Why I Love Ha'apai as a Destination for Swimming with Humpback Whales

There are places in this world that capture your heart so completely that you know you’ll keep returning, again and again, for as long as you live. For me, that place is Ha'apai, a remote and breathtakingly beautiful island group in the Kingdom of Tonga. As a photographer and passionate whale lover, I’ve spent years swimming with humpback whales across different locations, but there is something truly magical about Ha'apai. It’s a place where the ocean feels untouched, where the connection with nature is profound, and where every whale encounter is unique and intimate.

Unlike more well-known whale-swimming destinations, Ha'apai remains wonderfully quiet, offering an experience that feels private and deeply personal. When I take guests out on tours here, I know we’ll have the space and time to fully immerse ourselves in the world of these gentle giants, without the crowds or competition found elsewhere. From the seamless transfers to the warm hospitality of our hosts at Kitesurf Tonga, everything about Ha'apai makes it the perfect place for swimming with whales.

Let me take you through why I love Ha'apai and why I believe it’s one of the best destinations on Earth for whale encounters.

A Quiet, Untouched Paradise

One of the first things people notice when they arrive in Ha'apai is the quiet. Not just the kind of quiet that comes from being far from cities, but a deeper, more profound sense of stillness. The islands feel untouched, unspoiled by tourism, and completely in tune with nature. Unlike busier destinations such as Vava'u, Ha'apai has a fraction of the boats out on the water.

This makes all the difference when it comes to swimming with whales. We aren’t competing with multiple operators all trying to get their guests into the water. Instead, we can take our time, observe the whales from a respectful distance, and wait for the perfect moment to slip in and experience their world. There’s no rush, no stress—just us, the ocean, and the whales.

This level of peace also means the whales are less disturbed by human activity. Many of the whales we encounter seem relaxed, inquisitive, and unhurried, leading to longer and more meaningful encounters. In Ha'apai, we are guests in their world, not intruders.

Less Competition, More Meaningful Encounters

I’ve swum with humpbacks in many locations, but Ha'apai stands out because of how personal the experience feels. In places where multiple boats are operating in a small area, you often have to take turns, quickly getting in and out of the water as different groups rotate through the same whale encounter. That’s not the case here.

In Ha'apai, we are often the only boat in sight. This means when we find a cooperative whale, we don’t have to rush. We can take our time, ensuring everyone gets a chance to fully experience the magic of being in the water with these incredible creatures. There’s a purity to these interactions—nothing feels forced, and every moment unfolds naturally.

For photography, this is an absolute dream. With fewer boats and swimmers in the water, I can capture images of the whales in their natural state, undisturbed and at ease. It also means my guests have more time to soak in the experience, rather than worrying about whether their turn is up.

Kitesurf Tonga: The Perfect Base for a Whale Swimming Adventure

When you spend your days out on the ocean, swimming with whales, there’s nothing better than returning to a place that feels like home. For me, that place is Kitesurf Tonga, an idyllic beachfront retreat that provides the perfect mix of comfort, adventure, and warm hospitality.

Run by the incredible Karen and Glen, Kitesurf Tonga is more than just accommodation—it’s an experience in itself. From the moment you arrive, you feel welcomed, as if you’re staying with old friends. Karen and Glen’s attention to detail, professionalism, and love for what they do shine through in every aspect of the stay. They understand exactly what whale lovers and ocean adventurers need, and they go above and beyond to make sure every guest is taken care of.

The location is stunning—white sandy beaches, swaying palm trees, and the endless blue of the ocean stretching out in front of you. After a long day on the water, there’s nothing better than watching the sunset with a cool drink in hand, listening to the gentle waves lap against the shore.

Easy Transfers and Hassle-Free Travel

One of the things I love most about Ha'apai is how easy it is to get there. Travel to remote destinations can sometimes be complicated, but the transfer process to Ha'apai is surprisingly smooth. A short domestic flight from Tongatapu brings you to the islands, and from there, everything falls into place effortlessly.

Unlike some destinations where travel can be stressful or unpredictable, getting to Ha'apai feels like part of the adventure. From the moment you step off the plane, you know you’re in for something special. The remoteness adds to the charm, but thanks to well-organized transfers, it never feels difficult.

More Time with the Whales, Less Time Searching for Them

Because Ha'apai is less crowded and the whales are undisturbed, we often find them more quickly than in other locations. This means less time searching and more time in the water.

I’ve been on tours in other places where you can spend hours just trying to locate whales, only to have a brief encounter before moving on. In Ha'apai, we tend to find cooperative whales more quickly, meaning we can maximize our time in the water. This makes for a more relaxed experience, allowing us to truly appreciate each moment without feeling rushed.

Incredible Snorkeling When We Need a Break

As much as I love swimming with whales, there are times when we take a break to explore the incredible underwater world of Ha'apai. The snorkeling here is some of the best I’ve ever experienced. Vibrant coral reefs, abundant marine life, and crystal-clear water make every snorkeling session unforgettable.

Some of my favorite snorkeling spots feature huge coral bommies teeming with colorful fish, graceful eagle rays gliding effortlessly through the water, and even the occasional reef shark. It’s the perfect way to reset in between whale swims, giving us another glimpse into the diverse marine life of this special place.

Why Ha'apai Will Always Be My Favorite

There are many places in the world where you can swim with humpback whales, but Ha'apai is in a league of its own. The quietness, the lack of competition, the seamless travel experience, and the breathtaking natural beauty make it my favorite destination for whale encounters.

When I take people on tours here, I know they’re going to experience something truly special—something that will stay with them for the rest of their lives. Whether it’s the magic of a whale swimming alongside you, the warm welcome at Kitesurf Tonga, or the unforgettable sunsets over the ocean, Ha'apai has a way of capturing your heart.

If you’ve ever dreamed of swimming with humpbacks in one of the most pristine, untouched places on Earth, I can’t recommend Ha'apai enough. Come join me in this incredible place, and let’s experience the magic of the whales together.

Book your Ha'apai whale swim adventure today—this is a journey you’ll never forget. 🐋💙