What to See and Eat in Funafuti, Tuvalu

Tucked away in the vast Pacific Ocean, Tuvalu is one of the world’s least-visited and most remote nations. At the heart of this archipelago lies Funafuti, the capital and most populous island. With a population of under 7,000 people, Funafuti is the perfect place to slow down, unplug, and experience a way of life that remains largely untouched by tourism or global trends.

If you’re heading to Tuvalu, you’re likely an adventurer at heart—or at the very least, a traveler in search of authenticity. This guide explores the best things to see, taste, and experience in Funafuti, one of the most unique capitals on earth.

Why Visit Funafuti?

- It’s among the least visited countries in the world—only a few thousand tourists per year
- A rare chance to experience true island life with minimal infrastructure
- Home to rich Polynesian culture, welcoming locals, and untouched nature
- No chain stores, fast food, or cookie-cutter resorts

Where is Funafuti?

Funafuti is the largest atoll in Tuvalu, located roughly halfway between Hawaii and Australia. The island itself is a narrow strip of land with a large central lagoon, surrounded by coral islets.

Most travelers arrive via a Fiji Airways flight from Suva, Fiji—the only international gateway into Tuvalu. Flights are infrequent, so planning ahead is essential.

Top Things to See in Funafuti

1. Funafuti Lagoon (Te Namo)
The vast lagoon is the defining feature of the island. At over 275 square kilometers, it’s perfect for boating, snorkeling, and simply admiring the hues of blue. Several uninhabited islets dot the lagoon and can be visited via small boat.

Must-do: Arrange a trip to Tepuka and Fualopa islets—ideal for picnics, snorkeling, and wildlife spotting.

2. Marine Conservation Area
Established in 1996, the Funafuti Marine Conservation Area (FMCA) protects six small islands and large coral reef ecosystems. It’s one of the best examples of community-led environmental stewardship in the Pacific.

Snorkeling here reveals vibrant coral gardens, reef fish, turtles, and clams. Bring your own gear—there are no rental shops on the island.

3. Government and Cultural Buildings
Funafuti’s administrative area is small but worth exploring. Visit the Parliament House, which has a unique open-air design, and the National Library and Archives to learn more about Tuvalu’s history and culture.

4. WWII Relics
Tuvalu played a minor role in World War II as an Allied base. The remnants of an American airfield are still visible at Funafuti International Airport. A few rusting bunkers and relics can be spotted near the airport and around the island’s perimeter.

5. Vaiaku Village
This is the heart of Funafuti and where most locals live and work. You’ll find the island’s main church, markets, post office, and a few government buildings here. Walking through Vaiaku gives you a real sense of daily life in Tuvalu.

6. Sunset Viewing at the Lagoon
Head to the lagoon side around 6:30 pm. The sunsets in Funafuti are spectacular, with skies turning gold, pink, and violet. Locals often gather at the sea wall with guitars or just to talk.

Where and What to Eat in Funafuti

Tuvaluan cuisine is simple but delicious. It reflects the island’s Polynesian roots and reliance on the ocean. Expect seafood, coconut, taro, and breadfruit to feature heavily. Since Tuvalu imports much of its food, options are limited, but you’ll still find memorable meals.

1. Filamona Lodge Restaurant
The most consistent option for visitors. Offers buffet-style meals with fresh fish, rice, tropical fruit, and sometimes Western dishes. It's also a popular gathering place for locals and government workers.

2. L’s Restaurant (at L’s Lodge)
Offers basic meals like fried fish, chicken curry, and local greens. It’s affordable and open most days of the week. Ask ahead about what’s available—menus are limited and often based on supply.

3. Street BBQs and Local Vendors
In the evenings, you might see small roadside stalls pop up. Grilled fish, coconut rice, and pandanus desserts are common. You’ll need to pay in cash and ask around for times.

4. Try the Traditional Dishes:
- Palusami: Taro leaves baked with coconut cream, sometimes with meat or seafood.
- Taro chips: Fried and lightly salted, perfect for snacking.
- Tuna poke: A Pacific Island staple made with raw tuna, lime, and onions.

Markets and Groceries

There are no supermarkets in Funafuti, but there are small general stores like Fusi Alofa and Lole’s Store where you can buy canned goods, rice, instant noodles, and snacks. These are good backup options if you're self-catering or staying in guesthouses.

Things to Know Before You Go

- Cash is king: There are no ATMs in Funafuti. Bring Australian dollars (AUD), which are accepted everywhere.
- Bring essentials: Sunscreen, snorkeling gear, insect repellent, and any medications.
- Power outages can happen: Many accommodations use generators.
- Connectivity is limited: Internet is slow and expensive. Embrace the digital detox.

Where to Stay in Funafuti

Options are limited but cozy.

- Filamona Lodge: Close to the airport and lagoon, with clean rooms and an onsite restaurant.
- L’s Lodge: Basic but central, with a friendly vibe and good meals.
- Esfam Lodge: Quiet, family-run guesthouse on the lagoon side.

Best Time to Visit

The dry season runs from May to October and is ideal for travel. Expect daytime highs around 85°F (29°C) and plenty of sunshine. The wet season (November–April) can bring heavy rain and cyclones.

Local Etiquette and Culture

Tuvaluans are warm, respectful, and community-oriented. Here are a few tips to show respect:

- Dress modestly: Shorts and sleeveless shirts are fine at the beach, but more modest attire is expected in villages and churches.
- Sunday is sacred: Many businesses close, and locals attend church. Avoid loud activities or alcohol during church hours.
- Learn a few words: Saying “Talofa” (hello) and “Fakafetai” (thank you) goes a long way.
- Be patient: Things move slowly here. Embrace island time.

Environmental Responsibility

Tuvalu is on the front lines of climate change. Rising sea levels and coastal erosion are serious concerns. Be a conscious traveler:

- Avoid single-use plastics.
- Support local conservation efforts.
- Don’t collect shells or coral.
- Stay in eco-conscious guesthouses if available.

Suggested 2-Day Itinerary in Funafuti

Day 1:
- Morning: Snorkel in the Marine Conservation Area
- Afternoon: Visit the Parliament House and National Archives
- Evening: Dinner at Filamona Lodge and sunset walk

Day 2:
- Morning: Boat trip to Tepuka or Fualopa islet
- Afternoon: Explore Vaiaku village and visit WWII relics
- Evening: Try local BBQ from a street stall and relax at the lagoon

Why Funafuti is a Must-Visit

If you're seeking shopping malls, nightlife, or extensive tours, Funafuti isn’t for you. But if you’re drawn to slow travel, real community interactions, and the beauty of untouched nature, Tuvalu offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Funafuti isn’t just a destination—it’s a reminder of what life looks like when the focus is on people, not profits. And that might be exactly what your journey needs.