Social media is an essential element of our everyday life. Every day millions of people share their emotions, photos, videos, and more in different internet communities, and one of the most famous social platforms is Instagram. Travellers from all over the world like to visit a variety of places and share them. One of those places which attract tourists is Nuku'alofa. Every year thousands of people make plans to travel to Nuku'alofa, and if you are one of them, then you are in the right place. In this blog, you will learn where is Nuku'alofa, where is Nukualofa Tonga temple, what are Instagrammable restaurants and Instagrammable places in Nuku'alofa, and more.
Where is Nukualofa?
Nuku'alofa is the capital and the largest harbor of Tonga. The city is located on the north coast of the island of Tongatapu. The total population of the town is nearly 25,000 people. British explorer James Cook was the first person who gave information about Nuku'alofa on 10 June 1777. James Cook never used the current name of the city, but the coordinates which he mentioned coincide with today's Nuku'alofa. Visiting Tonga, especially the capital, will be effortless for tourists, and they will not face any communication problems because the official language of the country is English.
1. Crystal clear water and the magnificent beaches will charm you
Firstly, one of the Instagrammable places in Nuku'alofa, which we want to mention, is Pangaimotu Island. Its beach is one of the few areas that is open for tourists on Sundays. Travelers like to get a boat and travel around the island. During 10 minutes of the trip, you will be able to see many various sea creatures and payment for this is not expensive. If there was not a dramatic increase in prices, 20 USD is enough for a meal and trip. Besides, Pangaimotu Island is well-known for shipwrecks around the island. These shipwrecks are the result of Cyclone Gita, which hit Tonga in February 2018. You will see a lot of most liked Instagram photo places here. Also, if you visit the island between July and October, you can see humpback whales. This island is a complete resort area, and there are no any citizens around. That is why it is very calm and peaceful.
2. Visit the official residence of the King of Tonga
Royal Palace in the capital is the favorite building of architectural photo lovers. As a royal family lives here, the palace is not open to the public, but it offers the background for the most liked Instagram photos. Many people believe that the building was much more impressive before the renovation, but it is clear that restoration was crucial as almost 2 centuries passed after construction. Besides architecture, many visitors love this palace as it is very close to the sea, and it gives a chance to take Instagram photos to share on Instagram.
3. Have you ever visited the Tongan market?
If you want to buy some food, vegetables, and more, you can find the best ones in Talamahu Market. A great selection is available for sale such as bananas, watermelons, taro, etc. Also, there is an indoor area where you can buy souvenirs for memory and some handicrafts. Even some of those handicrafts are available on the internet. You may visit the website to have an overall idea before visiting this handiwork market. Residents and sightseers, who have attended the shop previously, recommend to new visitors not to be afraid of haggling. Remember that you can do shopping here every day except Sunday. Most of the workplaces are not open on Sundays in this country.
4. Evidence of ancient belief
No doubt that one of the most popular Instagrammable places in Nuku'alofa is Royal Tombs. Especially people who are interested in the culture and beliefs of other nations like to visit these tombs. If you have such interests, this area can be an excellent choice. There are many beliefs of local people, which can seem weird to you. For example, they believe that whose grave is much higher from the ground, he will be nearer to heaven. Besides, the Tongans have three various funeral customs for 3 different economical categories. Keep in mind that you should keep a distance between the grave and yourself. It is a sign of respect for them.
5. Visit a holy place for locals and an excursion site for visitors
It is clear that Tonga is a Christian country, and they have plenty of churches with astonishing design. Basilica of St. Anthony of Padua or directly the Church of St. Anthony of Padua is one of those holy houses. We can say that this is the second most crucial church in the town after the Cathedral of St. Mary. Because of architectural attractiveness, this building is not only a religious place but also a touristic one. Where is Nukualofa Church of St. Anthony of Padua? It is next to the Royal Tombs which means it will be easy to find it.
6. Visit the lovely restaurant below the open sky
Vuna Restaurant and Bar undoubtedly is an exemplar of Instagrammable restaurants in the town. The atmosphere and view of the restaurant are excellent, and this Instagrammable place is suitable for everyone because they offer a wide range of foods at a reasonable price (3-20 USD). Here you can taste burgers, seafood, international and local cuisine, and more. Furthermore, this restaurant offers vegetarian-friendly meals and live music. Most of the travelers praise the local beer, Maui and some of them say that they visited this place just because of this beer several times. They open six days a week except for Sunday and the working hours are 12:00 PM-10:00 AM.
7. Have you ever seen the underground swimming pool before?
Anahulu Caves is one of the most liked Instagram photo places in the town. The only freshwater pool of Tongatapu is here, and it is very close to (almost 50 meters) Anahulu Beach. The cave is 400 m long and has more than one pool, and the most well-known of them is the bathing area. You will go down approximately 8 m deep by stairs to arrive at the ponds. There is an entrance fee, but it is not expensive, just 15 USD, after paying it, you can enjoy and relax. The only negative comment about caves is the size. It is not small, but some people expect much bigger.
8. Where is Nuku'alofa Tonga Temple?
Nuku'alofa Tonga Temple (formerly the Tongan Temple) is located on the main island Tongatapu next to Matangiake. The Temple area is commonly known as a Liahona after the church-owned high school there. Besides, this is the only temple in the capital, and the architectural plan of the building looks like others like Apia Samoa and Papeete Tahiti temples. As Bern Switzerland Temple and London England Temple, this one has a modernized single-spire design. Nuku'alofa Tonga Temple was the fourth temple in Polynesia after Laie Hawaii Temple, the Hamilton New Zealand Temple, and the Apia Samoa Temple. Nuku'alofa Tonga Temple is an example of photo places and one of the favoured touristic zones in the town.
9. The best restaurant in the Nuku'alofa
The best of Instagrammable restaurants in the capital is the TOP Restaurant & Lounge. Do you want to try tasty Polynesian and International cuisine? Then you can go to the TOP Restaurant & Lounge. The prices are a little bit higher in comparison with other restaurants and cafes in the town, but because of the high quality, you will not pay great attention to this negative side. The price range is between 12-35 USD. Are you vegetarian or vegan? Don't worry, they have specials for you, too. Another characteristic of the restaurant that attracts people is the owners, especially their kindness and hospitality.
10. The only resort in Nuku'alofa that specializes in surfing holidays
Ha'atafu Beach is the only place specialized in surfing holidays, and they have more than 40 years of experience in this field. That is why Ha'atafu is the favorite place of surf lovers. Every year thousands of local and foreign surfing enthusiasts come together on this beach. However, the beach is 21 km away from the city center, and this is the main disadvantage. Besides, Ha'atafu Beach is one of Tongatapu's best recreational swimming and snorkeling beaches.
11. Time Square Nuku'alofa
There is Time Square in Nuku'alofa, just as in New York. Yes, it sounds weird, but it is true. Of course, it is not so big and magnificent as Times Square in New York. But visitors love to visit this place and take some most liked Instagram photos. Maybe, they want to surprise their followers. Besides, this square is one of the most popular gathering spots of the local people.
12. The result of the nationalist movements
The Free Church of Tonga has a historical meaning for citizens. The church was founded in 1885 by King George Tupou. In those years, there was an attempt of colonization of these lands (formerly Friendly islands). As a reaction to it, the king and his followers constructed this church. But all of it is in the past now: today this site is an example of the best Instagrammable places in the town.
