Anini Beach – Kauai’s Windsurfing Beach

May 21, 2020 | General Information

Anini Beach is a narrow sliver of a beach that extends along Kauai’s North Shore for somewhat over two miles. Anini Beach is an oddity on the North Shore because it is largely protected by a huge fringe reef that is one of the largest in the state. Not only is this reef long but it is very wide as well measuring as wide as 400 yards in places. By in large this reef provides some serious protection from the big winter waves that smash the northern coastlines but it does not provide full protection and caution should be exercised when swimming at this beach. You should only snorkel on the portions of the reef that are close to shore. The reef is dissected periodically by narrow channels that can bring swift and dangerous currents into play even on calmer days. As is the case with most other North Shore beaches Anini Beach has been the location of a number of drownings and near drownings over the course of years and because it does not have a lifeguard tower it is not a recommended swimming location during periods of above average surf conditions.

Anini Beach is Protected by a Fringe Reef
Because the reef at Anini Beach is so large, snorkeling can be a good experience here but in recent years the big draw to Anini has been it’s wind based sports like windsurfing and kite boarding. On any given day you can see the colorful sails dotting the coastline on the water and in the air. If you feel motivated to join in all the fun there are companies that will teach you how to windsurf and Anini will almost always be the beach they will take you to.

Windsurfers Dot the Horizon at Anini Beach
Walking along the long expanse of beach at Anini is a popular pass time among the local residents and a walk at Anini will take you past some of the beautiful beachfront residences and vacation rentals in the area. Anini has gained popularity over the years as being the home to a number of Hollywood celebrities and your first visit to the beach will show you why this location has become so popular. Aside from the beach activities that are available along the beautiful shoreline, Anini Beach is also the location of an ocean ramp from which boats are launched primarily to go deep sea fishing. The fishing here can be excellent and the experienced fisherman in this area are well acquainted with this coastline.

Ocean Caution
Be advised that all beaches and ocean locations in Hawaii can be dangerous including this one. Be completely aware of the ocean conditions prior to entering, be particularly aware of the currents and stay close to shore. Also, all shorelines and beaches in Hawaii, including this one, can be frequented by sharks, jellyfish and other sea creatures which can provide potential harm to people entering the water. There are no lifeguard towers at this location.