Encompassing Tonga’s northern tip, Vava’u comprises a collection of around 50 islands that boast crystal-clear waters and some of the most striking wildlife anywhere in the country.

Between June and November, humpback whales gather around Vava’u’s shores. It is during this time that visitors have a rare chance to witness these bulky behemoths up close. For the plucky of whom, a few boat tours offer an opportunity to swim side by side with the whales, as if they were a part of their pack.

For those eager to explore more, the archipelago is teeming with marine life, making it a prime destination for snorkeling and diving. Rent a yacht and explore the ample reefs, where aquatic critters swim their way across the coral colonies.

Located on Tongatapu Island, Nuku’alofa is the largest city and capital of Tonga. While it may appear unremarkable at first glance, the city offers an interesting blend of modern urban life mixed with authentic Polynesian elements. The town’s scenic waterfront is an ideal place to gaze at the ocean, with eateries serving traditional food lined along the way.

Dominating the unassuming skyline is the Royal Palace, a striking red-and-white structure inspired by Tonga’s flag. Though closed to the public, it remains a focal point for ceremonies and can be admired from a distance.

Be sure to visit Talamahu Market, where fresh produce, seafood, and traditional Tongan crafts come together in a bustling local atmosphere.

The oldest island in Tonga, ‘Eua is covered almost entirely by rainforest and is linked to Nuku’alofa by a brief 6-7 minute flight – among the world’s shortest commercial flights.

Formed by tectonic forces rather than coral, ‘Eua features a mountainous terrain dotted with a couple of cliffs. While the island is accessible for hikers, it’s best to enlist a local guide for the more challenging routes.

A highlight of ‘Eua is Li’angahuo ‘a Maui, an eye-catching natural limestone arch that perfectly frames the vast expanse of the Pacific.

With an obesity rate surpassing 90%, Tonga is a nation of food-lovers, where many cultural traditions are centered around large, communal feasts. These gatherings, held frequently across the islands, serve to strengthen community bonds through shared meals.

At the heart of any Tongan feast is the suckling pig, roasted to perfection with crispy skin and juicy meat, alongside an assortment of tropical fruits, seafood dishes flavored with coconut, and banana leaf-wrapped meats cooked in the ground.

Traditional music and dance performances are integral to these events, providing a cultural backdrop to the hearty meals. Tourists can often experience these feasts at hotels, where inquiries about prices and schedules are encouraged.

Nestled between Tongatapu to the south and Vava’u to the north, Ha’apai is an archipelago of 51 islands, 20 of which are inhabited. Most of these islands are atolls, home to some of Tonga’s finest beaches, known for their soft, powdery sand.

Among Ha’apai’s most remote islands is Luahoko, nicknamed Robinson Crusoe Island for its isolation. With just a few bungalows, it offers travelers a peaceful retreat, where the only interruptions are the chirping of birds and the gentle lapping of waves.

Another adventure to consider is an excursion to Tofua, a volcanic island crowned by a caldera. Some agencies offer boat trips and guided hikes, leading to a steep ascent and rewarding views from the volcano’s summit.

Christianity is deeply embedded in Tongan life, with nearly 98% of the population adhering to the faith. This strong Christian identity is evident not only in the number of believers but also in their devout Sunday traditions, which the whole nation observes.

The saying goes that Tongans dedicate Sundays to lotu, kai, and mohe – church, food, and rest. Indeed, Tonga essentially shuts down, creating a quiet and almost eerie “ghost town” effect.

While this may seem intimidating at first, it offers an unusual opportunity to witness an authentic aspect of Tongan culture. Visitors can take this time to attend a church service and experience the spiritual side of island life.

Do bear in mind, though, that apart from private lodges, most businesses, restaurants, and even the airport remain closed on Sundays. Working on this day is prohibited by law, so only essential services like the police and hospitals operate.

Activities like loud music, sports, and anything that breaks the peaceful vibe are also off-limits, so it’s best to embrace the quiet and enjoy the calm.

Many visitors to Tonga may assume the country’s most remarkable landmarks are all natural. While this isn’t entirely unreasonable, it’s also not true. A perfect example of an impressive man-made monument is the Ha’amonga ‘a Maui.

Ensconced near the village of Niutōua in northern Tongatapu, where the ancient capital Heketā once stood, Ha’amonga ‘a Maui is a trilithon that comprises three large slabs of coral stone.

There is an ongoing debate about the structure’s original purpose. Some scholars suggest it served as a gateway to the royal complex, while others propose it was used as a star observatory. The former theory seems more plausible, given that a large stone throne, thought to belong to the king, is positioned nearby.

What makes this site particularly intriguing is its affinity to the ancient kingdom that was the precursor of modern-day Tonga. Despite its historical significance, this monument is often overlooked, falling prey to the common misconception that the Pacific is a primitive and undeveloped region.