What is the National Park of American Samoa?

A U.S. national park in the South Pacific protecting tropical rainforests, coral reefs, and Samoan villages across three islands: Tutuila, Ofu, and Ta‘ū.

Where is the National Park of American Samoa located?

The park is in the U.S. territory of American Samoa, approximately 2,600 miles southwest of Hawaii in the South Pacific.

When was the park established?

The park was established in 1988 and the federal lease arrangements were completed in the early 1990s.

The park covers roughly 13,500 acres total, which includes both terrestrial and marine areas (about 8,000 land acres and approximately 4,000 marine acres).

Is the National Park of American Samoa part of the U.S. National Park System?

Yes, it is managed by the U.S. National Park Service.

How do you get to the National Park of American Samoa?

Most visitors fly into Pago Pago (Tutuila) with connecting flights from Honolulu; inter-island connections to Ofu and Ta‘ū are by domestic flight or boat depending on schedules.

Do I need a passport to visit?

U.S. citizens do not need a passport but should carry valid government-issued ID. Non-U.S. visitors need a passport and may require a visa depending on nationality.

Is there public transportation in the park?

Public transportation is limited; on Tutuila you can use local buses ('aiga buses') but most visitors rent cars or use local taxis.

Can you visit all three islands easily?

Travel between Tutuila, Ofu, and Ta‘ū is possible but requires planning — domestic flights and boats run on limited schedules.

Is the park wheelchair accessible?

Some visitor areas and short trails on Tutuila have accessible features, but most trails are rugged and not wheelchair-friendly.

What are the best things to do in the National Park of American Samoa?

Popular activities include hiking, snorkeling, birdwatching, cultural village visits, and relaxing on pristine beaches.

Are there hiking trails in the park?

Yes — notable hikes include Mount ‘Alava Trail and Blunts Point Trail on Tutuila, and Lata Mountain Trail on Ta‘ū.

Can you snorkel in the park?

Absolutely — Ofu Beach is especially famous for clear water and healthy coral gardens ideal for snorkeling.

Are guided tours available?

Yes; the park and local operators offer guided hikes, snorkeling trips, and cultural experiences.

Can I camp in the park?

There are no formal federal campgrounds; some villages may permit camping with prior permission from local leaders.

Can you swim in the park?

Yes — swimming is common, but always check with locals for safe spots and be cautious of currents and reef hazards.

What wildlife can I see?

Expect to see Samoan flying foxes (fruit bats), sea turtles, tropical birds, and a variety of reef fish.

Is fishing allowed in the park?

Fishing is restricted within park marine areas; fishing regulations vary, and fishing may be allowed in nearby village waters subject to local rules.

Are there beaches in the park?

Yes — Ofu Beach, Pola Island vicinity, and Vatia Bay are among the park’s most notable and pristine beaches.

Can I scuba dive in the park?

Scuba diving is possible but facilities are limited; snorkeling is more common and easier to arrange for most visitors.

What makes the park’s coral reefs special?

The reefs are among the most pristine in the world, supporting diverse corals and many fish species thanks to relatively low local development.

Are there dangerous animals in the park?

There are no large predators; hazards are mainly natural — sharp coral, occasional jellyfish, and strong ocean currents.

What kind of birds live in the park?

Birdlife includes species such as the Blue-crowned Lorikeet, Pacific Kingfisher, and Tooth-billed Pigeon among others.

Can you see bats during the day?

Yes; the Samoan flying fox is often active during daylight and commonly seen flying above forests and villages.

Are there snakes in American Samoa?

Only small, non-venomous snake species are present; there are no known venomous snakes on the islands.

Do people live inside the park?

Yes — several traditional Samoan villages are located on park lands under lease arrangements with the U.S. government.

What is fa‘a Samoa?

Fa‘a Samoa is the Samoan way of life — a cultural system emphasizing family, respect, chiefly systems, and community responsibilities.

Can visitors stay in villages?

Yes — homestays and family-run guesthouses are available in some villages for visitors who want an authentic cultural experience.

Are there cultural rules I should know?

Yes — dress modestly in villages, ask permission before taking photos, and be respectful of ceremonies and local customs.

Is English spoken in American Samoa?

Yes; English is widely spoken alongside the Samoan language.

What is the best time to visit the park?

The drier months, generally May through September, are often preferred for hiking and snorkeling.

What is the climate like?

The climate is tropical — warm and humid year-round with frequent, often brief, rain showers and average temperatures around the high 70s to mid 80s °F (mid 20s to 30°C).

Yes; rainfall is common, especially from November through April, though showers are often short and heavy.

Is the park ever closed due to weather?

Trails, flights, or facilities may be temporarily closed during heavy rain or cyclones, but the park itself remains generally open.

Is there an entrance fee?

No — entry to the National Park of American Samoa is free.

Where is the visitor center located?

The park visitor center and headquarters are located in Pago Pago on Tutuila Island.

Is camping gear or snorkeling equipment available for rent?

Rental options are limited near Pago Pago; visitors are recommended to bring their own snorkeling gear and camping supplies if possible.

Can I use U.S. dollars in American Samoa?

Yes — the U.S. dollar (USD) is the official currency.

Is Wi-Fi or cell service available?

Wi-Fi is available in some hotels and public locations but can be limited on outer islands; cell coverage may be spotty outside main population centers.

Is it safe to travel in American Samoa?

Yes — American Samoa is generally safe and welcoming; common-sense precautions and respect for local customs are advised.

Welcome to National Park of American Samoa information 2024

Welcome to the National Park of American Samoa information page

Here you will find all you need to know about the natural history of the park.
Learn about the geology, trees, mammals, birds, or other plants and wildlife of the area.

The National Park of American Samoa, America’s 50th National Park, is the only one south of the equator. This Park in the South Pacific is dedicated to preserving the Samoan/Polynesian culture and landscape. The islands neotropical forests, indopacific reefs, and 3,000 year old culture are unique in the National Park Service.
The Samoan archipelago includes the US Territory of American Samoa and the independent nation of Samoa (formerly Western Samoa).The islands are located 2,600 miles southwest of Hawaii and 1,800 miles northwest of New Zealand, between Fiji and Tahiti. The Samoan chain stretches east to west for more than 300 miles between 13 and 15 degree south latitude (below the equator). It is just east of the international dateline, in the timezone that is one hour earlier than Hawaii.

National Park of American Samoa photo

Getting to National Park of American Samoa

Plane

The nearest airport National Park of American Samoa is Pago Pago International Airport on Tutuila. Airplane service is available several times per week from Honolulu. Regularly scheduled flights (small planes) serve park areas of Ofu and Tau, and the nearby nation of Samoa.

Public Transportation

Several car rental facilities are available at the airport and/or on the island. Taxis are available at the airport, and near the market in Fagatogo. The island of Tutuila has good public transportation (frequent, but unscheduled) via “aiga” or “family” buses. For 50 cents to a dollar you can be taken around Pago Pago Harbor, and to some of the more remote parts of the island. Buses originate and terminate at the market in Fagatogo, the village right next to Pago Pago. The roads are generally too narrow and the traffic to busy for bicycles.

Establishment

Located some 2,600 miles southwest of Hawai`i, this is one of the most remote national parks in the United States. It is also one of the newest; it was authorized by the U.S. Congress in 1988 and officially established in 1993 when a 50 year lease was signed.

Size of National Park of American Samoa

Acreage – FY 2001 – Gross Area Acres – 9,000

History of National Park of American Samoa

American Samoa, the only US Territory south of the equator, consists of five rugged, highly eroded; volcanic islands, and two coral atolls. The land area of the territory is 76 square miles. The population is approximately 60,000, with most people living on the main island of Tutuila. Tuna fishing and canning are major industries. Many Samoans practice subsistence farming.

The nation of Samoa lies 60 miles to the west of Tutuila. The main islands of ‘Upolu and Savai’i constitute a much larger land area than American Samoa. Between these two large islands are the small islands of Manono and Apolima. Several uninhibited islets lie just off the eastern shore of ‘Upolu.

The Pacific Ocean occupies a third of the Earth’s surface. Of the thousands of islands scattered throughout this vast world of water, most are not large enough or hospitable enough for humans to live on. There are some, such as the Samoa Islands, that possess such beauty and exotic quality that they have inspired works by artists and writers.

The Samoa Islands are part of Polynesia, a triangular area of the Pacific bounded by Hawaii, New Zealand, and Easter Island. The Samoa Islands have been populated for 3,000 years, but known to the Western world for little more than two centuries. So important is Samoa to Polynesian culture that some believe this was where all Polynesian people originated.

Accessibility

The visitor center at Pago Plaza, one scenic over-look (Amalau Valley), and the 1/4 mile gravel trail to the Pola is wheelchair accessable. No other pull-outs or over-looks have been developed at this time and trails are unimproved, extremely steep and rugged.

Biking

The roads are generally too narrow and the traffic to busy for bicycles.

Camping

Camping is prohibited.

Cliffs

Si’u Point is the dramatic southern coast of Ta’u, where waves crash against rocky coast and sea cliffs stairstep to the 3,000 foot summit of Lata Mountain. These are some of the tallest sea cliffs in the world.

Entrance Fees

There are no entrance fees.

Hiking

There is a foot trail out towards Pola Island from the village of Vatia.

Mount Alava lies to the north of Pago Pago Harbor. A hiking trail along the maintenance road leads to the 1610 foot summit; the trailhead is located at Fagasa Pass, a short drive west of Pago Pago. The hike is 6 miles round trip; allow 3 hours for your hike up and 2 hours for your return to the pass.

Lodging

There is hotel-style lodging on all three islands. Camping is prohibited within the park. Samoan people are hospitable and eager to share their culture with park visitors. For a cultural experience visitors should consider staying with local families in their fale (FAH-lay) or house. This unique opportunity will allow you to learn about the Samoan culture and lifestyle first-hand, as well as assisting the village economy. Homestays can be arranged in the village of Vatia. Contact the park office for more information.

Snorkeling

On the island of Ofu, you will find coconut palms swaying in the warm ocean breeze along a secluded beach, views of distant mountains of Olosega, and the best snorkeling waters in the park. Your must bring gear from Tutuila. Before you visit Ofu check with park staff about special rules that apply.

Visitor Center at National Park of American Samoa

A new park visitor center is located in Pago Plaza office building located on the island of Tutuila.

Visitor Safety

Drive with a buddy
Solar radiation is intense! Wear sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and protective clothing.
Carry insect repellent.
Always snorkel with a partner.
While on beach areas, watch out for falling coconuts.
Whatever beach you are on be aware of the tidal movements and be alert for the avas, tidal outflows from the reef. These are dangerous, their currents and undertows should not be underestimated.
Coral rubble beaches are difficult to walk on; watch your step. Be especially careful of rocky areas, which are slippery. Ask the Visitor Center about trail conditions.
Never hike without water; carry 2 to 3 liters per person.
Don’t touch the coral! Cuts from coral take a long time to heal.
Medical treatment is available on Tutuila.

Weather of National Park of American Samoa

American Samoa is in the South Pacific Ocean, between the Equator and the Tropic of Capricorn. A tropical climate prevails. Temperatures are warm or hot year-round (high 70’s to low 90’s F) with high humidity. Rain showers are frequent. Rain showers may last only for a few minutes, or last all day. The average annual rainfall in the drier portions of the island is 125 inches and 200 inches elsewhere. Tropical storms are more prevalent during the rainy season (November to May).

Plan to dress lightly; sandals, shorts and short sleeved shirts are suggested. Rain gear is always appropriate, but remember the high humidity; you may get just as wet wearing your raincoat as not! If you plan to hike in the park’s interior, wear sturdy boots. Since the islands are volcanic in nature, lava rubble is found everywhere; it can be rough on lesser quality boots and shoes.

Bring your own snorkel equipment, especially when visiting Ofu island. Lastly, if you’d like to be closer to the local culture, you may wish to try a “lava lava”, a skirt-like garment worn by both men and women in various styles and lengths. They are available at many local stores.

It is customary in Samoa to cover much of the body. Even when swimming, be sure to wear modest clothing; no bikinis, please.

40 FAQs About the National Park of American Samoa

🌿 General Information

What is the National Park of American Samoa?
It’s a U.S. national park located in the South Pacific, protecting tropical rainforests, coral reefs, and Samoan villages across three islands: Tutuila, Ofu, and Ta‘ū.
Where is the National Park of American Samoa located?
The park is in the U.S. territory of American Samoa, about 2,600 miles southwest of Hawaii.
When was the park established?
The park was established in 1988 and officially leased in 1993.
How big is the park?
The park covers around 13,500 acres (about 8,000 land acres and 4,000 marine acres).
Is the National Park of American Samoa part of the U.S. National Park System?
Yes, it’s managed by the U.S. National Park Service (NPS).

✈️ Getting There & Accessibility

How do you get to the National Park of American Samoa?
You can fly from Honolulu, Hawaii (HNL) to Pago Pago (PPG) on Tutuila Island via Hawaiian Airlines.
Do I need a passport to visit?
U.S. citizens do not need a passport, but must carry valid government-issued ID. Non-U.S. visitors need a passport and possibly a visa.
Is there public transportation in the park?
Public transportation is limited. Most visitors rent cars or use local buses (“aiga buses”) on Tutuila.
Can you visit all three islands easily?
Travel between islands requires domestic flights or boats, which may have limited schedules.
Is the park wheelchair accessible?
Some visitor areas and short trails on Tutuila are accessible, but most trails are rugged and steep.

🏞 Things to Do

What are the best things to do in the National Park of American Samoa?
Hiking, snorkeling, birdwatching, cultural village visits, and relaxing on pristine beaches.
Are there hiking trails in the park?
Yes — notable ones include the Mount ‘Alava Trail, Blunts Point Trail, and Lata Mountain Trail on Ta‘ū.
Can you snorkel in the park?
Absolutely! Ofu Beach is world-famous for its vibrant coral reefs and crystal-clear waters.
Are guided tours available?
Yes, local operators and the park service offer guided hikes, snorkeling, and cultural experiences.
Can I camp in the park?
There are no official campgrounds, but some villages allow camping with permission.
Can you swim in the park?
Yes — but always ask locals for safe swimming spots and avoid strong currents.
What wildlife can I see?
Flying foxes (fruit bats), sea turtles, tropical birds, and colorful reef fish are common.
Is fishing allowed in the park?
Fishing is restricted within park waters but may be allowed in nearby village areas.
Are there beaches in the park?
Yes — Ofu Beach, Pola Island, and Vatia Bay are among the most stunning.
Can I scuba dive in the park?
Diving is allowed, but facilities are limited. Snorkeling is more common and accessible.

🐠 Wildlife & Environment

What makes the park’s coral reefs special?
They are among the most pristine reefs in the world, with over 950 fish species and 250 coral species.
Are there dangerous animals in the park?
No large predators exist, but watch for jellyfish or sharp coral when swimming.
What kind of birds live in the park?
Look for the Blue-crowned Lorikeet, Pacific Kingfisher, and Tooth-billed Pigeon.
Can you see bats during the day?
Yes — the Samoan flying fox is active during daylight and often seen soaring above the rainforest.
Are there snakes in American Samoa?
Only small, harmless species exist; there are no venomous snakes.

🏡 Culture & People

Do people live inside the park?
Yes — the park includes traditional villages that lease land to the U.S. government.
What is fa‘a Samoa?
It’s the traditional Samoan way of life, emphasizing family, respect, and community.
Can visitors stay in villages?
Yes — homestays or guesthouses allow visitors to experience Samoan culture firsthand.
Are there cultural rules I should know?
Dress modestly, avoid walking through villages during evening prayers, and always ask before taking photos.
Is English spoken in American Samoa?
Yes, English is widely spoken alongside Samoan.

☀️ Weather & Best Time to Visit

What is the best time to visit the park?
May to September (dry season) offers the best weather for hiking and snorkeling.
What is the climate like?
Tropical — warm, humid, and rainy year-round, with temperatures averaging 80°F (27°C).
Does it rain a lot?
Yes — expect brief but heavy tropical showers, especially from November to April.
Is the park ever closed due to weather?
Heavy rain or cyclones can temporarily close trails or flights, but the park itself remains open.

🧭 Visitor Information

Is there an entrance fee?
No — entry to the National Park of American Samoa is free.
Where is the visitor center located?
In Pago Pago on Tutuila Island, next to the National Park headquarters.
Is camping gear or snorkeling equipment available for rent?
Limited rentals exist near Pago Pago; it’s best to bring your own gear.
Can I use U.S. dollars in American Samoa?
Yes — the U.S. dollar is the official currency.
Is Wi-Fi or cell service available?
Wi-Fi is available in some hotels and villages, but cell service can be spotty on outer islands.
Is it safe to travel in American Samoa?
Yes — it’s one of the safest and most welcoming places in the Pacific, but always respect local customs.