Tonga is a South Pacific island nation made up of around 170 islands. The majority of these islands are deserted, however a few have tiny villages and towns. To argue that Tonga has "cities" is a bit of a stretch, given the country's capital is more of a village than a city. Nonetheless, we have ranked Tonga's largest cities and villages based on population size!

Nuku'alofa

Tonga's capital, Nuku'alofa, is also the country's largest town. The town is located on Tongatapu's northern shore and has a population of approximately 34,150. The Royal Palace, the Royal Tombs, Talamahu Market, and a variety of stores and restaurants are among Nuku'alofa's most popular attractions. Many of Tongatapu's primary boat activities, including scuba diving, snorkeling, and whale swimming, leave from the town's Faua Wharf. Interisland boats depart from the Taufa'ahau Tupou IV Wharf.

Mu’a (Lapaha)

The tightly packed settlements of Lapaha, Takamotonga, and Talasiu make up the "ancient capital of Tonga," also known as Mu'a. They are located on the eastern side of Tongatapu, on the banks of the Tongatapu lagoon. Tonga's second-largest town is famous for its collection of burial tombs of former Tu'i Tonga (an ancient king in Tonga before the current Tongan line of kings was formed).

Neiafu

Neiafu is Tonga's second largest town. The town serves as the Vava'u Group's major hub, and it is located on the shores of the Port of Refuge on 'Utu Vava'u. In sharp contrast to Nuku'alofa, Neiafu is the size of a tiny town, with a population of approximately 3,900 people. The town includes a police station, schools, government offices, banks, stores, restaurants, a post office, and a hospital. Many of Vava'u's popular boat activities, such as scuba diving, fishing, and whale watching, depart from the "Small Boat Marina". Inter-island boats depart from Halaevalu Wharf.

Vaini

Vaini is Tonga's fourth-largest hamlet, with approximately 3,320 persons. The village is affectionately dubbed "V-Town". One of the town's highlights is its dining scene, which includes a small but diverse range of cafes and roadside food vendors serving Tongan and foreign cuisines.

Nukunuku

Nukunuku is another significant community on Tongatapu, and the largest settlement on the island's western side. Aside from the odd cafe and a glimpse of traditional village life with its sprinkling of churches, there isn't much to offer visitors.