'Eua

'Eua [1] is an island of Tonga, just southeast of the main island.

Understand

'Eua Island is located only 17.5km east-southeast from Tongatapu. It is the highest island in Tonga and is not related geologically to the other islands, being much older. It has beaches on the western side but dramatic cliffs on the east coast, with Tonga’s largest tropical rain forest, which is a great place to go trekking.

Get in

‘Eua is an eight-minute flight from Tongatapu. There is also a ferry that leaves from Nuku’alofa at 10.30 in the morning on Tuesdays, Wednesday, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Keep in mind that the ferry may leave earlier or later than scheduled, so arrive well before transit (this is the only way to know for sure if the ferry is leaving) Cost is T$23. The ferry can get rather crowded, so be early. On average, the ferry will take about two and a half hours, but can take much longer (5-6 hours!) in poor weather. Note that flights and ferries can be delayed or even cancelled without notice in poor weather conditions.

The ferry leaves from the 'Eua wharf at 4.00 pm in the afternoon on Tuesdays, Wednesday, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. There is no return service to Tongatapu on Sunday and Monday.

Get around

There is no public transport within 'Eua, but it's easy to walk in the main village. And to the other villages on the island.

See

• Anokula Lookout. This lookout is short hike (30 min) from the village of Houma on the main road. Over looking the cliffs and rocky beach below this is where the first sunrise of the world happens. Check with the locals for the time of sunrise.

Sunrise from Anokula Lookout

• Lauua and Lokupo Lookout Trek. An easy trek through the middle portion of the island to the coast. The trek takes about 3 hours to complete. The trek starts at Tiana's place Guest house. The trail is marked with blue plastic ribbons (Aug 2014).
• Lakufa'anga - Southern Legends Trek. A relatively easy trek through to the southern tip of 'Eua, most of the trek is done on the main road which is paved, and the remainder of the trek is on a 4x4 road. There are several posted signs with information about the region once you have hit the 4x4 road. Wild horses roam the trail as well, so take caution when walking past them. The trek takes about 5 hours to complete if leaving from Tiana's. Bring plenty of water as there is no chance to get more along the way.

Lokupo beach from Lokupo Lookout

• Ha'aluma Beach. A nice day trip from the main village, Ha'aluma beach is very secluded white sand beach, with perfect opportunities to enjoy swimming. The beach is protected by a sea wall which makes the waves small and surfing impossible.

Drink

There is only one place on the island where beer can be bought from a licensed seller. The house is located across the street from the Catholic church on the south side of town just past the village of Pangai. On a road going west from the main road it will be the second house on your left (there will be signs). They sell out of their garage, and they only sell Maka beer for T$3.50. The locals will be able to help you find your way if you get lost.

Sleep

Budget

• The Hideaway, ☎ (00676) 50 255 ([email protected], fax: (00676) 50 128), [x]. Six rooms and two traditional fales on a beach from where dolphins and whales can sometimes be seen. Tours round the island are organized. T$55-70 for a double.

• Taina’s Place, ☎ 676.65002 ([email protected]), [x]. On eight acres of land close to the rain forest. Camping T$20;dorm T$25; double T$55; family house T$100.

• High Light Guest House, ☎ (676) 50.143, [x]. Four rooms in a house in the center of the island. T$50 for a double.

Get out

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wikipedia:'Eua