The Complete Luxury Guide to Tonga

© Tonga Ministry of Tourism

How to Get to Tonga

What is the best way to get to Tonga? Tonga can be accessed by flight, cruise ship or private sailing yachts. The most popular way to get to Tonga is by international flight, so let’s start with that.

Flying to Tonga

Direct international flights to Tonga come from New Zealand, Australia, Fiji, Samoa and American Samoa. If you’re coming from further afield, connecting flights can be made in New Zealand, Australia and Fiji. See our guide, Which Airlines Fly to Tonga? for more advice on flying to Tonga.

Most international arrivals land at Fua’amotu International Airport on the island of Tongatapu, 21 km (13 mi) from the nation’s capital, Nuku’alofa. A limited number of flights also arrive at Lupepau’u International Airport in Vava’u, about 10 km (6 mi) from Neiafu. Find out more about these airports and the best one to fly to in our guide, Tonga Arrival Airports: Which Airport to Fly into Tonga.

Cruises to Tonga

Tonga is on the itinerary of several South Pacific cruises from New Zealand, Australia and French Polynesia. There are two ports of call in Tonga, one in Nuku’alofa on Tongatapu and the other in Neiafu in Vava’u. Find out about which cruise liners have Tonga on their itinerary in the 10 Best Cruises That Visit Tonga.

Sailing to Tonga

Tonga is situated at the centre of a Transpacific journey between the US and New Zealand. The yachting season is between May and October. Learn about the sailing formalities and the ports of entry in The Sailing Guide to Tonga.

A Note on Customs Declarations

Tonga has strict biosecurity measures at the border to stop unwanted pests and diseases from entering the country. Therefore, anyone arriving in Tonga has to declare any “risk items” they have packed in their luggage – even common items like food and sports gear. Be sure to read up on Arriving in Tonga: Airport Customs, Biosecurity & Arrival Process so you are prepared.

Check out our complete guide on How to Get to Tonga for even more tips on making your way to the islands of Tonga.

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When to Visit Tonga

Tonga is a tropical country and experiences warm temperatures throughout the year. It has two distinct seasons, a dry season that is drier and cooler, and a wet season that is hot and humid. Learn much more about the weather and climate by month in our guide to the Tonga Weather, Seasons & Climate + Tonga Weather by Month.

Dry Season (May to October)

The dry season is also known as the winter season in Tonga, although many would not describe it as winter with temperatures around 19-29°C (66-84°F). The rainfall per month is an average of 110 mm (3.9 in). The dry season is also the time for whale swimming and the clearest visibility for scuba diving.

Wet Season (November to April)

The wet season is hotter and more humid, with temperatures around 23-31°C (74-88°F) and an average monthly rainfall of 210 mm (8.3 in). This is also Tonga’s cyclone season, which means there’s a risk of cyclones (but only a risk).

So when is the best time to travel to Tonga? Check out our complete guide, The Best Time to Visit Tonga, which dives deeper into the subject.

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What to Pack for Tonga

The main thing you need to keep in mind when packing for Tonga is to have a tropical wardrobe that includes some more modest items of clothing for exploring Tonga’s towns and villages. A packing list for Tonga might look a little something like this:

• 4 Singlets/T-Shirts
• 2 Blouses/Shirts to cover the shoulders
• 2 Shorts/Skirts to or below the knee
• 1 Dress/Skirt below the knee for church/impress at dinner, going to town or villages, etc. We recommend light fabrics such as the sustainable bamboo dresses and skirts by Moso Morrow
• 1 Sarong (Lavalava) will be your best friend for hitting the beach and covering your swimwear in between swimming
• 1 or 2 Light sleepwear if you’re against sleeping in your undies
• 1 Light jacket/Cardigan/Pashmina for cooler evenings
• 1 Light fleece jumper something to keep warm after swimming from a boat
• 1 Sports shorts/Leggings for hiking/active activities, preferable to or below the knee
• 1 Sports T-shirt/Singlet for hiking/active activities
• 1 Outfit to travel between Tonga and home
• 3 Bras including strapless, sports and comfortable bras
• 6 Underwear
• 4 Socks
• 1 Bikini for resort beach/pool
• 1 One-piece for watersports
• 2 Boardshorts for guys
• 1 Rash vest (we like sustainable Sharkskin rashies)
• Sunhat
• Sunglasses
• Flip-flops/Sandals
• Walking shoes/Sneakers
• Reef shoes/Water shoes.

And that’s just the clothes! For a full packing list of everything to take, including accessories and toiletries, check out The Complete Packing List for Tonga.

Health Products

With questionable drinking water, high UV levels and the presence of mosquitos, certain health products are essential to take to Tonga. Tonga also has a fragile marine ecosystem so natural sunscreens and repellents are a must, while reusable water purification bottles are preferable to buying bottled water for obvious environmental reasons. See our health essentials packing list in What Medication to Pack in Your First Aid Kit for Tonga, as well as tips for protecting the health of the environment in the 30 Ways to Travel More Sustainably in Tonga.

Currency

The currency in Tonga is Tongan Pa’anga. You will need to be prepared to get by on cash for much of your stay as this is often the only payment method accepted. There are ATMs in the four main towns of Tonga. Get more money tips in What is The Best Way to Pay in Tonga?

Do You Need a Visa to Visit Tonga?

For citizens of around 70 different countries, the answer is no. You just need to arrive in Tonga with a valid passport. Citizens not of visa-exempt countries will need an Entry Permit. Find out more about Do You Need a Visa to Visit Tonga? and what other paperwork to prepare in What Documents Do I Need to Travel to Tonga?

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How Long to Spend in Tonga

Tonga might make for an idyllic boutique resort getaway to simply relax for a few days  – and that’s fine; we all need to R&R from time to time. Most travellers, however, are here to explore and experience some of the most dramatic culture and wildlife experiences in the South Pacific. With that in mind, here’s what you can achieve in certain timeframes… (And don’t worry, we’ll get onto the destinations in the next few sections).

3 Days / A Long Weekend in Tonga

Over three days or a long weekend, you have enough time to see the highlights of Tongatapu. Check out Tonga Luxury Itinerary: 3 Days for an example itinerary.

5 Days in Tonga

Start by exploring Tongatapu, then head to one of the outer islands, such as the nearby ‘Eua, for a couple of days. See Tonga Luxury Itinerary: 5 Days for a trip idea.

7 Days / 1 Week in Tonga

Visit two island groups to experience two sides of Tonga. Flights and ferries connect the main four groups regularly so take your pick! Get some inspiration on what to do and where to go from Tonga Luxury Itinerary: 7 Days.

14 Days / 2 Weeks in Tonga

Adventurous travellers can visit as many as four major island groups of Tonga. See our Tonga Luxury Itinerary: 14 Days for a whole trip layout including activities and accommodations.

How Long Can You Stay in Tonga?

Visitors to Tonga can stay up to one month (30 days) or nationals from a Schengen member country can stay up to three months (90 days)! Visitor extensions are available, however, which you can learn more about in our guide, How Long Can You Stay in Tonga on a Visitor Visa?

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Which Islands to Visit: Luxury Getaway to Tongatapu

Tongatapu is the main island of Tonga and an easy option for a fly-and-flop holiday. The island group has four-star hotels, lodges and apartments in the capital, Nuku’alofa, while unique treehouse and beachfront resorts can be found on the east side of the main island.

Some of Tonga’s top experiences are available from the wharf in Nuku’alofa, including whale swimming and scuba diving, while private boat charters can be hired to explore the surrounding islands and their snorkelling spots.

As for sticking to dry land, there is an interesting selection of natural and historical attractions, such as the impressive Mapua ‘a Vaea Blowholes, the landing site of the first European to the islands, Abel Tasman, and the ancient Ha’amonga ‘a Maui megalithic trilithon. These and more can be discovered on private tours of the island.

The small metropolis of Nuku’alofa also makes a good base for sampling South Pacific cuisine at restaurants lining the waterfront.

Learn more about planning a luxury getaway to the main island and capital in The Luxury Guide to Tongatapu and The Luxury Guide to Nuku’alofa.

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Which Islands to Visit: Luxury Getaway to Ha’apai

Those postcard photos of palm-topped islands, sandy shores and fringing coral reefs were probably taken here in the island group of Ha’apai. A short scenic flight from Tongatapu can bring you to this central island group made up of 62 islands, most of which are uninhabited.

Although there is only one four-star resort in this island group, the three-star resorts evoke luxury in their pristine island surroundings and five-star experiences, such as swimming with humpback whales, private island picnics and scuba diving among glorious coral gardens and sea caves.

Liveaboard sailing and whale swimming experiences are another luxurious way to enjoy the Ha’apai islands, staying on a catamaran yacht and listening to the whale song as you drift off into slumber.

Ha’apai’s tranquil lagoons and consistent tradewinds also make the island group a popular destination for kitesurfing, while the abundance of eco-resorts and gorgeous natural surroundings make for a popular destination for yoga and wellness retreats.

Find out more about Ha’apai in The Luxury Guide to Ha’apai.

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Which Islands to Visit: Luxury Getaway to Vava’u

One of the most renowned sailing grounds in the South Pacific, Vava’u is a must-visit for yachties. But while you might not have your own yacht, you can certainly pretend on one of the sailing charters of Vava’u.

The main drawcard for this adventure-packed island group, however, is the water activities, of which it offers some of the best in Tonga. Vava’u has the most whale swimming tours, is home to one of the South Pacific’s renowned blue marlin fisheries, and has some of Tonga’s top dive sites. Needless to say, swimming with humpback whales, fishing charters and scuba diving is a must.

Luxury stays in Vava’u can be found in the well-appointed holiday homes lining the cliffsides of the Port of Refuge, while the island group also has its fair share of private island resorts where you will be one of the very few exclusive guests at resorts that rarely have no more than five fales (beach bungalows).

For more advice on planning a luxury trip to Vava’u, take a look at The Luxury Guide to Vava’u.

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How to Get Around Tonga

Tonga might not have an overwhelming number of island groups but the distance between each is quite substantial with around 180 km (110 mi) between Tongatapu and Ha’apai and 130 km (80 mi) between Ha’apai and Vava’u. Not to mention, Tonga’s larger islands are well worth exploring in their own right. So how do you get around Tonga?

Domestic Flights

To get between island groups, flights operate daily except Sundays. They are the fastest and most comfortable way to get between islands, so naturally, the most expensive option. Learn more about flying between the island groups in The Guide to Domestic Flights in Tonga.

Interisland Ferries

Cargo-style boats and barge ferries travel between Tongatapu, ‘Eua, Ha’apai and Vava’u several times a week. They are cheaper than flying but trips can last several hours. See The Guide to Travelling in Tonga by Ferry to learn much more about this transport method.

Car Rental

Car rental is readily available in Tongatapu and Vava’u, but a little harder to find in ‘Eua and Ha’apai unless you know where to look. Find out everything you need to know about hiring in What You Need to Hire a Car in Tonga.

Taxis and Private Drivers

Taxis are available in Tongatapu and Vava’u. Ask for the going rate, as many don’t use meters. See The Guide to Taxis in Tonga for more tips. Taxi drivers can also be hired for sightseeing, as explained in How to Hire a Driver in Tonga.

There are a lot more ways to travel around Tonga between resort transfers, guided tours, bicycle rental and even multi-day kayaking tours so be sure to browse our Tonga Transport Guide: 15 Ways to Get Around Tonga for more advice.

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Where to Stay: Luxury Accommodation in Tonga

Tonga’s accommodations are “intimate” with the exception of one large hotel in Nuku’alofa. Beachfront resorts and hotels are usually the most upmarket options, while some more premium holiday homes and villas offer more upscale offerings in Tonga.

Take a look at accommodation styles across Tonga in Where to Stay in Tonga: The Best Accommodations in Tonga or choose from the most luxurious in our 20 Best Luxury Accommodations in Tonga. We also offer more advice on choosing a place to stay in How to Pick the Best Luxury Accommodation in Tonga for You.

Four-Star and Three-Star Resorts

More upscale resorts can be found at some of the more remote islands or even private islands across Tonga. They consist of attractive fales with ensuite facilities and typically other luxuries like private beach access or gardens. On the other hand, there may be a few amenities missing, such as in-room electricity and WiFi, for example. For dining, there will be a restaurant or perhaps a meal plan for guests but no self-catering facilities. These resorts often have all you need for entertainment and activities, providing whale swimming, cultural shows and complimentary use of watersports gear.

Check out some examples in the 10 Best Luxury Resorts in Tonga and check out typical facilities in How to Choose the Best Resort in Tonga for You.

Four-Star Lodges and Hotels

Some four-star boutique lodges and hotels can be found in the capital of Tonga, Nuku’alofa. These upscale lodges and hotels are luxuriously furnished and have amenities expected from an international-standard hotel, such as an ensuite, towels, toiletries and tea/coffee-making facilities. They may also feature a private deck/balcony and have a restaurant on-site.

Check out some examples in the 20 Best Luxury Accommodations in Tonga and what facilities to expect in How to Choose the Best Lodge in Tonga for You and How to Choose the Best Hotel in Tonga for You.

Upscale Apartments and Holiday Homes

Tonga has a small but good range of more upscale apartments and holiday homes, especially in Nuku’alofa in Tongatapu and near Neiafu in Vava’u. Luxury apartments and holiday homes feature modern decor and furniture with self-catering facilities and bathrooms. They may also feature private decks, gardens or balconies with ocean views. Many of the holiday homes in Vava’u also have access to the water via a private pier.

Check out some examples in the 20 Best Holiday Homes in Tonga and 10 Best Holiday Apartments in Tonga, as well as what facilities to expect in How to Choose the Best Holiday Home in Tonga for You.

Accommodation Standards in Tonga

It’s important to set a few expectations straight before checking into your accommodation in Tonga. Tonga is a developing country with a younger tourism industry and, in turn, less expertise than some of the more developed tourist hubs of the South Pacific. Some accommodations can be pretty basic, and not all of your usual facilities are provided. All in all, it is best to keep an open mind.

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Luxury Experiences in Tonga

Tonga hooks most travellers with the prospect of swimming with humpback whales but there’s much more to this island nation. You never know, after browsing our 101 Best Things to Do in Tonga: The Ultimate List you might just realise that there are amazing experiences even outside of the whale season.

When it comes to experiences that add a special touch to your Tonga getaway, you can grace your itinerary with the following:

• Swimming with whales – Take boat tours to snorkel with whales between July and October
• Scuba diving – Choose from tens of dive sites, from coral formations to caves
• Spa treatments – Visit a day spa or get a massage at your resort’s beachfront massage fale
• Kitesurfing – Ha’apai and Vava’u offer flat lagoons and ideal trade winds for kitesurfing
• Game fishing – The South Pacific’s largest pelagics can be caught on fishing charters in Tonga
• Sailing – Tonga and especially Vava’u are some of the most iconic sailing grounds in the South Pacific
• Yoga – Experience wellness in paradise
• Golf – Tee off in paradise.

… And there’s more where those came from in the 10 Most Luxurious Experiences in Tonga.

More Activities in Tonga

For those experiences that don’t necessarily fall under the “luxury” category but may be worthy of your bucket list…

• Snorkelling – Snorkel over coral reefs from shore or on snorkelling boat tours
• Markets – Handicraft and produce markets are the centre of communities in Tonga making for an enriching cultural experience
• Historical sites – Tonga is home to some of the South Pacific’s most ancient sites, from megalithic structures to royal tombs
• Natural attractions – Limestone caves, blowholes and more spectacular natural features can be found in Tonga
• Cultural tours – Take part in traditions, see crafting and food demonstrations
• Cultural shows – Experience an iconic Tongan floor show accompanied by an umu feast
• Museums & art galleries – See ancient relics and Tongan artwork on display
• Kayaking & SUP – Hire these watersports equipment from your resort to explore the coast and reefs
• Surfing – Hit uncrowded reef breaks on Tongatapu and Vava’u or do some beach surfing in Ha’apai.

Again, you’ll find much more inspiration from our 101 Best Things to Do in Tonga: The Ultimate List so get on there!

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Food in Tonga

Food is an integral part of the Tongan culture. Despite there being limited dining options outside of main centres like Nuku’alofa and Neiafu, accommodation hosts will ensure you won’t go hungry by either providing homecooked meals of Tongan fare or boasting their own restaurant with an international menu. Everything you need to know about food in Tonga can be found in The Food Guide to Tonga: Places to Eat & Food Tours.

Restaurants and Cafes

Tonga’s restaurants can be found in Nuku’alofa and Neiafu, as well as some of its resorts. They typically have international influences, such as Italian, American, British, Chinese and more, as well as local Tongan dishes. Check out our top dining picks in the 20 Best Restaurants in Tonga.

Self-Catering

Self-catering is often an option with many accommodations offering some sort of cooking facilities. Travellers can pick up food from small supermarkets, fale koloa (convenience stores), and produce markets. Get advice on self-catering in our guide, A Guide to Supermarkets & Food Shopping in Tonga.

Special Diets

With tropical vegetables and coconut cream being staple ingredients in Tonga, vegans and gluten-intolerant diners are usually doable in Tonga but you will struggle to find dishes on restaurant menus that cater to various diets. Those with dietary health issues should let accommodation hosts know about any dietary requirements before arrival. Check out Tonga for Vegans & Vegetarians + 10 Best Restaurants, as well as The Gluten-Free Guide to Tonga for more advice.

What Food to Try

And what are the foods worth trying in Tonga? Tongan food can be sampled at Tongan restaurants, cultural shows and buffets, locally-owned supermarkets, and markets and roadside stalls, particularly on a Saturday. Check out which meals to look out for in the 10 Unique Foods in Tonga You Have to Try, as well as drinks in the 10 Drinks in Tonga You Have to Try!

Food and Water Safety

Tourist accommodations in Tonga tend to have access to safe drinking water, whether it’s a jug of filtered water at reception or the option to buy bottled water. See Is the Water Safe to Drink in Tonga? for more advice. Food in Tonga is generally cooked to safe hygiene standards, but check out Tonga Safety Tips for precautions to take.

Want to know more about dining in Tonga? Head to The Food Guide to Tonga: Places to Eat & Food Tours.