Sand Island State Recreation Area provides camping access near Ewa Gentry, offering both tent and RV accommodations with shower facilities and clean restrooms. Located in an industrial area of Honolulu, this recreation area features a beach suitable for young children and seasonal surf breaks. The campground remains less crowded than other Oahu destinations due to its location tucked behind a Coast Guard base and commercial buildings. Military-affiliated visitors seeking upscale glamping near Ewa Gentry, Hawaii can access Bellows Air Force Station, while civilian glampers can enjoy adjacent Bellows Field Beach Park with its fine white sand beaches.
What to do
Beach activities at Sand Island: While not the most scenic beach on Oahu, Sand Island offers space for relaxing with children. "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," notes Sarah I.
Water sports at Mokuleia: The northwestern tip of Oahu provides calm waters perfect for stand-up paddleboarding during summer months. "The water is pretty mellow (at least during the summer) and is great for stand up paddling," shares Apryl E. from Camp Mokuleia.
Rock climbing excursions: Experience Hawaii's highest concentration of climbing routes at Mokuleia wall. "The Mokule'ia wall has over 60 climbs ranging from beginner to expert and includes trad, sport, and toprope routes," explains Alan B.
Visit Ka'ena Point: Take a short drive from Camp Mokuleia to experience this narrow land extension. "It feels like you're standing out in the ocean without anything around it's such a small point," according to Alan B.
What campers like
Privacy at secluded beach sites: Glamping experiences at Bellows Air Force Station offer shoreline camping away from crowds. "It's a nice and tucked away from road. There are cabins and apartments for rent if you have base access," explains Sandy S.
Beach proximity at all sites: Camp Mokuleia offers direct beach access from every site. "I had a tent spot right by the beach. The bathrooms and shower facilities were basic but very clean and were nicer than some of the other campgrounds," shares Brittany B.
Recreational amenities: Military glampers at Bellows enjoy numerous on-site activities. "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," notes Ben A.
Weather protection options: The northwest side of Oahu provides shelter from strong trade winds. "In January, the winds were strongest from the East and we had to vacate our other campground when winds were up to 20MPH off the ocean. This side of the island gave us a break from the wind," explains Stephanie Z.
What you should know
Reservation timelines: Military accommodations at Bellows require significant advance planning. "Only problem is the reservations are booked for about year out, so you never know what kind of weather you'll get when the reservation finally comes along," cautions Sandy S.
Sand management challenges: Fine sand at Sand Island State Recreation Area requires extra preparation. "Clean grounds great beach access clean restrooms," notes Jeffery C., though other reviewers mention the beach isn't pristine.
Military ID requirements: Many premium glamping sites require proper identification. "You can keep going on the long driveway in, but you'll need military access or sponsorship to get in," advises YEN P. about Bellows.
Pet restrictions: Despite some listings, Hawaii state campgrounds prohibit dogs. "This website is in error. There are no dogs allowed on ANY Hawaii State Campground!!! Don't know if you know this or not," warns riki L.
Tips for camping with families
Protected swimming areas: Select beaches with gentle conditions for children. "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," recommends Sarah I.
Activity planning for youth groups: Camp Mokuleia accommodates various group sizes. "This campground is set up for anything from large groups (50+) to small families. There are cabins to rent out or places to pitch a tent," explains Apryl E.
Site selection strategies: At Bellows, carefully choose your campsite location. "Ocean view sites are very sandy and if you are near the restroom, be prepared for beach goers to walk right through your site to use the toilet," warns Mike L.
Entertainment beyond beaches: Look for campgrounds with multiple activity options. "They have a ropes course and it is across the street from a skydiving place," notes Alan B. about Camp Mokuleia, providing entertainment when weather conditions aren't ideal for water activities.
Tips from RVers
RV amenities availability: Most glamping near Ewa Gentry with RV accommodations offers basic hookups only. "This campground is very close to the highest concentration of rock climbs in all of Hawaii," notes Alan B., highlighting that natural attractions rather than extensive RV facilities are the primary draw.
Site security considerations: Select secured campgrounds with controlled access. "The property has a gate with a code that you can go in and out as you please, and the staff were really helpful and kind," mentions Stephanie Z. about her experience at Camp Mokuleia.
Supply planning: RVers should prepare for limited nearby services. "For supplies, it's about 15 minutes back to Haliewa where there are tons of restaurants, food cards, groceries and a Longs Drug," advises Stephanie Z.
