Hunga Island
Just minutes from the playground of the majestic Humpback Whales lies the naturally beautiful paradise. On a yacht charter to Hunga Island youfll find stunning sandy beaches, a traditional Tongan village offering fine dining and exotic cocktails and one of the most picturesque and secluded anchorages within the Vavafu Islands.
Maninita
Following the spectacular approach on your yacht charter to Maninita, youfll not be disappointed by what you find. Picture perfect white-sand beaches set against rich lush vegetation and superb snorkeling in the many surrounding coral reefs. The Island is also a haven for rare seabirds, which will make any budding ornithologist feel right at home.
Taunga
Known as one of the most beautiful islands within the Vavafu group, the idyllic picture postcard atoll of Taunga, offers its visitors a glimpse of paradise. Glistening stretches of pristine white-sand beaches and colorful coral reefs combine to create the perfect destination for a days exploration or an overnight anchorage.
Vaka'feitu
Just a short hop from Hunga Island lays the picturesque island of Vakafeitu, a pure cruising delight. Here youfll find safe and secluded anchorages set against a stunning backdrop of sandy beaches and lush mountainous forests. A visit to the nearby Blue Lagoon Resort for an exquisite evening meal and a spot of Humpback Whale watching is not to be missed.
Hinakauea Beach
Pangiamotufs beautiful Hinakauea Beach is a short distance from the main island of VavaŒu and famous for its traditional Tongan feasts. One of the South Pacificfs most tantalizing events, a Tongan feast is like no other in the Polynesian islands. The preparations begin long before boaters arrive. Tropical fruits and vegetables, lobster, crabs, chicken, fish, beef, octopus, and other delicacies are gathered. Underground ovens are lined with glowing red coals, and the hot dishes are placed within them to cook slowly. Roasted pigs are turned on spits over open fires. Kava, a mildly intoxicating drink made from the Kava root, flows freely under the light of blazing torches. The food is served on polas, long trays made from plaited coconut fronds. After the feast, traditional Tongan singing and dancing lasts well into the evening.
Hunga Lagoon
On the western shore of Hunga Island, cliffs rise from an azure sea. Between them is a narrow opening about 80 feet wide, and beyond is Hunga Lagoon, a magnificent anchorage thatfs more a tropical lake with sandy beaches. As the yacht swings gently at anchor, itfs hard to imagine a more beautiful location. Ashore is a quaint village that makes for a relaxing stroll, and dinner and cocktails at the Ika Lahi Game Fishing Lodge is a pleasant way to spend an evening. The snorkeling is good all around Hunga and nearby Foeata Island.
Swallows Cave
A heart-shaped opening in the rocky shore at the northwest tip of Kapa Island marks the entrance to a wondrous grotto well worth a visit. Inside are multi-colored stalactites made all the more beautiful as afternoon sunlight beams through a circular gap in the roof of the cave. Hundreds of swifts gather on stony perches, filling the air with song. Beneath the crystal clear water is a display of colorful coral. There is a dry section of the cave as well, which can be explored. Snorkeling in the cave is superb due to the excellent visibility.
Humpback Whales
The waters of Tonga, especially those of the outer islands surrounding VavaŒu, are home to one of the seafs most intriguing creatures, the humpback whale. These baleen whales can grow to 50 feet in length on a steady diet of krill, plankton, and small fish, weighing in at more than 45 tons. Known for their musical calls, the humpbacks arrive in Tonga from Antarctica starting in July to breed and raise their young. They remain until November, when they return to colder climates. According to scientific studies, about 450 humpbacks choose VavaŒu as a breeding ground every year, making them a common sight. Eco-tour operators run snorkeling trips off islands like Foeata and Hunga so people can swim with the whales, an inspiring, fascinating, and unforgettable experience.
