Swim with Humpback Whales in Ha'apai
Haʻapai whale swim
From July to October, humpback whales come to Ha'apai to breed and raise their calves. Licensed boat operators take you into the water to swim alongside whale mothers and calves in the clear sea.
Tonga is one of the few countries in the world that allows swimming with humpback whales. The waters of Ha'apai are open and have few boats, making it quieter than Vava'u. Each year from July to October, humpback whales from the South Pacific come here to mate and give birth. Boat operators search for resting mothers and calves. Each trip takes at most four guests and one guide into the water, and distance rules must be observed. Touching the whales is not allowed. A full-day trip usually includes lunch and snorkeling and is quite expensive, costing several hundred pa'anga. Bookings for peak season should be made in advance. Trips are canceled when seas are rough, so allow extra flexible days in your itinerary, and those prone to seasickness should take medication beforehand.
Opening hours
Daily whale-watching boat trips during whale season (weather permitting)
Nearby sights
- Uoleva Island
- Velata Mound Fortress
- Shirley Baker Monument
- Lifuka Island by Bicycle
- Pangai
- ʻUiha Island
- Foa Island & Houmale'eia Beach
- Haʻano Island