The Kingdom of Tonga is the perfect South Pacific destination for lovers of adventure and alternative travel. Some 170 islands scattered through coral-filled seas provide diverse nature-based activities — including diving with 150 species of tropical fish and hiking through rugged wilderness.
Tourists generally visit three of Tonga’s four main island groups: Tongatapu, Ha’apai and Vava’u. The kingdom’s main island and home to the sleepy national capital of Nuku’alofa — Tongatapu gives wonderful insights into Tongan culture.
Visit the Tongan National Centre for history and art. The Good Samaritan Inn hosts a traditional feast and dance show each Friday, complete with whole roasted piglet and coconut-drenched seafood.
Quaint churches reveal Tonga’s strong Christian heritage — visit the Basilica of St Anthony of Padua, the Centennial Church of the Free Church of Tonga and the First Wesleyan Church.
Glimpse ancient life, including royal tombs, at the Lapaha Archaeological Site and the trilithon of Ha'amonga 'A Maui — a mysterious Stonehenge-like arch.
Shop for crafts at Talamahu Market, Langafonua’ae Fefine Handicrafts and Friendly Islands Marketing Co-operative. Look Sharp Tonga produces unique hand-printed t-shirts.
Relax over Western pub fare at the Billfish Bar and Restaurant’s Western pub fare or taste locally-grown coffee at Friends Cafe. The Seaview Restaurant is celebrated throughout the South Pacific, while the Emerald Garden is one of the few place open on Sunday.
Winnie’s Guesthouse has charming low-cost accommodation, while the International Dateline Hotel is deluxe. Nearby Fafa Island is a blissful resort of thatched bungalows.
The island of E’ua boasts caves, forests and sheer limestone cliffs — perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Stay and eat at The Hideaway Resort.
Tonga’s most traditional island group — Ha’apai offers paradise on a budget, including enchanting underwater caves, corals reefs and pristine beaches. See 3,000-year-old pottery at the Afa Historical Museum in the capital of Pangai, eat at Mariners Cafe and stay at Fifita Guesthouse.
Vava’u — Tonga’s northern island group — boasts coral gardens, game fishing and migrating humpback whales. On land, explore vanilla plantations and weaving in communal huts.
The Bounty Bar and Mermaid Restaurant have stunning water views. Adventure Backpackers provides friendly service, Twin Views Motel is mid-priced and Hakula Lodge has well-equipped rooms.
Tonga Crime 