Sandy Beach Resort is a serene beachside escape with pristine reefs, world-class marine encounters and laid-back island charm.
Located on the northern tip of Foa Island in the remote Ha‘apai island group of the Kingdom of Tonga, Sandy Beach Resort is a boutique Pacific getaway that pairs barefoot luxury with exceptional marine experiences. Set on one of Tonga’s most beautiful white-sand beaches, this intimate resort offers direct access to crystal-clear waters, vibrant reef systems and opportunities to swim with humpback whales, making it a compelling choice for divers and ocean lovers alike.
The resort is the essence of island tranquillity, with only a dozen beachfront bungalows tucked among tropical gardens. Its location on Foa Island – a short flight from Tongatapu and connected by causeway to nearby Lifuka – means you’re both remote and well-placed for exploring Ha‘apai’s natural wonders.
Whether you’re chasing underwater adventures or simply want to relax with your toes in the sand, this resort delivers an authentic South Pacific experience with laid-back hospitality and spectacular seascapes.
Best Time to Visit:
- Whale season: June–October for humpback encounters
- Year-round diving: Warm water and excellent visibility make diving great throughout the year, though peak seasons vary.
Why Divers Choose Sandy Beach Resort
Sandy Beach Resort stands out for:
- Beachfront, intimate accommodation with ocean access
- A base for unspoiled reef snorkelling and dive trips
- Humpback whale experiences few other resorts offer
- Wide range of non-diving activities in a peaceful island setting
Other Activities
Sandy Beach isn’t just about scuba:
- Kayaking and paddle-boarding in the lagoon
- Horse riding along the beach
- Guided cultural tours, including visits to local villages
- Excursions to the Houmale‘eia Petroglyphs on the eastern shore
- Traditional Tongan singing, dancing and handicraft experiences
These activities make the resort a great fit for travellers who want a balanced holiday of adventure, culture and relaxation.
What we think…
Whether you’re a scuba enthusiast chasing pristine Ha‘apai dives or a traveller after a quintessential South Pacific escape, Sandy Beach Resort delivers both adventure and serenity in equal measure.
Getting There: fly to Nuku‘alofa (TBU) on Tongatapu, then connect with a domestic flight to Ha‘apai (HPA). Resort staff can assist with transfers.
The resort features 12 beachfront bungalows (fales) each with king or twin bedding options, ensuite bathrooms with solar-powered hot water, private terrace or veranda and ocean views just metres from the sand. Accommodation here is designed for privacy and simplicity, perfect for couples, solo travellers or small groups seeking a peaceful base for exploring Ha‘apai’s reefs and islands.
House Reef & Snorkelling
Right from the beach, the clear lagoon water is ideal for snorkelling, with healthy coral slopes and abundant reef fish. Many guests report excellent snorkel experiences just steps from their fale.
Scuba Diving
While the resort doesn’t operate its own dive centre, it partners with local PADI-affiliated operators based nearby. These professionals can organise Discover Scuba and Open Water courses, guided recreational dives, gear rental and day trips to prime sites.
The waters around Ha‘apai are warm (~28 °C) with visibility often around 30 m, and dive sites include coral gardens, pinnacles, swim-throughs and rocky bommies teeming with macro life.
Whale Swimming
From June to October, humpback whales migrate through Tonga’s waters. While scuba diving with whales isn’t typical, Sandy Beach Resort is a gateway for whale-watching and whale-swimming excursions, offering unforgettable encounters with these majestic mammals in their natural breeding grounds.
Ha’apai offers some of Tonga’s most untouched reefs. With fewer operators, diving here feels adventurous and exclusive.
Signature sites include:
- Arch of Ofalanga: A massive coral arch and cavern system with pelagic visitors. Best for: advanced divers comfortable with overhead environments.
- Hot Spring Cave: A rare hydrothermal cavern where warmer water flows from volcanic vents. Best for: experienced adventure divers.
Pricing for Sandy Beach Resort
Valid to 31 March 2027
AUD
Low Season (1 April – 14 July 2026 and 16 October 2026 - 31 March 2027)
7 Nights Beachfront Fales (Double or Twin) with 10 dives 2590
7 Nights Beachfront Fales (Single) with 10 dives 3692
High Season (15 July – 15 October 2026)
7 Nights Beachfront Fales (Double or Twin) with 10 dives 3290
7 Nights Beachfront Fales (Single) with 10 dives 4392
Whale watching and swimming 01 July 2026 – 31 October 2026 (per trip)
Resort guests 320
Outside guests 340
Pricing includes daily continental breakfast during the low season, and half-board with breakfast and dinner during the high season. Also included are return transfers in Ha’apai, free Wi-Fi in common areas, as well as boat dives with tanks, weights, and refreshments.
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