Events at Return to Paradise
Traditional samoan events & Food
Experience Samoan Culture & Food
Immerse Yourself in Authentic Samoan Culture at Return to Paradise Resort
We invite both our resort guests and day visitors to experience a vibrant array of cultural events that celebrate the rich heritage of Samoa. Every Wednesday, be captivated by our award-winning Samoan Fiafia show featuring dazzling fire-knife dancers, complemented by a delicious traditional Samoan buffet. Saturdays come alive with the lively performances of the famous Maeva string band during our delectable dinner buffet, creating a festive atmosphere for all. On Sundays, join us for our renowned traditional Sunday lunch, a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Discover unforgettable moments and celebrate Samoan traditions with us at Return to Paradise Resort.
Book your cultural experience today and make your stay truly memorable!
environmentally
friendly
supporting
locals
sustainable
Tourism
family
friendly
perfect
for Groups
1 NZD ≈ 1.70 WST
1 AUD ≈ 1.80 WST
Fiafia Night - Cultural Fire Knife Show
Join Our Award-Winning Fiafia Traditional Fire Show & Buffet Every Wednesday at Return to Paradise Resort
Experience authentic Samoan culture with our award-winning Fiafia Traditional Fire Show and delicious Samoan buffet, exclusively hosted every Wednesday at Return to Paradise Resort. Starting at 6:30 PM, enjoy an enchanting evening filled with vibrant Samoan dances, mesmerizing fire performances, and captivating cultural storytelling that highlight the rich heritage of the islands.
Open to both resort guests and day visitors, our Fiafia Night features a mouth-watering selection of traditional Samoan cuisine, perfect for sharing with family and friends. Set against the stunning backdrop of our resort, you’ll experience an unforgettable night under the stars, ideal for creating lasting memories.
Due to high demand, we highly recommend booking your spot early to ensure you don’t miss out on this popular event. Whether you’re eager to dive into local traditions or seeking a unique evening experience, our Fiafia Traditional Fire Show & Buffet at Return to Paradise Resort is a must-see highlight of your Samoa stay.
$95 WST per adult
$45 WST per child (under 12)
Reserve Your Spot Today and Celebrate Samoan Culture with Us!
Return to Paradise Movie Night
Experience an unforgettable evening of fine dining and cinematic history with our Dine Gold Class at the Movies every Thursday night at Return to Paradise Resort. Join us in the Gary Cooper Lounge to watch the iconic 1953 film “Return to Paradise”, starring Hollywood legend Gary Cooper and Roberta Haynes, filmed right here on our pristine beach. Enjoy a delectable dinner and refreshing drinks delivered directly to your seat as you immerse yourself in this historic movie that pioneered the inclusion of indigenous actors in major Hollywood roles.
Discover the profound impact “Return to Paradise” had on Samoa and explore the legacy of Chief Tonga Le Mamea Matamua and his granddaughter, Prime Minister Fiame Mataafa. Pay your respects at the serene gravesite of Roberta Haynes, overlooking the beach she loved. For just $20 WST per person, your admission supports our village medical fund, making your evening both enjoyable and meaningful.
Book your Dine Gold Class Movie Night today and celebrate Samoan heritage with an exclusive cultural and culinary experience at Return to Paradise Resort!
Events & Food Reviews
From the moment Fosi and Maua picked us up from the airport, we knew we were in good hands. On the way to the resort, they cracked jokes, and told us some of the customs living village life in Samoa!
We were lucky enough to arrive on a Wednesday afternoon, which meant we were able to book ourselves into the “Fia fia” night (this is an absolute MUST)! We also highly recommend the village tour, movie night, string band night, and the turtle and clam tour! We should also point out that all the performers at all the shows, are staff members at the resort! So just keep in mind that the person carrying your bags/making your room/cooking your food may have many other talents!
The grounds of the resort are stunning, and very well maintained. A dense mixture of well-kept tropical plants straddle most of the paths, and the resort’s private beach is lined with coconut trees, so it really is its own little slice of paradise!
The food and drinks at the bar, cafe, and restaurant are all equally delicious! The breakfast buffet has a variety of fruits, cakes, cereals, toast, juices, and a full hot breakfast with baked beans or spaghetti, poached or scrambled eggs, sausages, and hash browns.
Make sure you also try the “monkey business” smoothie from Tia!
The real highlight of this whole resort, however, are the staff. From the drivers, to the tour guides, performers, reception, food and beverage team, grounds keepers, all the front of house, and back of house staff… everyone really makes a conscious effort to greet you with a smile and a “Talofa”! They really endeavour to make you feel like you’re part of the “family”.
We’d like to give special mentions to:
Ramona (the owner, and captain of the RTD ship), Mika (manager) Tia, Vanessa, Tupu, Maria, Ah Key, Lotu (we hope your dad feels better), there are two fellas both named “Tasi” (one from our tour, and one from Food and beverage), Mai Mai (thank you for the wonderful hats! Customs Australia let them in), Mollee (hopefully we got the spelling right?), Victoria (good luck with the baby), Maua, Han, Lulia, David, and we’d like to give a special mention to Liana, and a very special mention to Fosi, who really liked after us throughout our stay.
We’d also like to thank all the other staff behind the scenes for making our stay special, and also mention Aunty Pisupo! We never got to meet her, but her news letter each day gives such a nice touch, and gosh she’s hilarious!!!
Thank you all again, and we hope to RETURN to RETURN TO PARADISE sometime soon!
All the best,
From Katie and Ben
Overall this resort is up there with the best we have stayed at.
I would have given it a 5 star rating, but the amount of cats hanging around the eating areas, on tables etc, we thought was unhygienic hence we marked it down.
Before closing special mention to Mika he went out of his way to help us with the cyclone in Brisbane he followed up flights etc and generally was a great man.
The resort boasts the most amazing sunsets. The beach was stunning—pristine, peaceful, and perfect for relaxing or playing. The snorkelling was a real highlight, with crystal-clear water and vibrant marine life just steps from the shore. There're also 3 pools, which the kids appreciated. Our whole family, from the little ones to the grown-ups, had such a fantastic time.
I was able to book a relaxing massage for my birthday, and the staff organised a cake for me, which was a special touch.
We truly felt taken care of every step of the way, and the entire experience was relaxing, fun, and unforgettable. We can’t wait to come back!
During our stay, the food was always fresh and had ample.
If you intend to have a look about you would need to hire a vehicle or go on an organised tour.
The vibe is one of relaxation and not for someone looking for a party place.
The ocean is great to swim in, but be aware of the current on the reef.
If time permits take a village walk and see the kids at school , enjoy the string band and a cultural show at night.
In summary, Somoa is beautiful , clean and well worth a visit.
We spent a lovely afternoon here after the Giant Clam Reserve (literally 10 minutes away). They charge 30 samoan per person for entry, but you can offset this against any meals/drinks you purchase during the stay, so it's not exactly a fee, more like a deposit.
The beach is superb, white sands, shady palms and fantastic warm shallow waters, albeit it the rip curl current can be quite strong so choose your spot carefully if you want the kids to run and play in the water. There are calmer pools a little way up the beach with little or no current. There were hardly any people here at all, so very peaceful.
The cafe serves very fresh local food of raw fish, papaya salad etc as well as the normal burgers. I chose the battered fish (New Zealand cod) which was delicious.
This is also a spa , so you can take advantage of the onsite massage and therapies available if you have the time.
When driving here, be sure to put RESORT in the satnav, not BEACH as the beach is a different location to the RESORT.
We particularly enjoyed the cultural shows, which added a wonderful touch to the experience, allowing us to learn more about the local traditions in such an engaging way.
What truly stood out was the exceptional service. We encountered an unexpected issue when the ferry to Savai’i, where we were heading to, was not in operation. The staff went above and beyond to assist us, accommodating us for two extra nights and even arranging our accommodation on Savai’i. Their genuine care and quick problem-solving turned a potentially stressful situation into a seamless experience.
If you’re looking for a place that combines natural beauty, warm hospitality, and outstanding service, Return to Paradise is the perfect choice. It truly felt like home, and we can’t wait to return!
We were especially grateful for the family who owned the resort, they were so hospitable and welcoming. They always had smiles on their faces, making everything feel like home. I always saw them socialising with their guests and ensuring that their stay was a trip to remember. One of the highlights was the Sun setting over the newly built chapel, Idyllic ❤️ Fa’afetai tele lava Return to Paradise…I will return. Leilani S
Maeva String Band Night
Experience an unforgettable Saturday night with our Maeva String Band and Cultural Show at Return to Paradise Resort. Every Saturday, our talented staff, current National String Band Champions for Samoa and recent TV3 National String Band competition winners, deliver a spectacular performance that blends the best of Samoan and Western music. Be mesmerized by their melodic tunes and enjoy exhilarating Samoan cultural dances that highlight our island’s rich heritage.
Event Highlights:
- Live Entertainment: Enjoy top-tier performances from the acclaimed Maeva String Band, known for their musical excellence and captivating stage presence.
- International Buffet: Indulge in a delicious international buffet starting at 6:30 PM, featuring a diverse selection of mouth-watering dishes.
- Showtime: The captivating show begins promptly at 7:30 PM, seamlessly transitioning from dinner to entertainment.
- Ticket Pricing:
- Adults: $99 WST
- Children Under 12: $55 WST
- Children Under 5: Free
Limited Availability:
This hugely popular show often sells out, so we strongly recommend booking your spot in advance to ensure your place for an exceptional evening.
Join us every Saturday night for the perfect blend of fine dining and world-class entertainment. Whether you’re a music enthusiast or seeking a memorable night out, our Maeva String Band & Cultural Show offers something special for everyone.
Book Your Saturday Night Experience Today and Celebrate Samoan Culture with Us!
Traditional Samoan Sunday Lunch
Experience Samoan hospitality with our To’ona’i Sunday Lunchtime Feast at Return to Paradise Resort. Every Sunday from 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM, join us in the Paradise Kitchen traditional fale restaurant for a delightful culinary experience that blends authentic Samoan flavors with European delicacies.
What to Expect:
- Authentic Samoan Cuisine: Savor a diverse menu featuring traditional dishes such as oka (marinated raw fish), Fai ’ai I’a (fish in coconut cream cooked in a coconut shell), umu roasted pork, taro, breadfruit, and an assortment of fresh vegetables akin to a Māori Hangi.
- Family-Friendly Pricing: Enjoy this sumptuous feast for $75 WST per person, with half-price for children under 12 and free for those under 5.
- Cultural Entertainment: Delight in the harmonious melodies of our staff singing group, enhancing your long lunch with soulful tunes and creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.
- Become Part of the Family: Experience a weekly popular tradition where guests truly become part of a Samoan family, celebrating community and togetherness.
- Authentic Experience: Engage in a beloved Samoan tradition that offers a genuine taste of local culture and cuisine.
- Delicious Variety: Enjoy a mix of traditional Samoan dishes and European favorites, ensuring there’s something for every palate.
Don’t miss out on this enriching and flavorful experience! Our To’ona’i Sunday Lunchtime Feast is a must-visit event for both resort guests and day visitors seeking to embrace the true spirit of Samoan culture.
Book your Sunday feast today and join us for an unforgettable taste of Samoa at Return to Paradise Resort!
Samoa Events FAQ
Find answers to some of the most common questions about our events in Samoa. If you have any additional inquiries, please feel free to contact us directly – we’re here to help!
Are the events held every week?
Yes, our cultural events take place weekly at Return to Paradise Resort. To ensure your spot, we highly recommend booking in advance. If you’re not staying at our resort, please contact our reception team to confirm event schedules. We sometimes have to cancel events due to due to unforeseen circumstances.
Can Day guests attend the events?
Absolutely! Our cultural events are open to both resort guests and day visitors. To secure your place, we strongly encourage making a reservation ahead of time, as our events are often fully booked.
Is the buffet included in the event ticket price?
Yes, the ticket price covers both the entrance fee to the show and the delicious traditional Samoan buffet. Enjoy an unforgettable evening of entertainment and exquisite cuisine all included in your ticket.
How can I book a spot for an event?
You can reserve your tickets by contacting our reception desk, visiting our website, or booking directly through your resort concierge. Early reservations are recommended to guarantee your attendance.
What should I do if I need to cancel my reservation?
If you need to cancel your reservation, please notify us as soon as possible by contacting our reception team. We will assist you with the cancellation process and discuss any available alternatives.
Do you offer group bookings for events?
Yes, we accommodate group bookings for our cultural events. Please contact our reception team in advance to arrange special reservations and discuss any group requirements.
Are there vegetarian or special dietary options available at the buffet?
Yes, our traditional Samoan buffet offers a variety of dishes to cater to different dietary preferences, including limited vegetarian options. Please inform our staff of any specific dietary needs when making your reservation.