Things To Do
Talamahu Market
Join the locals and shop for fresh fruit and vegetables, along with very affordable local handcrafts that make great souvenirs and gifts. Talamahu Market in downtown Nuku'alofa is an easy way to experience real Tongan life and one of the top things to do in Tongatapu. You'll also find a few places selling food and refreshments. The market is open Monday to Saturday from 8:30am to 4:30pm. Come early for the widest choice. Saturdays mornings are a good time to experience the market at its bustling best.
Mapu'a Vaea Blowholes
At Houma you can experience the raw power of the ocean. Here, all along the coastline, clear blue swells strike the shore, push a short distance under the rock shelf and fountain up with a whistling roar through natural blowholes. When the tide's in and the swells are big, this must-see Tonga natural attraction is at its most spectacular, creating water spouts up to 18m high. This is a free activity
Anahulu Cave
Walk carefully down the often slippery steps of Anahulu Cave to see ancient stalagmites and stalactites, plus a beautiful freshwater pool. Bring your togs for a refreshing swim in the cool clear water as you float underground surrounded by the limestone formations. There's a small entry fee and the cave has some lights, but it's a good idea to wear sturdy shoes and maybe bring a torch
Ha'amonga 'a Maui Trilithon
Haʻamonga ʻa Maui ("The Burden of Maui") is a stone trilithon located on the eastern part of the island of Tongatapu, in the village of Niutōua, in Heketā. It was built in the 13th century by King Tuʻitātui in honour of his two sons. The monument is sometimes called the "Stonehenge of the Pacific. This is a free activity
Island hoping
Tonga is made up of 170 islands, each offering a unique slice of paradise. While Tongatapu, the main island, is rich in culture and history, it doesn’t have the white-sand beaches Tonga is famous for. For the best beach experience, take a short boat ride to nearby islands like Pangaimotu or venture further to the Ha‘apai and Vava‘u island groups, where you’ll find pristine shores, crystal-clear waters, and incredible snorkelling spots. Whether it’s a quick 10-minute trip or a longer island-hopping adventure, exploring Tonga’s outer islands is a must!
Watch or swim with whales
In Tonga you can take a boat trip to swim with humpback whales between July and October. Tonga is one of the few places you can do this and for many visitors it's a life-changing experience