Things To Do
in Funafuti
Funafuti is Tuvalu’s compact atoll, a thin ring of inhabited motu around a vast turquoise lagoon. Life here moves at a slow pace, with palm-fringed villages, simple boats, and a strong sense of community. The island’s fragile environment and warm hospitality invite visitors to explore calm lagoons, coral gardens, and traditional crafts.
It’s a place of intimate natural beauty and cultural warmth, best experienced with patience and coastal curiosity.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters of Funafuti Lagoon. You can rent snorkeling gear to discover vibrant coral reefs and an array of colorful fish. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, soaking in the serene surroundings.
After lunch, embark on a guided kayak tour to nearby islets, where you can experience untouched nature. Engage with locals who will share their knowledge about the unique ecosystem and traditional fishing methods. Wind down your adventure as you relax on the soft sandy beaches.
As the sun sets, head back to Funafuti for a delicious dinner featuring fresh seafood and local delicacies. Stroll along the waterfront, enjoying the gentle breeze and the sound of waves lapping against the shore. End your day with a beachfront bonfire, sharing stories with fellow travelers under a starlit sky.
Visit the Tuvalu Maritime Training Institute to learn about traditional navigation and seafaring skills of the Polynesian people. Participate in a local workshop where you can try your hand at weaving palm fronds. Enjoy a traditional breakfast prepared by community members, showcasing local flavors.
Explore the Tuvalu National Library and discover its collection of historical documents and artifacts. Engage with librarians who can share insights into Tuvalu's rich history and culture. Follow this by visiting local artisans who create handicrafts, giving you a chance to purchase unique souvenirs.
Dine at a local eatery with live music performances showcasing traditional Tuvaluan songs and dances. This immersive experience will allow you to appreciate the rich cultural fabric of the island. Gather with the locals for a vibrant dance performance, encouraging everyone to join in the fun.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $2-5 |
| 🏨Guesthouse or simple hotel room (per night) | $60-120 |
| 🛒Grocery staple per week | $25-60 |
| 🚤Inter-island boat trip | $10-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Pristine lagoons and authentic Pacific island culture
- Warm, welcoming locals and a slow-paced vibe
- Very limited infrastructure and services
- Few dining options and sparse nightlife; remote travel can be slow
- "Talofa" - Hello
- "Fa'afetai" - Thank you
- "Fakamolemole" - Please / Excuse me
Places to Visit in Funafuti
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide, glassy water with motu islands and palm silhouettes; ideal for sunrise and calm-water reflections.
Fishing boats, coconut palms, and soft golden light; great for portraits and candid village scenes.
Dramatic blue-green waters and white reef edges; perfect for wide seascapes and close-up coral textures.
Food in Funafuti
Funafuti Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Taro leaves baked in coconut cream with onions and sometimes meat; a hallmark dish often served at celebrations and guesthouse dinners.
Must-Try!
Fresh tuna or reef fish mixed with coconut milk, lime or lemon, onion, and herbs; a refreshing staple in lagoon villages.
A simple curry featuring locally caught fish in coconut milk and taro or rice; widely prepared in homes and guesthouses.
Boiled or mashed taro and breadfruit served as sides, often flavored with coconut cream.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Small markets near Vaiaku where villagers sell fresh fish, coconuts, taro, breadfruit, and fruit; great for sampling fresh picks and speaking with locals.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly in public spaces; cover shoulders and knees when visiting churches or homes; ask before photographing people or ceremonies.
Respect church schedules and local customs; remove shoes when entering homes or sacred spaces; participate respectfully if invited to a gathering.
Safety
Tipping in Funafuti
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary but appreciated for exceptional service; not expected in most situations.
Cash is king; Australian dollar and Tuvaluan dollar are commonly accepted. Credit cards are rarely supported; ATMs are limited, so carry sufficient cash for your stay.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent tropical showers; excellent visibility for snorkeling but showers can disrupt outdoor plans. Watch for the early part of the cyclone season and plan flexible itineraries.
Relatively cooler and drier with steady trade winds; milder humidity and calmer seas make for comfortable boat outings and longer beach walks.
Funafuti at Night
Hiking in Funafuti
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Flat, scenic walks along some motu edges; no formal hiking trails, but enjoyable coastal strolls with lagoon views.
Airports
How to reach Funafuti by plane.
Main international gateway to Tuvalu; small runway with limited flight schedules to Fiji and occasional regional connections.
Major hub for connections to Tuvalu; typical stepping-stone for onward travel to Australia, New Zealand, and North America.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnic group and cultural core of Funafuti; strong sense of community and tradition.
Small numbers from nearby Pacific nations and temporary workers who contribute to local life and tourism.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular on the atoll with local leagues and pickup games among residents and visitors.
Common in school and community events; casual play and regional exhibitions occur when possible.
A common pastime on beaches and in community spaces.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Funafuti.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Clearly communicate with cooks; rely on taro, breadfruit, coconut, leafy greens, and legumes; many dishes can be prepared without meat or fish.