Where to Surf in Tonga
Some 170 islands scattered across the world’s largest ocean, Tonga provides adventurous surfing. Clear warm waters bring idyllic surfing all year round, with powerful southerly swells in winter and North Pacific swells coming from the north in summer. While the surf scene is only beginning to be established in the Kingdom of Tonga, those in the know can find unmatched and uncrowded breaks. Almost all of Tonga’s surf breaks are reef breaks, either requiring a paddle or a boat to get to, but those willing to make the journey can’t help but be amazed by the epic rides awaiting across the pristine ocean. So where exactly can you surf in Tonga? Here’s a list of some of the best places to surf in Tonga.
For more surf advice, take a look at The Complete Guide to Surfing in Tonga.
1. Ha’atafu Beach, Tongatapu
One of the most effortless surf spots in Tonga, Ha’atafu Beach offers surfing just a 100m (330ft) paddle away from a stretch of resorts and beach houses. Home to some of Tonga’s top surf breaks, like Motels, Kamikaze’s, The Peak, Fishtraps and more – check out the 10 Surf Breaks in Tongatapu – the attractive beach sits along the northwestern tip of the island, backed by resorts such as Ha’atafu Beach Resort, Heilala Holiday Lodge (who have surfboard hire), Holty’s Hideaway and more.
(c) Tonga Ministry of Tourism2. Kanokupolu Beach, Tongatapu
Practically joined to Ha’atafu Beach, Kanokupolu Beach provides more awesome surf breaks, such as Pass Lefts, Pass Rights and Leftovers, ideal for beginners and intermediates after a paddle across a lagoon (and if the swell isn’t too big). The beach in Tongatapu is backed by accommodation, such as the Vakaloa Beach Resort and the Blue Banana Beach House. Learn more about these accommodations in the 6 Best Surf Resorts in Tonga.
(c) Pixabay3. Houmale’eia Beach, Ha’apai
Just about the only beach break you’ll find in Tonga, Houmale’eia Beach is located at the northern tip of Foa Island in the Ha’apai Group. The beach is backed by Matafonua Lodge, which offers surfboard, SUP and kayak hire to make the most of the easygoing waves here. This is an ideal place to surf with children or just enjoy playing around without taking yourself too seriously.
(c) Matafonua Lodge4. Ovaka Island, Vava’u
Something for the real adventure surfers, the remaining places to surf in Tonga can be found in the island group of Vava’u. All of Vava’u surf spots and reef breaks, best tackled by intermediate to advanced surfers looking for a remote adventure. Ovaka Island in Vava’u has three surf breaks off its shores, best accessed by boat, including Tommas, Middles and Pass. Find out more about the best conditions to surf them in with the 10 Surf Breaks in Vava’u.
(c) Pexels5. Taula Island, Vava’u
While there are many more remote surf breaks in Vava’u, you’ll find a whole cluster of options near Taula Island in the southern reaches of the island group. Needless to say, you’ll need a resort’s boat or your own yacht to reach these reef breaks, including Taula Left, Bowling Left, Peaking and Oh Right.
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