Things to do in American Samoa

Take the challenging trail or the scenic road to the top of Mount Alava, where you’ll be rewarded with sweeping vistas of Pago Pago Harbor and the deep blue Pacific—the same view that amazed writer Somerset Maugham.

Slip into the clear, protected waters of this tiny marine sanctuary to see vibrant reef fish, sea turtles, and massive coral heads in an uncrowded tropical setting.

Start your exploration with exhibits on Samoan culture, the island’s volcanic geology, and the unique rainforest-meets-reef ecosystem of this remote U.S. national park.

Stand on the lava rocks near Vaitogi to see powerful waves explode through natural blowholes, misting the air with salty spray and creating a dramatic coastal spectacle.

Float in the impossibly clear shallows backed by dramatic volcanic peaks—this remote beach on Ofu is often called one of the most beautiful stretches of sand in the South Pacific.

Join a lively evening of Samoan entertainment with siva dancing, slap dance, and the thrilling fire-knife performance, usually paired with a buffet of local dishes.

This short coastal path leads to a viewpoint overlooking the Pola Island arch, where huge waves pound the volcanic shoreline and seabirds circle overhead.

Explore the sunken World War II patrol gunboat resting on the harbor floor, now encrusted with corals and home to schools of tropical fish.

Wander the busy aisles of the Maketi Fagatogo to find taro, breadfruit, handmade siapo (bark cloth) and carved wooden weapons, while soaking up local chatter.

Tackle the steep, slippery trail up Mount Pioa, whose peak traps clouds and creates daily rains—rewarding hikers with dense rainforest and views of the harbor below.

Inside this small Fagatogo museum, you’ll find siapo cloth, historic photographs, traditional tattooing tools and artifacts that tell the story of the islands’ past.

Paddle the calm, green waters of Leone’s mangrove forest, spotting juvenile fish and crabs among the roots while enjoying a quiet escape from the main road.

Take a short boat ride to this tiny island, then hike to Pala Lake—a floating mat of peat that quivers underfoot—and visit the red quicksand pond nearby.

Walk out to the World War II coastal guns at Blunts Point as the sun sinks behind the mountains, painting the harbor and ocean in gold and pink.

Follow this ridge-top path through montane forest, where bird songs fill the air and viewpoints reveal the rugged spine of Tutuila and the coastline far below.

Regarded as the legendary birthplace of Polynesian culture, Saua features ancient stone platforms and a calm beach that holds deep cultural significance.

A short walk from the coast, this hidden pool is fed by cool underground springs, offering a refreshing soak after exploring the blowholes and lava rocks.

Dress modestly and join locals at a congregational church for a powerful service filled with multi-part harmonies, white attire, and a warm welcome.

Stop at this postcard-perfect viewpoint where two basalt islets rise from the waves, often framed by splashing surf and a crescent beach.

See the bustling production line at one of the world’s largest tuna canneries, and learn how this industry shapes the local economy—advance reservations required.

Follow a forested trail to a quiet, palm-backed cove on the north coast, perfect for a private swim and picnic far from the main tourist spots.

Enter the water at Utumea to glide alongside graceful green turtles that frequent the shallow offshore reef, especially in the early morning.

Wander among old gun emplacements, pillboxes and bunkers perched on the clifftop overlooking the ocean, a hidden piece of wartime history.

Book a home-cooked Samoan umu—food baked in an earth oven with hot volcanic rocks—and taste taro leaves in coconut cream, reef fish, and roasted breadfruit.

Launch a stand-up paddleboard from the harbor front as the first light hits Rainmaker Mountain, passing fishing boats and enjoying calm morning water.