Lighthouse in Tongatapu is a spot that's definitely not for beginners. It's mainly an expert-level wave that works best with summer swells coming from the NW-N direction. The surf here breaks over live coral, so you need to be super careful. The wave is a barreling righthander, and it can get pretty intense. When the conditions are right, you'll get a good ride, but it can be challenging too.

The wave breaks into two sections. The outside section starts off fast and really connects for about 15 meters, so get ready for a sprint. It’s known to work at low tide, even when the size is on the smaller side, around 3ft (about 0.9 meters). After the outside, you’ll hit a bit of a rough patch called Surgeons Table, which doesn't help if you're not quick. Then comes the short inside section, where you’ll need higher tides to make those air drops and catch a winding barrel. The ideal wind direction is southeast, and the wave handles different tide heights—low, mid, and high—pretty well.

If you’re planning your session, keep in mind that the optimal swell direction is southwest. This spot can really challenge the skills of even the most experienced surfers, so be prepared for a tough ride. Just remember to respect the ocean and know your limits.