Surfing in American Samoa
American Samoa is the only U.S. territory below the Equator line and comprises 7 stunning volcanic South Pacific islands and atolls. Tutuila is the largest island and is home to the National Park of American Samoa that highlights the territory's tropical scenery with green lush rainforests, tropical beaches, pristine coral reefs formations and uncorrupted waves. The island of Savaií and Upolu are more famous surf destinations and have many registered surf spots, while Tutuila has flown under the radar for many years despite the large community of expats surfers living in the main island of the archipelago. In general the surf spots in American Samoa consist of powerful reef breaks and many of them are world class waves. The most famous one is Samoa’s Boulders, a reef break that breaks on shallow water and is not recommended for faint hearted surfers. There are all kinds of waves in the archipelago for all levels of surfers and beginners will have plenty of chances to surf somewhere else. American Samoa doesn’t have a continental shelf and receives swell from almost 360° making the surf condition possibilities consistent and endless. Dry season is from April to October and it’s the optimal time to surf. This is when consistent south swells reach the coast of the islands but also bring strong southeast trade winds. American Samoa is still an underrated and uncrowded surf destination that should definitely be on every surfers bucket list.
Climate in American Samoa
The climate in American Samoa is considered tropical, with a hot and humid rainy season from December to March and a cooler dry season from April to October. The cool season is relatively dry but the trade winds can still cause showers and thunderstorms. American Samoa has waves all year round but the best time to surf is during the dry season when consistent south swell reaches the island but also brings with it the south-east trade winds. The wet season is known for having glassy conditions and smaller swells. During this time of the year big swells can propagate down from the North Pacific and create epic glassy conditions.
Best surf spots in American Samoa
Most breaks of American Samoa are located on the south coasts of the islands that have a relatively flat volcanic platform with trimmed reefs and underwater coral banks that produce many surfable breaks. Be aware that these spots are very exposed to the SE trade winds and mornings are usually more glassy. The best surf spots is American Samoa are
Alao, Amanave Bay Amouli, Asili Point, Aunu'u, Coral Heads, Faganeanea, Fatuuli Rock, Freddies Beach, Lauli’ituai, Liea Point, Nu’uuli, Nua, Poloa Bay, Sliding Rock and Tula.
Budget Planning
Meal price range
Simple meals start at $6 USD. Mid-range meals start at $17 USD. Dining & drinking at high-end restaurants can cost anywhere from $30-50 USD
Equipment rental
You should bring your own gear.
Prepaid SIM cards
Bluesky is a good choice. SIM cards can be purchased from the main shop in Apia.
Prepaid packages start at $12 USD.
Public transport
Tutuila has a great bus system. Don’t expect it to run on Sundays.
Taxis are available in Tutuila, but they can be pretty pricey. So probably only convenient for short trips.
On Manu'a Islands (Ta'u, Ofu, and Olosega) rental cars, taxis, and buses are not available. You can rent a bike however.
Gas prices
$1.15 USD a liter.
Types of risks
Sharp and shallow reefs, powerful waves.
How to prepare
Visa
American citizens do not require a visa to enter and may stay an unlimited amount of days. Citizens from 44 countries, including Australia and the UK, may enter American Samoa on a visa waiver for up to 30 days.
Vaccines
Although it's not mandatory, it’s recommended that you have been vaccinated for hepatitis A & B, typhoid, rabies, meningitis, polio, Tdap, chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia, influenza, measles, mumps and rubella.
Things to know
Language & Currency
Samoan and English are the official languages.
The currency is the United States Dollar ($).
Best time to go
There are waves all year round but the best time to surf is during the dry season.
Checking Surf forecast
Checking the forecast about a week before your trip is always a good idea. Understanding what the waves will be like and knowing what gear to pack is essential. You can check the forecast for the waves here.
Do I need pack a pharmacy kit
You should bring a basic kit. Including ear drops, eye drops, bandaids, ear plugs, gaze, alcohol, mosquito repellent and broad spectrum antibiotic ointment.
Travel/Surf Insurance
World Nomads has great travel insurance packages that are not super expensive and they cover surfing.
Emergency
Dial 911.
Check surf pictures of American Samoa at #surfamericansamoa
