Tonga Vava'u etc

Hi all,

I have just taken the last few days to read thru the many entries relating to Tonga and its surrounding islands on this site. There is so much usefull information on these entries and so many helpful people contributing. Its the best information ive ever seen on a tourist destination and the friendly banter a delight to read.

I am keen to do some whale swims and would like to know the names (and if possible) prices and contact details for people organising whale swims and what islands they operate from.

I only have a fortnight to spend in the region and would like some suggestions as to how to divide up the two weeks. We would like to participate in some activities, visit villages, attend cultural celebrations, hire a scooter to get around for a few days and spend some time swimming and snorkelling as well as relaxing on a beautiful beach or two.

Any suggestions would be very much appreciated and keep up the great work in keeping this site interesting, informative and current. Sandy

It would help if you let us know when you are coming to Tonga.

I personally would spend 5 days in Vava'u, 5 days in Ha'apai, and the rest in Tongatapu, because I really enjoy difference of all these groups.

The only problem is that I cannot think of any big cultural celebrations at the moment. Gosh, in Nuku'alofa, I'm so busy attending funerals!!! If you are interested in attending Tongan funerals, and someone's funeral happens when you are visiting Nuku'alofa, I will take you along with me! I have just taken two tourists to one.

No scooter hire in Tongatapu. Car rental is about T$50 per day.

Definately Vava'u for whale swim. Definately Ha'apai for relaxing on beautiful beaches. Just because I live in Nuku'alofa, all cultural activities I'm involved in take place in Tongatapu.

Cheers,

Well, I recommend Ha'apai Foa island, Matafonua lodge for acommodation, nearby Happy Ha'apai divers for swimming with whales, beautiful coral reefs snorkeling and as for picturesque beaches - you'll find no better as on Foa island. Endless sandy beaches, good snorkeling just few meters from the shore, pure joy and relaxation. If you're not on strict budget, I recommend above mentioned from our experience.

The sites for prices are under names I mentioned. Matafonua lodge (Sally and Dave). Happy Ha'apai divers (Glenn).

At Tongatapu, seek for Nerima lodge. The hostess is very creative and hyperactive lady, who will take you just about everywhere. No scooter needed. No car either. She had her lodge near the city centre, but that's just one of the advantages you're about to have.

I think I repeat myself too much, but that's what we experienced. And we could not have chosen better.

In terms of Whale Watching they are all small places and you'll soon learn who's operating/who's not and be able to talk to people who've been lately.

I hope you're taking your own snorkeling gear I always do.

Scooter hire on Vava'u is easy but not cheap-just one person per bike means double the price!

I haven't been to Ha'apai, but I'd spend maybe 5 days on Vavau, and 4 or 5 on Tongatapu, rest on Ha'apai sounds like a good mix. The town on Vavau is tiny, you'll find out who is doing the whale watching that week just by asking around after arrival, as Copperspoon suggested. Have fun!

I agree with copperspoon about snorkeling gear - bring your own one. We've not been at Vava'u so I cannot suggest any whale watching operator. I'm sure though you'll find out soon upon arrival who's doing it. Compare the prices and service. Hopefully someone on that forum can suggest some operators, based upon their own experience.

And yes - have fun!

Two operators we used in Vavau were Whalesong and Whale Watch Vavau.
Whalesong was a larger boat and their trip included a BBQ lunch.
WWV was a smaller boat, lunch was not provided.
Personally we preferred WWV as we did not like the hoards of people on Whalesong.
You also have a better chance of getting in the water with a small boat because the larger boats will only let out a certain number of people at a time. So you could miss your opportunity.