Vavau (Neiafu) / Tonga

Northeast of New Zealand, in the southern Pacific Ocean, in the northern part of the Kingdom of Tonga, lies an archipelago of about 40 islands known as Vava'u. On the southern coast of the largest one, Utu Vava'u (the second largest in Tonga), lies Neiafu, with its 6,000 inhabitants, the second largest city in the entire country.

Old Polynesian myths and legends claim that Vava'u was fished out of the sea by the god Maui while fishing in the area. The first Europeans to arrive on the islands were the Spanish in 1781 on their frigate Princesa. From the 1820s, European whaling ships began to flow to the island, replenishing water, food, wood, and sometimes crew, thus stimulating its economy. Today, the main sources of livelihood for the islands are fishing, agriculture (tropical fruits and vanilla thrive here), and tourism.

The important deep-sea port of Neiafu, known as the Port of Refuge, is considered one of the best natural harbors in the entire Pacific. It is also one of the most photogenic in the world, so it is no wonder that it is a favorite destination for sailing enthusiasts and a frequent stop for cruise ships on their voyages through the southern Pacific.

The beautiful waterfront is lined with restaurants and bars where you can taste local delicacies with a view of the sea. The Cathedral of St. Joseph, with its white facade, dates back to colonial times and is definitely worth a short visit.

West of the city rises Mount Talau, a 131-meter high flat peak offering stunning views of the sea. The mountain is protected within the national park of the same name, and it is not far from the port. Those with open eyes can look forward to flying bats and other jungle inhabitants on the forest path towards the summit.

The northern coast of Uta Vava'u is lined with steep cliffs hundreds of meters high, while the southern coast is fragmented into a series of small peninsulas and islands, separated by bays, channels, and inlets. Boat trips to neighboring islands with small fishing villages and other attractions, such as the massive cave on Kapa Island, are popular.

Beneath the surface off the coast of Vava'u lies an extensive coral reef, so it is no wonder that the warm waters of the tropical sea and excellent visibility attract snorkeling and diving. Divers can explore underwater caves, and from May to October, the biggest attraction is the opportunity to swim with humpback whales, which bring their young into the world here. Those who prefer land and its plants should stop by the Ene'io Botanical Garden, the only one in all of Tonga.

The coast of the main and small islands of Vava'u boasts countless beautiful beaches, and the year-round warm climate is ideal for swimming, water sports, or just relaxing with a well-chilled cocktail in hand.

Places Worth Seeing

Mt Talau – Climb to the top of the 131-meter mountain and enjoy the stunning views of the turquoise blue sea.

St. Joseph Cathedral – During the tour of the beautiful cathedral, return to the colonial times when the Spanish arrived on the Polynesian island.

Ene'io Botanical Garden – Enjoy a guided tour of the beautiful botanical garden, the only one in all of Tonga.

Utakalongalu Market – Taste the local fresh produce and buy traditional souvenirs at the small but nice market.

Swallows Cave – Take a boat trip and explore the majestic cave on the nearby island of Kapa.

Keitahi Beach – Spend a pleasant afternoon on the beautiful sandy beach on the shores of the tropical southern Pacific.

Toafa Lookout – Be enchanted by the dramatic limestone cliffs and keep your eyes open – spotting a whale passing by Vava'u is not uncommon.