Hawaii
The only way to American Samoa is with a layover in Honolulu, Hawaii. We’ve been at least 4 times to Waikiki by now and every time it seems like the city is growing and there are more and more people. The city might be changing, but the signature view of the Waikiki beach with Diamond Head in the background remains the same and it seems so familiar by now.

You can’t go to Hawaii and not have a poke bowl or two. Ono Seafood was within walking distance from our hotel and their spicy ahi poke and shoyu ahi poke were delicious. We ended the day with a couple of drinks with a killer view.

American Samoa
We traveled all the way to American Samoa to see the National Park of American Samoa. The park is spread on three islands, but we had time to visit only one. The inter-island flights don’t have the most efficient flight schedules unfortunately. It’s a beautiful place and with a stronger infrastructure and a more organized tourism industry, it could be a nice place to visit. But it’s not there yet and I cannot recommend it. We had the most frustrating experience getting to and from Pago Pago and in Pago Pago itself.

Pola Island trail – short, fairly flat trail leads to a rough and rocky beach with views of the coastline and Pola Island (.2 mi roundtrip).

Lower Sauma Ridge Trail – spectacular views of the northeast coastline of the island (.4 mi roundtrip).

Samoa
Samoa is a little piece of paradise in the middle of the ocean. It’s only a short 45 min flight from American Samoa, but it can’t be any more different. It’s green, clean, no crowds of tourists, friendly locals, lush forests and pristine beaches.

– Lupe Sina Treesort – we had the most unique and memorable experience there. We stayed a night in the 2 bedroom “Samson” tree house. The owners, Jack and Carol, were very welcoming and helpful. The tree house is out of this world – functioning toilet, hot shower, electricity and a breathtaking view!

– To Sua Ocean Trench – a unique swimming experience in literally a “big hole” in the ground.

– Togitogiga Waterfall – a very nice spot to cool off. Bring insect repellent and water shoes.

– Coastal Walk in O Le Pupu-Pue National Park – a somewhat maintained trail along the coast leading to a black lava field. Enjoy the ocean breeze and the view of giant waves crashing against lava cliffs on the way.

– Baha’i House of Worship – beautifully maintained grounds and a peaceful place of worship open to people of all religions. We had the place entirely to ourselves.

– Aga Reef Resort – a nice resort on the beach offering hotel rooms and beach villas. The beach near the resort is not sandy so bring your snorkel and reef shoes.