Camping near Honolulu, Hawaii, offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful getaway, there are plenty of options to explore.
What to do:
- Beach activities: Enjoy swimming and body surfing at Bellows Field Beach Park. One reviewer mentioned, "The white sandy beach is a local favorite and must-see while on Oahu."
- Hiking: Explore trails near Kahana Campground — Ahupuaʻa ʻO Kahana State Park. A visitor noted, "A good close trail is the Crouching Tiger trail which is pretty steep and muddy, so bring good hiking boots!"
- Surfing: For beginner surfers, Mālaekahana State Recreation Area has great waves. One camper shared, "The beautiful cove has great beginner waves for surfing."
What campers like:
- Scenic views: Campers rave about the breathtaking ocean views at Mālaekahana State Recreation Area. A review states, "Malaekahana Campgrounds offers an exceptional camping experience with stunning ocean views."
- Clean facilities: Many appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. One reviewer of Bellows Field Beach Park mentioned, "The bathrooms were decent," highlighting the upkeep of the area.
- Family-friendly atmosphere: Families enjoy the welcoming vibe at Camp Mokuleia. A parent shared, "This was my favorite campground... It felt the safest."
What you should know:
- Crowded weekends: Expect busy weekends, especially at popular spots like Bellows Field Beach Park. One camper noted, "The campsites were all very crowded and loud throughout the weekend."
- Limited amenities: Some campgrounds, like Kahana Campground — Ahupuaʻa ʻO Kahana State Park, have basic facilities. A visitor mentioned, "The showers are not enclosed, and the bathrooms are across the main road."
- No pets allowed: If you're traveling with pets, be aware that many campgrounds, including Mālaekahana State Recreation Area, do not allow them. One frustrated reviewer stated, "There are no dogs allowed on ANY Hawaii State Campground!"
Tips for camping with families:
- Choose the right campground: Look for family-friendly spots like Mālaekahana State Recreation Area. A parent shared, "We felt like we were at our own little piece of paradise."
- Prepare for roosters: Be ready for early morning wake-up calls from roosters, especially at Mālaekahana State Recreation Area. One camper humorously noted, "Be ready for roosters to wake you in the morning."
- Plan activities: Make sure to have a list of activities, like swimming and hiking, to keep kids entertained. A reviewer mentioned, "The location is perfect for both relaxation and adventure."
Tips from RVers:
- Check for hookups: If you need electric hookups, Bellows Field Beach Park offers them. A camper noted, "The campground is beautiful... The best sites are waterfront."
- Book early: Popular spots fill up fast, so reserve your site ahead of time. One visitor advised, "You need to book early; the good sites go very fast!"
- Be mindful of space: Some campgrounds have close quarters, like Kahana Campground — Ahupuaʻa ʻO Kahana State Park. A reviewer mentioned, "Campsites can be fairly close and there’s no real clear sectioning."
Camping in Honolulu, Hawaii, is a fantastic way to connect with nature and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Whether you're a family looking for fun or an RV enthusiast seeking adventure, there's something for everyone.
