Things to Do in Tonga in February
February weather, activities, events & insider tips
February Weather in Tonga
Is February Right for You?
Advantages
- Dry season sweet spot - February is the driest month with virtually no rainfall, perfect for whale watching season when humpback whales migrate through Tongan waters
- Peak whale watching season - February offers the clearest waters and calmest seas for swimming with humpback whales, with visibility up to 30m (98 ft) underwater
- Optimal sailing conditions - southeast trade winds at 15-20 knots create perfect conditions for sailing between the Vava'u and Ha'apai island groups
- Cultural festival season - February coincides with church conferences and traditional feast preparations, offering authentic cultural experiences rarely seen by tourists
Considerations
- Peak tourism pricing - February is high season for whale watching, with accommodation rates 40-60% higher than shoulder months and tours booking out 2-3 months ahead
- Intense UV exposure - with 8+ UV index and clear skies, sunburn happens in under 15 minutes without protection, especially dangerous on water activities
- Limited accommodation availability - many smaller guesthouses and eco-lodges fill completely during whale season, requiring bookings by November for best options
Best Activities in February
Humpback Whale Swimming Tours
February marks peak whale season with over 2,000 humpback whales in Tongan waters. Water temperatures reach 26°C (79°F) with exceptional visibility. Unlike other destinations, Tonga is the only country allowing swimming with whales. Tours depart early morning when seas are calmest, typically returning by 2pm before afternoon wind picks up.
Traditional Island Feasting (Umu Cooking)
February's dry weather makes outdoor earth oven cooking ideal. Many villages prepare large communal feasts for church conferences and cultural celebrations. The process takes 6-8 hours, with whole pigs, fish, and root vegetables cooked underground. Participate in food preparation starting at dawn, feast at sunset.
Multi-Island Sailing Expeditions
February's consistent southeast trades at 15-20 knots create perfect sailing conditions between island groups. Day temperatures rarely exceed 29°C (85°F) with cooling sea breezes. Sail between uninhabited coral atolls in Ha'apai or explore hidden anchorages in Vava'u's protected waters. Morning departures avoid afternoon wind increases.
Ancient Tongan Cultural Site Tours
February's dry conditions provide excellent access to archaeological sites normally muddy during rainy months. Visit the Ha'amonga 'a Maui trilithon (Tonga's Stonehenge) and ancient royal tombs without weather delays. Sites are best visited early morning before 10am when temperatures are cooler and lighting optimal for photography.
Outer Island Fishing Expeditions
February marks peak fishing season with calmer seas and active pelagic species. Traditional handline fishing from outrigger canoes offers authentic cultural experience. Target species include mahi-mahi, wahoo, and yellowfin tuna. Combine with island camping on uninhabited motus (small islands) for multi-day adventures.
February Events & Festivals
Free Wesleyan Church Annual Conference
Major religious and cultural gathering featuring traditional Tongan feast preparations, church choirs, and community celebrations. Visitors can observe traditional cooking methods and participate in cultural exchanges with families hosting conference attendees.
Heilala Festival Preparations
Communities begin intensive preparations for Tonga's premier cultural festival, including traditional craft workshops, dance rehearsals, and handicraft competitions. Participate in weaving workshops and observe traditional costume preparation.