Ha'atafu Beach Resort

Located on the Hihifo Peninsula, at the north-western tip of Tonga's main island, Ha'atafu Beach has a choice of quality breaks within easy reach..

In the south swell season (April to October), five left handers are just a short walk or paddle from the resort. The north swell season features a handy selection of rights and a left within paddling distance, and other great waves a shorton offshore reefs accessible by boat ride away.(additional charge applies).!

All of the waves are reef breaks, some over shallow water, and are suitable for experienced surfers only (see Tonga Surf). Your host Steve Burling has spent over 20 years surfing these islands - his comprehensive knowledge of local breaks, conditions and weather patterns ensures that guests will take advantage of the best waves available.

The resort is also the headquarters of the Tonga Surfriders Association, so you'll be able to meet and make friends with the local surfers

Established by Australian Steve Burling with his Tongan wife Sesika, Ha'atafu Beach Resort is a family run resort that caters for a maximum of 16 guests in a cluster of simple yet comfortable falés - the traditional, natural-style bungalows of the South Pacific. The thatched-roof falés are set in lush tropical gardens; linen, towels and mosquito nets are provided. The central amenities blocks, also set in attractive gardens, have fresh water and solar showers.

A full breakfast and a buffet dinner every night are served, with plenty of fresh seafood, locally grown vegetables and luscious tropical fruits. For those not out on tours or surf trips, a variety of lunchtime snacks is available every day for an additional cost.. The large meals room is also the socialising area, with table tennis, videos, books, magazines and games available free of charge. After so many years experience Steve and Sesika know what catering for surfers is all about.

For trips to town, there's a free courtesy shuttle every day, and other island tours are available on request. Out on the water, there's game fishing, whale watching and paddle boards. Kids can play on the beach, swim and have fun on the small waves inside the lagoon.

The lagoon itself is a National Marine Reserve that's known for its superb snorkelling and abundant coral growth and tropical fish. Several scuba diving operators are based in Nuku'Alofa, easily accessible from Ha'atafu Beach. One of the best dive sites in the country is "Beach Dive'', right in front of the resort. It features a series of drop-offs from 3m to 30m, with caves and overhangs, excellent coral formations and numerous species of reef fish.

Atoll Travel packages to Ha'atafu Beach Resort include airfares, airport transfers, accommodation, breakfasts and dinners. Boat trips to more distant offshore reefs and fishing spots are available on request at very reasonable rates. Guests are met on arrival at Tongatapu airport, and transferred by minibus to and from the resort, about 30 minutes away. A daily shuttle bus to town, for shopping or sightseeing, is available. Boat trips to offshore surf breaks and fishing spots are available on request at very reasonable rates.

For exclusive use of all the facilites and local surf breaks for your own crew of family, friends or workmates, groups of 12 or more can book the whole resort.