Experiences in Tonga
SWIM WITH WHALES
Holiday makers are not the only ones to return to Tonga’s shores on a regular basis. After a long journey north from the icy krill-laden depths of Antarctica, southern humpback whales take shelter in the tropical reef-protected waters of Tonga to give birth to their young.
The arrival of the whales from July to October completes a remarkable cycle, as the new calves return to where they were conceived 11 months earlier.
The high number of whales visiting Tongan waters at this time of year means there are plenty of opportunities to see and swim with them.
Tonga is one of the few places in the world where you can still swim with the whales. As most of the whales are mothers with calves, our operators take great care not to intrude too heavily on these wild animals.
DIVING
The Tongan archipelago consists of 176 islands, roughly the same number of marine species divers encounter in their first hour exploring the Kingdom’s coral reefs, caves and crystal clear waters.
With sea turtles, manta rays, tuna, marlin and wahoo combining with even bigger creatures like whale sharks, Tonga is a destination with underwater thrills on a truly grand scale.
Pristine coral gardens shimmer amid the ebb and flow of tropical currents, while spectacular coral reefs include amazing caves and arches. Tonga’s volcanic past, present and future are showcased in the unique underwater tunnels.
Look forward to exploring some of the richest and most diverse ecosystems on the planet from June to November. Underwater exploration often comes with the living, breathing soundtrack of murmuring whalesong from courting humpback whales.
SNORKELLING
A popular activity in the Kingdom on Tonga is snorkelling, it’s easy to do for all age groups. No complicated gear on your back, just a snorkel, some flippers and away you go.
Tonga is renowed for crystal clear waters, a huge variety of tropical fish species and coral.
For first time snorkellers there are plenty of guides around to assist you. The water temperature is always very pleasant, you don’t even need a wet suit.
KAYAKING
Gliding smoothly along in a sleek kayak is a quintessential Tongan experience, especially when you’re just centimetres above transparent waters, and your self-paddled craft is a ticket to more remote islands and untouched beaches.
See kayaking guided tours range from one to 13 days. There is always plenty of time to take in pods of Spinner Dolphins, or the even bigger prize of migrating Humpback Whales. Sea Turtles poke their heads out of the shimmering shallows of Tonga’s reefs, while marine birds circle and dive bomb shape-shifting schools of fish.
The Kingdom is fast becoming recognised as one of the world’s iconic destinations for marine life.
With a drifting South Pacific breeze at your back and shoulders aching after two hours of honest paddling, this is the real thing. A Tongan sea-kayaking tour soon displays its own languid rhythm, with smooth strokes driving paddlers through silky waters to wild Polynesian landscapes of pristine coral atolls and aquarmarine lagoons.
Few of the Tongan islands are inhabited, so overnight camping is either on deserted beaches or in simple island villages in the company of friendly locals.
Pack your spearfishing A-game and an appetite for fresh seafood to make the most of the experience. And remember, with double kayaks available, it’s also a great escape for couples.
KITESURFING & SURFING
Don’t expect to come to Tonga and take it easy, all day, every day. The Kingdom’s True South Pacific vibe and languid tropical climate certainly promotes an unhurried approach to life, but more adventurous holiday activities are also on offer, in the emerging adventure travel hub of the Vava’u group and the beautiful Ha’apai group of islands . Explore both island groups sheltered waters and scattered, untouched islands on a self-drive jet kayak, skimming across cobalt waters and coral reefs at an invigorating 30 km per hour. Harness the Kingdom’s dependable trade winds to kiteboard amid sheltered and uncrowded lagoons and atolls, getting a unique perspective on Tonga’s pristine landscapes.
Professional operators offer full training and equipment sales, and can advise experienced kiteboarders on the best locations. Take to four wheels on a self-drive kart safari, enjoying a rollicking jungle adventure on remote, back road trails, deserted beaches and ocean side cliff tops. Look forward to an entertaining infusion of hearty Tongan humour from the local guides.
After all this activity, most visitors to Tonga usually need some well-earned downtime in a well-shaded hammock. Don’t worry, that’s something the Pacific’s most authentic destination also does remarkably well.
KITESURFING
Shallow, warm, uncrowded lagoons coupled with steady, dependable trade winds make Tonga a paradise for the exhilarating sport of kitesurfing. This sport offers a great opportunity for the more adventurous traveller to explore the warm waters and stunning coastlines of Tonga in an entirely different way. Simply enjoy skimming across the clear island waters, or try getting airborne if you’re seeking a real adrenaline rush. Take the chance to experience this unique sport in some of Tonga’s most remote and beautiful environments.
Most kitesurfing activities are based in the outer island groups of Vava’u and Ha’apai, where the southeast trade winds provide ideal conditions from May to late October. Professional operators offer kitesurfing holidays, including lessons tailored to the individual, equipment hire and everything that novices through to pro-kiters need to have the ultimate kitesurfing experience.
SURFING
The west-northwest facing coastline of the main island of Tongatapu is the home of some of Tonga’s best surfing. This coastline is perfectly situated to take advantage of the huge groundswells from winter storm activities in the southern Pacific. The steady east-southeast offshore trade winds create perfect surf conditions. The other two main island groups of Ha’apai and Vava’u also boast great surfing. However much of this is only accessible by specialist charter vessels.
