If you’re curious about visiting American Samoa, Samoa or Savai’i and want a remote, authentic and culturally rich South Pacific experience, you’re in the right place. This guide shares facts, history, travel tips, and must-know details about the islands so you can bookmark this post and use it as a reference when planning your future trip.
What is American Samoa?
American Samoa is an unincorporated territory of the United States located in the South Pacific Ocean. It is part of the larger Samoan island chain and includes islands such as Tutuila, Ofu, Olosega, Ta‘ū, Aunu‘u, Swains Island, and Rose Atoll. The territory is known for its strong cultural identity and traditional way of life, called “fa’a Samoa,” where family, community, and respect shape everyday living.
How did American Samoa Become Part of the United States?
American Samoa became a U.S. territory through agreements between Samoan chiefs and the United States in the early 1900s. The “Treaty of Cession of Tutuila” was signed on April 17, 1900, followed by the islands of Manu‘a in 1904. The territory was initially administered by the U.S. Navy until 1951, when governance was transferred to the U.S. Department of the Interior. Residents are U.S. nationals, a status that helps preserve traditional land ownership and local governance systems.
American Samoa in World War II
During World War II, American Samoa served as a major military outpost for the United States in the Pacific. The territory became a staging point for troops, communications, and defense systems. Fun fact: historian David Chappell wrote, “American Samoa became the most heavily fortified island base in the Pacific,” even though it never saw direct combat. Thousands of U.S. Marines and soldiers passed through the islands during the war, shaping local infrastructure such as roads, airfields, and harbor improvements. American Samoa has one of the highest military enlistment rates per capita in the world. Journalist Dan Lamothe noted, “American Samoa enlists more troops per capita than any U.S. state.” Military service is often tied to cultural values of honor, family pride, and opportunity.
Top Places to Visit in American Samoa
Many people visit American Samoa for its rainforest mountains, ocean views, island food, and strong cultural presence. The National Park of American Samoa protects both land and sea, offering rainforest trails and coral reef areas that feel peaceful and untouched.
A popular local stop is Two Dollar Beach, which costs $5 to enter, but is loved for its breath-taking shoreline and swimming area. A short boat ride from the eastern side of Tutuila can take you to Aunu’u Island, where many visitors spend the day swimming, picnicking, and enjoying the slower pace of island life.
Another community favorite is Tisa’s Barefoot Bar in Alega, where you can also experience a locally protected marine sanctuary. Guests often say the Pina Coladas there are “the best on island,” making it a memorable spot to enjoy oceanfront dining with live music and a true village atmosphere.
Leone Village, on the western side of Tutuila, is my home village and one of the most historical areas on the island. It is home to Zion Church, often referenced as “the first church built on the island of Tutuila.” The village is known for deep community stories, tradition, and cultural pride that you can feel and see as you drive through.
Travelers also love Pago Pago Harbor, widely described as “one of the most beautiful natural deep-water harbors in the world.” A stop at the Pago Pago Market nearby is a great way to try local treats like Panikeke lapotopoto, the round, fluffy Samoan pancake. Visitors enjoy it for breakfast or dessert, often saying it tastes like “a simple bite of island home.”
Together, these places give travelers a mix of nature, ocean adventure, village life, history, and culture, which is exactly what makes American Samoa a special destination. I think it is also important to mention that the chances of you getting lost on island is highly unlikely. There is only one main road on island with a few roads leading to villages like A’oloau, Fagasa, and Vatia.
Where should you stay in American Samoa?
I have never stayed at any of the local hotels on island because my parents have a house on island. However, there are several places available for lodging. There is Tradewinds Hotel in Ottoville which is very close to the airport. For a beach front stay, there’s a place called “Sadie’s by the Sea” in Utulei. Aside from those places, there are other newer establishments as well as Airbnb’s to choose from.
Visit Samoa for More Adventures
If you’re already in the South Pacific visiting American Samoa, I recommend also flying over to Samoa (Upolu) to explore more of the island through adventure and local experiences. Upolu is known for popular attractions like the To Sua Ocean Trench, Papaseea Sliding Rocks, Togitogiga Waterfalls, ocean snorkeling spots, cultural shows, and lively local markets.
One of my personal favorites is Saletoga Sands Beach Resort in Matatufu, often described by guests as “a slice of calm paradise with palm-lined beaches and soothing ocean views.” To Sua Ocean Trench is only a few minutes away from the resort which also makes it a perfect location to stay.
For getting around the island, I recommend Hanireka Car Rental in Apia, owned by local business owners Marvin and Sianatu Soonalole. Their Airbnb business is separate from the rental company, but travelers can book accommodation directly through them if they choose, especially if they want a local and welcoming stay experience.
A trip to Samoa adds depth, adventure, and unforgettable scenery to your time in the islands.
Ferry Ride to Savai’i
If you’re staying in Samoa (Upolu) and want to explore Savai‘i, take the ferry from Mulifanua Wharf to Salelologa Wharf. The ride takes about 90 minutes and crosses open Pacific waters. It’s a peaceful part of the journey that many travelers say feels like “the gateway into slower island life.”
Why visit Savai’i?
Savai‘i is known for volcanic landscapes, quiet beaches, blowholes, fresh roadside fruit stands, and a slower village rhythm. It’s a place many travelers visit to disconnect, explore the land, swim natural ocean spots, and experience everyday island life without crowds or rush. It offers peaceful adventure, natural beauty, and deep cultural grounding.
If you’re planning to visit Savai‘i, I recommend heading straight for Manase. Manase is one of the most popular areas for travelers, especially those who want to stay close to the ocean.
Manase has many places to stay. Two that many visitors enjoy and that I personally recommend are:
Vacation Beach Fales in Manase. Here, you can choose a house with air conditioning (AC) or stay in a traditional open-air beach fale directly on the ocean. Guests often say it feels like “waking up inside the sound of the sea.” There’s a local store across the road and a laundromat nearby, making it easy to walk and get essentials without needing to drive. Breakfast and Dinner are also included in your booking.
Right next to it sits Tailua Beach Fales. The owner, Lauititi Lauititi, is often described by guests as “a host who makes you feel instantly at home.” She is known for warm hospitality and incredible island cooking. Many visitors share that the food is “some of the best on the island,” especially if you love fresh, traditional Samoan meals. Stays here feel remote, peaceful, and deeply connected to the natural island rhythm.
Another favorite stop for many travelers is Manase Beach, a long stretch of coastline often quoted as “the postcard of Savai‘i.”
Final Travel Thoughts
I’ve just shared how I would travel to American Samoa and what I recommend to get the most out of your trip. If you’re planning your itinerary, keep in mind that U.S. dollars (USD) are widely accepted in Samoa and the exchange rate in Upolu is favorable, which often means your money goes farther there. You can exchange currencies at the Airport in American Samoa prior to your flight to Samoa. Prices for food, activities, and accommodations in Upolu and Savai‘i tend to be very affordable, making it easy to add both islands to your adventure.
Adding Upolu and Savai‘i to your trip gives you a mix of lively city scenes, stunning waterfalls, island tours, beaches, local culture, and remote coastal stays that complement the authentic rhythms of American Samoa.
If you have questions, need more in-depth information, or would like assistance coordinating your trip, feel free to email me anytime. I’m originally from American Samoa but currently reside in Washington State. I speak the language fluently (read, write, and speak Samoan), and I have family on all three islands who I stay in communication with and can reach out to for up-to-date local insight on your behalf.