Want to go beyond Hawaii? A South Pacific paradise awaits in American Samoa. Here lies the most remote national park of the United States, a place of what it means to get out there and just go with the flow of nature. Far and beyond, there lies the beauty of solitude for restless souls who want to have a good time.
Dive into pristine waters, explore a tropical wonderland, meet new critters, and immerse in the unique Samoan culture. Whatever floats a tourist’s boat, an escapade in this Pacific island is not short of sunkissed memories. Go south and be at home in Samoa.
Plan The Visit To Samoa
Ready to have a once-in-a-lifetime experience outdoors and beyond the comfort zone? Here’s some information for a hassle-free trip to American Samoa.
- Currently, Hawaiian Airlines is the only carrier to the island. All visitors need to present a passport valid for at least six months, plus return and onward tickets.
- US citizens and nationals are not required to have a visa.
- There are no fees or reservations required when visiting the National Park of American Samoa.
- The visitor center is open from Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. It's closed on weekends and federal holidays.
Things To Do
Imagine taking a nap with the sound of the waves as a lullaby. The sun, before it bids goodbye, tries to poke the dreamer, reminding them that paradise is out there, not in sleep. That’s Samoa: home, heaven.
Tropical Trek
Hiking in the tropics makes for a special date with Mother Nature. Meandering around the trails of the park is a satisfying experience. Any thoughts of getting tired will be erased as the scenes from the beach to the heart of the island are the rest themselves. Here are the trails to try for all types of wanderers.
- Pola Island Trail: A 0.1-mile (roundtrip) easy trek, perfect for a mellow journey.
- Lower Sauma Ridge Trail: An interpretive trail that takes hikers to an archaeological site. It runs for 0.4 miles.
- Tuafanua Trail: A 2.2-mile journey to a hidden coastline.
- World War II Heritage Trail: This 0.6-mile trip is perfect for those who want some history lessons.
- Mount ‘Alava Trail: A challenging 7-mile trek through lush rainforest.
- Mount ‘Alava Adventure Trail: Want some challenge? This 5.6-mile trail has 56 ladders and 783 steps.
Aside from the hiking trails, those who want to stay closer to the waves can just comb the beach.
Underwater Surprises
If the sights and sounds of the island are not enough, why not go underwater? There’s always more to see with snorkeling and diving. Plus, there are more friends to meet under the Pacific.
- Ofu island is a perfect snorkeling spot, thanks to its mesmerizing coral reef system that’s home to a thriving community of underwater creatures. Say hi to Nemo!
- What makes snorkeling fun on this side of the world is that it's not crowded from the get-go to the downtime. It's just the travelers, the boatman, and friends underwater.
- There are no gear rentals on the island so snorkelers and divers are advised to bring their own. It's a party down there.
- The park is located in Tutuila, American Samoa's largest island, so it’s here where the magic happens: divers can enjoy sightseeing hard corals and then some.
Fishing Fun
The Pacific invites travelers to try their luck reeling in some big ones. The ocean is teeming with surprises and fishers just need to throw a line.
- Fishing in the park is highly regulated to respect local customs. Before fishing, visitors should obtain permission from the village and familiarize themselves with the rules.
- Subsistence fishing is promoted in the park so any catch made is for consumption only.
- Expect to catch finfish, crustaceans, and mollusks. Catching any of these via traditional fishing would bring more satisfaction, and later on, a happy tummy.
Exhibit Extravaganza
After a satisfying day outdoors, maybe travelers still want to learn more about the national park. The visitor center got them covered because it showcases a library of learning materials about the island and what's within.
There are exhibits about the flora and fauna; Samoan culture; sea life; natural wonders; and local handicrafts and tools. It’s not just a visitor center, it’s like a classroom and museum, too.
Flora And Fauna
There is no “me time” on the island because the forest and the underwater world are brimming with wildlife companions. They are unique and act as Samoa’s gifts to travelers who are curious enough to pay a visit.
- Fruit bats are the stars of the forest, especially since they’re the only native mammals in the park. There are geckos, boa, and skinks, too.
- Birds also thrive here, some of them unique like the spotless crake, Tahiti petrel, and the rare many-colored fruit dove.
- As expected, the park is brimming with plants, 343 of them are flowering. Expect to see ferns, arrowroots, bamboo, and more.
- Visiting the place from September to October, guests might get lucky spotting humpback whales.
- Aside from colorful corals and turtles, other marvels to see underwater include nautili, porcupinefish, flying fish, eels, rays, and 900 others species.
Describing the National Park of American Samoa as beautiful is an understatement. It’s not just rich with natural wonders, it’s also overflowing with history and culture. Its remoteness makes it more appetizing to those who caught the travel bug. Anyone who visits the place will leave not just with stories but with a renewed spirit.