'u Island's lush green landscape and coastal vegetation, American Samoa.
Traveling to Manu’a Islands: By Boat or Plane
To get to the Manu’a islands, you can choose between a boat or a plane. The ferry, which carries both passengers and cargo, operates roughly once a week. However, the schedule is subject to frequent changes, so planning far in advance can be challenging. If you opt for the ferry, allow ample time in American Samoa to accommodate potential delays. The 5-hour trip costs $35 one way. The boat may stop at Ofu first, depending on your destination, otherwise, you’ll need to travel to Ta’u and then return to Ofu.
For a more reliable and comfortable option, Samoa Airways offers four weekly flights from Pago Pago to Ta’u (Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays) and one weekly flight to Ofu (Thursdays, schedules are subject to change). Flights cost approximately $160. If you’re visiting Ofu but cannot align with the weekly flight, you can fly into or out of Ta’u and take a boat to Ofu. This involves a ride to the wharf on Ta’u (~$20) and a boat to Ofu ($150 for 2-3 passengers). While this route is more expensive, it allows for a visit to Ofu with a tighter schedule.
Samoa Airways plane preparing for takeoff at Pago Pago International Airport, American Samoa.
Aerial view of the coastline of Ta'u Island, American Samoa, showing lush green cliffs and clear blue waters.
The small airport terminal building on Ta'u Island, American Samoa.
How Long to Stay in American Samoa
An eight-day stay might leave you wanting more. If possible, consider staying at least two weeks. The long journey and environmental impact of flying to American Samoa make it worthwhile to maximize your time and exploration.
A longer stay allows for visits to the Manu’a islands, particularly Ofu. The once-a-week flight to Ofu requires a full week on the island. Booking this flight more than a month in advance can be difficult due to the airline’s scheduling practices. Planning a trip with two weeks or more in the country ensures you can incorporate a visit to Ofu.
Staying Connected: Connectivity in American Samoa
For connectivity, purchase a SIM card from Bluesky upon arrival in Pago Pago. Coverage is generally good in Tutuila, Aunu’u, and populated areas in Manu’a. Internet access is available in Pago Pago hotels and Vaoto Lodge on Ofu, though speeds are slower than on the mainland.
Accommodation Options on Tutuila
Tutuila offers various accommodation options. Popular choices include the Tradewinds Hotel and Sadie’s By the Sea. Tisa’s Barefoot Bar provides eco-fales on Eastern Tutuila with a beautiful beach. Airbnb also offers several options. Consider a homestay for a more immersive experience. The NPS maintains a list of families who offer homestays; contact the Pago Pago visitor’s center for current information.
Accommodation Options in Manu’a
On Ofu/Olosega, the main options are Vaoto Lodge and Asaga Inn. Vaoto Lodge is conveniently located near the airstrip and the NPS Visitor’s Center. Asaga Inn is closer to Olosega village. Both offer stunning views and proximity to beaches.
Accommodation options on Ta’u are more limited. The NPS can assist in arranging a homestay. A small, family-run hotel may be opening soon, but booking information is limited. Contacting the NPS is the best approach for arranging accommodation.
Image of a lush tropical landscape, likely on Ofu or Olosega, American Samoa.
Camping in American Samoa
Camping is possible with permission from the landowner. NPS rangers can provide information on potential camping spots and contacts. Always have a backup plan, practice Leave No Trace principles, and respect your hosts. Stealth camping is strongly discouraged due to strict land rights. A mosquito net is essential for sleeping outdoors.
Planning Resources for your trip on how to travel to American Samoa
The NPS Visitor’s Center in Pago Pago should be your first stop for planning activities. Rangers offer information on trails, sights, and cultural insights. The American Samoa Visitors Bureau website also provides valuable information. Contacting the NPS Visitor’s Center or Tourism board can provide answers to specific questions.
Getting Around American Samoa
Tutuila has an efficient bus system for island transportation. Hitchhiking is common and easy on all islands. Renting a car offers maximum flexibility. On Ofu, Vaoto Lodge provides bicycles for guests.
A colorful local bus driving along a coastal road in Tutuila, American Samoa.
Dining Options on Tutuila
Pago Pago offers a range of restaurants and well-stocked grocery stores. Try traditional Samoan food. In smaller villages and on Aunu’u, food options are limited. Stock up on produce and healthy snacks in Pago Pago before venturing elsewhere.
Dining Options in Manu’a
Ofu/Olosega has no restaurants and only four small stores with limited fresh produce. Bring food from Pago Pago or arrange meals with your accommodation. Vaoto Lodge offers vegetarian-friendly options and excellent meals. Confirm meal arrangements in advance to avoid limited food choices.
Things to Do on Tutuila:
Hiking on Tutuila
American Samoa is excellent for hiking, with trails maintained by the NPS. The Tuafauna Trail near Vatia leads through rainforest to a rocky beach with views of Pola Island. The Lower Sauma Ridge Trail overlooks the northeast coast and a star mound archaeological site. The Mt. Alava Trail offers panoramic views (check for closures). On western Tutuila, a trail leads to Cape Taputapu’s secluded beach. On Aunu’u, follow the 4WD track to sea arches, coves, and a volcanic crater lake.
Hikers on a trail surrounded by lush green rainforest vegetation in American Samoa.
A rocky beach with dramatic cliffs and ocean views at Pola Island, American Samoa.
View of a verdant, mountainous landscape on Tutuila, American Samoa.
Close-up of vibrant green ferns and other tropical plants along a hiking trail in American Samoa.
A scenic overlook showing a lush valley and the coastline of American Samoa.
A panoramic view from a high vantage point, showcasing the diverse landscape of American Samoa.
View of the rugged coastline and crashing waves near Vatia village, American Samoa.
Beaches on Tutuila
Aunu’u’s beach is great for swimming and snorkeling. Alega Beach and Two Dollar Beach (entrance fee of $5) are also popular. The rocky beach at the end of Tuafauna Trail near Vatia is ideal for watching the surf. Cape Taputapu’s beach offers sunset views.
A person snorkeling in the clear blue waters of Alega Beach, Tutuila, American Samoa.
Tranquil beach scene with palm trees and clear turquoise waters, likely Alega Beach, Tutuila.
Close-up of a beautiful, smooth beach with a small stream flowing into the ocean in American Samoa.
Two Dollar Beach (5 Dollar Beach) clear water, Tutuila, American Samoa.
Two Dollar Beach (5 Dollar Beach) – Beautiful sands, Tutuila, American Samoa.
Paddling
Rent a kayak in Pago Pago for harbor views.
Culture
Stay with a family through the NPS homestay program for a cultural experience. Attend a fiafia show at the Tradewinds Hotel on Friday nights for traditional dances and fire spinning. Try an umu (underground oven cooking) on Sundays for local cuisine like taro, breadfruit, palusami, oka, pork, and seafood.
Things to Do on Manu’a Islands:
Manu’a offers a paradise experience. Slow down and enjoy the surroundings, especially if you have a full week on Ofu.
Hiking on Manu’a Islands
The NPS maintains trails on Ofu/Olosega and Ta’u. The Oge Beach Trail on Olosega leads to Oge Beach with views over the island (ask the village chief for permission before hiking). The Tumu Mountain trail on Ofu offers spectacular views (bring water and a picnic, no hiking on Sundays).
A dirt trail winding through lush green vegetation on Ofu Island, American Samoa.
Hikers enjoying the panoramic view from the top of Tumu Mountain on Ofu Island, American Samoa.
A steep grassy path leading through dense tropical foliage on the island of Ofu, American Samoa.
View from top of Tumu Mountain Trail
View down to Olosega from Ofu trail
Lush greenery leading to Oge beach, American Samoa.
Oge beach, American Samoa.
Lush greenery on Tumu Mountain Trail, American Samoa.
Tumu Mountain Trail views, American Samoa.
Beaches and Snorkeling on Manu’a Islands
Ofu Beach is considered one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, with healthy coral reefs perfect for snorkeling (bring your own gear, snorkel at high tide). The reef’s resilience to rising ocean temperatures attracts research teams. For swimming, try the end of the beach near Olosega Island or the beach in front of Vaoto Lodge. Get permission from the village chief before swimming elsewhere.
An idyllic tropical beach scene with clear turquoise waters and palm trees on Ofu Island, American Samoa.
Snorkeler swimming along the coral reef on Ofu Island, American Samoa.
Bridge linking Olosega and Ofu Islands, American Samoa.
Ofu Beach, American Samoa: Rated one of the world's most beautiful beaches.
A pristine beach with white sand and crystal-clear water on Ofu Island, American Samoa.
Close-up of healthy coral on the reef off Ofu Beach, American Samoa.
Beach and water at Ofu, American Samoa.
Stargazing
On a clear night, stargazing is exceptional due to the islands’ isolation and clear air.
Night time scene of the stars in Ofu, American Samoa.
The night sky in Ofu, American Samoa.
Wildlife
Coconut crabs are abundant on Ofu. Fruit bats, or flying foxes, are common. Marine life includes flying fish, dolphins, sea turtles, and reef sharks. Humpback whale migration can be witnessed between mid-August and October.
A green fruit bat (flying fox) hanging upside down, American Samoa.
View from a boat over a coastal waters, American Samoa.
Picture of Coconut Crab, American Samoa.
Marine Life in American Samoa.
Close-up of tropical vegetation and a beach scene on Ofu Island, American Samoa.
American Samoa, rich in culture and natural beauty, offers friendly people, few visitors, and incredible snorkeling. Don’t miss the chance to visit this special place!
Consider adding a side trip to Western Samoa for an even more immersive South Pacific experience.
