Where to Surf in Tonga
Some 170 islands scattered across the world’s largest ocean, Tonga provides adventurous surfing. Clear warm waters bring idyllic surfing all year round, with powerful southerly swells in winter and North Pacific swells coming from the north in summer. While the surf scene is only beginning to be established in the Kingdom of Tonga, those in the know can find unmatched and uncrowded breaks. Almost all of Tonga’s surf breaks are reef breaks, either requiring a paddle or a boat to get to, but those willing to make the journey can’t help but be amazed by the epic rides awaiting across the pristine ocean. So where exactly can you surf in Tonga? Here’s a list of some of the best places to surf in Tonga.
While you’re here, don’t forget to open The Complete Guide to Surfing in Tonga in a new tab for your complete bible to the Tonga surf scene.
1. Ha’atafu Beach, Tongatapu
One of the most effortless surf spots in Tonga, Ha’atafu Beach offers surfing just a 100 m (330 ft) paddle away from shore. Home to some of Tonga’s top surf breaks, like Motels, Kamikaze’s, The Peak, Fishtraps and more – check out the 10 Surf Breaks in Tongatapu – the attractive beach sits along the northwestern tip of the island, just a 30-minute drive from most accommodations in Nuku’alofa.
(c) Tonga Ministry of Tourism2. Kanokupolu Beach, Tongatapu
Practically joined to Ha’atafu Beach, Kanokupolu Beach provides more awesome surf breaks, such as Pass Lefts, Pass Rights and Leftovers, ideal for beginners and intermediates after a paddle across a lagoon (and if the swell isn’t too big). Although all of the resorts here were destroyed in the 2022 tsunami, the beach on Tongatapu still provides pumping surf even if it’s now from a more deserted stretch of sand.
© TongaPocketGuide.com3. Houmale’eia Beach, Ha’apai
Just about the only beach break you’ll find in Tonga, Houmale’eia Beach is located at the northern tip of Foa Island in the Ha’apai Group. The beach is backed by Matafonua Lodge, which offers surfboard, SUP and kayak hire to make the most of the easygoing waves here. This is an ideal place to surf with children or just enjoy playing around without taking yourself too seriously.
© Tonga Ministry of Tourism - Matafonua Lodge4. Ovaka Island, Vava’u
Something for the real adventure surfers, the remaining places to surf in Tonga can be found in the island group of Vava’u. All of Vava’u’s surf spots and reef breaks are best tackled by intermediate to advanced surfers looking for a remote adventure. Ovaka Island in Vava’u has three surf breaks off its shores, best accessed by boat, including Tommas, Middles and Pass. Find out more about the best conditions to surf them in with the 10 Surf Breaks in Vava’u.
(c) Pexels5. Taula Island, Vava’u
While there are many more remote surf breaks in Vava’u, you’ll find a whole cluster of options near Taula Island in the southern reaches of the island group. Needless to say, you’ll need a resort’s boat or your own yacht to reach these reef breaks, including Taula Left, Bowling Left, Peaking and Oh Right. Learn more about organising a surf escape to Vava’u in The Complete Guide to Surfing in Tonga.
© PexelsMore About the Best Places to Surf in Tonga
That’s it for our list of the best places to surf in Tonga. For more essential surf tips for The Kingdom, check out the following guides:
- The Best Time to Surf in Tonga
- 10 Surf Tips for Your First Time Surfing in Tonga
- The Guide to Kitesurfing in Tonga
Finally, if there’s anything we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in The Complete Guide to Surfing in Tonga.
