Easter Island, affectionately known as Rapa Nui, sits like a hidden gem in the vast Pacific Ocean, a whopping 3,700 km from the coast of Chile. Even though it’s tucked away, this enchanting island lures in countless visitors with its enigmatic moai statues, breathtaking beaches, and awe-inspiring landscapes. Anakena Beach, one of the island’s most beloved spots, is a dreamy tropical haven perfect for kicking back and letting your worries drift away.
In this guide, we’ll delve into a pair of exhilarating outdoor activities to try out at Anakena Beach, introduce you to two must-see spots you just can’t miss, and top it off with a unique tip for travelers like yourself.
Outdoor activities
Anakena Beach offers a wide range of outdoor activities for travelers to enjoy. From snorkeling and swimming in the crystal-clear waters to hiking and horseback riding through the island's lush forests, there's something for everyone. In this section, we'll highlight two of the best outdoor activities to experience on Anakena Beach.
Snorkeling
Anakena Beach should be at the top of your list if you’re seeking for a place to explore the aquatic world. The waters at the beach are renowned for being extremely clean, making them ideal for snorkeling. No concerns if you don’t have your own equipment! You can start your journey by renting snorkeling gear from local stores.
Discovering the stunning coral reefs that surround the region is one of the best things about snorkeling at Anakena Beach. You’ll encounter a wide variety of marine life as you explore the underwater world, including some incredible fish, sea turtles, and even octopuses!
Hiking
Looking for a thrilling activity that will take your breath away? Hiking in Anakena Beach should definitely be on your list! This stunning island boasts of numerous hiking trails that will leave you in awe of the surrounding ocean’s beauty and jaw-dropping landscapes.
But if you’re up for a challenge and want to experience something extraordinary, then you simply cannot miss the Terevaka Trail. It’s easily one of the most popular hiking trails on the island and for a good reason. The trail spans around 18 kilometers and takes roughly 6 hours to complete, but believe us when we say that the view from the top is worth every step.
When you finally reach the summit of Terevaka, the panoramic view of the island will leave you in awe. It’s an unforgettable moment that you’ll cherish forever.
Must See Places
Easter Island is home to a wealth of cultural and natural attractions, from the famous Moai statues to the island's volcanic craters and stunning coastline. In this section, we'll explore two must-see places on the island, Ana Kai Tangata and Rano Kau, both of which offer unique insights into the island's history and natural beauty.
Ahu Tongariki
Get ready to be blown away by the awe-inspiring beauty of Ahu Tongariki – one of the most breathtaking moai sites on the island! This site is simply stunning and features 15 restored moai statues that are standing tall and proud, making it the biggest moai platform on the island. And the best part? It’s just a quick drive away from Anakena Beach, so you can easily add it to your travel itinerary. Visiting Ahu Tongariki is an absolute must for anyone fascinated by Easter Island’s rich history and culture. As you stand before these magnificent structures, you can’t help but wonder about the story behind their creation and the people who built them. It’s an experience that will leave you feeling humbled and grateful for the opportunity to witness such a unique and precious piece of history.
Rano Raraku
Rano Raraku is a volcanic crater located on the eastern side of the island. It is the source of the moai statues that are found all over the island, and visitors can see many unfinished moai statues still lying in the quarry. The site also offers stunning panoramic views of the island and is a popular spot for hiking.
Unusual Tip
For travelers looking to experience something truly unique on Easter Island, we have an unusual tip to share. This tip is not well-known among tourists, but it offers a fascinating glimpse into the island's culture and history. We'll keep the details a surprise until you read the section!
Visit during the Tapati Festival
Have you heard of the Tapati Festival? It’s an awesome two-week celebration that happens every February on this beautiful island, and it’s a real feast for the senses!
During the festival, you’ll get to experience the island’s unique culture and heritage through various events. There are dance competitions featuring traditional dances, music performances showcasing local talents, and even sports competitions for those who like to get active. You’ll be able to see the islanders in their traditional dress, hear their music, and taste their delicious cuisine.
Hidden Wonders
Did you know that there are hidden wonders to discover while visiting Anakena Beach in Easter Island? These two places are amazing travel destination for nature lovers.
Ana Kai Tangata
Ana Kai Tangata cave is an exciting travel destination on Easter Island’s southeastern coast. What makes it so unique is the incredible rock art that covers the walls. You can see all sorts of animals, like birds and fish, depicted in intricate detail. It’s been said that the cave was used as a ceremonial site by the island’s early inhabitants, adding an even more fascinating layer to its history. Can you imagine what it must have been like to witness those ceremonies taking place all those years ago? So much mystery and wonder surround this amazing cave!
Rano Kau
Rano Kau is this huge volcanic crater situated on the southwestern coast of the island, and it’s pretty amazing. What’s really cool is that it’s actually filled with water and has become home to lots of different plants and animals. If you visit, you can even hike around the rim of the crater and take in some breathtaking views of the coastline. And if that’s not enough, Rano Kau is also home to one of the most significant archaeological sites on the island, called Orongo. Back in the day, this was the spot where an annual birdman competition took place. Imagine witnessing that! All in all, Rano Kau is definitely a must-see when you’re on Easter Island.
Accommodation Suggestions
Whether you're looking for luxury, mid-range, budget, or camping accommodation options, we've got you covered. In this section, we'll provide four accommodation suggestions to suit a variety of budgets and travel styles. From luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and camping options, there's something for everyone on Easter Island.
Luxury:
Hangaroa Eco Village & Spa – Hangaroa Eco Village & Spa is a luxury hotel located in the heart of Hanga Roa, just a short drive from Anakena Beach. The hotel features spacious rooms and suites, each with a private terrace and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The hotel also has a full-service spa, two restaurants, and a bar.
Mid-range:
Hotel Altiplanico Rapa Nui – Hotel Altiplanico Rapa Nui is a mid-range hotel located on the outskirts of Hanga Roa, just a short drive from Anakena Beach. The hotel features stylish rooms and suites, each with a private terrace and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. The hotel also has a pool, a restaurant, and a bar.
Budget:
Hostal Petero Atamu – Hostal Petero Atamu is a budget-friendly hostel located in the heart of Hanga Roa. The hostel features simple rooms with shared bathrooms, as well as a communal kitchen and lounge area. The hostel also has a garden and a terrace.
Camping:
Camping Mihinoa – Camping Mihinoa is a campsite located just a short walk from Anakena Beach. The campsite features tent sites, as well as basic cabins and dorm rooms. The campsite also has a communal kitchen, a barbecue area, and a playground. Camping is a great way to experience the natural beauty of Easter Island while keeping accommodation costs low.
Anakena Beach is a beautiful and peaceful spot on Easter Island, offering visitors a chance to relax and unwind in a stunning tropical paradise. Whether you are interested in snorkeling, hiking, or exploring the island’s rich history and culture, Anakena Beach has something for everyone. By following the tips in this guide, visitors can make the most of their time on the island and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.
