Most of Easter Island's coastline is made up of black rock, a remnant of the island's volcanic history. Playa Anakena is a welcome break along the rocky shore, and is the island's most popular beach. The grove of coconut palms, white sand beaches and brilliant blue water translate directly to "paradise," no matter the language. Anakena is a great place to go bodysurfing when conditions allow. The beach is also home to six moai, whose backs are beautifully carved and whose heads are adorned with red dressings. Legend has it that this is where Hoto Matu'a, the first man to arrive at Easter Island, landed with his family around 400 A.D. If you don't have a vehicle, you can take a taxi to the beach for roughly $16 USD. Arrange for the driver to return for you later in the day, or you might get marooned!

Playa Ovahe is surrounded by breathtaking cliffs. It isn't as crowded as Playa Anakena, making it a wonderful place to lay out undisturbed on the stretch of pink sand. The cliffs surrounding the beach were once home to the cave-dwelling natives.

Hanga Roa's only beach is the small Playa Pea on the south side of Hanga Roa's port. You're likely to local families and lots of kids on this pea-sized beach.

 Easter Island Overview

 Highlights
   Western Side
   Southern Side
   Beaches
   Sports Activities

 Hanga Roa
   Lodging
   Dining
   Shopping

 History
   Tapati Rapa Nui Festival
   Easter Island Artifacts

 Transportation