Return to Paradise Resort and Spa

Amazing stay at Return to Paradise. We stayed over Christmas day, and the staff and owners made it so special. The Christmas buffet was excellent. It was so dreamy to step out of our room and straight onto the beach. Definitely worth it and we will definitely stay again.

It lives up to its name and I really do want to return. Within 24 hours I was completely relaxed. Say ‘Talofa’ and give a smile and you get a big smile from everyone in return. Keep a note of the low tide time (from the daily newsletter) and enjoy the sandy rock pool. The fish surround you. Be wary of rip and waves taking you over rocks off the beach. I stayed in a garden view villa which was a short walk (nearer the chapel than Reception) views of the ocean from the porch. Room had a queen bed and a single so would suit small family. Bathroom window is screened and keeping sliding door closed meant room was mosquito free (perhaps the small hungry gecko on the wall helped). There was an effective air conditioning unit but I found the fan sufficient and the sound of the waves and morning bird song was divine. My mum visited 50 years ago (when it was a village) and it was wonderful to replicate the photo on my first visit. Thoroughly recommend the Lomi Wellness spa . Massage dispelled all the neck and shoulder tension. Each of the buffets have a distinctive offering of lovely food. Do all 3 Fei Fei, Movie night and String Band $95WST is $55 AUS. The tours are all excellent and with the guide (Tassi) and driver (Lafua) patient and informative. Air conditioned bus, water, lunch and towels provide an amazing way to see more of Samoa and enjoy a swim. The tours book out so get in quick on arrival. These are in my ranking of favourite first: East Coast Beach including Sua Trench $325 ($189 AUS) Any day tour under $200 per day is good value and this includes lunch and spectacular memories. Giant Clams and Turtle Reserve* $120WST I saw 3 turtles, the clams and lots of fish Village Walk $25 WST – must do prior to Movie night Thursday Apia Town and History $300 WST On a Sunday consider attending the local Church service – 5 minutes drive. It is in Samoan and the choir is incredible. Wear conservative clothes. The UV rays are high (even on cloudy days). Suggest cover up with full sleeve rashie and board shorts and hat. The clams are impacted by sunscreen so cover with protective clothing rather than sunscreen on that tour. Coral shoes are recommended for handling the freshwater river swimming and the rock pools. Bring your own sunscreen and insect repellent and drink lots of water. Bringing my own supply of muesli, long life milk, snacks and chocolates helped but not mandatory. The resort is staffed and managed by the local people. Reduce your expectations slightly as it is a natural paradise. If your TV doesn’t work due to power issues or WIFI is patchy go and enjoy the hermit crab race or admire some hibiscus or enjoy a massage or cocktail with an ocean view. As Aunty Pisupo says “appreciate the little things”. If pineapple is out of season enjoy papaya or banana. Say Talofa to a local and ask them about their family. Everyone was more skilled than me in remembering names Simi, Leanna, Rosie, Moses, Opo, Toe and Va and the very tale

Beautiful family owned resort. We had a garden breeze room which had a verandah and sea glimpses. The room was a little dated but absolutely fine. The buffet breakfast was simple but the staff so friendly, especially Lisi who was there most mornings keeping the buffet tidy and replenished. The breakfast chef was amazing with how the food just kept on coming on busy busy mornings. The Rock Pool Bar is a great place to relax in the evenings. Overall the staff are friendly and welcoming, especially in the restaurant and bar areas. We did have some problems with our itinerary which was dismissed by a receptionist which was disappointing but Mika was happy to help and resolved our issues. Tours are great and I hope to upload a photo of our tour guide and driver jumping off a cliff into a waterfall which enthralled the guests while on the Eastern beaches tour

Great location. Super friendly staff. Tidy grounds. Snorkelling was good. Had great fun with Tia and other staff at the karaoke. Food was ok. Awesome sunsets from the bar. Saw several whales breaching out to sea. Great place to chill out on the beach