In the US, many of the primary tourist spots are on the mainland, with popular states like Oregon, Michigan, Ohio, and New York often taking center stage and rightly so. However, beyond the mainland lies an overlooked region in the US, the Oceania islands. US territories like American Samoa, Guam, and the Northern Mariana Islands often remain underrated on the travel radar for mass tourists despite being some of the most stunning regions in the Pacific.
That’s why, in this travel guide, I’ve shared hidden gems in the Oceania islands in the US, so that the mass tourist gets to know about the tourist spots they were unaware of.
Table of Contents
Indoor & Outdoor Hidden Gems in Oceania Islands US
1. National Park of American Samoa Visitor Center,Pago Pago (American Samoa)
Location: P8G3+66M, Rte 001, Fagatogo, Eastern District 96799
While many tourists came to the Oceania islands for outdoor activities, many tourists don’t understand the value of visiting the visitor center. In my opinion, having a small visit to such centers should be compulsory, especially if you are in a place like the Oceania islands.
Inside the National Park of American Samoa Visitor Center, on both print and digital forms, you will see the region’s landscape (giving you a better idea about where to go next, what places won’t be suitable to go, and what underrated side you can visit here). On top of that, you will also see pictures and artifacts about the region’s landscape, wildlife, and, most importantly, learn a lot about the culture in Pago Pago.
The rangers inside the center are also very informative, which is a massive plus. And you will also see some traditional artwork of wood and steel inside, which was my favorite part of the center.
Lastly, the center’s location also makes it a stunning spot to visit, because you will get the backdrop of mountain forests and greenery, and in front are the surreal views of Pago Pago Harbor.
Also Read: 15 Underrated Tourist Spots in Ohio
2. Lower Sauma Ridge Hike, Vatia (American Samoa)
One of the most unnoticed and hidden gems of the Oceania islands, the Lower Sauma Ridge Hike in Vatia (American Samoa) is a short and moderately challenging hike that you don’t want to miss out. The hike begins in Vatia, a small village along the northern coast of Tutuila Island. The village is known for its landscapes and stunning coastal views.
During the hike, you will get to see the maps and signage along the way. Even though the trail is not challenging and considered family-friendly, but make sure to wear quality hiking shoes, because as you approach the end of the hike, you will encounter a rocky path, which can be hard for some. And not to forget, there are a lot of stairs you will have to go through as well.
But the good thing is that you will be under the shade of the trees most of the time and will see the surreal views of Amalou Bay in front, which makes the little challenging side worth going through. And lastly, the trail not being crowded is another big plus about this place.
3. Fagatele Bay Trail, Futiga (American Samoa)
Another underrated hiking trail in the Oceania islands is the Fagatele Bay Trail, which is in Futiga, American Samoa. Those who like exploring the rainforest would surely love hiking here.
The Fagatele Bay area, where the trail begins, is a marine protected area and is the only one of its kind in the National Park of American Samoa. The bay is a marine sanctuary and is also home to coral reefs, sea life, and clear turquoise waters, which makes it an ideal spot for those looking to explore the natural beauty of the Oceania islands.
Now, for the trail, it spans approximately 1.5 miles and is a moderately challenging one. Not to forget, that the Fagatele Bay Trail is among the shortest trails in American Samoa, but is one of the most rewarding ones as well. In this short hike, you will get to see everything, from dense rainforest wildlife to the adventurous challenges of the trail. And the trail ends on the beach side, which is the rewarding side of this hike.
Other Travel Guide: 15 Underrated Hidden Gems to Visit in Michigan
4. Gab Gab Beach, Apra Harbor (Guam)
For the next hidden gem in the Oceania islands, let’s head to Guam. If you are someone who is fed up with visiting crowded beaches, the Gab Gab Beach in Apra Harbor should be in your itinerary.
This is not a typical sandy beach; it has a fair amount of land covered with grass behind the sand. The water is crystal clear with a bluish green shade that gives it a Maldives-type feel (just an opinion). In the water, you will also see various fish, and it is also among the best spots for snorkeling in Apra Harbor.
On top of that, amenities like benches, restrooms, grills, and a valley ball area made this place even special, especially for families.
5. Dededo Flea Market, Dededo (Guam)
Location: GRCH+8F8, Dededo
I know how hectic it can be visiting beaches, forests, and nature preserves. That’s why, in between a small break and a visit to the flea market is an underrated idea that many tourists seem to ignore.
Dededo Flea Market is set in a large open-air area, with multiple vendor stalls selling different items. One of the best things about this market is the wide variety of items you will see here.
You’ll find everything you could possibly want, from locally grown produce to handmade jewelry and artisanal crafts. You will also see a range of local farmers sell fresh fruits, vegetables, and seafood, making it a perfect spot for those wanting to try some of Guam’s native foods.
6. No 2 Bomb Loading Pit, Northern Tinian (Northern Mariana Islands)
Location: 3JMM+CXM, Northern Tinian, Tinian 96952
A visit to the Oceania islands in the US feels incomplete if you don’t visit the No 2 Bomb Loading Pit in Northern Tinian. Despite holding such an important place in the history of the US and the world overall, very few people seem to visit this place, which was a real surprise for me.
Now a tourist-friendly place, the Tinian Island was once transformed into a major U.S. military base and played a crucial role in launching airstrikes against Japan.
The No 2 Bomb Loading Pit is the site where bombers were loaded with bombs in preparation for missions. The pit itself is an open structure, but it was once used for loading bombs onto planes. You can walk around the pit and imagine the scale of operations that once took place here.
There are no major buildings or exhibits at the site, but the historical context is enough, along with the information and some pictures from that time.
7. Kalabera Cave, Tangke (Northern Mariana Islands)
Location: 6QWX+222, Kalabera Cave Trail, Tangke, Saipan 96950
Saipan in the Northern Mariana Islands is known for its beaches and historically significant places, and Kalabera Cave is one of them. So, if you like to learn about indigenous history, this place can be an exciting one for you, with the exception that visitors are not allowed to explore the cave, which was something I particularly didn’t like.
Ideally, this place is a geological masterpiece and is what tourists come to see here. It’s a natural formation that is carved out of limestone over thousands of years by the forces of wind and water.
The overall cave system is not vast in size but has stalactites and stalagmites, along with a network of passageways that were fascinating to see. It is also said that this cave was used as a site of refuge and ritual practices by the indigenous Chamorro people of the Northern Mariana Islands.
There are paved and unpaved paths on the outside so you can explore the area. And not to forget, there are also some houses made with wood that carry historical significance and are also the primary photography spot in this area.
8. Two Dollar Beach, Avaio (American Samoa)
If you are looking for an underrated beach in the Oceania islands in the US, simply head to the Two Dollar Beach in Avaio (American Samoa). This is not a big beach. Here it is mainly called “Lua Tala Beach” and will cost $5 per person, cash only. And you will also get a shower here, which is a plus point.
The water is crystal clear, with the views of nearby forests making the overall scene extra beautiful. They also have a grass area on the back, along with a seating area under shade, restrooms, BBQ grills, so you can rest and enjoy your meal after swimming and playing. Not only that, there are also different big rocks, and a deck where you can click some quality pictures to make your trip memorable.
9. Pagat Cave Trailhead, Yigo (Guam)
If you’re looking for an adventurous spot in the Oceania islands in the US, then simply head to the Pagat Cave Trailhead. It’s two in one spot, as this moderately challenging trail will lead you to the Pagat Cave, which itself is a tourist spot.
The trial is 1.7 miles long and can take anywhere from 90 to 120 minutes to finish. Along the hike, you will go through some densely forested areas, and some areas can be challenging, steep, and rocky, so be prepared for such challenges.
Even though there are ropes that can be helpful for the hikers, some spaces should’ve had ropes for the hikers’ ease. But as you reach the Pagat Cave, things will start to ease out, and you can enjoy the views of the cave.
Pro Tip: Don’t just leave here, in a short distance, you can see the ocean views, which is not something you want to miss out on when visiting Guam.
Hidden Gem Restaurants in Oceania Islands
10. DDW Restaurant, Utulei (American Samoa)
Location: P899+97F, Rte 001, Utulei, Eastern District 96799
The first hidden gem restaurant in the Oceania islands in the US on this list is the DDW Restaurant in Utulei. From inside, the restaurant has a very cozy and warm vibe that makes you feel nice to be here. The overall decor is super comfy with lots of open spaces and various paintings on the wall. Not to forget, they also have a seating area outside, which is prioritized by those who like to eat in the fresh air.
On the menu, they offer various breakfast and lunch options, including egg benedict, swordfish, salmon, and wahoo. Along with that, you can also order steak, burrito, toast, seafood omelet, waffles, and a range of pancake options.
11. Paradise Pizza & Restaurant, Pago Pago (American Samoa)
Location: P8H2+QX3, Pago Pago, Eastern District 96799
Paradise Pizza & Restaurant in Pago Pago is another restaurant you shouldn’t ignore whenever you decide to visit the Oceania islands in the US. With the sea and mountains view from the window, the experience of eating inside here is just on another level.
Not to forget the overall decor inside, which has that cozy vibe you’d rarely feel in other places. Open spaces, artificial plants, paintings, and pictures on the wall also play an important role in shaping the overall vibe inside.
On the menu, you are going to have a range of options. Among the notable items are French toast, seafood omelets, New York steak, grilled wahoo fish, grilled steak omelet, Cajun seafood boil, chicken alfredo pizza, pepperoni pizza, and many others.
12. Delmonico Kitchen, Tumon (Guam)
Location: Bay View Hotel, 1475 Pale San Vitores Rd, Tumon, 96913, Guam
Meat lovers are in for a treat at Delmonico Kitchen in Tumon. This underrated steakhouse not only offers quality food but also has an atmosphere that is worth praising. The seating area has that classic American Steakhouse vibe, with various small lighting fixtures and artwork on the wall, which makes the overall decor look even better.
On the menu, you will get all the options you can get from a steak house, including burgers, sandwiches, mac & cheese, soups, salads, BBQ, and most prominently a range of steak options, whether you like New York, rib eye, porterhouse, or any other variety, you will get it here.
13. Jade Restaurant, Nu’uuli (American Samoa)
Location: M7PM+VWF, Nu’uuli, Eastern District 96799
The last underrated restaurant in the Oceania islands in the US on this list is Jade Restaurant in Nu’uuli. For me, the seating area in this restaurant is top-notch. The overall interior, along with tables and chairs, gave a vibe of eating in a marriage ceremony. While the artificial plants and chandeliers make it look even more beautiful.
On the menu, they offer a variety of noodles, spare ribs, fish, rice, soups, spring rolls, prawns, and various other items.
FAQ’s
1. What is the best time to visit the US islands in Oceania?
The best time to visit the US islands in Oceania (like American Samoa, Guam, and the Northern Mariana Islands) is typically from April to October.
2. Do I need a visa to visit the US islands in Oceania?
If you’re traveling to US territories like Guam or American Samoa, the visa requirements depend on your nationality. US citizens don’t need a visa, while citizens from other countries will require a visa or be eligible for the Visa Waiver Program.
3. Are there direct flights to US islands in Oceania from the US mainland?
Yes, there are direct flights to several US islands in Oceania.
4. What activities can I do on US islands in Oceania?
You can do all the outdoor activities on the US islands in Oceania, like snorkeling, scuba diving, hiking, going to the beach, and many more.
