American Samoa

National Park of American Samoa

A tropical preserve in the US territory encompassing rainforest, beaches, and coral reefs, protecting unique wildlife and Polynesian culture.

Tips from the community

Pago Pago is adjacent to the only U.S. national park south of the Equator. The National Park of American Samoa sprawls across three islands and consists of 13,500 acres of rainforest, beach, and coral reef. This breathtaking park offers dramatic hikes, sweeping views, and a wide array of fauna. Don’t miss the endangered fruit bat, which boasts a very impressive wingspan of up to 3 feet. No island adventure would be complete without soaking up the Samoan sun on a beautiful beach. For a more social vibe, check out the Alega Beach, where you can hang with locals and enjoy a cold drink from the neighboring bar. Or take a short walk to the Two Dollar Beach (also known as Avaio Beach) – equally beautiful, but more exclusive. Looking to get lost for a day? Take the National Marine Sanctuary of Samoa trail. Here, you’ll experience everything from craggy black lava rocks that line the shore to secret, secluded beaches and turquoise waters.

LilliSmith 5 years ago

The first ever US national park to be situated in the Southern Hemisphere is a Polynesian dream come true. Capping of a stunning duo of islands that lay right on the fringe of the International Date Lane, National Park of American Samoa ranges through emerald green cloud forests and gnarled volcanic peaks that look like the twisted fingers of sleeping giants. Of course, the beaches – especially those on Ofu – are worthy of Castaway. But you’re probably more likely to see a leatherback turtle and some parrotfish than Tom Hanks and his FedEx haul.

jrfrancis 4 years ago

Okay, so it’s perhaps a little unfair to quote this one’s visitor numbers. After all, it’s way off in the Southern Hemisphere, some 4,700 miles from the coast of California. If you do get to go, GO! The National Park of American Samoa is a land of misty rainforests and resplendent coral reefs.

jrfrancis 3 years ago

Look out for colorful, tropical doves and imperial pigeons, lupe, featured in countless Samoan proverbs and expressions. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch a glimpse of the bristle-thighed curlew, a rare migratory bird from Alaska. 

irma 4 years ago

National Park of American Samoa Guides

National Park of American Samoa Articles

  • 13 Epic National Parks to Visit in Winter

    From tropical islands to winter wonderlands, these sprawling US national parks are brimming with a sense of exploration and wonder. Visit frozen waterfalls and ski down snowy slopes in Montana at Glacier National Park, go snorkeling alongside sandy shorelines at Florida’s Dry Tortugas National Park, or hike volcanic landscapes and lava fields at Hawai’i Volcanoes […]

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  • National Park of American Samoa: The Complete Guide for 2023

    With acres upon acres of verdant tropical rainforests, pristine beaches, and teeming coral reefs, National Park of American Samoa is a true hidden gem. Almost one-third of the park’s surface is underwater and home to an astounding 250 coral and 930 fish species, making it one of the country’s marine biodiversity hotspots. The only downside? This […]

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  • The Last Place on Earth to Celebrate New Year’s Eve

    When the countdown starts on New Year’s Eve, will you be celebrating in the same way you always do? Or will you be an adventure seeker, blazing a new trail? Well friend, if you fall into category “B,” you should definitely bring in the new year in the oft-overlooked city of Pago Pago. Located on […]

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