Ahu Nau Nau guardam a praia de Anakena
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Anakena Beach and Ahu Nau Nau Easter Island

4.8
·805 reviews·, Chile

Anakena Beach: A pristine white-sand paradise on Easter Island, famed for its iconic Moai statues and historical significance.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daybreak or sunset

Best lighting for photos

CrowdLow
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Ahu Nau Nau guardam a praia de Anakena

Anakena Beach and Ahu Nau Nau Easter Island

Best Time

Daybreak or sunset

Best lighting for photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Anakena Beach: A pristine white-sand paradise on Easter Island, famed for its iconic Moai statues and historical significance.

4.8
(805 reviews)

"The Moai are even more beautiful in person than in photos. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

☀️ Pack Sun Protection

Minimal shade at Anakena Beach; sunscreen and hats are essential.

💧 Bring Water & Snacks

Limited facilities, so carry your own refreshments.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ahu Nau Nau Moai

Ahu Nau Nau Moai

Anakena Beach

Seven magnificent Moai statues, some with iconic red topknots, stand guard over the golden sands of Anakena Beach.

Anakena Beach

Anakena Beach

North coast of Easter Island

A picturesque beach with soft white coral sand, framed by palm trees and crystal-clear blue waters.

Birthplace of Kings

Birthplace of Kings

Anakena Beach

Considered the historical landing site of the first king of Easter Island, Ariki Hotu Matu'a.

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Planning Your Visit

Beach Bliss & Moai Majesty

Anakena Beach offers a stunning blend of pristine white sands and iconic Moai statues. Remember to pack ample water and sunscreen, as shade is scarce. Respect the site by taking all your trash with you to preserve its beauty for future visitors. Reddit

Access & Etiquette

While Ahu Nau Nau is a major attraction, there's no checkpoint for viewing the Moai or accessing the beach itself. Enjoy the historical significance and natural beauty responsibly. Reddit

Best Times

When
Daybreak or sunset
Why
Best lighting for photos
Crowd
Low
When
Midday
Why
Enjoy the beach and swim
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Pulau emot batu🗿 Pulau paskah atau rapa nui adalah sebuah pulau milik Chili yang terletak di selatan Samudra Pasifik. Walaupun jaraknya 3.515 km sebelah barat Chili Daratan, secara administratif ia termasuk dalam Provinsi Valparaiso. Pulau Paskah berbentuk seperti segitiga. Daratan terdekat yang berpenghuni ialah Pulau Pitcairn yang jaraknya 2.075 km sebelah barat. Luas Pulau Paskah sebesar 163,6 ...
@hfbi_
83.3K likes • 978.2K views

☀️ Pack Sun Protection

Minimal shade at Anakena Beach; sunscreen and hats are essential. Reddit

💧 Bring Water & Snacks

Limited facilities, so carry your own refreshments. Reddit

#greenscreen the rise of the Rapa Nui #archaeology #anthropology #History #lesson #indigenous #rapanui #ancient #megalith #foryoupage #foryou #fypシ
@miniminuteman
68.1K likes • 442.2K views
ANAKENA BEACH 🏝 Anakena Beach is a picturesque and renowned beach on Easter Island, known for its golden sandy shores and crystal-clear blue waters. It is framed by lush palm trees and features the iconic Ahu Nau Nau, a collection of Moai statues with intricate stone topknots. This is a popular destination for visitors looking to relax, swim, and soak in the island’s natural beauty while also...
rapanuitips
39 likes • 2.6K views

♻️ Leave No Trace

Take all your garbage with you to keep the beach pristine. Reddit

📸 Capture the Moment

The Moai are even more impressive in person than in photos. Reddit

The Ahu Nau Nau is located about 150 meters from the quiet shore of Anakena Beach. From there it dominates the perspective of this magical place that is considered the birthplace of the history and culture of Easter Island. Where the first king of the island, the Ariki Hotu Matu’a, landed with his people and established the first settlement that originated to the Rapa Nui culture. Эта достопримеча...
marija_may_
6 likes • 73 views

Tips

from all over the internet

☀️ Pack Sun Protection

Minimal shade at Anakena Beach; sunscreen and hats are essential. Reddit

💧 Bring Water & Snacks

Limited facilities, so carry your own refreshments. Reddit

♻️ Leave No Trace

Take all your garbage with you to keep the beach pristine. Reddit

📸 Capture the Moment

The Moai are even more impressive in person than in photos. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Easy Access

No ticket or checkpoint needed to view Moai or enjoy the beach. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(805 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Anakena Beach and Ahu Nau Nau are consistently praised for their breathtaking beauty and historical significance. Visitors rave about the stunning combination of pristine white sands, clear blue waters, and the iconic Moai statues. The site is considered a must-see on Easter Island, offering a serene and awe-inspiring experience.

"I visited Easter Island during Easter Weekend in 2014, and Ahu Nau Nau quickly became one of my favorite sites. Here, seven magnificent moai overlook the stunning white coral sand of Anakena Beach. These moai uniquely face inland, not out towards the ocean. If you go, bring plenty of water, food, and a towel to enjoy the beach. Sunscreen is essential due to minimal shade, and please take all your garbage back with you."

Thomas Fridrich

"Right next to a wonderful beach you can find 5 restored Moai on a platfrom (some with Topknots). Well worth a visit, and you don't need a ticket or guide to see these Moai."

Tony Finn

"It's probably one of the most famous and sought-after Moai platforms to see on Rapa Nui. The 7 Moai are in a row with the most intact red hats on the island and picture perfect beach views in the background. Very beautiful place, and there is a short walk to get to them, but I spent a bit of time here taking I the scenery. Lovely spot where we had a guide but there was not a check point to check to view these Moai or go to the beach."

Melissa Previte

What People Like

Stunning beach scenery
Iconic Moai statues
Historical significance

What People Dislike

Limited shade
Basic facilities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Anakena Beach is located on the north coast of Easter Island, about a 45-minute to 1-hour drive from Hanga Roa. You can rent a car, hire a taxi, or join an organized tour. Many visitors find renting a car offers the most flexibility to explore the island at their own pace. TikTok

While there are hiking trails on Easter Island, walking to Anakena Beach from Hanga Roa is a very long and strenuous journey, not typically recommended for a casual visit. It's best accessed by vehicle. Reddit

Renting a car is a popular and convenient option for exploring Easter Island, including Anakena Beach. Taxis are also available, but can be more expensive for longer distances. Organized tours are a good choice if you prefer not to drive. TikTok

Public transport on Easter Island is very limited. While some local buses may operate on the island, they are not a reliable or frequent option for reaching Anakena Beach. Car rental or tours are the most practical choices. Reddit

Anakena Beach is approximately 15-20 kilometers (9-12 miles) north of Mataveri International Airport (IPC). The drive typically takes around 30-40 minutes. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there is no specific ticket or checkpoint required to visit Anakena Beach or view the Ahu Nau Nau Moai. You can access the beach and the platform freely. Reddit

Anakena Beach itself does not have an entrance fee. However, if you plan to visit other archaeological sites on Easter Island, such as Rano Raraku or Orongo, you will need to purchase a national park entrance ticket. Reddit

Anakena Beach is generally accessible at all times, as it is a public beach. However, it's advisable to visit during daylight hours for safety and to fully appreciate the scenery. Reddit

While there isn't a formal guide service at Anakena Beach, you might find local guides offering their services. However, many visitors find that the information available online and through guidebooks is sufficient to appreciate the site. Reddit

There is typically no fee for parking at Anakena Beach. Designated parking areas are available for visitors. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Anakena Beach is a beautiful place to relax, swim in the clear waters, and enjoy the sun. The soft white sand is perfect for sunbathing, and the palm trees offer a lovely tropical ambiance. Instagram

Basic facilities, including restrooms, are usually available at Anakena Beach. However, they can be rudimentary, so manage expectations. Showers might also be available. Reddit

Yes, Anakena Beach is known for its calm, clear waters, making it one of the best places on Easter Island for swimming and enjoying the ocean. Instagram

For the best photographic lighting, aim for sunrise or sunset. The golden hour light beautifully illuminates the Moai and the beach. Reddit

There are usually a few small kiosks or food stalls at Anakena Beach selling snacks, drinks, and local dishes. However, it's wise to bring your own food and water, especially if you plan to spend a significant amount of time there. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The area around the Ahu Nau Nau Moai offers iconic shots with the statues against the backdrop of the beach and ocean. Experiment with different angles to capture the scale and detail of the Moai. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! Sunrise and sunset provide the most dramatic lighting for photography, casting a warm glow on the Moai and the beach. It's also a less crowded and more serene experience. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and Moai. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details on the statues. Don't forget a polarizing filter to enhance the blue of the ocean and sky. TikTok

Drone regulations can change, and it's always best to check with local authorities or your tour operator. However, be mindful of respecting the cultural significance of the site and other visitors. TikTok

Try capturing the Moai from different perspectives – low to the ground, or framing them with palm trees. The Moai facing inland offer a different narrative than those facing the sea. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Anakena Beach is a fantastic destination for families. The calm, shallow waters make it ideal for children to swim and play safely. The soft sand is perfect for building sandcastles, and the presence of the Moai adds an element of wonder and discovery to the beach experience. Instagram

Remember to pack plenty of sunscreen, hats, and water, as shade is limited. Bringing snacks and drinks is also a good idea, as facilities are basic. The easy access to the Ahu Nau Nau Moai means kids can marvel at these ancient statues without a long trek, making it a memorable and engaging outing for the whole family. Reddit

☀️ Beach Lovers & Sun Seekers

For those who dream of pristine beaches, Anakena is a must-visit. Its powdery white sand and clear blue waters offer an idyllic setting for relaxation and swimming. The gentle waves make it perfect for a refreshing dip after soaking up the sun. Instagram

While the Moai are a major draw, Anakena also stands as a beautiful tropical escape. Pack your beach essentials, find a spot under a palm tree, and let the serene atmosphere wash over you. Just be sure to protect yourself from the strong sun and leave the beach as pristine as you found it. Reddit

📸 Photographers & History Buffs

Anakena Beach and Ahu Nau Nau offer unparalleled photographic opportunities. The iconic Moai, especially those with their red topknots, set against the backdrop of the ocean and palm trees, create stunning compositions. Visiting during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset will elevate your shots even further. Reddit

For history enthusiasts, this site is a pilgrimage. As the legendary landing spot of the first king, it's a place where you can feel the weight of Rapa Nui's past. The well-preserved Moai at Ahu Nau Nau provide a tangible link to the island's ancient civilization, making it a deeply rewarding experience for anyone interested in archaeology and cultural heritage. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Significance of Ahu Nau Nau

Ahu Nau Nau is one of the most visually striking and well-preserved Moai platforms on Easter Island. It features seven magnificent Moai statues, some of which are uniquely adorned with red scoria topknots, known as 'pukao'. These statues are particularly notable for their intricate details and their placement facing inland, a departure from the typical orientation towards the sea. This arrangement suggests a different purpose or belief system associated with this specific ahu. InstagramReddit

The platform itself is located just a short distance from the shore of Anakena Beach, a location steeped in history. According to oral traditions, Anakena was the landing site of the legendary first king of Easter Island, Ariki Hotu Matu'a, and his people. This makes Ahu Nau Nau not only a site of impressive artistry but also a place of profound cultural and historical importance, often considered the birthplace of Rapa Nui society. TikTokInstagram

Visiting Ahu Nau Nau offers a tangible connection to the island's past. The well-maintained statues and their serene setting provide a powerful glimpse into the ingenuity and spiritual beliefs of the Rapa Nui people. The combination of these ancient monoliths with the natural beauty of Anakena Beach creates an unforgettable experience for visitors. Reddit

Anakena Beach: More Than Just a Pretty Shore

Anakena Beach is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, boasting soft, white coral sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Framed by swaying palm trees, it offers a tropical paradise that contrasts with the rugged volcanic landscapes found elsewhere on Easter Island. It's a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and simply relaxing amidst breathtaking scenery. Instagram

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Anakena holds significant cultural weight. As the traditional landing place of the first king, Ariki Hotu Matu'a, it is considered the cradle of Rapa Nui civilization. This historical connection imbues the beach with a sense of sacredness and deep cultural resonance, making it a place of both natural wonder and historical reverence. Instagram

Visitors are encouraged to enjoy the beach responsibly. The pristine environment is a treasure, and it's crucial to help preserve it. Remember to bring your own water and snacks, and most importantly, take all your litter with you. This simple act ensures that Anakena remains a beautiful and unspoiled destination for generations to come. Reddit

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