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Whale Swimming
Our whale season is July to October and Ha’apai is the ideal place to swim with whales. There are fewer boats and the whales like to hang just off the shore where they come back to mate and give birth year upon year in the calm, warm waters, before heading back on their annual trip to Antartica, once their babies are strong enough. We regularly watch them frolicking in the shallow waters in front of Pepa’s in the season.
Mahe has been taking people whale swimming for years, he knows the Ha’apai waters like the back of his hand and loves to see the joy on peoples faces as they embark on one of the most awe inspiring journeys of their life. Swimming with whales is simply magnificent, we are so incredibly lucky to have the opportunity to enter the world of these gentle giants. It is such a privilege to be able to share this with others.
Our guides are fully trained and will ensure you are comfortable in the water so you get the best experience. Respect of the whales is of utmost importance, we usually find that when simple rules are obeyed we have the most incredible interactions.
Our whale trips are 5 hours including lunch and we can provide you with snorkel, mask and wetsuit if you wish.
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Kayaks and Paddle boards
What better way to explore the ocean than a sunset paddle board, or maybe an early morning kayak around the island.
For the more adventurous folks have you may want to pack up some snacks/ lunch and head on over to another island; we have plenty around. If you’re lucky, you might even get to have a snorkel with some manta rays en route.
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Volleyball / Badmington
For those that are interested we have volleyball and badminton equipment available. We like to encourage wellbeing and team sports are fun, so please do get involved and let us know if you are keen.
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Snorkelling/ free diving
Ha’apai is especially good for snorkelling from shore due to it being an idyllic scattering of sandy islands. Uoleva is no exception to this; there are plenty of reefs to explore around the island where you can find amazing coral seascapes and a variety of tropical fish.
Boat tours can take you to untouched outer reefs and bommies that you can’t otherwise reach It’s not uncommon to see turtles, manta rays, dolphins or sharks on these trips.
Explore the underwater world and practice your free diving skills as you get up close and personal…
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Fishing
Mahe is a keen fisherman- it’s a part of life in Ha’apai! Spear fishing, line fishing or trawling; we like it fresh! Please enquire about fishing trips if you’re interested.
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Exploring the Island
Uoleva is an incredible island and well worth exploring. There are ancient stone mounds to discover and several forest trails throughout the island.
It takes about 3 hours to walk around the island and you may not see another soul during that time.
You will be blown away by the beauty so be sure not to forget your camera; a picnic is also a good idea (our kitchen can provide this if you ask in advance).
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Deserted Island Castaway
We can arrange to drop you off for a private picnic on an uninhabited secluded island with the option to camp overnight if requested.
You could also rise to the challenge and fend for yourself. We can provide you with a bush knife and fishing rod. Rise to the challenge and see if you can truly live off the land?!
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Kava
Tongan kava ceremonies play an integral part of Tongan society and governance. They range in formality, from informal ‘faikava’ or kava ‘parties’ to highly ritualised ceremonies.
Their cultural importance includes strengthening cultural values and principles, while solidifying traditional ideals of duty, reaffirming societal structures, and preserving traditional Tongan culture.
If interested we can arrange for you to try some of the local Kava.
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Bring a Group
We can accommodate groups and provide food and activities or you can provide your own. We have a large restaurant and kitchen, sports equipment, boats, campfire and incredible private setting on a beautiful beach.
We welcome all types of groups, retreats, work training, or maybe some art and music classes. Why not?!