Tonga - Awesome Activities

A visit to the Kingdom of Tonga provides a lot more than just a close-up look at the culture of old Polynesia. Leisure activities abound, including both water and land pursuits that keep guests busy all day long. Whether you prefer to lounge in the sun and enjoy an occasional stint on the water or you’re on an adventure holiday looking for non-stop action, Tonga can fit the bill for the perfect vacation.

Diving

Like many of the South Pacific island groups, Tonga is a mecca for scuba divers. While you’ll find a few dive locations on the main island group of Tongatapu – like a large underwater cave off ‘Eua Island, the best dive locations are found in the central island groups of Vava’u and Ha’apai. A few dive operators are located in both these groups, catering to both novice and expert divers and offering PADI certification courses. Coral is colorful in Ha’apai and small marine life is abundant. You may also have the opportunity to dive near the whales, in season. Vava’u is known for its excellent drift dives and drop-offs, with visibility nearing 40m. Snorkeling is excellent in both these locations as well.

Sailing

More than 50 protected anchorages make Vava’u the sailing capital of Tonga. Luxury and barefoot yacht charters are plentiful, so you can choose a guided tour of the waters around Vava’u or captain your own boat with the assistance of a small crew, available to tend to your needs and wants. Combine your sailing holiday with fishing, diving, or snorkeling for a true multi-sport vacation in paradise.

Other Watersports

Where there’s water, there’s a myriad of things to do. While swimming in the clear blue water and lounging on the white sand are quite popular, more active guests try their hand at sports like surfing. Head to the surf resort at Ha'atafu Beach in Tongatapu or choose the islands of the Vava’u group, where surfing is dubbed “an adventure.” Depending on the time of year, another popular sport, sea kayaking, is often combined with whale watching (June to October), making for an exciting Tongan-style excursion. Depending on your location or resort, you might also enjoy jet boating, water skiing, jet skiing, and banana boat rides. If you’re an avid angler, the waters off Vava’u will be a delight. You’ll find sailfish, a few varieties of tuna, blue marlin and mahi-mahi, just to mention a few. Plenty of charters are available for fishing enthusiasts.

Trekking/Hiking

When you’re ready to dry out, head inland for a hiking adventure. By far, ‘Eua National Park is the best location for trekking and provides several wonderful trails that treat visitors to amazing sites. Choose from easy hikes up to the Lokupo and Lauua Lookouts where you can view the coast, or take an all-day trek through the dense tropical forest to Lokupo Beach, following old lava flows and climbing volcanic boulders. The park is also full of caves and chasms and a break during a long hike might present you with the opportunity to cool off in a picturesque waterfall pool.

Other Land Activities

The ‘Eua National Park is also a favored location for birdwatchers who are seeking a glimpse at one of the ten endemic birds of Tonga, such as the Megapode and the Tongan Whistler.

Cultural and sightseeing tours include trips to the Tongan National Cultural Centre, the Tongan Wildlife Centre, some impressive government buildings, the Royal Palace, a handful of historic churches, and a few notable archaeological sites.

The South Pacific