Unique Swimming Spots in Tonga
We don’t need to tell you about the amazing beaches to swim from in Tonga – there are plenty of those! However, if you’re looking for a unique swimming hole, then we’ve put together some ideas we think you’ll love, from natural pools in limestone caves to stunning crystal-clear freshwater springs. Note that with no rivers in Tonga (just some creeks in ‘Eua and Niuatoputapu), freshwater swimming holes are pretty hard to come by, so that’s why the offering is a little limited.
The 10 Best Swimming Beaches in Tonga
Before we dive into our favourite swimming holes, here are just a few of Tonga’s amazing beaches that are ideal for swimming.
- Ha’atafu Beach, Tongatapu
- ‘Ufilei Beach, ‘Eua
- Ha’aluma Beach, ‘Eua
- Houmale’eia Beach, Ha’apai
- ‘Ene’io Beach, Vava’u
- ‘Otua Lea Beach, Vava’u
- Uoleva Island Beach, Ha’apai
- Katea Beach, Tongatapu
- Tali e Hau Beach, Vava’u
- Pangaimotu Island Beach, Tongatapu
Check out more beaches in the 20 Stunning Beaches in Tonga.
(c) tongapocketguide.com‘Anahulu Cave
Island Group: Tongatapu
How to Get There: Self-drive to cave signposted from Haveluliku village, east coast of Tongatapu. Alternatively, take a tour with Teta Tours & Travel.
A dramatic limestone cave with dangling stalactites and other formations, ‘Anahulu Cave is Tongatapu’s only freshwater pool. Being located on the main island of Tonga, it’s the most-visited swimming hole in this guide, but it’s not uncommon to find the whole cave to yourself.
The caves are lit up with artificial lighting, while a well-formed path leads you through the cave to the pool. The main pool is around 8 m (26 ft) deep. There are also other pools you can swim into but these are best found with a guide.
Note that there is a small entrance fee to the caves.
© TongaPocketGuide.comVeimumuni Cave
Island Group: Vava’u
How to Get There: Self-drive to cave signposted from Toula village, ‘Utu Vava’u.
A lesser-known freshwater cave pool in Tonga, Veimumuni Cave can be found in the island group of Vava’u. It’s not known where the mysterious freshwater of this cave comes from but has been used for centuries for bathing by the locals only up until just over 30 years ago.
Nowadays, those feeling brave enough to swim in this brackish cave pool have the chance to get a refreshing dip. The pool is not too deep with a maximum depth of only 2 m (6 ft).
There is no entrance fee to visit this cave.
(c) Eunice PongipongiHihifo Freshwater Spring
Island Group: The Niuas
How to Get There: Flights to Niuatoputapu depart from Vava’u once a week. Find the pool in the village of Hihifo, west coast of Niuatoputapu.
And one stunning swimming hole that you’ll admittedly have more of a hard time getting to, the Hihifo Freshwater Spring is a crystal clear spring seemingly cracking the land on the remote island of Niuatoputapu.
Niuatoputapu is one of the three islands found in The Niuas island group, usually only visited by yachties or the most adventurous travellers. Hihifo is the main village of Niuatoputapu, where you’ll find the freshwater spring. There are steps leading down into the pool for easy access for swimming. A lot of locals like to swim here too, so it’s recommended that you swim in shorts and a T-shirt to respect local customs.
Learn more about The Niuas in The Complete Travel Guide to The Niuas.
More Swimming Holes in Tonga
That’s it for the best swimming holes in Tonga. For more amazing water experiences, take a look at the following guides:
Finally, inspire yourself with more experiences with the 101 Best Things to Do in Tonga: The Ultimate List. Plus, get even more tips in The Complete Travel Guide to Tonga.
