Tongatapu

The island of Tongatapu means “Sacred South” This is the largest island in Tonga and where 2/3rds of the population reside. Most of the places of interest on a Tonga vacation are outside of the capital Nuku’alofa which is the first port of call for visitors arriving in Tonga. Tongatapu is filled with sleepy villages, many churches and scores of plantations of coconuts, pumpkins and root crops.

The South Pacific’s version of Stonehenge is “Ha’amonga’a Maui”, named after the Polynesian god, Maui and dates back to the 13 century with its mysterious pyramid-like tombs. Another place to experience tombs on Tonga vacation is Mu’a which was the ancient capital of Tonga. The tombs belong to a long line of Tongan kings. Then there is the Tonga National Cultural Centre, an exhibition of the kingdom’s history with cultural performances.

For nature lovers, view the blowholes which spurt out of rocky pools in sandy coves or see the Flying Foxes, the fascinating fruit bat. One can travel to the west of the island and find surfing opportunities and beach resorts on a Tonga vacation.