Dinner by the Ocean: Why Paddles Is a Must for Every Samoa Itinerary

If you’re planning a trip to Samoa, you’ll quickly find that the island isn’t just known for its lush scenery and pristine beaches, it’s also home to the most unforgettable dining experience in the South Pacific. Nestled right on Apia’s waterfront, Paddles Restaurant has become a landmark for travelers who want more than just a meal: they want a true taste of Samoa, framed by ocean views and warm island hospitality.

Ranked the number one restaurant in all of Samoa on Tripadvisor, here’s why dinner by the ocean at Paddles deserves a prime spot on your Samoa itinerary, and why both visitors and locals say it’s an experience they can’t stop talking about.

1. Oceanfront Dining in the Heart of Apia

Imagine this: the sun has dipped below the horizon, the evening breeze rolls in from the harbor, and the soft hum of the ocean sets the soundtrack for your night. That’s exactly what you get at Paddles.

Perched right along Apia’s waterfront, Paddles offer uninterrupted views of the Pacific—the kind that make you want to slow down, linger, and savor every bite. It’s not just a table with a view; it’s a dining experience that feels deeply tied to Samoa’s natural beauty.

Many guests time their reservations for the late hour, but insider’s secret: dine early at Paddles. Booking a table between 5:00 PM and 5:30 PM unlocks a 10% discount on entrées and mains, and it’s timed perfectly for watching the evening light dance across Apia Harbour. Whether you’re seated indoors under the soft glow of ambient lighting or enjoying the ocean air just steps from the water, Paddles frames every dinner with island charm.

2. Signature Dishes Worth Traveling For

While the view is a showstopper, it’s the food that turns first-time visitors into loyal fans. Paddles blends authentic Italian cuisine with Samoan ingredients, creating dishes that are both familiar and adventurous.

Seafood Straight from the Pacific: From delicately grilled fish to buttery garlic prawn and Mama Rossi’s signature Samoan oka to die for, Paddles celebrates the ocean at its doorstep. The seafood is locally sourced, ensuring every bite is fresh and full of flavor.
Handmade Pasta: Crafted in-house daily, Paddles’ pasta dishes—feature Papa Rossi’s handmade ravioli tossed with a traditional bolognese ragu and parmesan cheese that bring a taste of Italy to Apia’s shores.
In-House Daily Specials: Think yellowfin tuna slices, passionfruit pavlova, and inventive fusions that showcase Samoa’s vibrant produce.

And of course, no meal is complete without dessert. Guests rave about Paddles’ tiramisu and affogato italiano—sweet endings that pair perfectly with an after-dinner espresso or liqueur.

3. Perfect for Every Occasion: From Date Nights to Group Dinners

Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with family, or solo, Paddles strikes the perfect balance between elegance and warmth.

Romantic Dinners: With candlelit tables and panoramic ocean views, Paddles is easily Apia’s most romantic dining spot. It’s no wonder so many visitors mark anniversaries, proposals, or honeymoons here.
Family Gatherings: Large tables, a welcoming atmosphere, and a menu that offers something for everyone make Paddles ideal for group dinners.

Solo Travelers: Even if you’re dining alone, you’ll feel like part of the family. Guests often note how the friendly staff transform dinner into a personal, memorable experience.

4. A True Family-Owned Gem

What sets Paddles apart isn’t just its location or menu—it’s the heart behind it all. Managed by the Rossi family, Paddles has been serving guests for over two decades. This isn’t just a restaurant; it’s their home, and they invite every diner to feel like part of it.

You’ll often find the owner, Giovanni Rossi himself greeting guests with a smile or Eliseo Rossi sharing a quick story about the day’s fresh catch. It’s this personal touch that gives Paddles its loyal following and why it’s recommended not only by guidebooks but by word-of-mouth from travelers who’ve experienced its charm firsthand.

5. Easy to Reach, Hard to Forget

Located just minutes from Apia’s main hotels and waterfront accommodations, Paddles is as convenient as it is unforgettable. Whether you’re winding down from a day of exploring waterfalls or returning from a scenic drive around Upolu, it’s the perfect place to end the evening.

Reservations are required—especially during peak season—because Paddles regularly welcomes 120+ guests a night, a testament to its popularity. If you love a good deal as much as a good meal, you’ll be happy to know Paddles offers an exclusive early bird special.

Book a table between 5:00 PM and 5:30 PM, and you’ll enjoy 10% off your entrées and mains — the perfect excuse to catch that magical golden hour by the water.

6. How to Add Paddles to Your Samoa Itinerary

If you’re planning your Samoa trip, here’s how to make the most of your Paddles experience:

Book Ahead Online: Especially during high season (June–September), reservations are essential.
Arrive Early for Views: Arrive just before sunset to catch Apia’s waterfront at its most stunning.
Explore the Menu: Don’t skip the specials board—many of Paddles’ best dishes are seasonal and unique to the day’s catch and easily accessible via the QR Codes on our menus.

Make It a Highlight Night: Whether it’s your first night in Apia or your final evening in Samoa, Paddles is the perfect way to mark the occasion.

Samoa is known for its warmth—both in climate and in spirit—and Paddles captures that perfectly. Between its waterfront location, handmade dishes, and heartfelt service, it’s more than just dinner.

It’s a memory you’ll carry home with you, the kind that makes you think, “We need to come back here.”For travelers mapping out their Samoa itinerary, Paddles isn’t just recommended—it’s essential.