What are the Best Sunscreens for Tonga?

Sunscreens to Use in Tonga

We don’t need to tell you that sunscreen is essential for a trip to Tonga. However, you may need help choosing a sunscreen that’s right for you and that’s right to use in Tonga. Due to its fragile marine eco-system, it’s always recommended to wear sunscreen that reef-safe. In this guide to sunscreens for Tonga, we list a whole range of sunscreens made for different people, environments and levels of sun protection. The UV index in Tonga can be 5 to as high as 12+, so lather up and slap on the sunscreens that we recommend in the guide below!

Sun Protection Tips for Tonga

While sunscreen is a must for sun protection in Tonga, here are a few ways to make sure your sunscreen is effective, as well as more ways to protect yourself and your loved ones from the sun.

Lather sunscreen thickly all over exposed skin
Reapply sunscreen every three hours or soon after getting out of the water
Wear a sunhat to protect your head from getting burnt
Go extra heavy on the sun protection on children, especially those under five years old – use sunhats, sunscreen, stay in the shade when possible and don’t expose them to the midday sun
Use extra protection out on the water, such as UV-protective shirts

If you do get sunburnt, avoid staying in the sun any longer. Be sure to drink plenty of water and use aloe vera soothing lotion to soothe the skin. If you have a headache and/or start vomiting, you might be suffering from heatstroke. See a doctor immediately.

For more health tips, head over to How to Keep Safe in Tonga.

Eco-friendly Sunscreens for Tonga

What we love about eco-friendly sunscreens is that they are healthier for you and much healthier to the planet than your standard sunscreens. Especially in Tonga, fragile coral can be harmed by the chemicals found in most sunscreens, so be sure to pick sunscreen made with zinc oxide and ideally labelled “reef-safe”.

Best Environmentally Friendly Sunscreens

For more options and details on each sunscreen, see the 10 Best Natural Sunscreens for Tonga.

Kids’ Sunscreens for Tonga

Young skin needs more protection from the sun, as well as specially formulated creams for skin that is extra sensitive. That’s why environmentally-friendly sunscreens are also a good option for children, which use ingredients that are kinder to the skin. While we list a range of sunscreens below, be sure to check out the 5 Best Natural Sunscreens for Kids and Babies.

Best Sunscreens for Children and Babies

For more tips for taking kids to Tonga, see 10 Health and Safety Tips for Travelling in Tonga With Kids.

High SPF Sunscreens for Tonga

In Tonga, SPF 30 sunscreen is recommended as a minimum, offering around 97% protection from UVB rays if applied correctly. However, you can up the anty on sunscreen by getting SPF 50 or even SPF 70, for extra protection. However, note that the difference in protection between SPF 30 and 50 is a mere 1%. Nevertheless, the higher you go, generally, the better protection, which is especially important for kids.

Best High-Factor Sunscreens

Easy-to-Apply Sunscreens for Tonga

Sunscreen staining your clothes or getting all over your hands when you’re out and about isn’t ideal. With that in mind, we have put together a list of sunscreens that are easier and less messy to apply.

Best Easy-Application Sunscreens

Water-Resistant Sunscreens

Water resistance is almost essential in the specification for a sunscreen for Tonga. In the heat of the tropics, not only can sweat wash away standard sunscreens, but swimming also washes away the sunscreen. With so many amazing water activities to experience in Tonga, you’re going to want to have a sunscreen that stays on your skin in the water. Nevertheless, you will need to keep applying sunscreen after drying off. Note that most water-resistant sunscreens are only resistant for around 80 minutes.

Best Water-Resistant Sunscreens

More About Health and Sunscreens for Tonga

Author

Robin C.

This article was reviewed and published by Robin, the co-founder of Tonga Pocket Guide. He has lived, worked and travelled across 16 different countries before settling in the South Pacific, so he knows a thing or two about planning the perfect trip in this corner of the world. Robin works and consults regularly with the Ministry of Tourism of Tonga. Robin is also the co-founder of several other South Pacific travel guides and is a regular host of webinars with the South Pacific Tourism Organisation.

Contact Robin via our contact page