Tongatapu

TONGATAPU is the main island in the Kingdom of Tonga and for most holiday travellers is the point of arrival. One can find a variety of accommodation on the island, either in the laid-back capital of Nuku'alofa or on the beaches to the east, south and west. The Fua'amotu International Airport is no more than about 30 minutes from any point on Tongatapu so it is easy to get around.

The capital of Nuku'alofa is located on the waterfront on the north side of the island and offers all kinds of places to stay, including backpacker guest houses, self-catering units suitable for budget travellers and families, hotels, and boutique accommodation lodges. Resorts are mainly found on beaches outside of Nuku'alofa, or on small offshore islands that can be reached by ferry transfer in about 20-35 minutes.

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Tongatapu Accommodation:

• Nanisi's Place (Nuku'alofa)
• Heilala Holiday Lodge (Nuku'alofa - moving to western beaches in 2010)
• Blue Banana Beach Houses (western beaches)
• ’Otuhaka Beach Resort (western beaches)
• Royal Sunset Island Resort (Atata Island)

Things to see and do on Tongatapu: The main island has a range of sightseeing opportunities. Nuku'alofa is the business and government centre and also the residence of the Royal Family. Don't miss the Royal Palace and the Royal Tombs. Other points of interest elsewhere on the island include the stunning southern coastline, including the Houma blowholes and a natural land bridge at Hufangalupe. To the east there are interesting limestone caves along the coast, as well as historic sites such as Captain Cook's Landing Point, ancient terraced tombs and a mysterious stone trilithon (similar to Stonehenge). The western beaches at Kanokupolu offer the largest amount of beachfront accommodation on Tongatapu. Guided day tours around the island are possible, or consider exploring by bicycle, bus or hire vehicle. From Nuku'alofa day trips are possible to three of the small nearby islands of Atata (Royal Sunset Island Resort), the upmarket Fafa Island Resort and Pangaimotu Island Resort. If you have time, also consider taking the ferry to 'Eua, a large island to the east and geologically much older than any of the other Tongan islands. There is guesthouse and fale accommodation and a National Park for hiking.

Tongatapu has much to offer those who visit its shores.