American Samoa National Park: Reefs, Rainforests and Island Trails
National Park of American Samoa
“A remote island park of coral reefs, cloud forests, soaring sea cliffs, and vibrant Samoan culture in the South Pacific.”
Park Overview
National Park of American Samoa is the only U.S. national park south of the equator and spans multiple islands in American Samoa. Covering roughly 13,500 acres—with about one-third designated marine—it protects tropical rainforests, coral reefs, and high mountain trails on Tutuila, Ofu, and Ta‘ū islands. Created in 1988 and managed through a lease with Samoan villages since 1993, the park blends natural and cultural stewardship.
Fast Facts
| Location | American Samoa (Tutuila, Ofu, Ta‘ū) |
| Established | Oct 31, 1988 (50-yr lease from 1993) |
| Area | ~13,500 acres total (≈9,500 land, 4,000 marine) |
| Highest Peak | Lata Mountain on Ta‘ū (~3,170 ft) |
| Visitation | ~12,000 (2023) |
| Unique Status | Only U.S. park south of the equator |
What to See & Do
- Snorkel vibrant coral reefs around Ofu and Olosega, home to hundreds of reef fish and more than 200 coral species.
- Hike Mount ʻAlava Trail on Tutuila: a moderate 6‑mi roundtrip hike with ladders to sweeping views over Pago Pago Harbor.
- Explore Vatia’s Tuafanua Trail across lush rainforest to coastal cliffs and views of Pola Island sea stacks.
- Visit Amalau Valley, a prime bird and bat-watching zone, especially for Samoa flying foxes at dawn or dusk.
- Tour Pola Island via boat: basalt sea cliffs and seabird nesting—part of the Vaiʻava Strait National Natural Landmark.
Ecology & Wildlife
This park protects five rainforest communities—from coastal to cloud forest—and some of the most complex marine ecosystems in the National Park system. It supports over 800 native fish species, more than 200 coral species, and ~471 flowering plants. Terrestrial wildlife includes fruit bats (flying fox), seabirds, and limited native mammals.
Culture & Conservation
Samoan communities have lived on these islands for over 3,000 years. The park exists through a 50-year lease with village councils, honoring village land stewardship. Conservation partners work with local communities to protect biodiversity and heritage. Visitors experience both nature and Samoan cultural elements through guided tours and homestay programs.