Nuku'alofa

Introduction

Old palace of king

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Tonga's capital, Nuku'alofo (Tongan for Abode of Love), is a sprawling town of some 30,000 inhabitants, roughly a third of Tonga's population. The town's highlight is the old Royal Palace which, although not open to the public, can easily be seen from the waterfront.

Sights and Activities

• The Tongan Royal Palace is a colonial style building dating back to the late 19th century.
• Talamahu market

Events and Festivals

• The Heilala Festival is held in the first week of July and on July 12, the King's birthday.
• Easter Festival

Weather

Nuku'alofa has pleasantly warm but humid tropical climate. Daytime temperatures are around 30 degrees Celsius while night are still wel above 20 degrees Celsius. The wet season lasts from November to April while the period from May to October sees less rain and more sun. Still, some heavy showers are possible during this time but it is the best time to visit Nuku'alofa if you want to avoid most of the rainy days.

Getting There

By Plane

Fua'amotu International Airport (TBU) is located 35 km out of Nuku'alofa on the the southern coast of Tongatapu Island.

Air New Zealand is the main airline with connections from New Zealand, Australia, Samoa and Los Angeles. Air Pacific offer services from Nadi and Suva in Fiji (and to many other international locations via Fiji). Pacific Blue have flights from Australia and New Zealand.

Domestic flights are offered by Peau Vava'u (to Ha'apai and Vava'u) and Airlines Tonga (to Eua, Ha'apai, Nuiafo'ou, Nuiatoputapu and Vava'u)

A taxi into town will cost roughly T$25. Unfortunately there is no public transport, but guesthouses and resorts usually offer meet and greet services on request.

Sleep

Budget

• Moana Beach Lodge

Mid-Range

• International Dateline Hotel the town's largest hotel
• Waterfront Lodge
• Lagoon Lodge is an apartment complex

Keep Connected

Phone

See also International Telephone Calls