Lakena

Lakena is an islet of Nanumea atoll in Tuvalu, located south-west of the main inhabited island. According to Nanumean tradition, Lakena was formed when sand spilled from the baskets of two women, Pai and Vau, as they were forced off Nanumea by the Tongan warrior Tefolaha. This creation legend is central to the identity of the atoll's people.

Lakena serves an important practical purpose: it contains the main pulaka (swamp taro) pits for Nanumea, as Nanumeans traditionally keep pulaka cultivation on Lakena to prevent the main island from becoming mosquito-ridden. During World War II, the people of Nanumea moved to Lakena so that American forces could build an airfield on the main island. The islet is also home to Te Tongo Pond, one of Nanumea's most important fishing spots.

The climate is tropical marine (26–32°C). The best time to visit is May to October.

By Plane

Fly to Funafuti International Airport (FUN). Take the inter-island ferry to Nanumea (12–16 hours). From the main island, Lakena is a short boat ride (about 3 km, 15 minutes).

By Train

By Car / Road

Lakena is walked on foot. The islet is small — about 15 minutes across. There are no vehicles.

• Lakena Pulaka Pits — Traditional swamp taro pits that supply much of Nanumea's staple food.

• WWII Relocation Site — The islet where Nanumeans lived during the American military presence on the main island.

• Te Tongo Pond — A productive fishing pond on the islet.

• Pristine Beach — Sandy shores with clear water and views back to the main island.

• Fishing at Te Tongo Pond — One of Nanumea's most important fishing grounds.

• Snorkelling — The waters around Lakena offer good snorkelling.

• Walking and Photography — Explore the islet's vegetation and coastline.

• Learn Traditional Agriculture — See how pulaka is cultivated in compost pits below the water table.

Bring food from Nanumea main island. Coconuts are available on the islet.

Bring drinking water. Coconuts for natural hydration.

• Budget: > TODO: No accommodation on Lakena. Day trips only from Lolua or Haumaefa.
• Mid-range: > TODO: Not available.
• Upscale / heritage: > TODO: Not available.

No shops on Lakena. Bring what you need from the main island.

• Lolua (3 km by boat) — The administrative centre of Nanumea.
• Haumaefa (3.5 km by boat) — The second village on Nanumea.
• Funafuti (12–16 hours by ferry) — The capital.
• Lefogaki — An islet north of Nanumea with birdlife and traditional fishing grounds.