Tongatapu is the main Island of a 175 island archipelago called the Kingdom of Tonga. There are restaurants, bars, night clubs, shops and the Talamahau market. Some of the most spectacular blowholes in the South Pacific can be found along the terraced coastline of south west Tongatapu. The Blowholes of Tongatapu are one of the most renowned tourist attractions in Tonga.

In Houma, just 15 km from Tonga’s capital Nuku’alofa, the Mapu’a ‘a Vaea blowholes make for a stunningly spectacular natural phenomenon. ‘Vaea’s whistle’ or Mapu a Vaea are the most famous blowholes along the coastline. These islands are not to be missed and snorkeling too is good.

When waves crash into the reef, natural channels in the volcanic rock allow water to forcefully blow through and create a plume-like effect. Up to 30 m high fountain shooting water at high tide from the jagged rocks of the southern coral coast.

Tongatapu is Tonga‘s main island, and the location of the former British protectorate’s capital, Nuku’alofa. The second city of Mu’a is also there, along with most of the commercial activity and grandiose official residence of the king. Nuku’alofa is full of Victorian buildings, churches, old graveyards, bustling markets and a classic Pacific waterfronts. Most of the island’s hotels are there, though this is very mush a shabby working town. Photo by: msdstefan

Indeed, most visitors make Tongatapu a stepping stone to the offshore coral islands of Fafa, Atata and Pangaimotu, which offer excellent beach holidays. Along with a number of other islands in the main lagoon off Nuku’alofa, they are very like the ever popular Manamuca Islands in Fiji, but without the same tourist pressure. Photo by: fabvirge

But Tongatapu itself is not resort island. It is a combination of history and natural beauty. Much of this largely island is covered in plantations, the eastern end is relatively undeveloped, with deserted sandy beaches, coves and caves. The south coast is wild with dramatic scenery and high cliffs, punctuated with sandy coves. Photo by: fangie2000

When to go: Any time – the tropical climate is even all year round and Tongatapu is milder than Fiji or Samoa, with less rainfall. Population: 71,000. Getting there: Various international flights serve the airport at Fu’amotu. Photo by: richkaro

Photo by: forcefeed:swede