Local information

About Tonga

Tonga, officially Kingdom of Tonga, Tongan Fakatuʿi ʿo Tonga, also called Friendly Islands, country in the southwestern Pacific Ocean. It consists of some 170 islands divided into three main island groups: Tongatapu in the south, Haʿapai in the centre, and Vavaʿu in the north. Isolated islands include Niuafoʿou, Niuatoputapu, and Tafahi (together known as the Niuatoputapu, or Niuas, island group) in the far north and ʿAta in the far south.

View our location on a map here.

Pangai - our local township on Lifuka Island

There is a post office, a bookshop and a few shops for limited provisions. Bicycles are free for our guests staying at Ha’apai Beach Resort and taxis are available. Current (one way) fares are T$10 to the airport.

Getting here

Local currency and cash

The official currency of Tonga is the paʻanga. There is an ATM in Ha'apai or you can get cash using Traveller Cheques or Credit Card at the local Bank from 9am to 4pm, you will need your passport for identification. Please check with your bank that your cards will work in Tonga!

Medical services

Ha’apai is a remote island group so remember to bring your own personal medication and anything that you can't do without during your vacation.

Special requirements

If you have special dietary requirements it is advisable to bring these foods with you from overseas. Tongatapu has more variety than Ha’apai however specialty foods or even foods and products that you find easily at home are often not available in Tongatapu either. Eg there is no gluten free bread or products in Tonga.

Travel insurance

As with all remote destinations it is advisable to carry travel insurance. We advise all travellers to have purchased travel insurance.

Local customs and etiquette

Tongans are very friendly and welcoming people. Hello Malo e lelei’ may often be accompanied by a prolonged handshake and a smile.

Sunday is strictly a day of rest with no flights or charters available so make your vacation plans to include Sunday at church, resting on the beach, laying in a hammock or enjoying a cold beverage from the bar at Ha'apai Beach Resort.