20 Best Things to Do on Futuna

If you're craving a long walk, Mt Puke (also known as Mt Singavi) is Futuna's highest peak, rising 524 m (1,719 ft) above sea level.

This challenging 5-6-hour return trail demands experienced hiking skills as you navigate through dense tropical jungle in northern Futuna, but the effort pays dividends with jaw-dropping panoramic views stretching across both land and seascapes. The ascent tests your endurance whilst immersing you in pristine rainforest, complete with native flora and the sounds of tropical birdlife.

At the summit, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree vistas that showcase Futuna's dramatic coastline, neighbouring islands and the endless Pacific Ocean beyond.

The trail is not signposted, so it's recommended to go with a guide. Ask your accommodation host to arrange a guide, or guides can be arranged with Mataga Me'a o Futuna Eco Tourisme.

Located in Vele, just across the channel from the glorious uninhabited island of Alofi, Taxi Boat Afala offers a selection of fun ways to explore the surrounding waters and the island itself.

Their signature 1 hr 30 mins "Boat Tour of Alofi" reveals ancient legends whilst cruising past towering mountains, lush forests and pristine white sand beaches of this uninhabited paradise.

For those seeking beach bliss, the quick 10-minute transfer to Alofitai Beach delivers access to powdery sands, crystal-clear reefs and hiking trails including Loka Cave.

Their 2 hr 30 mins "Boat Tour of Futuna" combines cultural storytelling with spectacular coastal scenery, passing traditional villages, the historic Poï Basilica where Saint Pierre Chanel met his fate, and the dramatic Pyramid Rocks.

All tours accommodate just six passengers maximum, ensuring intimate experiences with opportunities for whale watching (July to October) and dolphin spotting.

Speaking of Alofi, one of Wallis and Futuna's most stunning beaches, Alofitai Beach lies on this uninhabited island, where powdery white sand meets turquoise waters in perfect tropical harmony.

This pristine 1 km (0.6 mi) stretch of uninterrupted coastline offers the ultimate beach day experience, complete with natural shade from spreading tilo trees (feta'u in Wallisian, commonly known as "beautyleaf" in English).

If you're keen on snorkelling, you'll love what's waiting beneath the surface. The shallows are perfect for spotting colourful fish, while strong swimmers can venture just beyond the reef during incoming high tide for an even more spectacular underwater experience.

When you need a break from the sun (or a quick escape from a tropical shower), you'll find traditional fales dotted behind Alofitai Beach. Head towards the eastern side of the beach, near the inland hiking trail, where the public fales are located in the open ceremonial area close to the public toilets.

Beyond simply lounging on the sand, you'll discover fascinating historical and natural attractions within walking distance. Don't miss the island's first freshwater well, the charming Chapelle Mafutapu, and the historical Vaivevela Hot Water Springs, which were once used by nuns as healing waters.

On the island of Alofi, adventure awaits those seeking one of the South Pacific's most secluded natural-turned-spiritual attractions. The Loka Cave adventure begins with a boat transfer to this uninhabited island, followed by an epic trek across rugged coastal terrain.

To get to Loka Cave, you'll embark on a 4 to 5-hour return hike following ancient pathways laid by forefathers, leading to breathtaking beach accesses, fascinating archaeological sites and the legendary Loka Cave.

Your first stop in the Loka area is Loka Beach with traditional fales. According to local tradition, this is where three children transformed into dolphins while fleeing persecution, making it Futuna's premier dolphin-watching location and a place of deep cultural significance.

Follow the trail at the north end of the beach along the bottom of the cliffs with rope walkways and concrete steps to find Loka Cave itself, a pilgrimage site with a concrete pool containing drinking water and another pool with holy water.

The cave beach offers excellent shore fishing at low tide, while nearby, toward the southern end of Loka Beach, you'll find a natural coral pool best explored when the waters are calm.

The 15 km (9 mi) trail is easy to follow, with the easiest being the stone-walled inland forest trail with a few signposts along the way.

To make a loop, come back via Ganiu Beach (signposted). We recommend starting early and bringing your own food and water for this rewarding expedition.

When it comes to making the most out of water exploration in Futuna, Tauti Taxi Boat is the perfect go-to!

Join local character Samino and his Tautai team for an unforgettable full-day photography boat tour around Futuna's stunning coastline. Departing at 7 am, you'll glide past historic villages, sacred chapels and dramatic natural landmarks including the famous Pyramid Rocks and Piscine Blue.

Capture incredible shots of a 1976 Japanese shipwreck whilst hearing its captivating story, and listen to fascinating legends at ancient rock formations. The adventure includes lunch featuring sandwiches, crêpes, sashimi and seasonal fruit, with an optional one-hour Alofi Island add-on available for dolphin encounters.

This scenic adventure perfectly combines culture, wildlife and breathtaking coastal scenery, making it ideal for photographers and explorers seeking to explore Futuna from an alternative perspective.

Offering two fantastic land tours of Futuna, Mataga Me'a o Futuna Eco Tourisme provides that all-essential context to the island's historical and religious sites.

Their "Futuna Religious Sites Tour" takes you on a profound journey through sacred locations, including the revered Saint Pierre Chanel Basilica, honouring the Pacific's first martyr, traditional falefono meeting houses, and the majestic church at Ono.

Alternatively, choose their "Futuna Cultural Sites Tour" to explore either the ancient Kingdom of Sigave or Kingdom of Alo, discovering centuries-old royal tombs, sacred burial grounds, and traditional taro plantations. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic viewpoints over Poï from the island's best viewpoints, plus refreshing local fruits and coconut water as knowledgeable guides share the deeply fascinating stories that shaped these island kingdoms.

If you need an English-speaking guide, be sure to let them know when booking.

Fai’umu O Pāpā, also known as "Four Cannibale", is a perfectly circular formation of volcanic rocks that were once heated up to, well, you get the picture...

You'll find this archaeological site absolutely fascinating, centred around a massive circular stone umu (a traditional earth oven) marking where the ancient village of Asoa once thrived. What makes this place truly captivating isn't just the impressively preserved stonework, but the chilling legend that locals still whisper about today.

According to locals, a rival clan hatched a deadly plot to overthrow the village chief, the Tui Asoa.

The story goes that they murdered the food servant of Pāpā, a legendary warrior who protected the village, then cooked and served the body to him in this very umu. When Pāpā complimented the exceptional taste (not knowing what he was eating), the clan saw their chance and continued their gruesome plan.

They systematically eliminated the chief's entire clan until only a grandmother and three children remained. The children managed a dramatic escape to Loka, where legend says they transformed into dolphins.

Venture to Tuatafa Beach in the far north of Futuna for one of the island's best examples of black sand beach.

This spectacular stretch of black volcanic sand creates a dramatic contrast against the clear waters, making it one of Futuna's most photographed beaches. According to locals, legend has it that if you make too much noise after dark, the waves keep coming and take you to Polotu (the afterlife), so time your visit well!

This beach also holds historical significance, as 1839 marked the last big battle between kingdoms on Futuna.

Just a few metres south of the black sand, you'll discover an incredible natural swimming pool, known as "Piscine Bleue". We recommend visiting at incoming high tide for the safest experience.

The geological formations here are truly remarkable to explore with a snorkel, mask and fins, with protected pools closer to shore offering safe spots for less confident swimmers.

As day turns to evening, prepare to be captivated by some of the most glorious sunsets you'll ever witness. The black sand provides the perfect vantage point to watch the sun melt into the Pacific horizon, painting the sky in brilliant oranges and pinks.

Diving a little deeper into the popular swimming spot of Piscine Bleue (Blue Pool), this is a wild and untamed swimming experience where the ocean meets a natural rock pool formation.

This small but captivating pool sits dramatically facing the sometimes raging ocean, creating a unique aquatic playground between sand and volcanic rocks.

The sheltered area near the boat ramp provides safe and easy access for a refreshing dip, perfect for cooling off after exploring the rugged coastline. More adventurous snorkellers with fins can venture towards the rock and reef formations that line the pool, where vibrant coral gardens and tropical fish create an underwater spectacle; we even spotted moray eels during our visit!

The experience is best enjoyed during incoming high tide when the pool fills with crystal-clear ocean water, creating optimal conditions for both swimming and snorkelling.

Discover the authentic art of traditional Polynesian outrigger canoeing with Avamoana Futuna, an association of skilled Futunan oarsmen and women who welcome visitors to experience their cultural sport.

Unlike commercial tours, this local club welcomes visitors to participate in paddling sessions that are almost like their "national sport" but are also a nod to Futuna's maritime heritage.

A popular option is a 3-4-hour paddle along Futuna's main coast, past coral formations, villages, churches and coastal roads. The highlight is crossing 3-4 km (1.8-2.4 mi) to Alofi Island (about 30 minutes paddling), where you'll stop for swimming and relaxation before returning via the same route.

Sessions accommodate two to five people per boat with a guide, lasting from short outings around the harbour to full-day adventures. High tide offers the best conditions, providing stunning mountain views, while low tide reveals intricate coral formations below.

Every Sunday afternoon at Leava Bay, structured sessions run from 3 pm to 4 pm for children and 4 pm to 5:30 pm for adults, offering expert instruction in handling these traditional racing vessels.

Gie Alo craft shop is Futuna's go-to for authentic local treasures.

You'll be amazed by their collection of traditional tapa cloths featuring incredibly fine and intricate penmanship (or, more accurately, penwomanship) that sets Futuna's pieces apart from other Pacific islands. The artisans here use fountain pens to create detailed patterns, with each artist developing their own distinctive style.

Browse through their thoughtfully crafted items, including practical coasters, passport holders, unique bookmarks and Futuna-inspired postcards. The real treasures are their decorative shell pieces and versatile purses and card holders that can accommodate cash, cards and coins, and even a photo of your loved ones.

From our experience, these natural handcrafted items make wonderful keepsakes, though travellers should check their own country's biosecurity regulations before departure.

Find Gie Fatua Handicraft open Monday to Friday, from 8 am to 4 pm. Note that they accept cash payments only. Call 833019 if no one is at the fale.

Graves made of volcanic stone mark the royal birthplace of Futuna at Anakele.

This isn't just any old historical site; it's the final resting place of King Fakavelikele and where the current Tui'Agaifo dynasty of Alo began their reign. According to locals, ancient power struggles that shaped Futuna's entire destiny once played out right here.

The site is well signposted alongside the main road, though it's not the cross under the fale that we first mistook it for. Take the short uphill trail to the left of the cross to climb to the top where the real ancient tomb lies. From the road, you'll see how the tomb sits on top of stone terraces placed into the hill.

Speaking of pyramid-style structures, the fabulous natural Pyramid Point (Pointe de Pyramisdes) are within view of Anakele, making this the perfect stop for a dose of cultural significance with jaw-dropping natural beauty.

A grand spiritual structure with a lush mountain backdrop, Poï Basilica can't help but wow.

You'll discover three main attractions here: the impressive main Basilica, the unique hexagonal Saint Pierre Chanel Chapel, and the fascinating Museum of Saint Pierre Chanel. There's even the grave of the person who killed Saint Pierre (and locals actually encourage visitors to stomp on it).

The museum is split into three engaging sections that take you through Saint Pierre's remarkable journey. You'll find traditional artefacts, precious relics from the saint's life, and touching donations from pilgrims who've made the journey here over the years.

A timeline along the wall traces Saint Pierre's life from his early days right up to the museum's opening in 2021. But it's not just about the saint; you'll also discover ancient pottery and fascinating archaeological finds, including a clay sculpture of a turtle that's the oldest relic ever found on Futuna.

Every year on 28 April, the anniversary of Saint Pierre's martyrdom, the basilica transforms into the epicentre of vibrant celebrations honouring the patron saint of Oceania.

On any other day, you can explore the beautifully maintained grounds and learn about the fascinating history of Catholic evangelisation in Polynesia.

A delightful roadside spot, Mataki'uvea begs you to take a moment to pause and truly appreciate where you are.

Mataki'uvea literally translates to "the look over Uvea", and this easily accessible viewpoint certainly lives up to its name with commanding views over the ocean and Poï Basilica below.

Perched conveniently along the main road, this scenic overlook offers one of the most spectacular panoramic vistas on the island, making it an unmissable photo opportunity for visitors. The elevated position provides sweeping views across the tree-lined beaches while the historic basilica sits majestically in the foreground, creating a perfect combination of natural beauty and cultural significance.

We highly recommend visiting at sunrise for the most magical experience, when the golden light illuminates the landscape and creates truly stunning photographic conditions.

Safe swimming from shore and some of the best snorkelling from the main island, Vele Beach is a must-visit for water enthusiasts.

Three distinct beach areas provide different experiences, with the main highlight being "Papalagis", a beloved spot where families and expats (nicknamed Papalagis, pronounced "papa-lan-gees") regularly gather.

The primary beach offers excellent near-shore swimming and exceptional snorkelling at high incoming tide, particularly when heading west with fins. Adventurous snorkellers can embark on a thrilling 950 m (1,040 yard) journey along the mild current to the Vele Boat Ramp, though you'll need to walk back to your starting point.

Scuba divers can access fascinating small canyons directly from Papalagis, whilst two additional quieter white sand beaches near the airport flag and eastern runway provide peaceful alternatives when the main beach gets busy.

Dive into Futuna's mesmerising underwater world with the Club de Plongée de Futuna, a passionate dive operation run by Corinne and local marine biologist, Étienne.

This intimate shore-diving experience takes a maximum of four divers (though they prefer just two) to over ten different sites around the island, all chosen based on tide conditions and weather to ensure optimal safety and visibility.

What sets this operation apart is its personalised approach and post-dive hospitality – after every dive, you'll enjoy hot drinks and biscuits whilst discussing the marine life you've encountered. Sites range from the beginner-friendly Piscine Bleue at Tuatafa to more challenging locations like the Bay of Leava where manta rays visit during March and April, and the deeper eagle ray station at 25-30 m for certified divers.

As this is a dive association, rather than a commercial operation, and because safety is at the forefront of every dive, divers are required to have insurance and a medical certificate that's no more than a year old.

Futuna's intimate dining scene offers an unexpectedly rich culinary adventure, considering the remote nature and low population of the island.

The island boasts a charming collection of home-based eateries where passionate locals and expats transform their backyards and living spaces into welcoming restaurants.

You'll discover hidden gems tucked away in hotel properties, where beachfront and indoor dining spaces serve fresh, locally-sourced meals with stunning ocean views.

The main town of Leava anchors the island's food scene with several established restaurants specialising in fresh seafood, ensuring reliable options when you're craving the catch of the day.

What sets Futuna's dining apart is its authentic, personal touch—meals often feel like dinner invitations rather than commercial transactions, with owners sharing stories and local insights alongside their carefully prepared dishes.

Start planning your gastronomy journey with The Food Guide to Futuna: Places to Eat & Food Tours.

Location: All over Futuna! See the link above for recommendations and their locations.

Price Range: $-$$$$

A truly cultural experience that's well worth seeking out, drinking kava at a local Fale Tauasu is a must-do on Futuna.

These traditional fale structures are distinctly different from anything you'll encounter on Wallis.

Positioned strategically opposite churches (perhaps so God can keep an eye on proceedings!), these community gathering spots come alive after dark. Local men sit cross-legged on woven mats, sharing shells of earthy kava while discussing island life, politics and everything in between.

While traditionally a male-dominated activity, women tourists are warmly welcomed to participate. You'll learn proper kava etiquette: remove your shoes before stepping on the mats, sit respectfully during introductions, drink the entire shell before returning it and be prepared to introduce yourself as locals will be genuinely intrigued about your story.

The best way to join a tauasu is to simply ask around; at your hotel, taxi boat or whoever you will meet. It won't be long until you find a regular tauasu-goer who will be happy to invite you along.

One of our personal favourite historical sites on Futuna, simply because of how well preserved they are, the Tongan Stairs or "Escaliers Tongien" are a rewarding hidden gem.

These well-formed steps, carved directly into the rock on the mountain slopes, span 15-20 m (50-65 ft) and showcase incredible ancient craftsmanship.

According to local legend, these stone steps were hand-carved by Tongan workers for their king Saufekai, known as the Cannibal King. The stairs ascend alongside a taro plantation, offering glimpses of authentic island living as you climb.

You can easily combine this historical site with outdoor adventures, making it a perfect stop as you descend from the Mt Puke hike - see our Best Walks in Wallis and Futuna LINK#TTD131 guide.

There are many tombs to scout out across Futuna (you can see more in the 20 Free & Cheap Things to Do in Wallis & Futuna), one with a fascinating backstory is the Vaini Tomb.

This burial ground holds the remains of a powerful chief who witnessed pivotal moments in the island's past, including the arrival of Saint Pierre Chanel in the 1840s and the famous Black Sand Beach Battle between rival kingdoms.

Archaeological excavations have revealed the traditional practice where family members were buried alive alongside deceased royalty, along with precious jewellery and ceremonial objects. The site offers a haunting glimpse into pre-Christian Futuna, where powerful chiefs ruled with absolute authority and elaborate burial customs honoured their passing.

What makes this site particularly poignant is its connection to the island's conversion to Catholicism under Tui (King) Vanai's rule, when St Pierre Chanel arrived to treat wounded warriors and advocate for peace during violent territorial conflicts.