We believe that looking at our ancient past and integrating these themes into a modern age will bring out the uniqueness that we have in the Pacific Islands. Being proud of our heritage, the Friends groups of companies have used these themes as prominent part of our decor and image.

Kongakava - otherwise known as Friends by the Sea is a hotel project endeavoring to lift the standard of lodging in the kingdom. Our objective is to have a small hotel facility that will provide a consistent / reliable / safe and friendly facility of a premium standard that will have an extremely positive impact on the Tonga Tourism industry.

The Name "KongaKava" literally means “peace of Kava” and throughout Polynesia, Kava is a drink that symbolically binds, and unifies its people and the essence of our culture.

In this case "Kongakava" is a name from ancient Tonga. She was the daughter of Maeliuakimu’a the 8th Tu’i Kanokupolu and 15th Tu’i Ha’atakalaua. His Majesty the late King Taufa’ahau Tupou the 4th is a direct male descendant from Maealiuakimu’a.

Kongakava was married to the 36th Tui Tonga Paulaho and is one of the lesser known wives of the Tui Tonga.

Both her Father and her Husband was host to Captain James Cook on his visit to Tonga in 1777 where Captain Cook named Tonga, the Friendly Islands.

We envision that this facility will have a presence that reflects the grace and elegance of noble woman with open arms to greet the visitor to our shores.

Friends by the Sea will endeavor to create a modern facility with ancient Tongan themes used throughout the facility.