Anini Beach

This beach is supposedly amazing, but I beg to differ. Sure, the water may be calm and warm, but who cares about snorkeling? And let's not forget about the coral that prevents any rip tide - how exciting. Oh, and there are lots of fish and turtles, big whoop. The water may be crystal clear, but that's not enough to make it perfect. Give me a break.

We made the hour-long drive from our VRBO in Poipu to Anini Beach and arrived early in the morning at 6:30 am. The beach was practically deserted, giving us the opportunity to enjoy its natural beauty without any crowds. The beach's stunning scenery was complemented by the presence of trees that provided partial shade, making it a perfect spot to relax and unwind. Although we spotted a few fish swimming around, the lack of diversity made it less thrilling after a while, and we felt that other places on the island offered better snorkeling experiences. It's worth noting that there are no restrooms or other amenities available, so it's best to plan accordingly. Additionally, parking is extremely limited, with less than 10 spaces available, so arriving early is essential. By 8:30 am, all the spots were already taken.

Without a doubt, the snorkeling experience at this beach is unparalleled since my arrival in Kauai. The water is placid, which is essential for capturing close-up shots, and it is shallow enough to avoid any significant loss of light. Although it is evident that the coral has suffered damage, the sights are still breathtaking, including green sea turtles at cleaning stations and various fish species such as convict surgeons, Hawaiian Tobys, and trigger fish. I even had the pleasure of seeing a moray eel! The snorkeling here is perfect for beginners, making it an excellent family activity. Additionally, there is ample parking, but arriving early is advisable for the best experience.

This beach is an idyllic paradise for families with children. The coral reef is stunningly beautiful and the water is super shallow, making it easy to walk out to the reef without ever having to swim. The water level is never more than chest-deep, which is perfect for beginner snorkelers. During the month of June, I was fortunate enough to spot around 10 sea turtles just a short distance from the shoreline. There are plenty of shaded areas to keep the little ones out of the sun, and the park area has ample benches and a decent-sized parking lot. We arrived at 9:00 a.m. and had the beach almost entirely to ourselves, but it did fill up quickly within the next hour or two. The coral reef is teeming with schools of fish, making it a great spot for snorkeling. All in all, this beach is an absolute gem and I cannot wait to return to Kauai.

This beach is a hidden gem, offering a delightful destination for a full day of relaxation and adventure. Its crystal-clear waters are ideal for snorkeling, and the gentle waves recede far enough to create a knee-deep paradise for a long distance. Parents can rest easy knowing their children are safe in these tranquil waters. While the descent to the beach requires a bit of effort, it's worth it for the stunning views and the chance to bask in the sun on a bright and beautiful day.