Scuba Diving in

American Samoa

American Samoa is an unincorporated territory of the United States located in the South Pacific Ocean. It is a group of five volcanic islands and two coral atolls, comprising the easternmost part of the Samoan archipelago. The territory boasts stunning natural beauty, with lush tropical forests, pristine beaches, and vibrant coral reefs.

Marine Species in

American Samoa

Black-spotted goby – Istigobius nigroocellatus

Peacock wrasse – Iniistius pavo

Celebes razorfish – Iniistius celebicus

Stony Coral – Isopora brueggemanni

Rippled rockskipper – Istiblennius edentulus

Ornate goby – Istigobius ornatus

Stony Coral, Large Star Coral – Favites abdita

Branching Frogspawn Coral – Fimbriaphyllia paradivisa

Longnose butterfly fish – Forcipiger flavissimus

Weedy cardinalfish – Foa fo

All Species in American Samoa

Dive Centres in

American Samoa

All Dive Centers in American Samoa

Geography

American Samoa has a total land area of 199 square kilometers (77 square miles). The largest island is Tutuila, which is home to the capital city, Pago Pago. Other major islands include Aunu'u, Ofu, Olosega, and Ta'u. The territory's highest point is Mount Lata, which reaches an elevation of 1,857 meters (6,093 feet).

Population

The population of American Samoa is approximately 55,000. The majority of the population is of Samoan descent, with a small number of people of European, Asian, and other Pacific Islander backgrounds. The official language is English, although Samoan is widely spoken.

Culture

Samoan culture is rich and vibrant, with strong traditions in music, dance, storytelling, and crafts. The traditional Samoan "fa'a Samoa" is a hierarchical social system based on extended families and villages. The territory has a unique cultural heritage, influenced by both traditional Polynesian customs and American influences.

Economy

The economy of American Samoa is primarily based on the fishing industry, tourism, and government services. The territory is also home to a tuna cannery, which is a major employer. The government plays a significant role in the economy, providing a range of social services and subsidies.

History

American Samoa was claimed by the United States in 1899, following the Spanish-American War. The territory was officially established in 1900. It has been a U.S. territory ever since, with its own elected government. American Samoa's history is closely tied to its relationship with the United States, as well as its indigenous Samoan culture.

Major Landmarks

American Samoa offers a variety of attractions for visitors. Some of the most popular landmarks include:

  • National Park of American Samoa: This park encompasses a variety of ecosystems, including rainforests, beaches, and coral reefs.
  • Pago Pago Harbor: This scenic harbor is a popular destination for cruise ships and offers stunning views.
  • The Samoan Cultural Center: This center showcases the traditional art, music, and dance of the Samoan people.
  • The USS Indianapolis Memorial: This memorial commemorates the crew of the USS Indianapolis, which was sunk by a Japanese submarine during World War II.