‘Atata

Tongatapu


‘Atata, 10km from Tongatapu, has beaut beaches and a little island village to wander through. Snorkelling, diving and fishing are near-essential. There is a resort here, but day trips are the best bet for visitors, including lunch and a snorkelling trip. Boats leave Nuku'alofa wharf at 10am, returning 4pm (20 minutes; Sunday too!).


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Tongatapu attractions

1. Abel Tasman Monument

4.52 MILES

At the northwestern tip of Tongatapu is a modest monument commemorating Dutchman Abel Tasman's 'discovery' of Tongatapu in 1643. He was on his way back to…

2. Ha’atafu Beach

5.03 MILES

On the sunset side of the island, Ha’atafu Beach is a sandy slice protected by a reef, where some of Tonga's best surf peels in (experienced surfers only…

3. Centenary Chapel

6.41 MILES

Royal watchers and rubberneckers (regardless of denomination) head to this towering white church for a glimpse of Tonga's royal family at Sunday service,…

4. Royal Palace

6.42 MILES

Encircled by expansive lawns and casuarina trees, the white weatherboard Victorian-style Royal Palace, erected in 1867, is the pinnacle of Tongan grandeur…

5. Royal Tombs

6.59 MILES

Mala’ekula, the large parklike area opposite the basilica, has been the resting place of the royals since 1893. The statue-studded white concrete tomb…

6. Talamahu Market

6.67 MILES

Want to see the real of Nuku’alofa? Wander through the aisles at Talamahu, Tonga's main fresh-produce hub. You’ll find produce piled into handmade woven…

7. Basilica of St Anthony of Padua

6.7 MILES

Nuku'alofa's most distinctive structure is the Basilica of St Anthony of Padua, opposite the Royal Tombs. It has a beautiful interior of stained glass,…

8. Fafá

6.72 MILES

Honeymooners, start your engines! Fronting onto a magnificent beach, Fafá Island Resort is the most elegant on Tongatapu’s offshore islands, but it makes…