Ha'amonga a Maui, remnants of an ancient stoned gate, in a park in Tonga
Just 30 minutes away, you'll find the Mapu'a'a Vaea Blowholes. Nicknamed "The Chief's Whistles," they're a spectacular sight to behold — layers of coral rock create pockets of pressure, shooting ocean water 30 meters into the air.
Royal Palace in Nuku'alofa on Tongatapu island, Tonga
The royal buildings are not open to the public, but you can peer in from the gates — and maybe catch a glimpse of Tonga's monarchs themselves. The Royal Palace is a colonial-style wooden building built in 1867. Don't forget to take a look at the Royal Tombs before you leave.
If the hustle and bustle of the city is not your style, hop on a shuttle boat to a nearby coral island. The closest is Pangaimotu Island, and it takes a mere 15 minutes to reach. Here, you'll find classic white beaches, snorkeling and even a 10-hole golf course.
Tongans are hunter-gatherers of the land and sea. Look out for the staple food poi, a delicious porridge made with taro root. Try lu pulu, a dish of meat and onions marinated in coconut milk and cooked in a taro leaf using an underground oven. Cruise to Nuku 'Alofa and sample the Tongan take on seafood with 'ota ika, raw fish marinated in citrus and coconut milk, or feke, grilled octopus in a creamy coconut sauce.
Head downtown to the Langafonua Handicrafts Center to pick up your share of Tongan goodies during your Nuku 'Alofa cruise. Keep an eye out for flamboyant traditional jewelry pieces, weaved baskets, intricate handmade carvings and items made from tapa cloth, made from the bark of mulberry trees and imprinted with traditional Tongan patterns. The Talamahu Market also has lots of great finds.
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