Unique Swimming Spots in Tonga
We don’t need to tell you about the amazing beaches to swim from in Tonga – there are plenty of those! However, if you’re looking for a unique swimming hole in Tonga, then we’ve put together some ideas we think you’ll love, from natural pools in limestone caves to stunning crystal clear freshwater springs. Note that with no rivers in Tonga (just some creeks in ‘Eua and Niuatoputapu), freshwater swimming holes are pretty hard to come by, so that’s why the offering is a little limited.
For more amazing water experience, take a look at the 10 Best Water Activities in Tonga.
The Best Swimming Beaches in Tonga
Before we dive into our favourite swimming holes, here’s just a few of Tonga’s amazing beaches that are ideal for swimming.
- Ha’atafu Beach, Tongatapu
- Tufuvai Beach, ‘Eua
- Ha’aluma Beach, ‘Eua
- Houmale’eia Beach, Ha’apai
- Keitahi Beach, Vava’u
- ‘Ano Beach, Vava’u
- Hinakauea Beach, Vava’u
- Mounu Island Beach, Vava’u
Check out more beaches in the 10 Stunning Beaches in Tonga, as well as The Guide to Beaches on Tongatapu.
(c) tongapocketguide.com‘Anahulu Cave
Island Group: Tongatapu
How to Get There: Self-drive to cave signposted from Haveluliku village. Alternatively, take a tour with Teta Tours & Travel (more info on Viator and Tripadvisor).
A dramatic limestone cave with dangling stalactites and other formations, ‘Anahulu Cave is Tongatapu’s only freshwater pool. Being located on the main island of Tonga, it’s the most-visited swimming hole in this guide, but it’s not uncommon to find the whole cave to yourself.
The caves are lit up with artificial lighting, while a well-formed path leads you through the cave to the pool. The main pool is around 8m (26ft) deep, while there are also other pools you can swim, best found with a guide.
Note that there is a small entrance fee to the caves, around TOP$15 per person.
(c) tongapocketguide.comVeimumuni Cave
Island Group: Vava’u
How to Get There: Self-drive to cave signposted from Toula village. Alternatively, take a tour with Explore Vava’u.
A lesser-known freshwater cave pool in Tonga, Veimumuni Cave can be found in the island group of Vava’u. It’s not known where the mysterious freshwater of this cave comes from but has been used for centuries for bathing by the locals only up until just over 30 years ago. You can learn more about the history and legends surrounding the cave pool on an information sign at the entrance of the short walkway leading to the cave.
Nowadays, those feeling brave enough to swim in this brackish cave pool have the chance to get a refreshing dip. The pool is not too deep with a maximum depth of only 2m (6ft).
There is no entrance fee to visit this cave.
(c) Eunice PongipongiHihifo Freshwater Spring
Island Group: The Niuas
How to Get There: Flights to The Niuas depart from Vava’u every fortnight. Find the pool in the village of Hihifo.
And one stunning swimming hole that you’ll admittedly have more of a hard time getting to, the Hihifo Freshwater Spring is a crystal clear spring seemingly cracking the land on the remote island of Niuatoputapu.
Niuatoputapu is one of the three islands found in The Niuas island group, usually only visited by yachties or the most adventurous travellers. Hihifo is the main village of Niuatoputapu, where you’ll find the freshwater spring. There are steps leading down into the pool for easy access for swimming. A lot of locals like to swim here too, so it’s recommended that you swim in shorts and a T-shirt to respect local customs.
Learn more about The Niuas here.
More Swimming Holes in Tonga
That’s it for the best swimming holes 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.
