National Park of American Samoa — One of the most unusual national parks in the US system, and one of the least visited. The park spans three islands and protects some of the last remaining tropical rainforest in US territory. On Tutuila, trails climb from village level up into dense forest where flying foxes — large fruit bats with wingspans up to a metre — roost in the canopy. The trailhead for Mount Alava starts at Fagasa Pass; the 6-mile round trip to the 490-metre summit takes about 5 hours and rewards with views over Pago Pago Harbor.
Ofu Beach — Consistently cited as one of the finest beaches in the Pacific, and it's practically empty. The Ofu section of the national park protects a 350-acre coral reef directly off the beach. The snorkeling is outstanding, with coral coverage and marine diversity that rival the Great Barrier Reef. Getting there takes a short flight from Pago Pago — which makes it a place most people skip entirely, to the benefit of those who don't.
Pago Pago Harbor — The deep-cut harbor is American Samoa's defining geography. The surrounding ridges are dramatic and the working harbor has none of the polish of a tourist port. Take the drive from town to Vatia on the north coast for the best views.
Fagatele Bay National Marine Sanctuary — A submerged volcanic crater on Tutuila's western end, accessible only by boat. The bay's coral gardens are in better condition than most, and sea turtles are commonly spotted.
Aunu'u Island — A 20-minute boat ride from Tutuila's eastern tip. Small, walkable in a day, and genuinely quiet. There's a lake, some wetlands, and red sand beaches. Few tourists bother making the trip.
Jean P. Haydon Museum — A small museum in Fagatogo covering Samoan history and culture, including artifacts from early Polynesian settlement, the colonial period, and a collection of moon rocks brought back by the Apollo missions.