Camping near Urban Honolulu, Hawaii, offers a unique blend of beautiful beaches, lush landscapes, and a chance to connect with nature. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a place to unwind solo, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.
What to do:
- Swimming and Surfing: Many campgrounds, like Mālaekahana State Recreation Area, are right by the ocean, making them perfect for swimming and beginner surfing. One reviewer mentioned, "The beautiful cove has great beginner waves for surfing."
- Hiking: Explore nearby trails for a bit of adventure. Campers at Kahana Campground — Ahupuaʻa ‘O Kahana State Park noted, "A good close trail is the Crouching Tiger trail which is pretty steep and muddy."
- Beach Relaxation: Enjoy the sun and sand at places like Bellows Field Beach Park. One visitor said, "The white sandy beach is a local favorite and must see while on Oahu."
What campers like:
- Scenic Views: Campers rave about the stunning ocean views at Mālaekahana State Recreation Area. A review highlights, "Malaekahana Campgrounds offers an exceptional camping experience with stunning ocean views."
- Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the well-maintained restrooms and showers. A camper at Camp Mokuleia mentioned, "The bathrooms and shower facilities were basic but very clean."
- Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Families enjoy the safe environment. One parent shared, "We felt like we were at our own little piece of paradise" at Mālaekahana State Recreation Area.
What you should know:
- Crowded Weekends: Some campgrounds can get busy, especially on weekends. A visitor 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. For instance, Sand Island State Recreation Area has no electric hookups and no fires allowed, which some campers found limiting.
- Booking in Advance: Popular sites fill up quickly. A camper at Bellows Field Beach Park advised, "You need to book early, the good sites go very fast!"
Tips for camping with families:
- Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Mālaekahana State Recreation Area, which offers a safe environment for kids. One mom said, "This is perfect for a single mom wanting to show her son the world on a budget."
- Pack for Comfort: Bring extra bedding and supplies. A reviewer at Camp Mokuleia mentioned, "You still bring your own mats and bags" for the tent cabins.
- Prepare for Nature: Be ready for the sounds of nature, like roosters in the morning. A camper at Mālaekahana State Recreation Area warned, "Be ready for roosters to wake you in the morning."
Tips from RVers:
- Check Hookup Availability: Some campgrounds, like Kahana Campground — Ahupuaʻa ‘O Kahana State Park, do not have electric hookups. A reviewer noted, "Campsites are fairly close together and not super well marked."
- Plan for Limited Space: RV spots can be tight. A visitor at Sand Island State Recreation Area mentioned, "This rec park is one of the least visited since the area is no longer as busy."
- Explore Nearby Amenities: Make sure to know where to find supplies. Campers at Camp Mokuleia appreciated the nearby town for restaurants and groceries, saying, "For supplies, it's about 15 minutes back to Haliewa."
Camping near Urban Honolulu, Hawaii, is a fantastic way to enjoy the outdoors while soaking in the beauty of the islands. Whether you're with family or friends, there's something for everyone!
