Pago Pago

Pago Pago is the capital of American Samoa, an unincorporated territory of the United States located in the South Pacific Ocean.

The Jean P. Haydon Museum in the centre of town features artefacts and objects linked to Samoan history, sea life and traditional tools and handicrafts.

Just offshore from the village of Vatia is Pola Island, a tiny uninhabited island with magnificent sheer cliffs and a huge seabird population. Activities here include hiking and bird watching.

The steep mountains and lack of established trails mean that only experienced hikers may be able to navigate. For great views of Pago Pago and the rugged northwest coast, take the track up Mt. Alava.

The Office of Tourism by the National Park Visitors Centre in the Pago Plaza Shopping Centre has details of tours and guided hikes.

Local Tours include a 4 hour excursion with hiking, watching tidal pools and blowholes and pole fishing. Reef walking tours and swimming, snorkelling and kayaking options are also available.

There are shops and supermarkets along the main road leading from the port. Souvenirs include local handicrafts, wood carvings or handbags.

Popular, traditional dishes here include 'palusami' (cooked taro leaves, coconut cream and onions), 'supoesi' (breakfast soup made from pawpaw fruit and coconut cream) and 'povi masima' (Samoan salted beef). Many traditional dishes are accompanied by an all-purpose sauce made of onions and coconut cream called "Pe'epe'e".

Cruise ship dock at the small commercial harbour, within walking distance of the centre of town.

There are many stalls near the dock area selling local handicrafts and souvenirs.

Local buses are very cheap and car hire is available should you wish to explore the island.