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This peaceful Pacific island nation lies east of Fiji and south of Samoa, on the volcanic ridge of the Pacific Ring of Fire. The islands have a comfortable tropical climate, averaging 27C during the day, with less humidity than other tropical areas. |
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The country’s 176 islands are divided into four geologically distinct areas. The Tongatapu group of island is the furthest south. Ha’apai lies 80km to the north – here old volcanoes are ringed by over 50 coral islands – a top diving and fishing destination. The Vava’u group, another 80km north, with its superb waterways, pristine islands and huge natural harbour, is Tonga’s sailing mecca. And on the remote, volcanic Niuas islands, 160 km further north, islanders still live in the traditional Tongan village lifestyle.
Tongans are relaxed, welcoming hosts and on many of the islands you will find comfortable family-run guesthouses, where you can experience the laid-back Tongan lifestyle. Most Tongans make their own household goods – woven mats, brooms, hats, baskets, place mats, and hats, and they grow their own vegetable and fruit, and raise domestic pigs, which roam freely around the islands. Fish and other seafood also is a big part of the Tongan diet and you’ll find plenty of seafood dishes included in Tongan fare.
What to do and where to stay
 Tongatapu is the largest island of the Tongatapu group. Tour operators offer a five- to six-hour trip to the island’s main attractions, which can include spectacular blowholes, the Royal Palace, ancient tombs and archaeological sites, and Captain Cook’s landing place. Beach resorts will organise lunch if you like and you can usually plan your own itinerary.
Eua National Park is on the island of Eua, just a few kilometres to the southeast of Tongatapu. The ferry trip takes about two hours, or you can fly there in eight minutes. Here local guides will take you on a full-day bird watching treks through native forest, and you can meet the locals, who host family-run guest houses on the island. From the beach (June to November) you can watch humpback whales swim past, en route to Vava’u, where they breed. If you feel like a dive, along the northern shore are several underwater marine caves, filled with colourful fish and corals. If you stay at The Hideaway, they will organise trekking, cave diving trips and tours for you.
The Royal Sunset Resort, a 45-minute boat ride from Nuku’alofa, on the lovely 100-acre coral island of Atata, is also a great place to stay. Nearby is a traditional fishing village that you are welcome to visit and the resort has a restaurant, bar, swimming pool, and offers a wide range of watersports.
Ha’apai is perfect for diving and snorkelling on the island’s magnificent coral reefs. You can also try your hand at sea kayaking to nearby islands, and horse riding along pristine white beaches. Hire a powerboat for the day and visit some of the other lovely islands in the Ha’apai group. At Billy’s Place, on Pangai, the budget tariff includes a free breakfast, snorkelling gear and a bicycle, or you could spoil yourself at the luxurious Villa Mamana, on Telekivava’u Island,
Sailing in Vava’u
 Try to visit during the months from June to November, when you can swim with the whales. There’s plenty of diving, snorkelling and fishing on offer, and you can sail or paddle along the calm waterways between the islands, and stop at Neiafu for a meal at one of the great restaurants overlooking the Port of Refuge. There is a terrific range of accommodation available, from traditional Tonga fales, to upmarket resorts.
Give yourself plenty of time to visit Tonga – to get to know her wonderful people, to take in Tonga’s incredible natural beauty and to appreciate her unique culture.
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