Vava'u

travel wonder in Tonga in Polynesia

Why Vava'u
in Tonga is special

The Vava'u island group is among the world's finest locales in two distinct categories: Yachting and whale watching. And, you can do both at the same time (see photo)

Tips & insights

on Vava'u in Tonga

Yachting is superb because the tradewinds in Tonga are suitably strong. And sailors relish navigating between the many small tropical islands surrounding the main island Vava'u (which gave the island group its name).

Whale watching is excellent because humpbacks migrate in large numbers from Antarctica to Vava'u in Polynesia to give birth and rear their offspring in the area's sheltered waters. Some boat tours let you swim with the whales.

Yachting and whale watching is very seasonal - from June to October.

From December to April the visitor count in Vava'u significantly dwindles because sea breezes die down and the whales have left.

Other water-based activities include snorkeling and diving in the crystal-clear lagoons (underwater visibility averages 25 to 30 meters or 80 to 100 feet).

Game fishing is also popular, as is sea-kayaking.

If you are not into water sports, you can take leisurely day cruises to explore uninhabited offshore islands that are delights to swimmers, sunbathers and beachcombers.

The main harbor of Vava'u in Tonga offers remarkably safe anchorage. It is separated from the open sea by a maze of natural channels.

As collectors knows, Tonga issues striking postage stamps. One series is die cut into the shape of a banana. 

Vava'u nearly kisses the international date line, so it's among the first spots on earth to welcome each new day, year and millennium.

View my other gold,

silver & bronze medal

winners in Polynesia

Each Hillman Wonder has its own web page, with candid tips and insights:

I hope your Polynesia travel dreams come true - and that my

vava'u page helps you enjoy your Tonga vacation, tour or trip

©2008 HQP / Hillman Quality Publications