Top 10 Things To Do in Tonga in 2024
Posted by Maris on 9th Jan 2024
Tongatapu's main island offers plenty of sights and activities, and it's refreshingly undeveloped and real. Finding more about the background and culture of the major attractions can be greatly enhanced by taking a guided tour. Alternatively, rent a car and explore the island on your own schedule. Choose a whale-watching excursion or reserve a day trip to one of the nearby small islands if you want to get out on the ocean.
See whales or go swimming with them.
From July through October, you may go on a boat tour in Tonga and swim with gorgeous, elegant humpback whales. One of the few locations where you may do this is Tonga, and for many tourists, it's an experience that changes their lives. Every year, these enormous cetaceans travel from Antarctica to the same region in the Pacific to mate and give birth in the clear, warm seas. Before bringing small groups of whales into the ocean one at a time, knowledgeable local guides determine whether the whales are willing to interact with humans. Many people rank swimming with whales as one of the top activities in Tonga.
Explore the blowholes at Mapu 'A Vaea.
You can feel the ocean's unadulterated force in Houma. Clear blue swells hit the shore here and all the way along the shoreline. They push under the granite shelf for a short while before erupting from natural blowholes with a whistling boom. This must-see Tonga natural feature is especially impressive during high tide, producing up to 18-meter-tall water spouts. Undoubtedly, among the island's top sights to view are the blowholes.
Enjoy a swim or a sunset at Ha'atafu Beach.
Swim or snorkel in the pristine lagoon of Ha'atafu, one of the greatest beaches on Tongatapu's main island. Make a reservation for lunch at one of the beachfront lodging establishments, stroll the lengthy shoreline, and stay to watch the sun set. Located in the Kanokupolu district near the northwest tip of the island, Ha'atafu Beach is approximately thirty minutes' drive from Nuku'alofa, the capital.
Investigate Anahulu Cave
Anahulu Cave features a gorgeous freshwater pool as well as ancient stalactites and stalagmites that may be seen by carefully descending its often treacherous steps. Bring your swimsuit so you may cool yourself in the crystal-clear water while submerged among the limestone formations. Wearing sturdy shoes and possibly bringing a torch is a smart idea, even if there is a small entry fee and some lights in the cave. At the cave's entrance is a lovely beach where you may have a picnic or go snorkeling during high tide.
Take a Pangaimotu ferry.
Visit the stunning Pangaimotu Island Resort for a day excursion. Unwind on the white-sand beaches, go snorkeling on the reef, or scale a shipwreck before jumping into the clear blue ocean. You can also visit the island's well-known resort and have a delicious lunch at the Big Mama Yacht Club. From Monday through Saturday, in the morning, a 10-minute ferry voyage departs Tongatapu and returns in the late afternoon to Pangaimotu. It's one of the few things open on Sundays, and there are three ferry sailings in the morning and afternoon.
Explore Hufangalupe's natural land bridge on foot.
Explore this remarkable land creation that resulted from a sea cave's roof collapsing, exposing only its entrance—a massive arch with a flat top. Step into what was once a sizable underground pool and walk across the arch that is perched high above the ocean, where the waves lap against you. Situated approximately thirty minutes from Nuku'alofa on the southeast coast, the land bridge might be challenging to locate; for guidance, utilize Google maps or schedule an island tour.
Observe the pigs fishing.
Take a camera with you and search for Tonga's intriguing fishing pigs. To reach the small inner lagoon in Mu'a, which is about thirty minutes east of Nuku'alofa, schedule your trip for low tide. These pigs, descended from Captain Cook's wandering ancestors, know how to forage in the shallows for crabs and shellfish. Seeing pigs wading in the waves, their snouts digging for food, is such a strange sight. The naturally salty flavor of the fishing pigs is reportedly highly appreciated in the area.
Visit Talamahu Market to shop.
Shop with the locals for fresh produce and fruit as well as reasonably priced handcrafted goods that make wonderful presents and keepsakes. One of the best places to visit in Tongatapu is Talamahu Market, located in the heart of Nuku'alofa. It's a great opportunity to get a taste of authentic Tongan culture. There are also a few locations that serve food and drinks. The market is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday. To ensure the most options, arrive early. The market is busiest early on Saturdays, when it's at its most vibrant.
Discover a few renowned cafes and pubs in Nuku'alofa.
For many years, Friends Café has been the preferred choice for both tourists and residents looking for breakfast, lunch, supper, drinks, or coffee. It gained a devoted following after it first opened in 1999 and eventually moved into the historic Isabella House next door. A well-liked tourist information center is part of the café, where you can make reservations for Tonga activities and sights. Since its opening in 1995, the Billfish Bar & Restaurant has also become a neighborhood favorite. Across the street from the harbor, it offers delicious pub fare in a laid-back atmosphere. Locals love the Billfish because it transforms into a vibrant nightclub after the last dinner service.
Enjoy a feast of Tongan cuisine.
Make sure you partake in the delectable and hearty feast that is a hallmark of the Tongan ritual of celebration. Traditional favorites like suckling pig and "ota 'ika," raw fish marinated in lemon and coconut cream, are frequently served. Steamed fish, chicken, octopus, beef, and a delectable assortment of fresh local veggies may also be served to you. Regular Tongan feast and cultural nights are hosted by a few lodging establishments, such as the well-known Vakaloa Beach Resort. There is always enthusiasm, pride, and intensity in the cultural acts. A reliable indicator of genuineness is when the majority of the visitors are locals.