2 Best Sights in American Samoa

This pristine bay within an eroded volcanic crater is on the south side of the main island of Tutuila. Beneath the waters are beautiful corals, hundreds of fish, and many turtles as well as sharks and—at certain times of the year—whales. The bay and nearby walking trails are on land belonging to the Fuimaono family, who have lived here for about 1,000 years. Visitors are allowed to hike the trails, swim, and snorkel but must first register their names in a book at a gate. To reach Fagatele Bay, drive or take a local bus to Futiga Village, about 7 miles southwest of Pago Pago, and turn left at the US Mart. Follow the small feeder road past a landfill area to the locked gate. After registering, it's a 1-mile walk to the first interpretative sign and another mile to the beach. Visitors can also hire a boat to get here. Take water for the hike, and dress in a modest style when walking and swimming (no bikinis).

Spread over the main island of Tutuila and the Manu'a islands some 68 miles to the east, this national park is the southernmost in the U.S. park system. The most accessible section is the rainforest region in the north of Utilia, reached via a bumpy road to the town of Vatia from where several walks begin. The easiest is the 650-foot Pola Island Trail (Pola Island is also called Cockscomb due to its dramatic shape), while the most challenging is the three-hour round-trip trek to the summit of Mt. Alava for fantastic views over Pago Pago Harbor, the iconic Rainmaker Mountain, and Cockscomb. From the summit there's also a view of the Manu'a Islands, known for their excellent diving and rainforest walks. There are flights and boat trips to the Manu'a Islands; however, a guided tour is the best way to visit. The national parks office in Pago Pago is the best starting point for advice and maps. The staff can also advise on a Samoan homestay, an unusual opportunity to meet the locals and gain a real insight into island life and culture.