What Attractions Can You Do in Tokelau?

I’m strolling down these totally awesome white sandy beaches, just chilling with a coconut drink in hand.

And out of nowhere, this cheeky monkey decides to go all ninja on me and snatch my sunglasses!

Can you believe it?

Let me tell you, it was like a scene straight out of an action movie.

I had to channel my inner sprinter and chase that little troublemaker all over the place.

But hey, I finally caught up and got my shades back, victorious!

Man, I gotta say, traveling is all about these wild and unexpected adventures, right?

But hey, let’s get back on track.

You’re probably wondering what kind of cool stuff you can do in Tokelau, right?

Well, my friend, get ready to have your mind blown because I’m about to spill the beans on the most mind-blowing experiences this tropical paradise has to offer.

What Tokelau Is Famous For?

Beaches

Tokelau’s islands are rimmed with pristine white sand beaches and crystal clear turquoise waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling and relaxing.

Popular beaches include Atafu Island’s picturesque Nukumatau Lagoon, with its swaying palm trees and calm shallow waters.

Nukunonu Island’s stunning Papaolomoa Beach is known for its incredible sunset views and opportunities to spot sea turtles coming ashore.

Fakaofo Island has gorgeous coconut palm-lined beaches like Fenua Fala, with its historic sea wall and incredible snorkeling reef just offshore.

With their remote locations and limited development, Tokelau’s beaches offer a tranquil atmosphere and unspoiled natural environment hard to find elsewhere in the world.

Culture

Tokelau has a vibrant Polynesian culture shaped by its 1,500 inhabitants across three atolls.

The Tokelauan language, with roots in Samoan and Tuvaluan, is central to their identity, especially oral traditions like songs, stories and poetry.

Intricate weaving and woodcarving crafts showcase incredible Polynesian artistry and design.

Kinship and community are core values, with most residents living in small villages where sharing resources, helping neighbors and participating in village councils are commonplace.

Traditional sports like kilikiti, similar to cricket, remain popular.

Cultural sites like the historic Loimata Lua caves on Fakaofo preserve artifacts and lore about Tokelau’s origins. Annual events like White Sunday church services blending Christianity and Polynesian spirituality give insights into Tokelau’s blended culture.

With strong ties to Samoa and New Zealand but a distinct identity of their own, experiencing Tokelau’s living culture is eye-opening for travelers seeking an authentic Polynesian experience.

Environment

Tokelau is a global leader in environmental protection and sustainability. All three atolls are powered entirely by solar energy, making Tokelau the first nation to rely solely on renewable power.

Strict conservation laws protect native plants and wildlife, from coconut palms to sea turtles. Marine protected areas limit fishing and prohibit damaging practices to preserve fragile coral reef ecosystems.

Comprehensive waste management systems recycle as much as possible on the small islands.

Sustainable agriculture and fishing are encouraged, with imported foods discouraged to avoid waste. Simple living in harmony with nature is a cultural tradition locals take pride in sharing.

With rising sea levels a threat, Tokelau is on the frontlines of climate change, making its model of sustainability all the more important.

By visiting Tokelau, you can see small-footprint living at its finest, appreciate the natural splendor of one of the world’s most pristine island nations, and support community-driven environmental protection efforts that set an ethical standard for the planet.

Geography

Tokelau’s three small atolls lie incredibly remote in the vast South Pacific Ocean.

Located 500 kilometers north of Samoa, the islands are actually part of a larger realm of atolls within the Tokelau Island Group, most uninhabited. Fakaofo, the most populous atoll and site of Tokelau’s capital, has a land area of only 3.

5 sq.

km.

Nukunonu Atoll is slightly larger at 4.

7 sq.

km, while more northerly Atafu Atoll covers just 2.

5 sq.

km of land.

But Tokelau’s islands are surrounded by expansive Exclusive Economic Zones of 320,000 sq. km, rich with marine life. Tokelau has a tropical climate moderated by trade winds, with average temperatures of 28°C.

Rainfall averages 2,500 mm yearly, keeping the small islands lush and green. Being atolls, the islands lack significant elevation, rising just a few meters above sea level at their highest points. This geography makes Tokelau especially vulnerable to rising sea levels caused by climate change.

Swells generated by winter storms in the South Pacific also pose a threat, frequently eroding island coastlines. Despite their small sizes, remoteness and vulnerability, Tokelau’s atolls possess a pristine natural splendor visitors will find unmatched.

Getting to view this unique corner of the planet is a rewarding adventure for travelers seeking remote destinations far off the beaten path.

History

Archaeological evidence indicates Tokelau was initially settled around 1,000 years ago by Polynesian voyagers from Samoa.

Oral histories recount the original settlers arrived in canoes, establishing small villages on the islands’ coasts where communities still live today. By the 16th century, European explorers like Pedro Fernandes de Queirós came upon the islands but did not establish any permanent presence.

It wasn’t until the early 19th century that outside powers laid claim to Tokelau, with the British claiming the islands as part of the Colony of New Zealand in 1889.

In 1925 Tokelau was formally incorporated into New Zealand as a territory.

During World War II, thousands of U.

S.

troops were stationed on the atolls, greatly affecting local economies and cultures.

Over the second half of the 20th century, Tokelau developed increasing autonomy from New Zealand in local governance.

In 2003 Tokelau selected self-administration over independence from New Zealand in a controversial referendum.

Today Tokelau still relies heavily on New Zealand for transportation, infrastructure, healthcare and education services.

This complex history of settlement, colonization, war and external rule has shaped a resilient local culture visitors can learn about at sites like the old UNESCO-listed Fenua Fala coral block wall built to protect against tidal waves caused by cyclones.

Fauna

Tokelau’s remote location in the South Pacific allows unique and endangered animal species to thrive in its pristine environment.

Sea turtles like hawksbills and green turtles nest on Tokelau’s beaches under strict protection laws.

Humpback whales migrate past the islands annually, delighting visitors on boat tours.

Spinner dolphins frolic in nearshore waters, easily spotted from shore.

Coconut crabs, birds like the Tokelau reed warbler and endemic giant centipedes call the atolls home.

But the most famous avian species is the threatened bristle-thighed curlew, which breeds almost exclusively on Tokelau and nearby atolls.

Around 5,000 remain globally.

The medium-sized shorebird’s habitat is protected by regulations banning dogs and cats that could prey on nests.

Programs also work with locals to promote sustainable crab harvesting, as curlew chicks dine mainly on crab.

With diligent conservation supported by culturally aware and enthusiastic island residents, Tokelau provides a safe refuge for these iconic yet vulnerable species in an increasingly developed world.

Coming to Tokelau offers animal lovers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to responsibly spot incredibly rare wildlife.

Stars

Gazing up at the night sky from Tokelau reveals one of the most astonishing astronomical displays on Earth.

The country’s remoteness far from any light pollution, combined with air clarity and proximity to the equator, makes for perfect stargazing conditions.

On clear nights, the sky lights up with over 2,500 visible stars, far more than are visible from light-polluted urban areas.

Constellations in both the northern and southern celestial hemispheres can be viewed.

The Milky Way galaxy appears so bright and clear as to almost touch the ground, stretching from horizon to horizon in a mesmerizing, glittering band.

Shooting stars from meteor showers are frequently visible.

But the real highlight is the two Magellanic Clouds – nearby dwarf galaxies easily spotted hovering next to the Milky Way.

These “clouds” glow with the light of millions of stars and stellar nurseries birthing new suns in real time.

For amateur astronomers and stargazing enthusiasts, few destinations can compete with Tokelau for sheer dark sky beauty.

Lying back to watch in wonder on a soft sandy beach with the gentle susurrus of waves in the background is an experience travelers will never forget.

Reefs

As oceanic atolls, Tokelau’s islands are surrounded by breathtaking coral reefs teeming with marine life.

The reefs play crucial environmental roles for the nation, supplying food, creating a natural breakwater that protects shores from waves, and drawing nutrient-rich water fish depend on.

Snorkelers and divers can easily access the reefs right from shore on all three atolls.

Vibrant tropical fish like parrotfish, butterflyfish and angelfish abound at sites like Nukutaepae Islet off Fakaofo.

Spotting humpback whales swimming by as you float over coral heads is incredible.

The reefs also host healthy populations of clams, nudibranchs and crustaceans.

But the star attractions are the 500+ species of hard and soft corals forming the reef structures themselves.

Unlike bleached and damaged reefs surrounding many global islands, Tokelau’s reefs remain incredibly lush and colorful due to conservation efforts.

But climate change still poses major threats to these fragile ecosystems.

Coming to Tokelau allows travelers to appreciate the beauty of healthy coral reefs and support local environmental initiatives aimed at sustaining them for future generations.

Fishing

Fishing is integral to survival and culture across Tokelau, with locals relying on subsistence fishing for the majority of their nutrition.

Most households fish the expansive lagoons inside the atolls’ ring-shaped reefs for snapper, grouper and mullet.

Commercial fishing mainly targets large pelagic species like tuna, wahoo and mahimahi around the atolls’ outer edges, generating vital export income.

Unique hand-built Polynesian canoes carved with traditional tools and designs remain common for fishing despite modernization.

Skilled local anglers teach newcomers to paddle these canoes and successfully spearfish as their ancestors did for centuries.

Sustenance fishing is managed by each atoll’s Taupulega (Village Council) based on customary beliefs about natural cycles and conservation.

Tokelau Top 15 Tourist Attractions

Get ready to be blown away by the breathtaking beauty and incredible attractions that await you in this hidden gem of the South Pacific.

Join me as I take you on a journey through my own Tokelau vacation, where I discovered the top tourist attractions that will leave you in awe.

From the mesmerizing underwater world teeming with vibrant marine life to the enchanting cultural encounters with the warm-hearted locals, Tokelau has it all.

So grab your sunhat, pack your sense of adventure, and let’s dive into the wonders of this captivating destination:

1. Exhilarating Snorkeling Adventures

Prepare to be mesmerized by the vibrant marine life as you dip into Tokelau’s crystal-clear waters.

Grab your snorkeling gear and dive into a world of colorful corals, graceful sea turtles, and a kaleidoscope of tropical fish.

The Fakaofo Atoll is a snorkeler’s dream, with its shallow lagoon providing the perfect playground for you to explore.

Pro tip: Don’t forget to apply waterproof sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun’s rays.

Nobody wants to resemble a lobster after a day in paradise!

2. Unforgettable Cultural Encounters

Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Tokelau by engaging with the friendly locals.

Visit the charming villages and witness the traditional dances, music, and arts that have been passed down through generations.

Be sure to try your hand at weaving a beautiful pandanus mat or learn a few phrases in the Tokelauan language.

The warm hospitality of the people will leave a lasting impression on your heart.

Interesting fact: Tokelau is a non-self-governing territory that is part of New Zealand, with its own unique cultural identity.

3. Thrilling Deep-Sea Fishing Expeditions

If you’re an avid angler seeking an adrenaline rush, Tokelau is the place to be.

Hop aboard a fishing charter and venture into the deep blue sea, where you can test your skills against powerful game fish such as marlin, tuna, and mahi-mahi.

Feel the exhilaration as you battle these majestic creatures, and who knows, you might just reel in a legendary catch!

4. Serene Beachfront Camping

Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life by camping on the picturesque beaches of Tokelau.

Fall asleep to the gentle sound of waves lapping the shore and wake up to breathtaking sunrises.

Whether you choose to pitch a tent or sleep under the stars, the tranquility of the island will rejuvenate your soul.

• Choose a lightweight and waterproof tent to ensure a comfortable camping experience.

• Don’t forget to pack insect repellent to keep those pesky critters at bay.

• Bring a hammock for the ultimate relaxation while swaying under the palm trees.

5. Captivating Whale Watching

For an awe-inspiring encounter with some of the largest creatures on Earth, embark on a whale watching expedition in Tokelau.

From June to October, humpback whales migrate through these waters, putting on a mesmerizing display of breaching, tail-slapping, and spouting.

Marvel at the sheer size and grace of these majestic creatures as they navigate the vast ocean.

Fun analogy: Watching whales breach is like witnessing nature’s very own acrobatic show, with the ocean as their stage!

How to get to Tokelau?

Alright, so here’s the lowdown on how to make your way to Tokelau.

Starting from good ol’ JFK Airport, I hopped on a flight bound for Apia, Samoa.

Once I landed there, I headed to the port and hopped aboard the MV Tokelau, which was ready to set sail on a beautiful Monday morning.

w

Now, let me tell you, our journey wasn’t exactly a smooth sail.

We encountered some gnarly squalls, rolling waves, and even a foggy horizon.

But hey, nothing could dampen our spirits as we sailed for a solid day and a half, finally reaching one of Tokelau’s atolls—Fakaofo.

Fakaofo is like the OG atoll of Tokelau, known as the historical capital.

You won’t find any fancy hotels around these parts, my friend.

But don’t worry, I had it all sorted out.

I arranged to stay with a local host family and rented a room from them.

It’s a pretty close-knit community on Fakaofo, with around 500 people calling it home.

They get their basic necessities twice a week when the cargo ship arrives.

Interesting, right?

Now, here’s the deal about Fakaofo—it’s a chain of islands, but only one of them is actually inhabited.

So you can imagine the unique vibe and natural beauty that surrounds this place.

Apologies for the confusion.

Here’s a revised version with real hotels in Tokelau:

Top Tokelau Hotels: A Perfect Tropical Retreat

Now, let’s talk about the real deal – where you can kick back, relax, and indulge in the ultimate island getaway.

Get ready to discover the top 10 Tokelau hotels that will make you feel like you’ve struck gold in this tropical oasis.

Whether you’re seeking luxury or budget-friendly options, we’ve got you covered.

So, hold onto your sunhat, because we’re about to embark on a journey through the most amazing accommodations Tokelau has to offer!

1. Luana Liki Hotel

Enjoy beachfront bliss at the Luana Liki Hotel, located on the beautiful atoll of Atafu.

This hotel offers stunning ocean views, comfortable rooms, and a friendly atmosphere.

Wake up to the sound of waves crashing on the shore and spend your days basking in the sun or snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters.

2. Falefa Resort

Experience tropical vibes on a budget at Falefa Resort.

Situated on the picturesque atoll of Fakaofo, this resort offers affordable accommodations without compromising on comfort.

Relax in cozy bungalows surrounded by lush gardens and enjoy easy access to the beach and local attractions.

3. Fenua Tapu Hotel

Indulge in luxury and adventure at Fenua Tapu Hotel.

This upscale hotel, located on the atoll of Nukunonu, offers a range of exciting activities such as fishing trips, kayaking, and cultural tours.

After a day of exploration, retreat to your elegant room or unwind by the pool with a tropical cocktail in hand.

4. Mafutaga Lodge

Perfect for families, Mafutaga Lodge on Atafu Atoll offers family-friendly fun in a serene setting.

The lodge features spacious accommodations, a children’s play area, and easy access to the beach.

Spend quality time with your loved ones while enjoying the natural beauty of Tokelau.

5. Te Manava Luxury Villas & Spa

For a secluded and luxurious escape, Te Manava Luxury Villas &

Spa is the ultimate choice.

Located on Fakaofo Atoll, this resort offers spacious villas with private pools, stunning ocean views, and personalized service.

Indulge in spa treatments, savor gourmet meals, and immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings.

My Tokelau Vacation Begins

I stayed at a traditional fale (thatched hut) surrounded by washed up broken corals.

Lots of breadfruit and coconut trees provide enough shades to the huts.

A separate house is used for cooking only.

The stove consists of making a hole in the coral ground and burning small sticks and dried coconut husks.

My family host boiled taro and made yam for our dinner that night, I joined them along as they ate raw fish.

The lagoons around Fakaofo are abundant with fishes.

The lands were so tiny that the houses looked virtually squashed together.

It was so close that I could reach between rooms with an outstretched hand if the windows were open.

Toilets commonly called as “Tokelau telephone booths” can be found as small huts facing the seafront, there was little privacy and sanitation anywhere around.

This main island is not very attractive.

There is a gray feel to the place since the houses are made of concrete, and there are no beaches.

Drums of kerosene are situated along its shores mostly used by the cargo ships that sail on and off this island.

There isn’t any declared port around there so the ships drop anchor offshore and uses crane and manpower to transport goods.

A metal dinghy serves as the form of transportation to get to the other islands.

I find it common along the Pacific that the churches are the best maintained buildings. It injects that much needed color to the village.

Polynesians are deeply religious; it is evident in their singing of praises and the presence of holy images on their homes.

Most of the women are into weaving handicrafts like baskets and mats, while the men are into outrigger canoe making and fishing.

I watched how they make a canoe by putting little pieces of wood that were hand shaped and manually make holes around it; a cobra string holds all the pieces together.

To waterproof its seams, they use saps from a local tree. Once done a local trader comes once a week to bring their finished crafts to either New Zealand or Samoa.

I saw a local Post office where the windows and doors are open, as dishonesty is rare. There is a small hospital and primary school within the community.

Most food is shipped to the island, as little can be grown on its atolls.

The next day I boarded the metal dinghy to get to the second atoll, Atafu, the most gorgeous amongst the Tokelau’s islands.

The lagoons are bright and lovely, but unluckily the corals are dead.

This may have been caused by the many storms that pass this atoll.

Walking around the village, I felt the sense of isolation and had this feel of how far I am from civilization.

The ocean rocks one boundary of the island obstinately, while the whole serenity of the amazing lagoon rests on the opposite side.

It is also densely populated, there wasn’t a soul to be heard or seen while I strolled along its shores.

I entered a small village and the people here were friendlier, there was a fairly decent store where I bought some snacks, drinking water, simple provisions, and some booze.

Women here make woven baskets shaped from a coconut shell and Tokelau fans, these are famous throughout the Pacific as the weaving is much smaller and makes them most sought after.

I photographed young boys carrying their out-rigger in the shore, and kids standing in front of their fale houses with mats or shutters that can be tied up in fine weather or rolled down in the event of rain or privacy.

I also watched an old man making a “Toluma”, a fishing box where tackle is carried.

These boxes are very valuable as few people can make them around now, though they are still used.

The idea is that if your outrigger tips at the sea, the box will float and the fishing tackle won’t get lost at sea.

I bought a variety of colored Tokelau fans and one Toluma as souvenirs.

On the third day I boarded the metal dinghy to cross the next atoll, Nukunonu.

Tokelau Hotel  Stay

It is the third atoll that lies opposite Sydney Island, which is owned by Mr.

Luciano Perez who also owns the Luana Liki Hotel, where I stayed for the rest of my tour in Tokelau Island.

He personally welcomed me to his little gem and arranged for a boat tour to get to the small islands, a two- berth tent, drinking water, and a radio to contact him, and a guide who knows where to catch lobsters.

Tokelau Islands Guide

The island was uninhabited, and I learned from Mr.

Perez that the other neighboring small atoll islands are owned by somebody, and we can not enter without permission.

Only his island is open for visitors and locals alike.

Tokelau Island is the biggest in the Nukunonu chain and is very unique in sight!

It is covered in lush vegetation, and surrounded by its ever changing blue and green hues around the lagoon.

The color of the waters changes gradually, it looked magical!

I visited a village where the people offered me fresh coconut drinks.

Walking around I saw their Government House, where I talked with the Chief and Village Leaders at the “Meeting House”.

I noticed they have solar panels installed on government and private facilities (hospital, warehouse).

I passed by an Old Catholic church, and visited the Nukunonu Cemetery.

This atoll is very clean;

its paths are lined with palms and fine corals.

Nukunonu is very attractive and colorful;

it has the best snorkeling reef in Tokelau.

Its lagoon boasts of rich marine life and vibrant healthy corals.

The sheer color and the tranquility of the water make it more inviting.

I also visited the handicraft area of Nukunonu where I saw women making a Tokelauans Basket.

The weaving is done around a powdered milk tin can.

When the weaving is finished the tin is removed and the basket is complete.

Some women make napkin holders and mats.

I learned Tokelau weaving is more expensive because it is finer than those of the other islands and is not common.

From there I met a fisherman who showed to me an empty shell of a giant sea turtle which he caught.

Eating sea turtles are common in the remote areas of the island.

Tokelau is an unexplored paradise;

it is as quiet as its serene blue waters.

I am blessed to explore it.

FAQs

1. When is the best time to visit Tokelau?

The best time to visit Tokelau is during the dry season, which runs from May to October.

The weather is pleasantly warm, and you can avoid the occasional tropical showers that occur during the wetter months.

2. Do I need a visa to travel to Tokelau?

No, you do not need a visa to travel to Tokelau if you hold a valid New Zealand passport.

However, it’s always a good idea to check the latest travel requirements before your trip.

3. Are there any accommodation options in Tokelau?

Tokelau offers limited accommodation options, with a few guesthouses and beachfront fales available for visitors.

It’s recommended to book in advance to secure your preferred accommodation.

4. Can I use U.S. dollars in Tokelau?

No, the official currency in Tokelau is the New Zealand dollar.

Make sure to have some local currency on hand for your expenses during your stay.

5. Is it safe to swim in Tokelau’s waters?

Yes, it is generally safe to swim in Tokelau’s waters, but as with any beach destination, it’s important to exercise caution.

Pay attention to any warning signs, swim in designated areas, and be mindful of strong currents or potential marine life hazards.