A protective offshore reef makes Anahola Beach good for swimming except during times of high surf.
The white sandy beach is about .5 miles long and surrounded by ironwood trees that provide plenty of shady areas for relaxing. The reef provides good snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities and the nearshore waters have some good pockets of sand for swimming. Outside of the reef, there is a popular surfing break.
Great For
Swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, diving, surfing, bodyboarding, and fishing.
Highlights
This is a nice beach for kids due to the protected waters and is also one of the safest beaches on Kauai’s windward coast. The shore break near the mouth of the Anahola River is often very good for bodyboarding and children to play near the river. This beach is in Anahola Town, an area that is designated as Hawaiian Home Lands and home to many native Hawaiians.
Need to Know
Beware of rip currents near the river mouth. Though this beach is partially protected by a reef it is still subject to hazardous conditions during times of big waves in the open ocean. Stay near shore, beware of offshore currents, and never go in the water when there is high surf or rough seas. Surfing is only allowed on the northern part of the beach and not in the center area.
Lifeguard
No
Facilities
Restrooms, showers, picnic tables, barbecues, drinking water, campsites (permit required).
Access
Anahola Beach Park is located on Kauai’s eastern shore and is reached by driving north from Kapaa on Hwy. 59 and turn right onto Anahola Rd. about .6 miles from Mile Marker 13. The beach is about .5 miles ahead.