Comprehensive Guide Collection for the National Park of American Samoa

America's only national park south of the equator, protecting tropical rainforests, coral reefs, and Samoan culture across three remote Pacific islands

National Park of American Samoa

The National Park of American Samoa represents a remarkable partnership between the U.S. National Park Service and traditional Samoan village communities. The park stretches across three distinct island units, each offering unique ecological and cultural characteristics. The Tutuila unit, accessible by car and closest to the capital Pago Pago, encompasses the ridgeline and steep northern slopes of the island, including the Amalau Valley, Craggy Point, and Tāfeu Cove. Here, visitors can explore trails to the summit of Mount Alava and discover historic World War II gun emplacements at Breakers Point and Blunts Point along the World War II Heritage Trail. The park's marine component on Tutuila includes 1,200 acres of offshore waters protecting coral reef ecosystems. The Manu'a Islands, comprising Ofu and Ta'ū to the east, represent more remote and wild portions of the park. The Ofu unit features a scenic two-mile beach and Sunuitao Peak, with 70 acres of land and 400 acres of offshore waters. Ofu can be reached by small fishing boats from Ta'ū or by intermittent flights from Pago Pago. The Ta'ū unit is the largest and most undeveloped, covering 3,700 acres of land and 1,100 acres of offshore waters, including the territory's highest point at Lata Mountain. A trail once led to Lata's summit but has become overgrown, though the National Park Service has plans to rebuild the trail starting in June 2024.