Funafuti
Funafuti is Tuvalu’s capital atoll in the South Pacific. Travelers come for its lagoon, reef-fringed islets and a quiet stay close to local life.
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Funafuti is Tuvalu’s capital atoll in the South Pacific. Its main settlement runs along Fongafale, a narrow islet between the lagoon and the open ocean. The lagoon, reef-fringed islets and small scale of daily life shape a visit. Spend time by the water, learn about Tuvaluan culture and see a capital where government offices stand alongside homes and local businesses.
Funafuti suits travelers seeking a quiet island stay who are comfortable with fewer places to stay and things to do than in larger destinations. The Funafuti Conservation Area protects marine habitats and several uninhabited islets, so allow time for a trip on the water. The drier period typically runs from May to October. Plan two or three days to explore the atoll and arrange time beyond Fongafale. Add days for a slower pace or more time on the lagoon.
Funafuti in five
- Carry Australian dollarsTuvalu uses the Australian dollar. Bring cash for small purchases; card payment options are limited on Funafuti.
- Check entry rules for your passportVisitors need a visitor permit, issued on arrival, and must meet the entry conditions for their nationality. Confirm current requirements with Tuvalu’s immigration authorities before travelling.
- Arrange your island transferFunafuti is an atoll, and reaching outer islands requires a boat. Confirm transport with your accommodation before planning an outer-island visit.
- Pack reef-safe swimming gearBring water shoes for swimming and snorkelling around the lagoon; coral can be sharp underfoot.
- Carry cash for the airportBring Australian dollars for expenses on arrival and departure. Do not assume you can withdraw cash or pay by card when you need it.
Things to do in Funafuti
See all attractions in Funafuti
Need to know
- Currency
- Australian dollar (AUD)
- Entry
- Visitor permit on arrival; check requirements for your passport
- Emergency
- 911
- Tipping
- Not expected
- Time
- UTC+12, no daylight saving
Weather by month
- Best
- Good
- Mixed
- JanuaryWet season
- FebruaryWet season
- MarchRain easing
- AprilDrier season
- MayDrier season
- JuneDrier season
- JulyDrier season
- AugustDrier season
- SeptemberDrier season
- OctoberRain returning
- NovemberWet season
- DecemberWet season
Right now in Funafuti
Local time, today's weather and the exchange rate, refreshed through the day.
27
- Feels like
- 31°
- Humidity
- 84%
- Wind
- 23 km/h
- Chance of rain
- 85%
Funafuti
11:23 AM
Tuesday, November 3
- Today29°26°85%Tuesday: Thunderstorms. High 29°, Low 26°. Chance of rain 85%.
- Wed29°26°94%Wednesday: Rain. High 29°, Low 26°. Chance of rain 94%.
- Thu29°27°29%Thursday: Drizzle. High 29°, Low 27°. Chance of rain 29%.
- Fri29°26°58%Friday: Rain. High 29°, Low 26°. Chance of rain 58%.
- Sat28°26°73%Saturday: Rain. High 28°, Low 26°. Chance of rain 73%.
- Sun29°26°75%Sunday: Rain. High 29°, Low 26°. Chance of rain 75%.
- Mon29°26°65%Monday: Drizzle. High 29°, Low 26°. Chance of rain 65%.
Updated 09:44 AM local time · Powered by WeatherAPI.com · Weather data by Open-Meteo.com
Money
Mid-market rate1 USD = 1.423 AUD
Rates from Nov 2, 2026 · Rates By Exchange Rate API
Day trips by train
- Funafalaboat time variesVisit an outer-island community and lagoon surroundings; arrange boat transport in advance.
- Tepukaboat time variesTake a boat trip to this Funafuti atoll islet for a quieter stretch of lagoon and reef.
- Fualopaboat time variesVisit an islet in the Funafuti Conservation Area by boat; arrange the trip locally.
Before you go to Funafuti
Rules for Funafuti, checked
- Check Tuvalu’s current entry requirements for your passport with the immigration authorities before travelling.
- Check Tuvalu Customs guidance before bringing food, plants or animal products into the country.
- Ask permission before photographing people, especially in villages and around community events.
Plan around Funafuti
Entry, money and practical planning for a Tuvalu trip
Read the guideVisas and entryCheck entry requirements for your passport
Read the guideMoney and costsCards, cash and budgeting for your trip
Read the guideWhere to stayPlan your base on Funafuti
Read the guideGetting aroundPlan transport around Funafuti and beyond
Read the guideFunafuti FAQ
How many days do you need in Funafuti?
Allow two or three days for Funafuti and the lagoon. Add time if you plan to visit an outer island, since that requires boat transport.
Is Funafuti worth visiting?
Funafuti suits travelers looking for time on a Pacific atoll, with lagoon swimming and a small-town base. It is a poor fit if you expect a resort strip or a packed sightseeing schedule.
What is the best time to visit Funafuti?
May to October is the drier part of the year. Rain is more frequent from November to April, so check current conditions before planning outdoor activities.
How do you get around Funafuti?
Use a bicycle, scooter or local transport for trips around the atoll. Arrange a boat separately for lagoon visits or travel to an outer island.
What currency does Funafuti use?
Funafuti uses the Australian dollar (AUD). Carry cash, as card payment and cash access can be limited.
Do you need a visa for Tuvalu?
Visitors receive a visitor permit on arrival, but entry conditions depend on your passport. Check current rules with Tuvalu’s immigration authorities before travelling.