Tongatapu treasures: Shore Excursion

Friends Cafe is a popular meeting place for visitors and locals in the capital Nuku'alofa and is just a short 5-minute walk from your cruise ship. There you will find a table reserved just for you!

Enjoy a complimentary tea or coffee while you meet your awesome guide Robbie (aka Lopeti) and other travellers before heading to your comfortable, air conditioned van to explore the the beauty of Tonga coast to coast.

Experience the heart of Tongan culture at Fehoko Art Studio in a hands-on, three-hour workshop! Get ready to dive into the traditional art of tapa-making, where you'll create your very own unique souvenirs like tapa-covered notebooks, floral sei (ear flowers), and even dolls or angels. Each piece tells a story and connects you to centuries of Tongan craftsmanship.

But that's not all – before the creative session begins, the team will kick things off with an umu demonstration, showing you how to prepare a traditional Tongan feast cooked in a hot-rock oven.

And the best part? You’ll be savoring this delicious meal for lunch!

It’s the perfect blend of culture, creativity, and a true taste of Tonga.

Prepare to be intrigued by the enigmatic Ha’aomga A’Maui, boasting three mammoth 40-ton coral limestone slabs steeped in centuries-old legend. Believed to function as a seasonal calendar, this trilithon is said to have marked the solstices and equinoxes by aligning with the position of the sunrise, akin to a Polynesian rendition of the renowned Stonehenge.

While you'll have the opportunity to approach and photograph this ancient wonder, we kindly ask our guests to respect its cultural significance and refrain from climbing atop the structure.

Facilities at this stop include restrooms and a selection of local vendors offering traditional crafts and trinkets.

Experience the awe-inspiring natural wonder of the Mapu a Vaea Blowholes, known locally as the "Whistle of the Noble." Located on the southern coast of Tongatapu near the village of Houma, this 5-kilometer stretch of volcanic rock features nearly a hundred spectacular blowholes. When waves crash into the reef, they force water through natural channels in the rock, creating impressive plumes that can reach up to 30 meters high.

The blowholes produce a unique and mesmerizing sound, often referred to as the "Chief's Whistle," due to the whistling noise made by the air and water being expelled through the rock. This natural symphony, combined with the visual spectacle of the water jets, creates a magical and unforgettable experience.

Visitors will be captivated by the sheer power and beauty of the blowholes, making it a must-see attraction in Tonga. The site is easily accessible by motor vehicle and offers a carpark at the entrance, ensuring a convenient visit.

Whether you're a nature lover, photography enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique and captivating experience, the Mapu a Vaea Blowholes are a perfect destination. Be sure to bring your camera for some incredible photos and enjoy the stunning coastal scenery that surrounds this natural marvel

Return to Friends Cafe by 4:15pm