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Best Campgrounds near Ewa Beach, HI

73 Reviews

The Hawaiian island of Oahu supports a variety of developed campgrounds near Ewa Beach, providing beach-adjacent and mountain camping experiences. Sand Island State Recreation Area, located in Honolulu, offers tent and RV camping with amenities including showers, toilets, and picnic tables. Additional campground options include Bellows Field Beach Park in Waimanalo and Keaīwa Heiau State Recreation Area in Aiea, which primarily caters to tent campers. While many sites sit directly on beaches with ocean views, others like Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden provide a rare inland camping experience surrounded by the Ko'olau Mountain Range.

Camping permits must be secured in advance through Hawaii's state reservation system, especially for popular weekend stays. Most Oahu campgrounds operate seasonally with specific open days—Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden, for instance, permits camping only Friday through Monday. Facilities vary significantly between locations, with some offering full amenities including drinking water, showers and electric hookups, while others provide more primitive accommodations. Weather considerations include frequent rainfall in windward locations and variable temperatures depending on elevation and proximity to the ocean. One visitor at Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden noted, "The Ko'olau Range is basically a cloud magnet, so pack a rain jacket/poncho."

Waterfront access represents the primary draw for many campers visiting Oahu. Several campgrounds provide direct beach access where visitors can enjoy swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding steps from their tents. Kahana Campground at Ahupuaʻa ʻO Kahana State Park exemplifies this experience, with campsites situated directly on Kahana Bay's sandy shoreline. Mixed-use campgrounds typically feature picnic tables and toilet facilities, though privacy can be limited. As one camper at Kahana explained, "Campsites are fairly close together and not super well marked/differentiated between, but there is plenty of room." Many sites experience weekend crowding followed by quieter weekdays, making mid-week camping ideal for those seeking solitude. Several campgrounds near Ewa Beach balance natural beauty with accessibility to urban amenities.

Map showing campgrounds near Ewa Beach, HawaiiExplore the Map

Detours Nearby

Keaīwa Heiau State Recreation Area

Keaīwa Heiau State Recreation Area

21 min away

Camp Mokuleia

Camp Mokuleia

51 min away

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Best Camping Sites Near Ewa Beach, Hawaii (15)

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Showing results 1-10 of 15 campgrounds

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Recent Camping Photos near Ewa Beach, HI

27 Photos of 15 Ewa Beach Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Ewa Beach, HI

73 Reviews of 15 Ewa Beach Campgrounds

  • Saraj B.The Dyrt ADMIN User
    Feb. 24, 2025

    Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden

    Camping in Jurassic Park aka Kahua Kuou Campsite

    If you need a break from the constant buzz of Honolulu, Ho‘omaluhia Botanical Gardens was my perfect getaway. Just a short 8-mile drive from Waikiki, this is a tropical paradise tucked beneath the Ko‘olau Mountain Range.

    PROs:

    -Views! Towering green cliffs in the misty jungle. 

    -No City Noise, Just Nature - no honking, no sirens - just chirping birds, rustling leaves, and the occasional gecko. 

    -Luxury (by camping standards). Plenty of bathrooms with running water, foot-washing stations, and dishwashing sinks. 

    -Roomy, Level Campsites - Plenty of foliage to make your site private.

    -Hiking Trails - I recommend going to the lake. Though I read beforehand that fishing was allowed, it was posted not allowed this past weekend.

    -Cool Mountain Nights - Temps drop to a comfy 70°F.

    Tips:

    -You NEED a Permit - No permit, no camping. An attendant checks at the entrance gate. I recommend reserving 1-2 weeks in advance to guarantee your spot. I bought a 3-day permit to stay 1 night as that was the only option. Camping is only allowed on weekends, Friday through Monday.

    -Bring Bug Spray - The biting gnats will eat you alive. Other than that, there were no other pests, besides the occasional chicken wanting my dinner.

    -Expect a Little Rain - The Ko‘olau Range is basically a cloud magnet, so pack a rain jacket/poncho.

    -Pack light - Parking is in a lot and you have to walk in to your site from there.

  • Skarlet R.
    Oct. 28, 2024

    Mālaekahana State Recreation Area

    Telegram cn

    Telegram is full of travelers discussing hidden gems, and Mālaekahana is ideal for those craving both sun and adventure. Imagine a similar beachside escape in Hong Kong, where nature and ocean views make a refreshing getaway.

  • Skarlet R.
    Oct. 28, 2024

    Mālaekahana State Recreation Area

    Telegram中文

    Telegram groups in Hong Kong are buzzing about stunning camping spots, and Mālaekahana seems like the perfect inspiration. Hong Kong nature lovers would enjoy a similar beachside setup, bringing a slice of Hawaii closer to home.

  • Ben A.
    Jun. 10, 2024

    Bellows Air Force Station

    Great for a weekend retreat from the craziness othe week.f

    Me and my wife cone camping here at least 10 times a year if not more. It s a great place to be with the sound of the breaking waves at every camping site and a lot of good amenities. There is a shopet with is walking distance of every site as well as a gas station, mini golf, a driving range, 3 hiking trails, 1 walking path, a small bar, and a stabucks. The staff is always so welcoming and its truly a great place to spend your time.

  • C
    May. 18, 2024

    Mālaekahana State Recreation Area

    Great Place

    Malaekahana Campgrounds in Hawaii offers an exceptional camping tubidy experience with stunning ocean views, clean facilities, and a tranquil environment. The location is perfect for both relaxation and adventure, with plenty of activities like swimming mp3 juice, hiking, and exploring nearby attractions. It's y2mate an ideal spot for families and solo travelers alike to connect with nature and enjoy the beauty of Hawaii.

  • Jake C.The Dyrt ADMIN User
    Aug. 8, 2023

    Maleka Farm

    Vanlife or tent camping in Hawaii

    Jake from the Dyrt here!  Maleka Farm is a great spot for those needing a place to rest while exploring the area.  Check them out and be sure to leave a review on the Dyrt!

  • D
    Apr. 27, 2022

    Kahana Campground — Ahupuaʻa ʻO Kahana State Park

    Beachfront Camping

    One of the few areas you can camp right on the beach. It is a bit loud because it's right next to the road but it's definitely a trade off with waking up next to the ocean and the beautiful mountains surrounding. The bathrooms are pretty good as far as camp bathrooms go.

  • A G.
    Dec. 15, 2021

    Mālaekahana State Recreation Area

    Family friendly and affordable paradise

    Hidden gem for those wanting a more authentic Oahu experience! I suppose we came "off-season" and post-pandemic, so we might be a bit fortunate; We felt like we were at our own little piece of paradise. We stayed in the Hale 14 which was great because it was close enough to walk to and hear the waves, but far enough that I felt like my son wouldn't wander off into the surf. My son is 5 and I feel this is the perfect age to stay off the beaten path. Our Hale was so affordable and exactly what I'd expect when paying less than $60 a night. You can only stay 10 days. There is a gate to keep random cars out of the camping area. The beautiful cove has great beginner waves for surfing. The "beds" are vinyl and not too thick, but of you're taking advantage of everything it shouldn't be a problem. This is not the Ritz (which I have frequented), however it's perfect for a single mom wanting to show her son the world on a budget. We will definitely be back. So grateful for this place having a family friendly, budget friendly Hale away from home! Be ready for roosters to wake you in the morning and cold showers. But I'll take Hawaii on a budget any day. If you really feel the need, get a hotel on your arrival and departure and just Live Aloha the rest of your stay!!!

Guide to Ewa Beach

Camping near Ewa Beach, Hawaii, offers a unique blend of beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Swimming and Surfing: Many campers enjoy the ocean. At Mālaekahana State Recreation Area, one reviewer mentioned, "The beautiful cove has great beginner waves for surfing." This makes it a perfect spot for families wanting to introduce their kids to the waves.
  • Hiking: Explore nearby trails. A visitor at Kahana Campground — Ahupuaʻa 'O Kahana State Park noted, "A good close trail is the Crouching Tiger trail which is pretty steep and muddy, so bring good hiking boots!"
  • Beach Activities: Relax on the beach or enjoy a picnic. Campers at Bellows Field Beach Park rave about the "white sandy beach" that is a local favorite.

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers love the stunning ocean views. One reviewer at Mālaekahana State Recreation Area said, "Malaekahana Campgrounds offers an exceptional camping experience with stunning ocean views."
  • Clean Facilities: Clean restrooms and showers are a big plus. A visitor at Camp Mokuleia mentioned, "The bathrooms and shower facilities were basic but very clean and nicer than some of the other campgrounds."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Many campgrounds cater to families. A parent at Mālaekahana State Recreation Area shared, "This is perfect for a single mom wanting to show her son the world on a budget."

What you should know:

  • Crowded Weekends: Some campgrounds can get busy. A camper at Bellows Field Beach Park noted, "The campsites were all very crowded and loud throughout the weekend."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. A reviewer at Sand Island State Recreation Area mentioned, "There are showers and bathrooms with beach access, but I prefer to go to other beaches to swim."
  • Pet Restrictions: Many campgrounds do not allow pets. A frustrated visitor at Bellows Field Beach Park pointed out, "There are no dogs allowed on ANY Hawaii State Campground!!!"

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose the Right Spot: Look for campgrounds with kid-friendly activities. A parent at Mālaekahana State Recreation Area said, "We felt like we were at our own little piece of paradise."
  • Prepare for Early Mornings: Be ready for roosters waking you up. One camper at Mālaekahana State Recreation Area humorously noted, "Be ready for roosters to wake you in the morning."
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having food on hand is essential. A reviewer at Camp Mokuleia mentioned, "For supplies, it's about 15 minutes back to Haliewa where there are tons of restaurants, food carts, groceries."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check for Hookups: Make sure the campground has electric hookups if needed. A visitor at Bellows Field Beach Park appreciated the "electric hookups" available.
  • Arrive Early: Popular spots fill up fast. A camper at Kahana Campground — Ahupuaʻa 'O Kahana State Park advised, "You will need to come early on a Friday to get a spot for the weekend."
  • Explore Nearby Attractions: Take advantage of local attractions. A reviewer at Camp Mokuleia noted, "It's a very short walk to 'Lost Survivors Beach' where they filmed the pilot of Lost."

Camping around Ewa Beach, Hawaii, is a fantastic way to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. With beautiful campgrounds and plenty of activities, you're sure to have a memorable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near Ewa Beach, HI?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Ewa Beach, HI is Sand Island State Recreation Area with a 3.7-star rating from 8 reviews.

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