Vava’u vibrates with activity from June to November
when its waters fill with sails and humpback whales.
The annual migration brings hundreds of whales to feed and give birth in the warm waters of the archipelago. For five months they frolic with their newborn calves along the north-eastern coast line.
While the humpbacks inhabit Tongan waters seasonally, there is great sport fishing at all times of the year. Abundant marlin, tuna, wahoo and mahi-mahi are found throughout the Vava’u archipelago.
Vava’u reflects natural beauty and an aura of
tranquillity. Between jungle hillsides and opaque
lagoons are limitless choices for exploration,
snorkeling, diving, fishing - or just lying on an empty beach. Gentle trade winds, warm seas, lush
vegetation and long stretches of white sand
complete the vision of “Paradise Found”.
The main island of Uta Vava’u is the centre piece of this archipelago. Over sixty picturesque islands cover 288 square miles lying northeast of Tongatapu (Tonga’s main island) and due south of Samoa. Much of the archipelago features deep seaways that wind, like fjords, between protected harbours. Some of these contain small resorts and local villages where visitors are welcome and respected. See map.
Neiafu, capital city of the Vava’u group, is a quaint seaside town. Its wandering streets are dotted with weathered colonial buildings mingled with new construction for commerce. A large open market offers fresh fish, produce and handicrafts. At night the waterfront comes alive with music and laughter. Then, on Sunday, Neiafu evolves into a quiet community of churches.