National Park of American Samoa
The National Park of American Samoa is one of the most unique national parks in the United States. Located in the South Pacific, the park protects lush tropical rainforests, volcanic mountains, coral reefs, and pristine beaches across three islands: Tutuila, Ofu, and Taʻū. It is the only U.S. national park south of the equator and offers visitors a rare opportunity to experience Polynesian culture alongside incredible biodiversity both on land and underwater.
Park Data & Statistics
- Location: American Samoa (South Pacific Ocean)
- Established: October 31, 1988
- Park Size: ~13,500 acres
- Islands Included: Tutuila, Ofu, and Taʻū
- Annual Visitors: ~8,000–10,000
- Highest Elevation: Lata Mountain (~3,170 ft)
- Unique Feature: Only U.S. National Park south of the equator
Best Time to Visit
Dry Season (May–October)
Best time to visit with lower humidity and less rainfall.
Wet Season (November–April)
Warmer temperatures with more frequent tropical rain showers.
Average temperatures range from 70-90°F year-round.
Best Photography Locations
- Ofu Beach lagoon
- Pola Island sea cliffs
- Mount Alava panoramic views
- Taʻū Island coastline
- Coral reef snorkeling areas
Camping & Lodging Options
There are no traditional campgrounds within the park.
Visitors typically stay in:
- Local guesthouses
- Small lodges
- Village homestays
Accommodations are mostly located on Tutuila Island near Pago Pago.
Indigenous / Cultural Significance
The park protects lands that have been home to the Samoan People for over 3,000 years. Traditional Samoan culture, known as Faʻa Samoa, emphasizes family, community, respect for elders, and stewardship of the land and sea.
Entrance Fees & Pass Information
-
There is no entrance fee to visit the National Park of American Samoa.
The America the Beautiful Annual Pass covers entry to all U.S. national parks for one year.
Hidden Gems Most Visitors Miss
- Taʻū Island remote trails
- Quiet snorkeling reefs on Ofu Island
- Blunts Point historic WWII guns
- Remote rainforest valleys
- Pola Island coastal viewpoints
Additional Resources (1)
• Official National Park of American Samoa Website (National Park Service) – Official park information, visitor guidance, and trip planning resources.
• National Park of American Samoa Maps – Downloadable park maps for Tutuila, Ofu, and Taʻū islands.
• National Park of American Samoa Hiking Guide – Trail information and hiking safety tips.
• National Park of American Samoa Conditions & Alerts – Weather updates, safety notices, and park alerts.
• Snorkeling and Coral Reef Information – Guidelines for snorkeling and exploring coral reefs in the park.
Popular Hiking Trails
- Mount Alava Trail
7 miles round trip – Scenic hike through rainforest to incredible views over Pago Pago Harbor. - Lower Sauma Ridge Trail
1.8 miles – A relatively short hike through tropical forest. - Blunts Point Trail
1.5 miles – Historic trail leading to World War II coastal gun sites. - Ofu Island Coastal Walks
Short scenic walks along one of the most beautiful beaches in the Pacific.
Top Scenic Viewpoints
- Mount Alava summit views
- Ofu Beach
- Pola Island cliffs
- Taʻū Island volcanic coast
- Pago Pago Harbor viewpoints
Beginner-Friendly Activities
- Snorkeling in coral reefs
- Ofu Beach relaxation
- Scenic drives on Tutuila
- Short rainforest walks
- Cultural village visits
Nearby Getaway Towns
Pago Pago – The capital of American Samoa and the main gateway for visitors arriving by air.
Waterfalls, Lakes, or Natural Highlights
- Ofu Beach coral reef
- Pola Island volcanic sea stack
- Mount Alava rainforest summit
- Taʻū Island volcanic landscapes
- Lata Mountain (highest point)
Scenic Drives
The island roads around Tutuila offer beautiful coastal drives with views of volcanic mountains, tropical rainforest, and ocean cliffs.
Maps & Navigation Resources
Visitors can use:
- National Park Service maps
- Visitor center maps on Tutuila
- GPS navigation apps
- Local guides and tour operators
One Day Itinerary
Morning
- Visit the park visitor center
- Scenic drive around Tutuila Island
Midday
- Hike Lower Sauma Ridge Trail
- Lunch in Pago Pago
Afternoon
- Snorkeling along the reef
- Explore coastal viewpoints
Evening
-
Sunset views over Pago Pago Harbor
Popular Flora
The park protects vibrant tropical rainforest ecosystems.
Common plants include:
- Banyan trees
- Pandanus trees
- Coconut palms
- Breadfruit trees
- Tropical hibiscus
- Giant ferns
Popular Fauna
Mammals:
- Samoan flying fox fruit bat
- Pacific sheath-tailed bat
Birds:
- Many-colored fruit dove
- Wattled honeyeater
- Pacific pigeon
Marine life:
- Sea turtles
- Reef fish
- Coral reef ecosystems
Advanced/Backcountry Activites
- Mount Alava full hike
- Exploring Taʻū Island trails
- Extended rainforest trekking
- Advanced snorkeling and reef exploration
Park History
The National Park of American Samoa was established in 1988 through an agreement between the U.S. government and local Samoan villages. Unlike most national parks, the land is not federally owned but leased from local families and villages, preserving both the natural environment and traditional Samoan cultural practices.
Visitor Tips and Safety
- Expect hot, humid tropical weather year-round.
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen for snorkeling.
- Respect local village customs and traditions.
- Roads can be narrow and winding.
- Medical services are limited compared to mainland parks.
Top 5 Bucket List Experiences
- Relax on the stunning white sands of Ofu Beach
- Hike through tropical rainforest to Mount Alava
- Snorkel vibrant coral reefs
- Photograph Pola Island sea cliffs
- Experience traditional Samoan culture
Fun Facts
- This is the only U.S. national park located south of the equator.
- The park protects both rainforest and coral reef ecosystems.
- Many park lands are owned by local Samoan families and leased to the National Park Service.
- The Samoan flying fox fruit bat can have a wingspan of nearly three feet.
- Ofu Beach is often ranked among the most beautiful beaches in the world.
Additional Resources (2)
• Official National Park of American Samoa Website (National Park Service) – Official park information, visitor guidance, and trip planning resources.
• National Park of American Samoa Maps – Downloadable park maps for Tutuila, Ofu, and Taʻū islands.
• National Park of American Samoa Hiking Guide – Trail information and hiking safety tips.
• National Park of American Samoa Conditions & Alerts – Weather updates, safety notices, and park alerts.
• Snorkeling and Coral Reef Information – Guidelines for snorkeling and exploring coral reefs in the park.