'Eua Island
ʻEua
A highland island southeast of Tongatapu with rainforest, sea cliffs, caves and sinkholes. It is Tonga's best hiking destination, and whales can be seen from the clifftops in season.
ʻEua is one of Tonga's oldest islands, and its terrain rises steeply. The east coast has sea cliffs 120 meters high. The island features rainforest trails in ʻEua National Park, the Lakufa'anga clifftop lookout, natural stone arches, caves, and the 'Rat Hole' sinkhole. In whale season, you can watch humpback mothers and calves from the clifftops. From Nukuʻalofa, a ferry takes about 2 to 2.5 hours, though the ride can be rough in poor sea conditions. Alternatively, a small plane takes about 10 minutes. Plan to stay one to two nights, and book guided hikes in advance.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Oholei Beach & Hina Cave
- 'Anahulu Cave
- Ha'amonga 'a Maui Trilithon
- Captain Cook's Landing Place
- Langi Royal Tombs, Lapaha
- Hufangalupe Arch
- Pangaimotu Island
- Keleti Beach