Ahu Nau Nau
Red topknots.
TravelingOtter — CC BY 2.0 · Patricio Antonio Soto Latrille — CC BY-SA 3.0 · LuxoDresden — CC BY-SA 3.0 · Mbmerino — CC BY-SA 3.0
Easter Island's loveliest beach, soft white sand and calm turquoise water shaded by a small coconut grove, with two archaeological platforms behind it. Island tradition says the first king, Hotu Matu'a, landed here when the Polynesian ancestors arrived by canoe. On the rise above the sand stands Ahu Nau Nau with seven moai, some wearing red pukao topknots, their backs carved with fine designs that survived because they lay buried in sand for centuries before restoration. Nearby, Ahu Ature Huki carries a single statue, the first moai raised again in the twentieth century. Visitors swim in the calm, clear water and rest under the palms, and small kiosks by the beach sell food and juices. The sun is very strong, so bring sunscreen and a hat. The beach is inside the national park, so carry your ticket. A paved road leads there across the middle of the island. Never touch the statues or step on the platforms, which islanders hold sacred and the law protects.
Red topknots.
Turquoise water.
Shade and rest.
North coast of Easter Island, about 18 km from Hanga Roa
Yes, the beach is inside Rapa Nui National Park, so carry the park ticket; swimming is allowed in the calm water.