Funafuti

Tuvalu, Oceania

Funafuti, the capital of Tuvalu, is renowned for its breathtaking lagoons and pristine beaches. It's a paradise for those seeking tranquility and stunning natural beauty. Visitors can explore coral reefs teeming with marine life while enjoying traditional Tuvaluan culture. Unique attractions include the Funafuti Conservation Area, perfect for snorkeling and diving, and the vibrant local markets. With a relaxed atmosphere and sparse development, Funafuti is ideal for young travelers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of more commercial destinations.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

Island

Vibe

Relaxing

Airport

Funafuti

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

13 Best Things to Do in Funafuti

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Snorkeling at Funafuti Marine Conservation Area

Explore vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.

No booking required
2

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Tuvalu Philatelic Bureau

Discover unique stamps and Tuvalu's postal history.

No booking required
3

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax on Funafuti Lagoon Beach

Unwind on stunning white sandy beaches by the lagoon.

No booking required
4

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Tuvalu National Library and Archives

Learn about Tuvalu's culture and history through archives.

No booking required
5

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend a traditional dance performance

Experience vibrant cultural dances and local music.

Booking required
6

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Tuvalu Maritime Training Institute

Learn about maritime education and local practices.

No booking required
7

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Fishing with locals

Join local fishermen for an authentic fishing experience.

Booking required
8

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Funafuti Lagoon Hotel

Enjoy local cuisine and stunning lagoon views.

No booking required
9

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the island of Nanumea

Visit the largest island with beautiful landscapes.

Booking required
10

Est. 2.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a boat tour around the atoll

Enjoy breathtaking views of the atoll's beauty.

Booking required
11

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Experience local markets

Shop for crafts and savor local street food.

No booking required
12

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Government House

Learn about Tuvalu's political history and architecture.

No booking required
13

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Enjoy a sunset at the lagoon

Witness stunning sunsets over tranquil waters.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~5-10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

No data

LGBTQ+ safety score

-8 (#127 globally)

Cost

Expensive

Currency

Australian Dollar

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Tuvaluan

(80%+ speak English)

Best dishes to try

Pulaka

VE

Taro-like root vegetable dish. (National dish)

Coconut Crab

Delicacy made from large crabs.

Laulu

VE

Seaweed salad with coconut milk.

Fish Dishes

Variety of fresh fish preparations.

Toddy

VE

Fermented coconut sap drink.

Phrases to learn

English

Tuvaluan

Hello

Talofa

(Tah-loh-fah)

Yes/No

E / Ikai

(Eh / Ee-kai)

Thank you

Fakafetai

(Fah-kah-fay-tai)

Excuse me

Fakamolemole

(Fah-kah-moh-leh-moh-leh)

How much?

E fia?

(Eh fee-ah)