Tourism in Tonga, 10 Reasons to Visit Tonga. Tonga, or the Tonga Kingdom, also known as the Friendly Islands. With the 176 islands to explore in Tonga and the island to visit in the Kingdom of Tonga, it is a bit difficult to choose and we chose the most beautiful and the most preferred ones for you. In 2017 47,000 tourists visited the country.
There are only 40 residential settlements in Tonga. Imagine yourself in one of the deserted islands, away from the turmoil of the world, away from the noise and people; Here are 10 reasons to go to Tonga.
1. Vavaʻu
Vava’u is a team in Tonga with an area of 138 km². This island can be preferred especially for exploring underwater wildlife. Also visit the beaches here and snorkel and visit the bright reefs. Of course, we should not forget the caves with great views. It is one of the most beautiful places in the country.
2. Tongatapu
Tongatapu, on the north of the island, is the largest and most popular island of the country with an area of 260,5 km². It is even known as the main island of the country. For this reason, many natural beauty and tourist attractions are located on this island. The island has managed to attract people here with its spectacular beaches, untouched nature and breathtaking scenery.
3. Pangaimotu
You can reach Pangaimotu Island by a boat tour of Tongapatu main island in only 10 minutes. Here you can have a great day on the pristine beaches. There are even places to stay here. You can also snorkel on coral reefs and dive right into the shipwrecks. It is one of the most beautiful islands in the country.
4. Nuku’alofa
Located on the northern coast of Tongatapu Island, Nuku’alofa is the capital of Tonga and the largest city in the country with approximately 22 thousand inhabitants. There are many sights to visit and see here. Especially the historical buildings which are located in the city are quite striking. Come here and visit these things, inhale the city’s air, taste the local delicacies, try your colorful nightlife. Because the city is officially dying on Sunday.
5. Ha’atafu Beach
Located in the main island of Tongapatu, Ha’atafu Beach is a popular beach that must be seen and alive. When you come here you will first witness white sand and beautiful turquoise waters. Of course you should not forget the breathtaking scenery. Here you can surrender yourself to the ocean water and swim. You can then relax in fine sand and enjoy the sun. Together with the sunset, you can add color to the fun at night.
6. Talamahu Market
Talamahu Market, in Tonga’s capital city Nuku’alofa, is an important market area. You can find here, local vegetable, fruit, food and handmade souvenirs.
7. Abel Tasman Monument
At the northwest end of Tongatapu, Abel Tasman Monument is a building built in 1643 by Dutch Abel Tasman. This structure is one of the most important symbols of the country. Dutchman Abel Tasman discovered the island of Tongatapu. For this reason it is a very popular monument.
8. Mount Talau
The Mount Talau National Park in the name of Vava’u is a park established in 1995 to protect the local rainforest. There are many animals and plants in this park. You can come here and visit these creatures in their natural habitat.
9. St. Joseph Cathedral
In Vava’u, St. Joseph Cathedral is one of the important religious structures of the country you absolutely must visit. After visiting this cathedral on a hill above the Port of Refuge, follow the breathtaking view of the island on the hill where you can take great pictures of the island.
10. ʻEneʻio Botanical Garden
Approximately 10 minutes away from Neiafu,’Ene’io Botanical Garden is a botanical garden on a field of 22 acres. This garden is the first plant garden to open in the country. For this reason, it is special and meaningful. You can come here and discover a lot of new plant-specific plants. The garden has a wonderful landscape of its own.
