Swim with Humpback Whales in Tonga
Stay off-grid on beautiful Uoleva Island and experience one of the world’s most extraordinary wildlife encounters.
Mid July – Early October
Limited availability in Mid July and Mid to Late September
Limited Openings in Mid July and Mid–Late September
If you’ve been dreaming of swimming with humpback whales, we currently have a small number of spaces available in:
Mid July
Mid to Late September
These periods are a wonderful time to visit Tonga.
Whale activity is strong, the weather is typically clear and comfortable, and Ha’apai remains peaceful and uncrowded.
Because Sea Change is a boutique eco retreat and our whale swims operate in small groups, availability is always limited — and these remaining spaces are expected to book quickly.
If these dates suit you, we recommend getting in touch soon.
Why Mid July and September Are Special
Peak Whale Season
Humpback whales migrate to Tonga’s warm waters to breed and give birth. Mid season offers excellent opportunities for meaningful encounters.
Beautiful Winter Weather
Tonga’s winter months are often dry, clear, and comfortable — ideal conditions for time on the water and relaxing on the beach.
Fewer Crowds
Ha’apai is naturally quieter than other regions, offering a more personal and authentic whale season experience.
An Intimate Whale Experience in Pristine Ha’apai Waters
Each winter, humpback whales return to Tonga’s warm waters.
From mid July to early October, guests at Sea Change Eco Retreat have the rare opportunity to respectfully swim alongside these magnificent animals in one of the few places in the world where in-water encounters are permitted under regulation.
This is not mass tourism.
We operate small groups, prioritising:
• Quiet, respectful interactions
• Ethical whale practices
• Personalised guiding
• Meaningful time in the water
Every encounter is different. Every moment is unforgettable.
See What Whale Season Looks Like
Swimming beside a humpback whale in clear tropical water is something words struggle to describe. It is powerful, humbling, and deeply moving.
Stay Off-Grid on Uoleva Island
Sea Change Eco Retreat is more than accommodation — it’s part of the experience.
We are:
• 100% solar powered
• Using treated rainwater for drinking
• Completely off-grid
• Set on a pristine white sand beach
• Boutique and intimate in scale
After a morning swimming with whales, return to fresh meals, warm lagoon swims, and evenings under extraordinary star-filled skies.
No cruise ships. No large resorts. Just nature.
What’s Included in Your Whale Swim Stay
• Private beachfront accommodation
• Daily whale swim excursions on offer (weather permitting)- you can include as many as you want
• All meals
• Snorkelling equipment
• Transfers from Ha’apai airport
• Use of kayaks and paddleboards
• Use of our beautiful yoga shala
Optional private charters may be available on request.
Accommodation (Per Night)
| Accommodation Type | Rate (NZD) |
|---|---|
| Beachfront Tent Fale | $380 |
| Beachfront Wooden Fale | $430 |
Meal Package
| Item | Rate |
|---|---|
| Full Meal Package | $180 per person per day |
Transfers
| Item | Rate |
|---|---|
| Return Transfers | $130 per person |
Whale Swim Experience
| Item | Rate |
|---|---|
| Whale Swim Trip | $380 per person* |
What customers say
Frequently Asked Questions
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Whale sightings during peak season are typically very high, though all wildlife experiences are subject to conditions.
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You should be comfortable snorkelling in open water. Full safety briefings are provided.
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Guests fly to Tonga (Nuku’alofa) and then take a short domestic flight to Ha’apai. We coordinate onward transfers.
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Yes. Tonga operates under strict whale interaction regulations, and we follow all guidelines designed to protect the whales.
Secure Your Spot for Mid July or Mid–Late September
Swim with humpback whales in one of the world’s most beautiful and uncrowded marine environments — then unwind off-grid on Uoleva Island.
Limited availability. These spaces will go fast.