Glamping in Urban Honolulu, Hawaii provides visitors with unique overnight accommodations on an island where traditional camping options are limited. The region experiences an average of 270 sunny days annually with typical daytime temperatures between 75-85°F year-round. Winter months (November-April) see more rainfall, particularly on the windward sides of the islands, which can affect camping conditions.
What to do
Hike to Ka'ena Point: Located near Camp Mokuleia, this trail leads to Oahu's westernmost tip. "One of the other things we loved about this site is the proximity to Ka'ena Point! It feels like you're standing out in the ocean without anything around it's such a small point!" notes Alan B., who visited the area.
Try skydiving: Camp Mokuleia sits directly across from a skydiving operation. According to Apryl E., "This is on the Northwestern tip of Oahu and is a must see. Across the street there is also a skydiving company, so throughout the day you will often times see parachuters appearing in the sky."
Explore local beaches: Sand Island offers a less crowded beach experience. "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," explains Sandy S. about Sand Island State Recreation Area.
What campers like
Privacy at lesser-known sites: Sand Island provides a quieter alternative to popular beaches. Sarah I. notes, "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."
Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate the maintained amenities at Bellows Air Force Station. One camper reported, "I stayed in a cabin near the beach, it was small and clean." The military side offers additional amenities beyond standard campgrounds.
Water activities: Various beach conditions suit different water sports. "The water is pretty mellow (at least during the summer) and is great for stand up paddling," mentions Apryl E. about Camp Mokuleia, while Emily W. notes about Bellows Field Beach Park, "Camping in hawaii is special no matter the time and place. Bellows has been a favorite because the waves are perfect for buggie boarding."
What you should know
Military access requirements: Several camping areas have restricted access. At Bellows Field Beach Park, Leilani P. explains, "There is actually both a civilian and military campground. The civilian side is for the true camping enthusiast. The military side has both campgrounds and cabins, with a mini golf course and a mini-mart... You must be active or retired to enter and reserve these military sites."
Beach conditions vary: Each location offers different swimming environments. At Sand Island, Sandy S. advises, "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."
Reservation timing: Popular sites book up quickly. At Bellows Air Station, Sandy S. mentions, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Beach safety considerations: Certain beaches are better suited for children. Sarah I. recommends Sand Island: "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."