Environmentally Friendly Resorts in Vava’u
The last thing we want to do when visiting stunning destinations is to leave a negative environmental impact. The islands of Vava’u are mostly pristine and surrounded by crystal clear waters. Do your bit to help keep it that way by supporting the resorts and accommodations in Vava’u with an eco-friendly ethos. There is a limited number of resorts offering eco-friendly stays on beautiful islands, which we list in the best eco-resorts in Vava’u listings below. While you’re here, you might also be interested in The Complete Guide to Vava’u and the 31 Ways to Travel More Sustainably in Tonga.
Note that Tonga is an ever-evolving country, especially when it comes to accommodation. With that in mind, some of the services accommodations provide are known to change without notice. If there is any information needing an update in the listings below, feel free to reach out!
1. Treasure Island Eco Resort
Vava’u’s original eco-resort, Treasure Island Eco Resort is well worth considering from the environmentally conscious traveller. To keep the resort’s 48-acre (19ha) island beautiful, the resort uses solar power and collects fresh rainwater which runs through its own filtration system. The traditional-style fales (Tongan bungalows) are made from natural timber keeping in tune with the surrounding environment. Treasure Island Eco Resort also offers eco-friendly whale swimming tours in their low-impact outrigger vessel. Compare this resort with others in the 10 Best Resorts in Vava’u.
2. Mandala Island
An upmarket resort on its own private island, Mandala Island Resort boasts an ethical and eco-friendly ethos. Stay in one of the six hand-crafted bungalows available, which are powered by solar energy and have low-flow composting toilets. The resort uses a rainwater catchment and uses a UV light-filtration system to make rainwater safe to drink. The complimentary toiletries offered are also organic and biodegradable. Vegetables and freshwater fish are also grown and harvested by the resort in their Aquaponics system. Learn more about this resort in the 8 Best Luxury Accommodation in Vava’u.
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3. The Beach House (Shell Garden)
Enjoy a tropical holiday in one of the two cottages available on Fofoa Island. The Tonga Beach House has two gorgeous accommodations in elevated positions with incredible views. The homes run on solar and wind power with a small backup generator. Water comes from rainwater, while all water bottles used onshore and in the boat tours are plastic-free. The resort has a recycling policy, while the complimentary soaps are made from local coconut oil. There are no one-use toiletry items provided and guest are encouraged to bring non-toxic hair products, as well as use reef-safe sunscreen. Part of the nightly rate is a donation to the Vava’u Environment Protection Agency. See more accommodations like this in our 10 Best Honeymoon Accommodation in Vava’u.
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4. Mounu Island Resort
Mounu Island Resort is a private island resort that has aimed to have minimal impact on the island in its construction. The four fales available at the resort are made from natural materials, elevated and taking as little space on the island as possible. The resort offers eco-tourism activities, such as snorkelling, whale swimming, bird-watching and fish feeding. They also serve organic cuisine in their on-site restaurant.
[CLOSED] Tapana Island Resort
Stay in one of the two eco-fales set up on Tapana Island at the Tapana Island Resort. The simple budget fales have been built with minimalism in mind. Guests can cook for themselves in the kitchen facilities available or treat themselves to Vava’u’s renowned Spanish restaurant, La Paella Restaurant, set up by the resort’s Spanish owners. The resort offers cultural activities, like learning how to weave Tongan mats, as well as offers complimentary use of kayaks and snorkelling gear. See more budget accommodations in Vava’u here.
More About Eco Resorts in Vava’u
Author
Laura S.
This article was reviewed and published by Laura, editor in chief and co-founder of Tonga Pocket Guide. Since arriving solo in the South Pacific over 10 years ago with nothing but a backpack and a background in journalism, her mission has been to show the world how easy (and awesome) it is to explore a paradise such as Tonga. She knows the islands inside-out and loves sharing tips on how best to experience Tonga’s must-dos and hidden gems. Laura is also editor of several other South Pacific travel guides.