Come and see for yourself why Tonga is known as " The Friendly Islands"
When and where to take a Tonga vacation
The island nation of Tonga, and archipelago in the South Pacific Ocean, is made up of 169 islands which have been divided into three main groups namely Tongatapu, Ha'apai and Vava'u. Each of the groups offers it's own individual treasures to enjoy, and the subtropical climate provides great Tonga weather to compliment your Tonga holiday. The most popular time to visit is during the months of May and October, when dry season brings temperatures ranging from 20°C (68°F) and 30°C (86°F) and many of the colourful and vibrant Tonga events and festivals take place. Browse our extensive listings of Tonga Hotels to find for somewhere to stay during your visit.
Tonga Hotels | Tongatapu Group
The Tongatapu Group, which is located in the south of Tonga, is a blend of volcanic and coral limestone islands, and home of Tonga's ‘big smoke', the capital city of Nuku'alofa. The Royal Families residence is also found here. Tongatapu's pancake flat terrain makes it easy to get around by car or for the more eco-friendly traveller, by bike or simply just walking around. There are many things to see & do in Tongatapu including discovering the natural beauty, terraced tombs and ancient monuments, limestone caves and serene villages.
For adventurous souls, Tongatapu's sister island, ‘Eua is the place to be. Located 40 km south of Nuku'alofa, ‘Eua's mountainous terrain plays host to the best trekking in Tonga. ‘Eua is a peaceful spot, largely undeveloped and densely forested, with sinkholes and a number of caves to explore.
Coral reefs and a maze of islets surround the Tongatapu Group making it a great place for diving and snorkelling. Game fishing is great and there are a number of laidback Tonga resorts to accommodate you.
Tonga Hotels | Ha'apai Group
Deemed to be one of the best kept secrets in Tonga is the Ha'apai Group of islands located in the centre of Tonga's three major island groups. Aqua enthusiasts will not be disappointed kilometres of white sandy beaches offering great diving, kayaking, swimming and snorkelling.
Traveller services are limited in the Ha'apai Group, but the legendary Tongan friendliness ensures all visitors are warmly welcomed and made comfortable for the duration of their stay. Lifuka Island is home to the main town of Pangai, where travellers can find a post office, Bank of Tonga, and number of Tonga accommodation options and some retail stores. Tonga Visitors Bureau has a branch located across from the Fanga 'i he Si market, where you are sure to be able to pick up a map of Tonga, and the town of Pangai in particular. Take yourself on a self-guided Tonga tour by simply walking around the island and enjoying the laid back pace of island life, or by hiring a bike and exploring the wider vicinity.
Tonga Hotels | Vava'u group
Highly regarded as Tonga's most scenic islands, the Vava'u group is the ideal location for a tranquil tropical break. Its 34 islands offer 360 degree picture perfect views, a myriad of channels and waterways to explore and miles of uncrowded sandy beaches to enjoy. Neiafu, the capital of the group, is home to the beautiful harbour, The Port of Refuge, a favoured entry point for yacht owners. In Neiafu you will find a hospital, police department, supermarkets and tourist shops and some great Tonga restaurants and bars.
July to October is the busiest time in the Vava'u group, as the warm waters of the pacific beckon the majestic humpback whales to mate and calve in the area. Many Tonga tours operate during this time, taking tourists to get up close and personal with the giants of the sea. It is even possible to swim with the enormous whales. Carrying the reputation of one of the world's best sailing locations, the Vava'u group also offers a great array of Tonga activities including sport fishing, sailing, snorkelling, diving and sea kayaking.
There are many great Tonga hotels to enjoy with great amenities, combined with many Tonga tourist attractions and the famous friendly nature of Tongan people will make it hard to leave.
Tonga is easy to reach from the great ‘down under' Australia, and it is a great place to explore along with the nearby island nations of Samoa, Fiji, and Vanuatu.
[more info]
