Sinalei Reef Resort & Spa began as no more than unoccupied oceanfront and the vision of Samoan couple Tuatagaloa Joe Annandale and Tui. During the two-year build the pair lived on the property without gas or running water until it opened in 1966 as a number of beachfront shacks spread across the south coast of Upolo. In the years following, the property continued to evolve until it was hit by the devastating Samoan tsunami of 2009 that also tragically claimed the life of Tui.
With the support of the local community Sinalei was rebuilt, the resort undergoing an extensive renovation and reopening as 29 luxury villas with a variety of sustainable practices and initiatives at its core. The “simply Sinalei” spirit is one that integrates the guest experience and the local Samoan community through green initiatives and local outreach programs.
Among the resort’s offerings of snorkelling, surfing, open-air spa experiences and East coast boat tours, guests at Sinalei are served locally sourced cuisine embodying a strong farm and ocean to plate philosophy. There is the opportunity to take part in the Farm & Ocean To Plate Experience that sees guests visit the village’s gardens and markets to learn about the local produce and design their own sustainable menu. Later in the day, the Sunset Cooking Class teaches guests how to cook the ingredients they selected to create their own gourmet dinner.
Sinalei also sponsors community programs. One of their longest-standing initiatives, the Poutasi Ukulele School teaches the village children how to build and play ukuleles every Saturday. Guests are invited to join in on the lesson or even donate guitar and ukulele strings, sports gear, and educational material for the Poutasi children.
Rates for the Ocean View Villa at Sinalei Reef Resort & Spa start from US$379 (about A$501) per night.
Ocean view from the Beach front Villa