Anini Beach is a 3-mile long beach sheltered by one of
the longest and widest reefs in Hawaii measuring 1,600
feet at its widest point. The protective reef creates a
beautiful and calm blue lagoon, but this makes the beach
less of a spot for wave-oriented activities like
bodyboarding and surfing.
The flat waves and shallow nearshore ocean bottom make
Anini a beach to visit if you have kids. Anini Beach
Park is also any snorkeler’s delight - the lagoon is
home to numerous humuhumunukunukuapuaa (triggerfish),
uhu (parrot fish), kala (unicorn fish), boxer fish,
damselfish and other tropical fish. Because of its calm
waves and rich underwater life, many consider Anini
Beach Park one of the best snorkeling spots on Kauai. On
the downside, there are some sharp corals, so take extra
care when wading in.
The beach park’s consistent breeze drives locals and
visitors alike to this windsurfing mecca. Kite boarding,
kite surfing and sail boarding are other wind-based
activities that are popular here. Beginners can also
learn the tricks here as there are kite surfing and sail
boarding schools nearby. On the northwestern part of the
beach near the reef, there’s a sudden 60-foot drop
diving spot.
If you don’t feel like dipping in the water, you can
take a walk on the long stretch of sparkling sand. On
weekdays, you might not even find a soul sharing the
beach with you. Beachcombing will give you plenty of
rewards, too - seashells, cowries and rare Niihau
shells. Or you can visit the polo field across the beach
park; it can draw quite a crowd during summer Sundays.
To find temporary stays when visiting Anini Beach Park
is never a problem as there are plenty of B&Bs and
vacation rentals nearby. Rumor has it that Hollywood big
names like Steven Spielberg have homes on the road along
Anini Beach. So if you see Pierce Brosnan walking down
the beach, don’t be surprised. Anini Beach Park is said
to be the favorite of Bond 007 and he also has a home
nearby.
Anini Beach Park in Bullet Points
Sandy beach on the north shore of Kauai
One of the safest beaches on Kauai, protected by
one of the longest and widest reefs in Hawaii
Good beach for snorkeling
The beach is a popular windsurfing destination and
windsurfing lessons are offered
Many luxurious homes and vacation rentals in the
area
From Kilauea town, follow the road to Kalihiwai Bridge.
Take a right off Route 56 to Kalihiwai Road. Go left on
Anini Road. Follow the approximately half-mile track to
the beach.
Safety Tip
Whatever beach in Hawaii you visit, please have in mind that the ocean can
be very dangerous. Never turn your back against the waves and watch out for underwater
currents and always check the surf conditions. Pay attention to signs posted on
the beach. If you are not sure about the conditions, ask the lifeguards (if any
on the beach). Please click here to
read more about ocean safety in Hawaii.
