Resorts in Tonga with Stand-up Paddleboard Hire
Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is becoming more and more of an idyllic way to explore the more tranquil waters of Tonga, where gliding over shallow coral reefs and even riding some fun little waves is all part of the experience. But with SUP hire only really being available in resorts, where do you need to stay in order to be able to paddleboard in Tonga? We go over your options in this list of the best resorts for SUP in Tonga.
Note that Tonga is an ever-evolving country with some services that accommodations provide changing with little notice. While we try to keep our accommodation listings up-to-date, know that some services may have changed. If you have an update, feel free to reach out.
For more SUP talk, check out The Guide to Stand-Up Paddle Boarding in Tonga.
1. Matafonua Lodge
Matafonua Lodge in the Ha’apai island group offers the most comprehensive array of SUP experiences in Tonga. Not only do they offer a range of SUP boards for hire, from sturdy inflatable boards for beginners to fibreglass boards in a range of sizes for the enthusiast, but they also have SUP safaris, sunset tours, SUP fitness classes and SUP yoga – that’s a whole lot of SUP! Between all of the action, you’ll be staying in one of the resort’s attractive elevated wooden fales (bungalows) on the beach with shared (but stylish) bathroom facilities.
Check Matafonua Lodge out:
(c) Matafonua Lodge2. Sandy Beach Resort
The sister resort of Matafonua Lodge, Sandy Beach Resort has access to all of the SUP tours, hire and classes offered at Matafonua Lodge. The difference is that this resort offers more upmarket rooms with ensuite bathrooms and a holiday more designed for couples and adult groups. They also offer more “fine dining” than the cafe available at Matafonua. Find out more in the 10 Best Resorts in Ha’apai.
Check Sandy Beach Resort out:
(c) Sandy Beach Resort3. The Reef Resort
Situated on the island of Kapa in Vava’u, The Reef Resort has a wealth of toys for guests to play with, between Hobie Cats, kayaks and, of course, paddleboards! Stay in one of the five exclusive modern bungalows, all in their own separate space across the hilltops and on the beach. They have high-quality inflatable stand-up paddleboards with windsails. The resort is also renowned for its cuisine. Find out more in the 10 Best Resorts in Vava’u.
Check The Reef Resort out:
(c) The Reef Resort Va4. Fafa Island Resort
A gorgeous resort option in Tongatapu, Fafa Island Resort favours paddleboards over kayaks for guest to hire. The waters off the beach are usually calm and ideal for paddling. Make sure you take some snorkelling gear to check out the surrounding marine reserve. As for accommodation, the resort has a range of villas decorated with a Tongan flair to really enhance your “island time”. There’s also a restaurant that hosts Polynesian nights. See more resorts in the area in the 10 Best Resorts in Tongatapu.
Check Fafa Island Resort out:
(c) tongapocketguide.com5. Fanifo Lofa Kitesurf Tonga
While Fanifo Lofa Kitesurf Tonga is a hotspot for kitesurfing, the placid conditions that make kitesurfing so awesome here are also ideal for paddleboarding. Luckily, they have paddleboards available for guests! In between taking part in all of the amazing watersports here, you’ll be staying on one of their timber-constructed fales with the comforts of a memory foam bed and private verandah nestled in coastal forest.
(c) Tonga Ministry of Tourism6. The Royal Sunset Resort
Another option from Tongatapu, The Royal Sunset Resort offers simple bungalows on a stunning island with a sandy beach and lots to explore in its surrounding turquoise waters. One way to explore is with the stand-up paddleboard hire available for guests and day-trippers. They offer and range of bungalows either on the beach or in the bush with options for couples to families.
Check The Royal Sunset Resort out:
(c) Teta Tours Tonga7. Sea Change Eco Retreat
On the peaceful island of Uoleva in Ha’apai, Sea Change Eco Retreat offers a range of experiences for guests including complimentary use of stand-up paddleboards. The quiet lagoon nearby is ideal for paddling around, where you might also want to take some snorkelling gear. You’ll stay in either one of the off-the-grid wooden fales within walking distance of the beach or one of the glamping tents.
(c) Pixabay8. Liku’alofa Beach Resort
Finally, if you want to stay in Tongatapu for some paddleboarding, try the Liku’alofa Beach Resort. The resort has a range of well-presented bungalows moments away from the beach. Dine at their elevated restaurant, see their cultural show and buffet night, and hire stand-up paddleboards to explore the western beaches of Tongatapu.
Check Liku’alofa Beach Resort out:
- Liku’alofa Beach Resort on Booking.com
- Liku’alofa Beach Resort on Trip.com
- Liku’alofa Beach Resort on Expedia
(c) tongapocketguide.comMore About Resorts for SUP in Tonga
- The Guide to Kayaking in Tonga
- 10 Best Resorts for Kayaking in Tonga
- 10 Best Water Activities in Tonga
That’s it for the best resorts for SUP in Tonga. See more amazing stays in The Top 30 Resorts in Tonga. Plus, get even more trip-planning tips in The Complete Travel Guide to Tonga.
