20 Best Things to Do on Wallis (Uvea)

A must-see on Wallis, Lake Lalolalo, or Lac Lalolalo, offers one of the most mystical and visually stunning inland attractions.

This perfectly circular crater lake, formed within an ancient volcano, plunges at least 80 m (262 ft) deep and stretches 450 m (1,476 ft)across, creating an almost supernatural setting that feels untouched by time.

The sulphurous depths harbour endemic blind eels that have adapted to this unique freshwater environment over millennia. Surrounding the lake, pristine virgin rainforest creates a natural amphitheatre, while massive fruit bats soar overhead during twilight hours.

According to locals, the lake is shrouded in ancient myths and legends that still make guides uneasy when approaching the shoreline. The combination of geological wonder, endemic wildlife and cultural significance makes this one of the most photographed yet mysteriously atmospheric locations on the island.

Standing at just 145 m (476 ft) above sea level, Mt Lulu Fakahega may be Wallis's tallest peak, but its modest height makes it an accessible attraction for visitors of all fitness levels.

The real magic lies in what awaits you on the slopes and summit. Multiple volcanic craters and serene lakes dot the mountainside, creating a unique landscape that tells the story of the island's volcanic origins.

At the very top, you'll discover the charming Croix de Mt Lulu chapel, a picturesque sanctuary that offers breathtaking panoramic views stretching down to the coastline on clear days. The contrast between the sacred chapel and the raw volcanic terrain creates an unforgettable visual experience.

A dirt road winds around the mountain, making this natural wonder surprisingly easy to reach without requiring serious hiking equipment or extensive preparation.

Ever visible on the waterfront of Wallis' capital, Mata'Utu Cathedral is a symbol of Wallis and Futuna's dedicated Catholic population.

This national monument of France dominates the landscape with its imposing blue volcanic stone construction, each stone hand-chiselled and trimmed by the Marists, the French Roman Catholic religious order that brought Catholicism to these remote islands.

The cathedral's two prominent rectangular towers frame a distinctive blue Maltese cross—the royal insignia of Wallis that also graces the island's flag. As the seat of the Diocese of Wallis and Futuna, this massive structure represents what historians call a "bulwark of Gaulish Catholicism" in the Pacific.

Construction began in 1951 using coral blocks, creating a unique blend of European religious architecture and Pacific materials that makes this cathedral unlike any other in the region.

Speaking of religion, a much more humble religious structure commemorated the landing place of the first Marist missionaries at Kalevalio Chapel.

Standing at Kalevalio, you'll witness the exact spot where Monsignor Pompallier, Father Bataillon, Father Chanel and their companions first landed and immediately knelt to recite an Ave Maria. The site may appear modest compared to other religious landmarks, but its historical importance is immense; this moment marked the beginning of Catholic faith spreading throughout the Pacific islands.

The commemorative cross erected here in 1887 serves as a powerful reminder of the 50th anniversary of Catholicism's establishment on the island. According to locals, this sacred ground holds deep spiritual significance for the community, representing the foundation of their faith journey.

The best-preserved example of a Tongan fort in the world, Kolonui Fort at La Résidence de Taleitumu, is as intriguing as it is rare.

This remarkably well-maintained historical site was built around 1450 during the expansion of the Tu'i Tonga Empire and served as the last holdout of the Tongans on Uvea until their eventual defeat. The entire fortress is surrounded by impressive defensive walls constructed from basalt stone, featuring several strategic entrances that once controlled access to this sacred stronghold.

Inside the fort, you'll discover preserved buildings and structures set amongst manicured lawns, all centred around the elevated platform called Talietumu - a marae or sacred place of circular prolonged shape built upon a circular stockade base.

Looming over the bay at Lausikula, the Chapel of St Bernadette offers some grand architecture to admire in a remote corner of Wallis.

This magnificent chapel, blessed in September 2014, replaced a charming little oratory that was destroyed by Cyclone Evan in 2012. What emerged is nothing short of spectacular; an enormous and lavishly decorated chapel that rivals the famous Poï Basilica in Futuna.

The original site featured a statue of St. Bernadette standing at the entrance to a natural cave carved into the cliff, creating an almost mystical atmosphere that continues to captivate visitors today. According to our very own editor-in-chief, Laura, the chapel's grandeur reflects the ambitious vision of those who rebuilt it, creating what locals proudly describe as an extravagant edifice that commands respect and admiration.

Another chapel with a million-dollar location, the Chapel of St Pierre Chanel offers a glorious viewpoint from the slopes of Mt Mauga.

Dedicated to Saint Pierre Chanel, the patron saint of Oceania and one of many chapels around Wallis with the same name, this secluded sanctuary sits on a picturesque knoll surrounded by lush forest.

The chapel's history traces back to the 1940s when Monsignor Poncet envisioned creating a memorial to commemorate Saint Pierre Chanel's visit to Wallis. Every year on 28 August, pilgrims make their way up the mountain for a special pilgrimage honouring the saint, culminating in a solemn mass followed by a traditional community katoaga (feast).

The peaceful setting provides stunning views across the island's interior, making it an ideal spot for quiet reflection and photography.

One of Wallis' glorious motu, Nukuhifala sits on the eastern edge of the lagoon with plenty to explore on such a small speck of sand.

This small paradise beckons with its superb beaches fringed by swaying coconut palms and vibrant coral reefs that create an underwater wonderland for snorkelling and scuba diving enthusiasts.

The crystal-clear waters surrounding this idyllic motu reveal thriving marine ecosystems that are best explored with marine-friendly sunscreen to protect the delicate sea life. Beyond the aquatic adventures, you'll discover the hauntingly beautiful ruins of the former Chapel of St John the Baptist, adding a touch of historical intrigue to your tropical escape.

From what we've experienced, this secluded gem offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, making it an unmissable addition to any Wallis Island itinerary.

Neighbouring Nukuhifala, Nukuhione is another enticing islet which offers an idyllic launching pad for watersports.

This secluded islet features stunning coral reefs that create an underwater wonderland, making it a haven for water enthusiasts of all skill levels.

The islet offers thoughtful amenities including shelters for shade and weather protection, plus a central prayer shrine that adds cultural touch to your visit. Locals enjoy the island for picnicking, sunbathing and swimming in these glimmering waters.

Beyond underwater exploration, the surrounding waters provide excellent conditions for kitesurfing, offering yet another way to experience this tropical gem's natural beauty. It's also a popular spot for snorkelling and scuba diving.

The Isle of St Christophe boasts a glorious white sand beach that's ideal for picnicking, swimming and snorkelling in crystal-clear waters.

The real highlight is the short hike to the island's summit, where a charming chapel rewards visitors with stunning panoramic views across the lagoon. The combination of pristine natural beauty and cultural significance makes this motu truly special.

Access is exclusively through organised snorkelling and scuba diving trips with Evasion Bleue, ensuring the island remains unspoilt and uncrowded.

There's something magical about the aerial adventures offered by Aéroclub du Lagon, between the views of the lagoon from above or the experience of flying in a microlite aircraft itself!

Flying out of Hihifo Airport, you'll find yourself soaring over pristine lagoons and coral reefs in these surprisingly intimate ultralight aircraft. The views are genuinely breathtaking, and we've found that even those who are usually nervous about flying feel completely at ease with the experienced pilot.

You've got two fantastic options to choose from. The 20-minute "Northern Islets Tour" gives you a perfect taste of what aerial sightseeing is all about, whilst the 45-minute "Full Tour" lets you really soak in every inch of the island and lagoon's stunning beauty.

What we personally love about these flights is how affordable they are compared to traditional scenic flights elsewhere.

It would almost be a crime to visit Wallis and not get out on the lagoon, and Association Vaka La offers several amazing ways to do that!

This eco-friendly watersports centre has everything you could want for a day on the water, from windsurfing and kayaking to stand-up paddleboarding, catamarans and sailing dinghies.

What we love most is how welcoming they are to complete beginners. The expert instructors will have you feeling confident on the water in no time, whilst seasoned water enthusiasts can fine-tune their skills with personalised guidance.

Don't miss their taxi boat service; it's your ticket to exploring secluded beaches and those gorgeous offshore islets that dot the crystal-clear lagoon. From what we've experienced, these hidden gems are some of the most peaceful spots you'll find.

They run round-trip journeys to the central islands throughout their opening hours, and here's a lovely touch; you can borrow masks, fins and snorkels at no extra charge to make the most of your underwater adventures.

Evasion Bleue opens up a whole new world below the surface with professional and reliable scuba diving and snorkelling tours, as well as a water taxi service.

Operating six days a week from the charming fishing village of Halalo, you're in excellent hands with qualified diving instructor Pascal Nicomette.

What makes this place special? You'll explore incredible dive spots both inside and outside the lagoon, from vibrant coral gardens and fascinating wartime wrecks to dramatic passes and the famous lobster cave.

History buffs will love the historically significant sites scattered across the seabed, including 19th-century whaler anchors at 40 m (130 ft) depths and preserved American military barges. The renowned Leper Drop-off stands out as a premier dive site with stunning soft corals and frequent encounters with bumphead parrotfish, manta rays and eagle rays.

Beyond diving, they offer unforgettable snorkelling adventures to pristine Islet St Christophe and reliable water taxi services to untouched paradises with crystal-clear lagoons and powdery white sand beaches.

Let Fetuufoou Taxi Boat show you the magic of Wallis' northern motu!

Their charming operation will whisk you away to Nukufoto (Bird Island), where you'll discover traditional thatched fale scattered across this absolutely gorgeous paradise. From what we've experienced, it's the kind of place that makes you want to pinch yourself to check you're not dreaming.

The beauty of their daily excursion schedule is the flexibility it offers, though we've found that booking at least one day ahead is essential to secure your spot on one of their two boats.

With a maximum capacity of 20 people across their fleet, you'll enjoy a wonderfully intimate experience exploring these remote gems. The glistening waters and untouched landscapes create perfect conditions for swimming, snorkelling and photography.

Experience the magic of traditional Polynesian sailing with the Nukuteatea Association on their magnificent outrigger canoe adventure to the enchanting northern motu.

This authentic full-day excursion to Nukuteatea islet combines the thrill of wind-powered sailing across pristine lagoon waters with immersive cultural experiences that bring Wallis Island traditions to life.

Your journey begins as you glide gracefully across the turquoise lagoon, propelled by traditional sailing techniques passed down through generations. Upon reaching the fairytale islet, you'll participate in preparing your own lunch using a traditional umu earth oven, learning ancient cooking methods while connecting with local culture.

The afternoon unfolds with exploration of the northern beaches and surrounding islets, offering opportunities for swimming, snorkelling and discovering secluded spots that few visitors ever see. With a maximum capacity of 25 passengers, this intimate experience maintains its authentic charm while ensuring personalised attention from your local hosts.

Wallis and Futuna's only museum, the Uvea Museum Association, maintains a fascinating collection of memorabilia from the U.S. military's occupancy on Wallis.

This remarkable collection by passionate curator Christophe Laurent chronicles the extraordinary period from 1942-1946 when nearly 6,000 American GIs transformed Wallis Island, building roads, the airport and establishing deep bonds with locals. Founded by history enthusiast Eric Pambrun, who spent years collecting artefacts left behind by the departing soldiers, this museum offers guided tours that captivate visitors for over an hour with personal stories and authentic wartime treasures.

The experience (in air-conditioned comfort, might we add) includes fascinating insights into the curators' ongoing quest to reconnect former servicemen with their Pacific memories. Once annually, special field visits explore actual wartime remains scattered across the island, revealing both the prosperous developments and tragic moments of this transformative era.

The Wallis and Futuna Va'a League offers an extraordinary opportunity to master the art of paddling a va'a, the traditional Polynesian outrigger canoe that has navigated Pacific waters for centuries.

Under expert guidance from local rowing teams, you'll learn authentic paddling techniques whilst gliding across Wallis's azure lagoon waters.

This hands-on cultural experience connects you directly with Polynesian maritime heritage, as skilled instructors share their knowledge of traditional canoe handling and ocean navigation. The intimate setting allows for genuine interaction with local paddlers who have grown up with these magnificent vessels.

Beyond the technical skills, this activity offers a unique window into the community spirit that defines island life, where the va'a represents both sporting prowess and cultural identity.

If you're dreaming of kitesurfing in paradise, you'll absolutely love what Wallis Kite Academy (also known as Wallis Kite Academie) has to offer.

They've turned Wallis's crystal-clear lagoons into the ultimate kitesurfing playground, with 11 incredible spots and those wonderfully consistent trade winds that make every session pure magic.

Ben and his fantastic team have set up their base right on the lagoon in Falaleu, and from what we've experienced, they're absolute wizards at getting beginners up and riding in record time. Whether you're a complete newbie or already know your way around a kite, you'll find their approach refreshingly welcoming.

What we personally love about this place is how they go the extra mile. Beyond the standard lessons, they'll take you on supervised trips to hidden islet spots that showcase the island's most spectacular kitesurfing locations (trust us, the views alone are worth it). Plus, if you're travelling light, their comprehensive gear rental service means you don't need to lug your equipment halfway across the Pacific.

The icing on the cake is that this FFVL-affiliated school helps fund a local youth kitesurfing team.

Discover the rich artisanal heritage of Wallis and Futuna through an authentic shopping experience that connects you directly with local craftspeople and their time-honoured traditions. Browse traditional shops like Atuhakevalu and Gie te Tapa for authentic pieces, or explore contemporary interpretations at Fenua Art and Veiogo Tapa Wallis et Futuna.

Watch skilled artisans create intricate tapa cloths from paper mulberry bark, hand-painted with delicate traditional designs and transformed into everything from ceremonial gatu to modern accessories like passport holders. Women exclusively craft beautiful flower garlands and shell necklaces, while men carve wooden items shaped like turtles and traditional tanoa bowls.

You'll also find woven fala mats made from local leaves, ceremonial ta'ovala cloths worn at religious ceremonies, and authentic scented oils extracted from tuitui and coconut. Don't miss sampling traditional kava, the island's ceremonial drink made from plant roots.

Discover shopping opportunities in The Guide to Shopping in Wallis & Futuna + The Best Places to Shop LINK#TTD094.

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

Price Range: $-$$$$

Experience the unique culinary fusion of French and Wallisian flavours at restaurants throughout Wallis Island, where traditional Pacific ingredients meet European sophistication. Local specialities like taro and ota ika (raw fish salad) sit alongside elegant charcuterie boards, creating an unexpectedly delightful combination.

Beyond the distinctive fusion offerings, these establishments cater to all tastes with familiar comforts including wood-fired pizzas, gourmet burgers and international dishes.

The dining experience is elevated by spectacular settings, with many restaurants offering panoramic views of the magnificent Mata'Utu Cathedral or the island's turquoise lagoon waters, making every meal a feast for both the palate and the eyes.

Start planning your gastronomy journey with The Food Guide to Wallis: Places to Eat & Food Tours LINK#D008.

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

Price Range: $-$$$$