Anahulu Cave – The Underground Swimming Pool

Introduction

The Anahulu Cave Ancient Tonga Cultural Centre, often referred to simply as Anahulu Cave, is located in Haveluliku village on the eastern coast of Tongatapu, the main island of the Kingdom of Tonga. Nestled about fifteen kilometres to the east of Nukuʻalofa, the capital city, this fascinating cultural site offers visitors the opportunity to explore an underground freshwater pool inside limestone caverns and to immerse themselves in traditional Tongan culture. With its peaceful setting near Anahulu Beach, the centre provides a memorable blend of natural beauty and island heritage.

About the Museum

The museum portion of the site, known as the Anahulu Cave Ancient Tonga Cultural Centre, goes far beyond a simple visit to a cave. It is situated at the entrance of the cave system formed in coral limestone with remarkable stalactite and stalagmite formations. Visitors descend stair‑cases and a pathway of approximately four hundred metres into a series of caverns, leading to Tongatapu’s only freshwater swimming pools, the largest of which can reach depths of up to eight metres.

At the centre, guests are welcomed in true Tongan style with song and dance, followed by a traditional kava ceremony, once reserved for royal occasions. A demonstration follows, showing how coconut cream is made, from husking to drinking fresh coconut water. Visitors also get to observe skilled local women weaving mats and crafting barkcloth (tapa) using traditional methods. Seasonal tropical fruit refreshments are served, and many visitors enjoy beverages such as coconut water and bottled water amidst this cultural immersion.

Tours typically include transport from Nukuʻalofa passing through rural villages and Tongan landscapes, and conclude with a visit toAnahulu Beach, located just fifty metres from the cave entrance, ideal for snorkelling and swimming in coral‑fringed coastal waters.

Interesting Facts

• The cave system stretches roughly four hundred metres in length and contains multiple freshwater pools, the deepest being up to eight metres deep.
• Anahulu Cave boasts the only natural freshwater pool on Tongatapu, making it a rare hydrological feature on the island.
• The pools are anchialine, meaning they are landlocked but connected underground to the ocean; they are often stratified with a halocline—fresh water above salty layers—and host cave‑adapted shrimp and amphipods.
• Electric lights illuminate the first major cavern when the caretaker is present; beyond that, parts of the cave remain in natural darkness, so guests may need a torch if exploring further.
• The cultural centre hosts live demonstrations: mat weaving, tapa cloth making, and coconut processing, along with a traditional kava ceremony and Tongan song and dance performances.

Photo Gallery

Physical Location

Contact Details

Phone: +676 871 6759

Website: anahulucave.to/

Facebook: facebook.com/pages/Anahulu-Cave-the-Underground-Swimming-Pool/592239714616044

Conclusion

A visit to the Anahulu Cave Ancient Tonga Cultural Centre offers both adventure and cultural enrichment in a single experience. The combination of exploring beautifully formed limestone caverns, swimming in a secluded freshwater pool, and participating in cultural rituals and artisan demonstrations makes this site a standout attraction on Tongatapu. Whether you are a nature lover, a cultural enthusiast, or simply someone seeking a refreshing swim in an extraordinary setting, this museum delivers a truly unique and uplifting experience. By bridging natural wonder with authentic Tongan traditions, it invites each visitor to discover the heart of island life in the Kingdom of Tonga.