DesertBeachLover

From all the research I've done I get some very contradictory opinions about Anahola. Some say it's a great quiet place to stay. Others say it's only a place for locals and that visitors aren't really welcome there. Would the beach be safe for my wife and I to hang out on in the evenings when we go there for our 30th anniversary next June?

auntiemaria

There really are two separate beach areas known as Anahola. One is the big Anahola Beach Park, with camping facilities, etc. That one is indeed mostly for locals.

But the other beach area in Anahola is accessed by the road just north of Ono Burgers -- and is lined with homes (of varying age and construction quality). Some are owner-occupied, but many have now been converted to vacation rentals. Everything from shacks to castles. 8-)
Everyone is welcome in this area.

hawaiifanatic

Meanwhile be aware that Anahola Bay is unprotected from tradewind swells, so the tide can rise there rather suddenly, especially in the late afternoon, causing a rip current to quickly develop. There have been drownings there as a result of this, including this unfortunate situation from this past May: http://tinyurl.com/k2eyz
Be safe!

auntiemaria

Those drownings were over at the Anahola Beach Park area -- nice beach, but the surf conditions can be scary.

This is an excellent site which focuses on ocean safety on Kaua`i, and gives info about all of our beaches:
http://www.kauaiexplorer.com/

OldSouthernBelle

Auntiemaria: I am SO glad you posted the 'safety' site! I hope you pepper this board with it often.
The controversy about the BB's not emphasizing safety has made me desire this info for a long time!
Is there a similar one for the other islands?