Fanifo Lofa is a remote, eco-conscious island retreat located on Uoleva Island in the Haʻapai group of Tonga. Positioned along the shores of Uoleva island, the property offers an intimate, small-guest experience centered around ethical whale encounters, and immersive connection to nature.
Haʻapai is one of the quietest and least crowded whale destinations in the world, with very few licensed operators spread across a wide area. The environment remains undeveloped and serene — no roads, no traffic, no light pollution — just reef, ocean and sky.
Fanifo Lofa blends barefoot comfort with added luxuries, marine conservation, local culture, and a deep respect for the rhythms of the ocean.
Dining at Fanifo Lofa is a core part of the experience. The pride themselves in presenting beautiful dishes featuring seasonal menus which are wholesome and produce-driven, often featuring freshly caught fish, garden vegetables, homemade breads and island-inspired flavors.
They grow a significant portion of our their produce on the island — leafy greens, herbs, vegetables, fruit and edible flowers — harvested daily from the garden and incorporated directly into meals. Guests are welcome to walk through the garden, see what’s growing, and even help pick ingredients.
The resort hosts a maximum of 10 guests at any time, ensuring privacy and a personal atmosphere.
Beachfront Ensuite Fales (4)
King or twin configuration with premium toppers
Private decks with panoramic ocean views
Ensuite bathrooms with hot water
240v power
Natural ventilation and eco-conscious design
One Additional Fale set 5m back
King or twin plus additional bunk
Small lounge area
Ideal for families or close friends
From July to October, humpback whales are frequently visible from the beach and guest decks.
The focus is on comfort and immersion — a place to disconnect from noise and reconnect with nature.
WHALE ENCOUNTERS (July–October)
Tonga is one of the only places in the world where swimming with humpback whales is legally permitted.
Each year, humpbacks migrate from Antarctica to Haʻapai to mate, give birth and nurse their calves.
Fanifo Lofa is fully owner-operated. All whale excursions are run personally by us, ensuring consistency, ethics and deep local knowledge. They operate a custom-built New Zealand rigid inflatable boat (RIB) designed specifically for whale encounters. The vessel features:
Twin engines for safety and reliability
Full sunshade canopy
Comfortable seating
Easy water access
All required safety equipment
A hydrophone is carried onboard, allowing guests to listen to whale song resonating through the ocean — often an unforgettable highlight of the experience.
With a background in marine ecology and years of conservation work across the Pacific, we provide in-depth interpretation and education during outings. Guests gain insight into:
Migration patterns
Breeding behaviors
Calf development
Heat runs and social dynamics
Current conservation challenges
Encounters are strictly whale-led.
We position respectfully, observe behavior, and only enter the water when conditions and whale behavior indicate receptivity.
Maximum four swimmers enter at a time, in full adherence with Tongan regulations.
Swimming is never guaranteed — these are wild animals — but our patient, ethical approach consistently results in meaningful, intimate encounters.
FREEDIVING & SNORKELING
Freediving with whales is not permitted under Tongan regulations. However, we visit remote offshore reef and blue-water sites where guests are free to dive, explore coral structures, and train breath-hold skills. Diving down while listening to distant whale song through the water column is an extraordinary experience unique to this region. Snorkeling directly from the beach offers vibrant coral, tropical fish and pristine reef systems.
KITESURFING & WINGFOILING
Fanifo Lofa was founded by two passionate kitesurfers — the name “Fanifo Lofa” means “Surf Kite” in Tongan.
Haʻapai offers:
Expansive shallow lagoons
Consistent trade winds (May–October)
Launch access directly from the island
Minimal boat traffic
Vast uncrowded riding areas
Both kitesurfing and wingfoiling thrive here. Boat support can be arranged for downwinders and exploration sessions.
The setting is ideal for intermediate to advanced riders seeking space, freedom and pristine conditions.
ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES
Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP)
Explore the lagoon at sunrise or sunset. Calm mornings offer mirror-like reflections across the reef flats.
Kayaking
Paddle between islands, explore deserted beaches or enjoy a picnic on a neighboring sand cay.
Fishing
Reef and blue-water fishing trips can be arranged with local fishermen.
Island & Village Visits
Experience authentic Tongan culture through village visits, traditional feasts and community interactions.
Bush & Beach Walks
Uoleva Island offers miles of untouched shoreline and interior trails to explore.
WHY CHOOSE FANIFO LOFA
Intimate, small-guest experience
Owner-operated whale encounters
Marine ecology insight and conservation focus
Hydrophone listening sessions
Remote, off-grid island setting
Farm-to-table garden dining
Direct access to wind sports lagoons
Genuine cultural immersion
Fanifo Lofa is for travelers seeking more than a holiday — it is for those wanting meaningful ocean connection, quiet immersion, and an experience guided by respect for nature.