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Sand Island State Recreation Area

SUMMARY PRESENTED BY

Reservations are available year-round at Sand Island State Recreation Area, a state-managed campground on Oahu that provides electric hookups, drinking water, showers, and a dump station, making it a workable base for RVs as well as tent campers. The campground sits within an industrial corridor, so the surrounding landscape looks more like a working waterfront than a typical Hawaii beach park. Access is flexible: campers can arrive by car, boat, or on foot.

The beach here is sandy with some tree coverage and grassy areas, and it draws families with small children. One reviewer notes a surf break that works when swell arrives. The water is accessible but not the primary draw for swimmers, and several visitors mention preferring other Oahu beaches for that purpose. As Jeffery C. puts it, "Clean grounds great beach access clean restrooms." Cleanliness comes up repeatedly in reviews, which is worth noting for campers weighing options.

Traffic to the park has thinned over the years, which means more space and less competition for sites. Pets are allowed, picnic tables are on-site, and firewood is available. Nearby stores are limited given the industrial setting, so stocking up before arrival is a practical move. Campers planning an Oahu trip can browse campgrounds just outside Honolulu to compare what else is available on the island. Sand Island works well as an accessible urban overnight stop with direct beach and water access.

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Map & DirectionsSand Island State Recreation Area is located in Hawaii near Honolulu

Public Campground

Directions

From jct Hwy 92 & Hwy 64 (Sand Island Access Rd) in Honolulu: Go 2 mi S to end of Sand Island Access Rd.

Coordinates

21.30045856 N
157.87158082 W

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Connectivity

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Verified by 2 users
Last on 8/6/26

Connectivity

Presented by

T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More

T-Mobile5G
Excellent Coverage
Verified by 2 users
Last on 5/22/26
Verizon5G
Excellent Coverage
AT&T5G
Excellent Coverage
Verified by 2 users
Last on 8/6/26

Access

Drive-In
Park next to your site
Walk-In
Park in a lot, walk to your site.
Hike-In
Backcountry sites.
Boat-In
Sites accessible by watercraft.

Site Types

Tent Sites
Standard (Tent/RV)
Dispersed
Group
Tent Cabin

Features

For Campers

ADA Access
Trash
Picnic Table
Firewood Available
Phone Service
Reservable
Showers
Drinking Water
Electric Hookups
Toilets
Pets

For Vehicles

Sanitary Dump
Pull-Through Sites
Big Rig Friendly

Contact

General Info

Drive Time

1 min from Urban Honolulu, HI

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Reviews7 Camper Reviews - Sand Island State Recreation Area

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5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

3.5

out of 5

7 Reviews

Many visitors appreciated the peaceful, uncrowded setting and clean facilities. The industrial location means it's not the most scenic beach, but offers quiet space for those seeking solitude.

SUMMARY PRESENTED BY

Sandy S.

Ranger

Reviewed Mar. 5, 2021

Not super busy

This rec park is one of the least visited since the area is no longer a busy as it used to be. There are showers and bathrooms with beach access, but I prefer to go to other beaches to swim.

Sarah I.

Guide

Reviewed Dec. 20, 2020

Nice and Easy

Sand Island is an industrial place so there’s not many stores nearby but it’s a pretty unique park with lots of space to hangout. The beach isn’t the nicest but it’s good for little kids and there’s a nice surf break if the swell is in.

Jeffery C.

Scout

Reviewed Oct. 2, 2019

Chill and relaxed

Clean grounds great beach access clean restrooms

Month of VisitDecember

Lisa B.

Scout

Reviewed Jun. 28, 2019

previously had permits yrs back a few times yrs ago.

far, hard to get there. hot and no confessions there. closed wednesdays before. don't know present conditions. could have changed.

Sandy S.

Ranger

Reviewed Mar. 13, 2019

Set far back from other beaches

Not a lot of people go to this beach because it's not so popular. It's tucked far back behind a coast guard base mixed with old commercial buildings and businesses. It's not the prettiest beach, but if you'd like to go somewhere relatively quiet and not much going on, this would be the beach for you..

Leah P.

Ranger

Reviewed Aug. 31, 2016

lovely

the water is great for some body surfing.

Emily W.

Guide

Reviewed Aug. 31, 2016

Baptism camping trip

Camping with the church for a morning baptism. Sandy beach with some tree coverage and grassy spots.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Sand Island camping located in Oahu?

Sand Island State Recreation Area is located in an industrial area of Honolulu, tucked behind a Coast Guard base and surrounded by commercial buildings and businesses. It's somewhat off the beaten path and can be challenging to access. The relative remoteness contributes to its quieter atmosphere compared to more popular beaches on Oahu, though some visitors note it can be difficult to find and reach.

What beach facilities are available at Sand Island State Recreation Area?

Sand Island State Recreation Area offers clean restrooms, shower facilities, and direct beach access. The grounds are well-maintained with some grassy areas and tree coverage providing shade. The park features both sandy beach areas and grassy spots for camping or day use activities. While not luxurious, the basic facilities provide the necessary amenities for a comfortable visit.

What recreational activities can I do at Sand Island State Recreation Area?

Sand Island State Recreation Area offers several recreational opportunities. The beach is great for swimming, especially for children as the waters tend to be calmer. When conditions are right, there's a nice surf break for body surfing and other wave activities. The spacious grounds provide plenty of room for gatherings, picnics, and relaxation. While the beach isn't considered the most scenic on Oahu, it offers a quieter alternative to more crowded destinations, making it ideal for those seeking a more peaceful beach experience.

Do I need camping permits for Sand Island SRA Park in Honolulu?

Yes, camping permits are required for overnight stays at Sand Island State Recreation Area. The park has specific camping regulations, and historically it has had scheduled closure days (previously Wednesdays). For current permit requirements, fees, and closure schedules, contact Hawaii State Parks directly as these details may change. Be sure to secure your permit before planning your overnight stay.

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