Ha'atafu Beach

Ha'atafu sits at the western tip of Tongatapu, a beach inside a reef with a marine reserve over it and a set of breaks on the outer edge that made this the island's surfing corner. The lagoon inside is shallow and calm for snorkelling; the waves are outside it and are reef breaks for the experienced. Facing west, it is where Tongatapu watches the sun go down.

What you'll find

• The reef breaks - the waves on the outer edge that draw surfers.
• The lagoon - shallow protected water inside the reef.
• The marine reserve - protection over the reef in front of the beach.
• The sunset - the western aspect the beach is known for.

When to go

May to October is the drier season and the main surf window. Cyclone season runs November to April. Tide governs whether the lagoon is swimmable.

Practical notes

The waves are reef breaks over shallow coral and are not for beginners. The lagoon is very shallow at low tide and can be unusable. Facilities are a couple of lodges.

Nearby

Nuku'alofa is east, and Kolovai is nearby.