What to Do on Sundays in Tonga
You’ve probably heard how things slow down on a Sunday in Tonga. Sunday is a sacred day in Tonga, thus the reason why many businesses and transport are closed on this day. However, that doesn’t mean that there isn’t anything to do on a Sunday in Tonga. From joining the locals in church for a real cultural experience to visiting some of Tonga’s stunning outer islands, there are quite a few options for travellers to continue enjoying an amazing holiday in Tonga on a Sunday. We go over a few ideas in this list of things to do in Tonga on a Sunday.
Learn more about the Sunday protocol in Tonga Etiquette: Respecting the Local Customs.
1. Go on an Island Day Trip
If you’re based on Tongatapu during your time in Tonga, save Sunday for heading to one of the gorgeous outer islands. Boat trips to island resorts, such as Fafa Island Resort (more info on Viator and Tripadvisor), Pangaimotu Island Resort (on Viator and Tripadvisor) and Royal Sunset Island Resort (on Viator and Tripadvisor) are just about the only transport you’ll find operating on a Sunday. Island day tours depart from Nuku’alofa, where you’ll spend the day at your chosen resort snorkelling, exploring the island, kayaking and having lunch at the resort’s restaurant. Check out each day trip in detail in the 7 Best Island Day Trips from Nuku’alofa.
(c) tongapocketguide.com2. Experience a Tongan Church Service
Do what Tongans do on a Sunday and go to church! Whether you’re religious or not, visitors are welcome to church services to experience the passion of the Tongans’ worship. Church services are alive with beautiful harmonious singing, even accompanied by brass bands in some churches. Check out some of the church services that are best for visitors in the 10 Best Churches in Tonga for Tourists. Plus, learn more about their faith in The Guide to the Religions in Tonga.
(c) tongapocketguide.com3. Do Some Sightseeing
Sunday is a good day to enjoy some independent sightseeing, whether it’s by bicycle, scooter or car (just make sure you rent your vehicle before Sunday, as rental companies are closed on a Sunday). Hit the road and check out some of the amazing sights around Tonga, whether it’s the Mapu ‘a Vaea Blowholes in Tongatapu, the beaches in Ha’apai, the hiking trails in ‘Eua, or the lookouts in Vava’u. Get some ideas starting with our 10 Most Iconic Sights in Tonga.
(c) tongapocketguide.com4. Have a Meal at a Restaurant
Some of Tonga’s restaurants stay open on a Sunday, especially in more touristy places. For instance, you can enjoy meals at resorts and hotels, which all stay open on a Sunday for both guests and casual diners. Try the Tongan Beach Resort in Vava’u, Seaview Lodge and the Tanoa International Dateline Hotel in Nuku’alofa and Matafonua Lodge in Ha’apai – all of which are accessible from their island group’s main island. Check out more about Tonga’s food scene in the Guide to the Best Eats & Restaurants in Tonga.
(c) tongapocketguide.com5. Relax at a Resort
Finally, experience Sunday in another way that Tongans do – by resting! Sunday is a good time to kick back at your resort, sunbathe on the beach, go for a snorkel and sample some of the goodies on the menu you’ve been meaning to try. While the rest of Tonga shuts down for Sunday, resorts and hotels are still on making them a good place to be on a Sunday. Check out some of the top resorts to check-in in our 10 Best Resorts in Tonga.
(c) PixabayMore About Sundays in Tonga
That’s it for the guide to Sundays in Tonga. Inspire yourself with more experiences with the 101 Best Things to Do in Tonga: The Ultimate List. Plus, get even more tips in The Complete Travel Guide to Tonga.
