The Child-Free (Adults-Only) Travel Guide to Niue

How to Get to Niue

What is the best way to get to Niue? Niue can be accessed by flight, cruise ship or private sailing yacht. The most popular way to get to Niue is by international flight, so let’s start with that.

Flying to Niue

Direct flights between Auckland, New Zealand and Niue happen on a limited weekly schedule, with Auckland Airport having hundreds of connecting flights. The flight between Auckland and Niue takes approximately 210 minutes (3 hrs 30 mins). An important thing to note is that New Zealand and Niue have a 24-hour time difference, so when you depart Auckland on a Tuesday morning, you arrive in Niue on a Monday afternoon, for example.

Flights arrive at Niue at Hanan International Airport, approximately a five-minute drive from Alofi. Find out more about the airport in Which Airport to Fly to in Niue. Note that the departure process for Hanan Airport is a little unusual in that you can’t go through airport security until at least an hour after you have checked in. See Leaving Niue: The Niue Airport Departure Process for more details.

Cruises to Niue

Niue is on the itinerary of a limited number of South Pacific cruises from New Zealand, Australia and the US. Due to the rocky nature of the island, cruise passengers can only disembark at Niue if the weather and the swell are safe enough. Often visits to Niue are cancelled in bad weather. Learn more about cruising to Niue in Which Cruises Visit Niue?

Sailing to Niue

Niue has a small number of moorings available, which are recommended to be booked prior to arrival to ensure a smooth clearance process. The Niue Yacht Club provides facilities. Learn more about sailing to Niue in The Guide to Sailing to Niue.

A Note on Customs Declarations

Niue has strict biosecurity measures at the border to stop unwanted pests and diseases from entering the country. Therefore, anyone arriving in Niue has to declare any “risk items” they have packed in their luggage – even common items like food and sports gear. Be sure to read up on Arriving in Niue: Airport Customs, Biosecurity & Arrival Process so you are prepared.

Check out our complete guide on How to Get to Niue for even more tips on making your way to the island.

When to Visit Niue

Niue is a tropical island with warm temperatures experienced throughout the year. It has only two distinct seasons, the hot and humid wet season and the drier and cooler dry season. Learn more in What is the Weather Like in Niue?

Dry Season (May to October)

The dry season, also called winter, is a drier and cooler season with temperatures typically around 21-27°C (70-81°F). The average monthly rainfall is 90-160 mm (3.5-6.3 in). This season is also best for whale swimming, Village Show Days and fishing for particular species like wahoo and mahimahi.

Wet Season (November to April)

The wet season, also known as summer, is Niue’s most hot and humid season with temperatures typically 22-29°C (72-84°F). Rain tends to be more frequent than in the dry season with a monthly average of 156-300 mm (6.1-11.8 in) and there is a small risk of cyclones affecting the country. This season is best for fishing particular species like yellowfin tuna.

The Best Time to Take an Adults-Only Trip to Niue

An obvious go-to for an adults-only trip to Niue is any time other than during the New Zealand and Australian school holidays. In other words, avoid the second half of April, especially July, the first half of October and the end of December through January.

So when is the best time to travel to Niue? Check out our complete guide, The Best Time to Visit Niue, which dives deeper into the subject.

What to Pack for Niue

The main thing you need to keep in mind when packing for Niue is to have a tropical wardrobe that includes some more modest items of clothing for exploring Niues’s villages. A packing list for Niue might look a little something like this:

• 4 Singlets/T-Shirts
• 2 Light blouses/shirts to cover the shoulders for church and sun protection
• 2 Shorts/skirts which are not too short so you can enjoy wearing them at both your resort and when out exploring
• 1 Light evening dress to impress at dinner
• 1 Dress/skirt below the knee for church, spending time in villages, etc. We recommend light fabrics such as the sustainable bamboo dresses and skirts by Moso Morrow
• 1 Sarong (paleu) will be your best friend for hitting the swimming holes and covering your swimwear in between. You can bring your own or there are plenty for sale once you arrive in Niue
• 1 Light rain jacket/small umbrella (some accommodations like Scenic Matavai Resort and Taoke Fales have umbrellas to borrow)
• 1 or 2 Light sleepwear if you’re against sleeping in your undies
• 1 Light Cardigan/pashmina/poncho for cooler evenings
• 1 Sports shorts/leggings for active activities
• 1 Sports T-shirt/singlet for active activities
• 1 Outfit to travel between Niue and home
• 3 Bras including strapless, sports and comfort
• 6 Underwear
• 4 Socks
• 1 Bikini
• 1 One-piece for watersports
• 2 Boardshorts for guys
• Mask and snorkel
• Rash vest
• Sunhat
• Sunglasses
• Walking shoes/sneakers
• Reef shoes/water shoes.

And that’s just the clothes! For a full packing list of everything to take, including accessories and toiletries, check out The Complete Packing List for Niue.

Health Products

Tap water is Ok to drink at certain accommodations on the island, but not everywhere. The island also experiences high UV levels and mosquitos, so packing products for your health is recommended. Natural sunscreens and mosquito repellents are advised to protect you and Niue’s fragile ecosystem. Instead of buying bottled water, use reusable purification bottles for obvious environmental reasons. See our health essentials packing list in What Medication to Pack in Your First Aid Kit for Niue, as well as tips for protecting the health of the environment in the 26 Ways to Travel More Sustainably in Niue.

Currency

The currency of Niue is the New Zealand Dollar. Cash is the most widely accepted payment method with many outlets also accepting MasterCard, Visa and New Zealand debit cards. There is no ATM on the island, but you can take money out at selected outlets. See What is the Best Way to Pay in Niue? for more information.

Travel Documents and Paperwork

To enter Niue, you need a passport that is valid for up to three months after your arrival date. A free Visitor Permit is granted upon entry if you are from a visa-waiver country. Otherwise, an Entry Permit is required. There may be other current entry requirements, which we keep up to date in What Documents Do I Need to Travel to Niue?

How Long to Spend in Niue

Niue might make for an idyllic tropical getaway to simply relax for a few days  – and that’s fine; we all need to R&R from time to time. Most travellers, however, are here to explore one of the most unique islands in the South Pacific along with its natural attractions and marine experiences. With that in mind, our travel guide to Niue can show you what you can achieve in certain timeframes…

4 Days in Niue

The shortest time period between Niue’s two flights a week, four days gives you time to do some sightseeing on both coasts of the island, as well as one tour. See the Niue Child-Free Itinerary: 3 Days for suggestions.

5 Days in Niue

For five days, you can explore both coasts of the island in detail, as well as fit in one or two tours. See Niue Child-Free Itinerary: 5 Days for ideas.

7 Days / 1 Week in Niue

One week in Niue gives you time to visit all of the major highlights along the coast, as well as do some of your bucket list activities. See Niue Child-Free Itinerary: 7 Days for recommended trip ideas.

14 Days / 2 Weeks in Niue

This amount of time in Niue allows you to enjoy all of Niue’s coastal attractions, fit in the activities and tours you’ve dreamed of, as well as time to relax. See Niue Child-Free Itinerary: 14 Days for itinerary suggestions.

How Long Can You Stay in Niue?

Visitors to Niue can stay up to one month (30 days)! Visitor extensions are available, however, which you can learn more about in our guide, How Long Can You Stay in Niue on a Visitor Visa?

How to Get Around Niue

Niue might be a small island that should be easy to explore but there are limited transport options. While hiring a car or an e-bike is recommended to make the most of the island, we’ll still give you all of your transport options in this Niue adults-only travel guide.

Car Rental

Not only is car rental highly recommended to get around Niue and to make the most of the island’s attractions, but it provides a private and independent way to get around – ideal for an adults-only getaway! Compare car rentals in The 7 Best Car Rentals in Niue. Note, you need a Niue Driver’s License, which can be purchased from the Police Station. See What You Need to Hire a Car in Niue for more advice.

Bicycle and E-Bike Rental

An alternative way to get around Niue, albeit not quite as far nor as fast as a car, is with a bicycle. Bicycle hire is available with some car and gear rental companies, while some accommodations offer bike rentals for free. Find out more in The Guide to Cycling & Mountain Biking in Niue.

Motorcycle Rental

Motorcycle rental is limited in Niue, perhaps due to the rough ride with the roads’ potholes. Nevertheless, get wised up to the ways of the motorcycle in The Guide to Renting a Motorcycle in Niue.

Airport Transfers

Some accommodations on the island offer airport transfers free of charge at the beginning and end of your trip. Find out more about transfers in How to Get an Airport Transfer in Niue.

For more ways to get around, as well as more transport advice, head over to another part of our travel guide to Niue, our Niue Transport Guide: 11 Ways to Get Around Niue.

Where to Stay: Adults-Only Accommodation in Niue

Niue keeps its accommodation options small and intimate. There is only one resort on the island, while the rest of Niue’s accommodations come in the form of boutique cottage complexes, holiday homes and guesthouses. For those seeking a child-free experience, the limited adults-only villas or holiday homes are your best options.

We go through all of Niue’s accommodation options in The 30 Best Accommodations in Niue. In terms of accommodation locations, take a look at Where to Stay in Niue: The Best Locations & Accommodations.

Adults-Only Accommodations

Niue’s adults-only accommodations consist of Lau’s Getaway (18 years+) and Petite Hatava (12 years+). Both offer self-catering facilities, as well as luxurious touches like a breakfast pack and bottle of wine on arrival. Learn more about these properties in our guide, Are There Adults-Only (Child-Free) Accommodations in Niue?

Holiday Homes

Niue has plenty of holiday homes allowing you to experience your own quiet corner of the island. Holiday homes range from one bedroom, ideal for couples, to four/five bedrooms so there’s a private place to stay for most group sizes. Find out more in How to Pick the Best Holiday Home in Niue for You, while the top options are listed in the 10 Best Holiday Homes in Niue.

Things to Do in Niue for Adults

While there are no activities advertised as “adults-only” in Niue, there are experiences with age limits, as well as private tours. Get inspired by the 10 Child-Free Activities in Niue. Otherwise, here are your selection of child-free experiences…

Adults-Only Activities in Niue

• Sip cocktails at one of the Niue bars
• Head out on an exciting scuba diving excursion
• Hit the mountain biking trails
• Unwind with a heavenly massage
• Play a round of golf
• Tackle game fish on a fishing charter
• Retreat to an adults-only accommodation.

For more details on each experience, see the 10 Adults-Only Activities in Niue. However, some of the highlights are as follows…

Scuba Diving

Exclusively for ages 10 years and above, scuba diving is mostly an adult-only experience where you can enjoy the underwater world of Niue undisturbed. Dive through dramatic chasms, underwater caves, coral reefs and more on a mesmerising dive trip. PADI courses are available on the island where you’ll get to learn to dive in some of the clearest waters. Learn more in The Guide to Scuba Diving in Niue.

Unwind with a Soothing Massage or Facial

It’s just you and your senses when you get a relaxing massage in Niue. Either be pampered in your accommodation or at a clifftop studio nestled in forest with the Maulu Spa, offering heavenly massages with natural coconut oil (or something else if you prefer), as well as body scrubs. Alternatively, Vilina in Alofi offers indulgent facials. See The Best Spas in Niue for more information.

Play a Round of Golf

Leave the families back at the resort, as you can enjoy a peaceful golfing session at the Niue Golf and Sports Club. The nine-hole golf course is open to visitors but you will need to bring your own clubs to put at this park-style course dotted with coconut palms. Learn more in The Complete Guide to Golf in Niue.

Nightlife in Niue

Yes, there are even places to party on this tiny island, with Thursdays and Saturdays livening up at Niue’s drinking establishment. Alternatively, sundowner cocktails can be enjoyed any night of the week! For instance, cocktails and smoothies made with fresh ingredients are what All Relativf is all about. Located in the Swanson Supermarket shopping complex, this cocktail bar is the place for a good drink, good music and good people. On Thursday evenings, head to the Vaiolama Cafe for their happy hour from 5 pm, then over to Avi’s Ark for craft beer, karaoke and dancing. Finally, on Saturday, the Alofi Rugby Club House heats up with island tunes, drinks and dancing. Ready to party? Head to The Ultimate Guide to Niue Nightlife.

Food in Niue

Food is an integral part of the Niuean culture. Not only does the island present a wide range of eateries, but supermarkets are well stocked with supplies for a self-catering holiday. Everything you need to know about food in Niue can be found in The Food Guide to Niue: Places to Eat & Food Tours.

Restaurants and Cafes

Niue has a small but varied range of restaurants, bars and cafes with international influences including Japanese, Indian, Chinese, American, New Zealand and more. Due to limited seating at most restaurants, it’s recommended to book a table, especially in the high season. See all of the restaurants on the island in the 20 Best Restaurants in Niue.

Self-Catering

Self-catering facilities are available at almost all of Niue’s accommodations where visitors can buy groceries from the large supermarket, Swansons Supermarket, as well as from smaller grocery stores in Alofi. See The Guide to Food Shopping in Niue for more advice.

Special Diets

With tropical vegetables and coconut cream being staple ingredients in Niue, vegans and gluten-intolerant diners are usually easy to cater for at the Niue Market and Niuean buffets but you will struggle to find “creative” options on most menus. Self-catering is advised for most travellers with special diets or providing restaurants with your own staple ingredients is another option. Check out Niue for Vegans & Vegetarians + The Best Restaurants, as well as The Gluten-Free Guide to Niue for more advice.

What Food to Try

And what are the foods worth trying in Niue? With homegrown food products, from aromatic organic Niue vanilla to honey produced from some of the world’s cleanest bees, and traditional dishes, such as uga and takihi, trying the local staples is one of the best things about visiting Niue. Niuean food is best sampled at arranged umu/Niuean buffet nights, as well as occasionally at the Niue Market and Village Show Days. Find out more about what local dishes to try in the 810 Unique Foods in Niue You Have to Try.

Food and Water Safety

Tourist accommodations in Niue typically have access to safe drinking water, whether it’s tap water with a UV-filtration system or bottled water in your fridge. See Is the Water Safe to Drink in Niue? for more advice. Food in Niue is generally cooked to safe hygiene standards, but check out Niue Safety Tips for precautions to take.

We go into much more detail on where to eat, what to eat, self-catering and food tours in The Guide to Food in Niue.

Typical Costs and Budget for an Adults-Only Trip to Niue

We all travel very differently. Therefore, making a precise budget for everyone travelling to Niue is, quite frankly, an impossible task. Nevertheless, you can work out your own needs, thus budget, by simply looking at the typical prices listed below or in our article, Niue Travel Budget: How Much Does a Trip to Niue Cost?

The Cost of Adults-Only Accommodation

• Mid-range self-contained studio/night – NZ$170-$215
• Premium self-contained studio/night – NZ$250-$520
• Holiday home/night – NZ$200-$340
• Premium holiday home/night – NZ$300-$550.

The Cost of Food

• Main breakfast meal – NZ$9-$28
• Main lunch meal – NZ$10-$28
• Main dinner meal – NZ$20-$43
• Niuean buffet – NZ$65-$80/adult, NZ$30-$45/12-15 child, NZ$20-$45/3-6 child
• Small coffee – NZ$4.50-$5
• Can of beer – NZ$4-$6
• Bottle of beer – NZ$8-$10
• Glass of wine – NZ$7-$12
• Bottle of wine – NZ$25-$46
• Cocktail – NZ$14-$18
• Smoothie – NZ$10
• Soft drink – NZ$4-$6
• Drinking coconut – NZ$4-$7

Grocery prices for self-catering can be found in What is the Cost of Food in Niue?

The Cost of Tours and Activities

• Guided orientation tour – NZ$70
• Uga hunting tour – NZ$90
• Plantation/rainforest tour – NZ$65-$120
• Garden tour – NZ$40
• Spa treatment – NZ$90+
• Mountain bike hire/day – NZ$20
• Museum entry – NZ$10
• Golf green fee + club hire – NZ$80
• Whale watching/swimming tour – NZ$260-$285
• Scuba diving/two-tank – NZ$295+
• Snorkelling tour – NZ$130
• Snorkel hire/day – NZ$0-$10
• Private fishing charter/half-day – NZ$450-$600.

And there are plenty of activities to do for free, as listed in the 10 Free & Cheap Things to Do in Niue.

The Cost of Transport

• Niue Driver’s License – NZ$22.50
• Motorbike rental/day – NZ$45-$50
• Car rental/day – NZ$50-$125
• Petrol/litre – NZ$3.50+
• Diesel/litre – NZ$3.70+
• Bicycle rental/day – NZ$20
• E-bike rental/day – NZ$50
• Accommodation/airport transfers – Free.

And again, check out another aspect of our travel guide to Niue, Niue Travel Budget: How Much Does a Trip to Niue Cost? for more budget tips and costs.

Spending Money for Niue

Here are a few averages for a daily budget for Niue. These include food, activities, transport and miscellaneous expenses. Each price is per person per day:

• Budget daily budget: NZ$165
• Mid-range daily budget: NZ$295
• Luxury daily budget: NZ$430+

We break down the budgets further in How Much Spending Money Do You Need for Niue?