5 Things to Do in Wallis & Futuna on a Rainy Day

As cliché as it may be, huddling in a museum is still a totally fun and viable way to spend a rainy day on Wallis. This is especially true for the Uvea Museum Association, which offers World War Two artefacts and knowledge to soak in about the rich history of the islands.

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.

Wallis and Futuna's shopping landscape reflects the unique character of this remote Pacific territory - a mix of practical necessity and island charm that caters to both locals and visitors seeking authentic experiences.

Shopping in Wallis and Futuna is refreshingly intimate and personal, with most establishments being family-owned businesses where you'll often interact directly with the owners. This creates a warm, community-focused atmosphere that's rare in today's retail world, where customer service extends beyond mere transactions to genuine conversations about island life.

The craft and souvenir scene focuses heavily on locally-made items, offering genuine island-style gifts, traditional wear and handcrafted items that reflect Polynesian culture. You'll discover authentic pieces rather than mass-produced tourist trinkets.

Location: Various locations throughout Tutuila. Check out the 10 Best Shops to Buy Souvenirs in Wallis and Futuna LINK#TTD094 for recommendations and their locations.

Price: $$

Pray for the rain to pass at one of Wallis and Futuna’s enchanting church services.

Whatever the weather, the powerful harmonies echoing across the churches on a Sunday are an experience not to be missed.

Don your most church-appropriate attire (cover knees and shoulders) and head to one of the cathedrals or basilicas across the island, typically with a 7, 8:30 or 9 am service.

Location: All over Wallis and Futuna! Check out the 10 Best Churches in Wallis & Futuna to Experience as a Visitor for church recommendations.

Price: Free

No one is above a rainy day snorkel! Since you’re going to get wet anyway, why not head out with your snorkelling gear and meet the fish?

With sheltered waters within the Wallis Lagoon, bad weather doesn't typically affect snorkelling conditions too much (although don't do anything crazy like swim in a tropical storm).

Check out all of the snorkelling spots in The Best Snorkelling in Wallis and Futuna: Top 10 Places to Snorkel LINK#TTD099 or join one of the guided tours listed in the 5 Best Snorkelling Tours in Wallis and Futuna LINK#TTD101.

Location: See the links above for locations.

Price: Free or $$

While a pretty obvious thing to do, it can’t be denied that huddling under the shelter of a restaurant while gorging on island cuisine isn’t a bad way to spend a rainy day.

Whatever your vibe and budget, Wallis and Futuna has the cafes and restaurants to suit you. The list is too extensive to go through here, but you can check out recommendations in The Food Guide to Rarotonga: Places to Eat & Food Tours LINK#TTD040.

Location: See the links above for locations.

Price: $