American Samoa is part of the chain of Samoan Islands in central Polynesia, and is situated west of the Cook Islands, north of Tonga, and about 3700 kilometres south-west of Honolulu (Hawaii). The first Samoan inhabitants are thought to have settled in the region in about 1300 BC.
As its name suggests, American Samoa is a territory of the United States of America, and consists of five volcanic islands with rugged peaks and limited coastal plains, and two coral atolls (Rose Atoll and Swains Island). The territory also encompasses the main island of Tutuila, and the group of Manu’a Islands.
The village of Leone, formerly the Polynesian capital of Tutuila, was the landing site of the first missionary, John Williams, in 1832. Both of the island’s beautiful churches are in memory of Williams’ work, one of which he helped construct.
Of all the Manu’a islands, Ofu is considered the most outstanding in its beauty. It is most popular with tourists, and is relatively easy to visit. The crown jewel of Ofu is its beach on the south-coast shore – the 4km stretch of white sand is one of the most breathtaking in the whole of the South Pacific. The waters here are classified as national park, so be sure to bring snorkeling equipment when visiting the beach, to catch a glimpse at more than 300 species of fish and 150 species of coral.
Bustling Pago Pago is often considered to be nothing more than an industrial town, thanks to the nearby tuna canneries and polluted streets. But head to the picturesque harbour for some wonderful views, framed by the surrounding fierce-looking mountains.
Package deals and tours
For great online deals for travel, head to Virgin Blue holidays (which travels to Samoa) and Hideaway Holidays.
The airlines servicing American Samoa include:
- Hawaiian Airlines, with direct flights from Honolulu (plus connections from the West Coast of North America)
- Polynesian Airlines, with services (through Western Samoa) form Australia, Hawaii, New Zealand, Cook Islands, Tonga and Fiji.
- Samoa Air operates regional services to Apia, Western Samoa, Vava’u and the Manua Islands.