North America > 🇦🇸 American Samoa
The city by city Car or no Car advice for American Samoa can be broken down into three similar questions - do you need a car in American Samoa; is it worth it (based on costs), and ultimately - should you rent one? (a balance of the two).🚆 🚌⛴️ Do we need to rent a car in American Samoa?
These scores are based on the quality of public transport and other travel options. If these are good enough to see the main points of interest, then you don’t need to rent a car.
💰💶💳 Is it worth hiring a car in American Samoa?
These scores reflect the practical factors that affect whether renting a car is convenient, good value, and stress-free.
🏙️ Main Cities in American Samoa
| CITY | IATA | Score |
|---|
Should You Rent a Car in American Samoa? 🚗✨
American Samoa is one of the most remote and untouched destinations in the United States. Imagine towering volcanic cliffs, lush rainforest, coral-filled waters, and villages where time slows down. So the big question is — should you rent a car in American Samoa? The answer depends on how much you want to explore beyond your hotel or guesthouse.
🌴 Overview: Car or No Car?
American Samoa’s main island, Tutuila, is bigger than it looks on a map. Many of the island’s best beaches, hiking trails, and viewpoints are spread out along a coastal road. Therefore, renting a car often makes travel much easier.
🚫 When You Don’t Need a Car
If you plan to stay in one village or stick close to your accommodation, a car isn’t necessary.
✅ Good No-Car Situations:
| Scenario | Why a Car Isn’t Needed |
|---|---|
| Staying in Pago Pago or Tafuna | Local buses (called aiga buses) run frequently |
| Joining guided tours | Transport is usually included |
| Relaxing at a beach resort | Everything you need is nearby |
| Short visit or cruise stop | Taxis can take you to key sights |
➡ The local buses are colourful, fun, and very affordable — but they do not follow strict schedules.
🚗 When Renting a Car Makes Your Trip Better
If you want freedom to explore at your own pace, renting a car is the best option.
✅ Benefits of Renting a Car:
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You control your schedule
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You can stop at scenic viewpoints anytime
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You can reach hidden beaches and hiking trails
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You won’t depend on limited bus hours
🚘 Best Places to Visit with a Car:
| Location | Why Drive There | Highlight |
|---|---|---|
| National Park of American Samoa | Spread across several villages | Rainforest hikes, panoramic views |
| Two-Dollar Beach | Hard to reach by bus | Pristine swimming lagoon |
| Vatia Village | Remote and scenic | Overlooks Pago Pago Harbor |
| Cape Matatula | Off the main bus route | Sunrise spot and marine sanctuary |
🚦 Driving Conditions
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You drive on the right-hand side
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Roads are mostly coastal and easy to navigate
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Traffic is light, but you may encounter pigs or dogs crossing the road 🐷🐶
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Car rentals are available near the airport and in Tafuna
🏁 Final Recommendation
| Traveller Type | Car Needed? | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Resort or one-town stay | ❌ No | Local buses and taxis are enough |
| Short cruise visit | ❌ No | You won’t have time to explore far |
| Adventurous explorer | ✅ Yes | Access remote beaches and national park |
| Hikers and photographers | ✅ Yes | Best trails require driving |
| Family travellers | ✅ Yes | Easier with gear, kids, and flexibility |
✨ Final Takeaway
So, should you rent a car in American Samoa? If you want to go beyond the main towns and truly explore this island paradise, then yes — renting a car is the best choice. But if you’re happy to stay local, ride the quirky island buses, and relax, then you can easily enjoy your trip without one.
🚗 ✅ ❌ Summary Table
This summary brings together taxis*, how much you really need a car, whether it’s worth it,
driver options, local driving rules, and an overall recommendation.
*Taxis act as a hybrid between private cars and public transport, so they aren’t counted in the overall public-transport or non-car scores. 🚕
