Haʻapai is a group of islands, islets, reefs, and shoals in the central part of Tonga.

The highest point in the Ha‘apai group, and in all of Tonga, is on Kao, which rises almost 1,050 metres (3,440 ft) above sea level.

They constitute a chain of both volcanic and coral islands, including Kao, the highest point in the kingdom, which stands 1,046 metres (3,432 ft) high.

The two main villages in the archipelago are Pangai on Lifuka (where Salote Pilolevu Airport is located) and Haʻano.

[3] Traces of ancient settlements of the Lapita culture, dating from around 1500 BC, have been found at sites within the Haʻapai island group.

Mariner survived, and lived for four years on one of the islands before he was found by a passing English ship and was able to return to England.

In 1840, the US Exploring Expedition visited one of the islands and met with George (Taufa'ahau), the chief of Ha'apai.