The Ha’apai Group offers a truly magical tropical experience. It is made up of 60 islands, 17 of which are inhabited. While there is plenty to explore here, your choice of where you will stay is somewhat restricted as only three islands in the group offer accommodation.
Tourism in the Ha’apai Group is almost nonexistent, however this absence is actually a strength in that it offers you the opportunity to experience the true cultural experience you are looking for. Make friends with the locals while fishing and catch dinner at the same time.
Lifuka is the main island in the group, and you can get there daily by flying for 30 minutes from Tongatapu. Lifuka has a population of roughly 3,000 people and does offer accommodation. This is an excellent place to start your Ha’apai holiday, and is the gateway to some of the volcanic islands in the western section of the group well worthy of exploring. Two of the islands in particular (Tofua and Kao) have their own special claim to fame, with the Mutiny of the Bounty having actually occurred not far off their shores.
