Explore Tonga’s Small Villages
Let’s get one thing straight before we dive into this list of the best small towns and villages to visit in Tonga; all of Tonga’s towns and villages are small. Many would even consider the capital, Nuku’alofa, to be a small town. For a greater range of things to do in Tonga’s small towns and villages, we suggest taking a look at what we feature in The 5 Biggest Towns & Villages in Tonga. Otherwise, this list takes a look at some of the other small yet notable villages in Tonga.
For information on the geography of Tonga, take a look at What are the 5 Island Groups in Tonga?
1. ‘Ohonua
Although the largest settlement on the island of ‘Eua, ‘Ohonua does not feature on our 5 Biggest Towns & Villages in Tonga. It was one of the worst towns hit during the 2022 tsunami, so many of its shops and services have moved inland. Nevertheless, it is still worth checking out to admire its attractive churches that have stood the test of the ocean. It also has an interesting coastline in between the whale-watching spot of Tufuvai Beach and the attractive sandy shores of ‘Ufilei Beach where you can go for a swim. Learn more about visiting this small town and the island in The Complete Travel Guide to ‘Eua.
Location: West coast of ‘Eua.
© TongaPocketGuide.com2. Veitongo
A village on Tongatapu, Veitongo sits on the edge of the Fanga’uta Lagoon. Veitonga has a few interesting attractions in its proximity, such as the southern beaches of Keleti and Halafuoleva, which feature in our 20 Stunning Beaches in Tonga. There’s also Tonga’s only golf course, the Tonga Golf Club just up the road, while the village is also famous for its football club. Pick up quintessential Tongan cuisine from the roadside stalls and ‘Ofeina Restaurant, as featured in The Food Guide to Tongatapu: Places to Eat & Food Tours.
Location: Along Taufa’ahau Road between Nuku’alofa and the airport, central Tongatapu.
(c) tongapocketguide.com3. Niutoua
Also on Tongatapu, Niutoua is famous for being the home of one of Tonga’s most iconic landmarks, Ha’amonga ‘a Maui. You can see the megalithic structure just outside of the village opposite the school. The historic village was the first capital of the Tu’i Tonga empire, the line of kings before the modern Tupou line. Learn more about the country’s fascinating history in A Brief History of Tonga.
Location: Along Taufa’ahau Road, northeast coast of Tongatapu.
(c) tongapocketguide.com4. Toula
The first village you come across as you travel south from Neiafu in Vava’u, Toula is where you’ll find a few of Tonga’s apartments and resorts, as listed in Where to Stay in Vava’u. Stop by Harbourview for lunch or dinner with stunning views over the Port of Refuge or scout out the village’s famous cave attraction the Veimumuni Cave complete with a freshwater pool and a scenic lookout. Learn more about visiting Toula and this island group in The Complete Travel Guide to Vava’u.
Location: Central south coast of ‘Utu Vava’u, just south of Neiafu, Vava’u.
(c) Tonga Ministry of Tourism5. Hihifo
Only the most determined travellers make their way to this village in The Niuas island group, yet Hihifo is the largest village of Niuatoputapu. Situated on the west side of the island, Hihifo features a small selection of public and government facilities. It’s where you will find more traditional Tongan fales (bungalows) and way of life. The village also has a clear freshwater spring, known as the Hihifo Pool, that makes for a popular swimming hole. Learn more about this island group in The Complete Guide to The Niuas.
Location: Northwestern coast of Niuatoputapu, The Niuas.
(c) Eunice PongipongiWhat are the Smallest Villages in Tonga?
The smallest villages in Tonga with their population according to the 2021 Census are as follows:
- Mu’a, Niuafo’ou, Niuas – 9
- Pangaimotu, Pangaimotu Island, Tongatapu – 11
- Lape, Lape Island, Vava’u – 16
- Mata’aho, Niuafo’ou, Niuas – 19
- Tongamama’o, Niuafo’ou, Niuas – 21
- Tafahi, Tafahi Island, Niuas – 28
- Mango, Mu’omu’a, Ha’apai – 36
- Muitoa, Ha’ano, Ha’apai – 41
- Fata’ulua, Niuafo’ou, Niuas – 43
- Kolofo’ou, Niuafo’ou, Niuas – 50
Note that there are some islands in Tonga with a population of 2-7 which are not included in this list, because, can they be considered a village?
More About Villages in Tonga
That’s it for our list of the best small towns and villages in Tonga, as well as the smallest villages in Tonga. For more about Tonga’s villages and population, take a look at the following guides:
- Who are the People of Tonga? Population, Ethnicity & More
- How to Have Authentic Cultural Experiences in Tonga
- Tonga Etiquette: Respecting the Local Customs
Finally, better understand the geography of Tonga with Where is Tonga Located?
