Abel Tasman Monument

Tongatapu


At the northwestern tip of Tongatapu is a modest monument commemorating Dutchman Abel Tasman's 'discovery' of Tongatapu in 1643. He was on his way back to Batavia (present-day Jakarta) after firstly bumping into Tasmania, then New Zealand. With great European sensibility he named Tongatapu ‘Amsterdam’.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Tongatapu attractions

1. Ha’atafu Beach

0.53 MILES

On the sunset side of the island, Ha’atafu Beach is a sandy slice protected by a reef, where some of Tonga's best surf peels in (experienced surfers only…

2. Flying Foxes

3.14 MILES

While you’ll get the opportunity to see flying foxes (aka fruit bats, or peka) in many places in Tonga, one spot renowned for their presence is the…

3. ‘Atata

4.52 MILES

‘Atata, 10km from Tongatapu, has beaut beaches and a little island village to wander through. Snorkelling, diving and fishing are near-essential. There is…

4. Triple-headed Coconut Tree

6.6 MILES

If you think we must be scratching around for highlights to include a triple-headed coconut tree, then think again. Locals swear that this is the only…

5. Mapu’a ‘a Vaea Blowholes

7.89 MILES

On an especially good day at Mapu’a ‘a Vaea (Chief’s Whistles), hundreds of blowholes spurt skywards at once. Time your visit for a windy day with a…

6. Royal Residences

8.54 MILES

South of Nuku’alofa, between Tofoa and Pe’a, you’ll pass the private royal residences of the Princess, adorned with white tigers and cannons, and the King…

7. Centenary Chapel

9.23 MILES

Royal watchers and rubberneckers (regardless of denomination) head to this towering white church for a glimpse of Tonga's royal family at Sunday service,…

8. Royal Tombs

9.32 MILES

Mala’ekula, the large parklike area opposite the basilica, has been the resting place of the royals since 1893. The statue-studded white concrete tomb…