Described are embodiments of hybrid optical apparatuses including anti-resonant optical waveguides, and methods for making such apparatuses and systems. In one embodiment, a hybrid optical apparatus may include a first semiconductor region including an active region of one or more layers of semiconductor materials and a second semiconductor region coupled with the first semiconductor region. The second semiconductor region may include an optical waveguide configured to transmit light inputted by a light input component. The optical waveguide may be defined by a first trench disposed on a first side of the waveguide, and a second trench disposed on a second side of the waveguide opposite the first side. A width of each trench may vary along a length of the apparatus to control optical power density of the light transmitted along the optical waveguide. Other embodiments may be described and/or claimed.