Anakena Beach
Rapa Nui's stunning white-sand beach with turquoise waters, fringed by palm trees and guarded by ancient Moai statues.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful waters, fewer crowds
Anakena Beach
Best Time
Peaceful waters, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Rapa Nui's stunning white-sand beach with turquoise waters, fringed by palm trees and guarded by ancient Moai statues.
"Anakena Beach is simply stunning — white sand, turquoise waters, and palm trees that make you forget you’re on a volcanic island."
🚗 Car Rental is Key
Renting a car offers the most freedom to explore Anakena and other Rapa Nui sites.
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
The sun is strong! Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for a comfortable day.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Moai of Anakena
Anakena Beach
Majestic Moai statues stand sentinel on the shore, offering a glimpse into Rapa Nui's ancient past.
Turquoise Waters & White Sand
Anakena Beach
Sink your toes into soft white sand and swim in crystal-clear turquoise waters.
Palm Tree Grove
Anakena Beach
Lush palm trees provide a tropical backdrop, creating a serene and picturesque setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting to Anakena Beach
Best Time to Visit Anakena
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Car Rental is Key
Renting a car offers the most freedom to explore Anakena and other Rapa Nui sites.
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
The sun is strong! Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for a comfortable day.
🏊♀️ Pleasant Swimming
Anakena is one of the best spots for swimming on Rapa Nui, with warm, clear water.
🍔 Food & Facilities Available
There are food stands and toilets, making it a convenient spot to spend a few hours.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Car Rental is Key
Renting a car offers the most freedom to explore Anakena and other Rapa Nui sites.
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
The sun is strong! Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for a comfortable day.
🏊♀️ Pleasant Swimming
Anakena is one of the best spots for swimming on Rapa Nui, with warm, clear water.
🍔 Food & Facilities Available
There are food stands and toilets, making it a convenient spot to spend a few hours.
🌬️ Beware of Wind
Windy days can make swimming difficult and sandy. Check conditions before you go.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Anakena Beach is widely praised for its stunning natural beauty, featuring soft white sand, clear turquoise waters, and iconic Moai statues. Visitors highlight it as a perfect spot for swimming and relaxation, with convenient facilities. Some note that windy conditions can impact the experience, and planning transportation is key.
"This is a very beautiful beach island. The beach itself is not very crowded; the water looks safe and peaceful. If we had an extra day on the island, I wouldn't mind just spending half a day on this beach, reading, relaxing, and sipping a nice cocktail. It's really very peaceful. There are some Moais here as well and our guide explained how the ones that are wearing hats likely enjoyed higher social status."
Annie Ho
"Fantastic beach in a bay with lovely soft sand and the Pacific Ocean to paddle or swim in if you want. It wasn't too busy when we went in August. Also nearby there are places to get some food and drink and there are toilets here too."
Tony Finn
"Anakena Beach is simply stunning — white sand, turquoise waters, and palm trees that make you forget you’re on a volcanic island. It’s one of the few places on Rapa Nui where swimming is really pleasant, and the view of the moai nearby makes it even more special. The atmosphere is relaxed, perfect for spending a few hours enjoying the sun and the sea. There are also a couple of food stands and facilities, which make the visit easy and comfortable. Definitely one of the highlights of the island."
miguel org
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular way to reach Anakena Beach is by renting a car, which offers the most flexibility. The drive takes about 30-40 minutes from Hanga Roa. Alternatively, you can join an organized tour that includes transportation to the beach.
Yes, taxis are available in Hanga Roa and can take you to Anakena Beach. However, arranging a return trip might be necessary as taxis may not always be readily available for pick-up at the beach.
Anakena Beach is located a significant distance from Hanga Roa, making walking impractical. It's best to arrange for transportation like a rental car or a tour.
Public transport options are very limited on Rapa Nui. Renting a car or booking a tour are the most reliable ways to get to Anakena Beach.
For exploring Anakena Beach and other sites on Rapa Nui, renting a car is highly recommended for its convenience and flexibility.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Anakena Beach is completely free to visit. You can enjoy its beautiful scenery and relax without any admission charges.
Anakena Beach does not have official opening or closing hours as it is a public natural space. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
No advance booking is required for Anakena Beach as there is no entrance fee. You can visit anytime during daylight hours.
While generally open, it's advisable to be mindful of the natural environment and respect any local guidelines. Avoid disturbing the Moai statues.
Yes, many tour operators offer excursions to Anakena Beach as part of their Rapa Nui itineraries.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Yes, Anakena Beach is one of the most popular and pleasant spots for swimming on Rapa Nui due to its calm, warm, and clear turquoise waters.
Anakena Beach has public toilets and a few food stands where you can purchase refreshments. +1
Yes, there are a couple of food stands located near Anakena Beach offering snacks and drinks.
There is a boardwalk leading from the car park to the beach area, which can assist with accessibility to some extent, though not completely.
Visiting in the morning offers calmer waters and fewer crowds. Late afternoon provides beautiful sunset views.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the Moai statues against the turquoise sea, the palm trees framing the beach, and the vibrant colors of a sunset. +1
Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting for photography. Midday can be harsh but still offers beautiful colors.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or your tour operator regarding drone usage to ensure compliance.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and Moai. A polarizing filter can enhance the blues of the water and sky.
The Moai positioned along the shoreline, particularly those with their backs to the sea, offer iconic photo opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
With facilities like toilets and food stands nearby, families can comfortably spend several hours here. Packing plenty of sunscreen and hats is essential, as the sun can be intense. Consider bringing beach toys and snacks to enhance the experience. The drive from Hanga Roa is manageable, making it an accessible day trip for families exploring Rapa Nui.
☀️ Sun Seekers & Relaxation Enthusiasts
Anakena provides a tranquil escape from the more rugged landscapes of Rapa Nui. The peaceful atmosphere and the stunning natural beauty make it a place to recharge. Remember to bring your swimwear as the water is inviting for a refreshing dip.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Moai of Anakena: Guardians of the Shore
One of the most striking aspects is the Ahu Nau Nau, which features five Moai, some still remarkably intact. These statues are known for their distinctive topknots, or 'pukao', which were carved from red scoria. The presence of these ancient figures against the backdrop of the turquoise ocean and white sand creates an unforgettable visual. It's a powerful reminder of the island's rich history and the enduring legacy of its people.
When visiting, remember to admire the Moai from a respectful distance. While they are a major draw, their preservation is crucial. The stories and legends associated with these statues add another layer of intrigue to the Anakena experience, making it more than just a beautiful beach.
Anakena Beach: A Tropical Paradise
The beach is fringed by a grove of coconut palm trees, adding to its exotic allure and providing welcome shade on warmer days. This combination of elements – the sand, sea, and palms – creates a picturesque scene that feels worlds away. It’s a place where you can truly unwind, read a book, or simply enjoy the serene atmosphere.
While Anakena is a popular destination, it often feels less crowded than expected, especially if you visit during off-peak times. The natural beauty is its main attraction, offering a peaceful escape and a chance to connect with the stunning natural landscape of Easter Island.
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