Stay with Locals in Nuku’alofa
An affordable and social experience, homestays are a great way to stay in Tonga’s capital city, Nuku’alofa. While Nuku’alofa is the capital, it has much more of a “small town” vibe where locals are extremely welcoming. Get a taste into their way of life by staying in one of the homestays in Nuku’alofa.
It’s important to set your expectations right, as homestays are not known for their luxury. Some homestays are pretty basic, but many in Nuku’alofa are in modern buildings.
For more accommodation options, see the 10 Best Budget Accommodation in Nuku’alofa. You might also be interested in The Guide to Nuku’alofa on a Budget.
1. Paea’s Guest House
Backpackers on a budget, take a look at Paea’s Guest House. The owners own the Tonga Holiday Villa but open up their own property to travellers looking for an affordable place to stay. The owners are involved with guests, providing travellers with the more “local” experience they might be looking for, sometimes offering lifts into town, meals for guests. etc. They also offer affordable Tours of Tongatapu Island as part of their tourism operation (find out more on Viator and Tripadvisor). The homestay offers one private bedroom for up to two guests with a private bathroom. Note that the homestay is a long walk from town, but bus services and taxis are available. Learn more about public transport in the 7 Ways to Get to Nuku’alofa (& Around Nuku’alofa).
Check Paea’s Guest House out:

2. Puipuikihetoa Homestay
Located in the suburbs of downtown Nuku’alofa, Puipuikihetoa Homestay provides a convenient location for a homestay in Nuku’alofa. There are two guest rooms available in the home, each sleeping up to two guests. Guests in these rooms share a bathroom, as well as two living areas and an outdoor patio area. The modern home makes for a comfortable stay and features other modern comforts like WiFi, a mini gym and a kitchen for making your own meals. Note that guests must be 12 years and above.
Check Puipuikihetoa Homestay out:
- Puipuikihetoa Homestay on Airbnb – don’t forget to get your FREE $50 Airbnb credit on us!

3. Mango B&B
Stay with Suliana in a super central location at the Mango B&B. There are three bedrooms sleeping up to six guests available at this homestay-style B&B experience. Choose from a queen room, double room or twin room, and enjoy the included breakfast, with hot breakfast available for an added cost. While the accommodation is mere minutes away from the city centre on foot, the convenience of airport transfers also makes the stay extra easy for guests. See what to do in the town with our 10 Free & Cheap Things to Do in Nuku’alofa.
Check Mango B&B out:
- Mango B&B on Airbnb – don’t forget to get your FREE $50 Airbnb credit on us!

4. Malau Lodge
Although run more like a business than a family homestay, Malau Lodge provides a real local’s experience for its guests. The small locally-run lodge is a two-story house with one bedroom on the ground floor and two bedrooms upstairs. The lodge is set on just one street back from Vuna Road and the waterfront, making it just a short walk from town and the waterfront bars and restaurants. The lodge has the convenience of laundry facilities, a full kitchen, a TV, WiFi, and all rates include breakfast.
Check Malau Lodge out:

5. Dayspring Lodge
This affordable B&B lodge offers an alternative location in Nuku’alofa on Vaha’akolo Road – seven minutes drive from the city centre. There are six bedrooms available with a communal lounge and bathrooms for a homely stay. Rooms are vibrantly furnished, yet modern and comfortable. Soak up the sun from the two sun decks, make use of the carports, light up the barbecue, and enjoy free breakfast each morning. Free WiFi is also available. For more homestay options, see the 5 Best Homestays on Tongatapu.
Check Dayspring Lodge out:

More About Homestays in Nuku’alofa

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.