Where are we?
Visit some of Tongas best beachfront
We are located on Uoleva Island, (considered one of the most beautiful islands, not only in Tonga, but also the world). Thanks to its remote location and unspoilt natural beauty, it is home to some the most breathtaking views on earth.
Close your eyes and imagine a remote tropical island. Did you think of palm trees rustling in the sea breeze, sunshine warming your skin, white sandy beaches embracing the coastline, and brilliantly blue water as far was the eye can see? Welcome to Uoleva! You will be swept away by the allure of the island! It’s difficult to ignore the stunning sun and moonsets over the ocean, painting the horizon like a postcard and nowhere in the world will you see a more star studded sky.
On Uoleva there are no branded resorts, no buildings taller than a coconut tree, no roads, no crowds, it’s the perfect place to introduce you to the laid back Polynesian lifestyle.
Please ensure you have 6 months remaining on your passport prior to expiry or you may be refused entry. Most countries are granted a 1-3 month visa on arrival however certain countries require a visa grant prior to arriving. For up to date information contact Tonga immigration department on visatonga@gmail.com (+676) 26969 or 26970.
Visas
The climate in Tonga is considered one of the best in the world but being tropical you can’t always predict it.
May-October are the cooler dryer months when the average temperature ranges from 21-24ºC. During the wet season it averages 25-26º.
Evenings can be chilly so it is advisable that you bring a jumper and a waterproof incase you get caught out.
Climate
Tongans dress conservatively (most swim fully clothed). It is against the law in Tonga to be topless in public (men and women). Please be mindful of this. If you are a traveller staying at tourist accommodation then this law doesn’t apply. At Pepa’s you are free to wear what you want; bikinis and shorts are welcome.
Clothing
As we are off grid, on a remote island we rely totally on solar energy, (we do have a generator for back up should we need it). Tents will have a light with a USB charging socket however we ask that you charge any larger devices in the restaurant during the day. Tonga uses 240V 3 pronged sockets, (Australian and NZ 2 pronged plugs will also work).
Electricity
In Tonga we drink rainwater which is delicious and refreshing. We have plentiful supply of this and encourage you to bring a refillable bottle for your convenience. Our solar heated showers are a mixture of well and rainwater and we ask that you are mindful of their usage when on the island.
Water
We expect to have internet during the season but this is not yet available so please don’t bank on it. Currently the best option is a Tongan sim card and a little walk up the beach with your phone to get a signal. Why not switch off the technology and embrace a true desert island experience- maybe its what we all need once in a while!
Wifi
Sundays are blessed in Tonga. It is illegal to work, hence there are no flights, ferries, tours or shops open. Please be mindful of this when booking your trip. Obviously our restaurant will be open and you are welcome to use our paddle boards, kayaks and other sports equipment if you wish. We encourage you to live like a local, take it easy, chill in a hammock and rest.
Sacred Sundays
It’s difficult getting ingredients to our remote island, so we eat local produce where we can, and provide food sourced locally. Due to this, we may be unable to cater for certain specific dietary requirements, so please advise about these before booking to be sure we are able to cater for you. Mahe loves to fish so we should be able to provide you with fresh fish. Tongan Ota Ika is the best!
Food
Healthcare in Ha’apai is very basic. Please ensure you bring any medication you require with you. Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended.
Health
Useful Information
Getting to Ha’apai
Arriving on Uoleva Island
There are direct flights into Tonga with Air NZ, Qantas and Fiji Airways from Aukland, Sydney, and Fiji.
From the main island you can take a short 30 minute flight to Ha’apai with our domestic airline, Lulutai. Flights depart daily apart from Sundays. If you want any assistance booking these flights please ask and we can help. It is a 10 minute walk or a short taxi between international and domestic airports in Tonga so it is advisable to have some local currency if you require a taxi.
There are also ferries operating once or twice a week. These are cheaper but take longer (about 12 hours) and can be unreliable and weather dependant.
It is quick 20 minute boat trip from Ha’apai’s main island, Lifuka, (where we can collect you from the local ferry wharf or airport).
Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended.
Mālō e lelei = Hello
Fēfē hake? = How are you?
Fiefia = Happy
Ifo = Delicious
Tahi = Sea
Vaka = Boat
Tofua’a = Whale
Ika = Fish
Mālōlō = Rest
Kai = Food/Eat
Inu = Drink
Vai = Water
Mālō ‘Aupito = Thank you very Much