Sand Island State Recreation Area provides RV camping within Honolulu city limits, functioning as one of the few designated campgrounds in the urban area. The recreation area maintains clean restrooms with several sites available through online reservation. Campers should note that the surrounding industrial zone creates a contrasting environment from typical Hawaiian beach camping, but offers convenient access for those needing to stay close to the city.
What to do
Surfing at Sand Island: When surf conditions align, the beach offers a viable break that accommodates different skill levels. "The water is great for some body surfing," notes reviewer Leah P., who gave Sand Island State Recreation Area a 5-star rating.
Beach activities for children: The protected waters make Sand Island suitable for families with young children despite not being the most scenic beach on Oahu. "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," shares Sarah I. in her review.
North Shore exploration: Mālaekahana provides an excellent base for exploring the North Shore attractions. "Lots of fun things to do and see nearby," mentions Laura H. about the Mālaekahana State Recreation Area, citing the campground's convenient location for accessing North Shore activities.
What campers like
Spacious, tree-covered sites: The inland sites at Mālaekahana offer practical advantages despite being away from the beachfront. "Initially I was bummed I didn't get a beach front campsite, ours was only a 30 second walk to the beach. But because it's the windward side, it was sooo windy and we really appreciated our campsite set a little farther back from the beach and protected by trees," explains Laura H.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain functioning amenities despite high usage. "Clean grounds great beach access clean restrooms," notes Jeffery C. about his experience at Sand Island, giving the park 4 stars.
Relative privacy: Some campgrounds offer more seclusion than others in the Honolulu area. "We had a site a ways back and in the trees. It was private and nice," reports Crystal C. about her stay at Mālaekahana, rating the experience 5 stars.
What you should know
Gate closures affect access: Mālaekahana enforces strict entrance rules that impact evening plans. "Gates close at 7:00 pm," warns Crystal C., noting this timing restriction affects campers planning to leave or return after hours.
Wildlife considerations: Local insects can cause problems for unprepared campers. "Watch out for centipedes; I got bit and it was extremely painful," shares Crystal C. about her Mālaekahana experience, highlighting an important safety concern.
Security features: Some campgrounds implement measures to reduce through traffic. "The campsites themselves are blocked off by a gate with a keypad entry so there aren't random cars driving by your campsite ever," explains Laura H. about Bellows Field Beach Park, noting this added security benefit.
Limited supplies nearby: The industrial location of Sand Island means fewer services in walking distance. "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," Sarah I. mentions in her review.
Tips for camping with families
Consider cabin options: For families wanting more comfort than tent camping, several parks offer structure rentals. "There are actually several options for camping... hales or houses that sleep 4 with no electricity for $58 and larger suite hales or cabins that have electricity and their own bathroom inside for around $120," explains Laura H. about Mālaekahana Campgrounds.
Beach quality varies: Different campgrounds offer varying beach experiences suitable for different ages. "Camping next to the ocean what more do you need to know," shares Emily W. about Mālaekahana, highlighting the prime oceanfront location that appeals to many families.
Check military access requirements: Some camping areas restrict civilian access. "Great cabins on ground, but you'll have to be military to rent. Civilians can tent camp on the opposite side," explains Sandy S. regarding Bellows Field Beach Park, clarifying the different access options.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV facilities: Urban Honolulu RV sites lack some amenities found elsewhere. "This website is in error. There are no dogs allowed on ANY Hawaii State Campground!!! Don't know if you know this or not. So if you have a dog in Hawaii, you cannot bring your loved one(s) camping anywhere," warns riki L. about Bellows Field Beach Park, contradicting some published pet policies.
Access challenges: RV campers face particular challenges navigating to some campgrounds. "Far, hard to get there. Hot and no confessions there. Closed wednesdays before. Don't know present conditions. Could have changed," notes Lisa B. about Sand Island, highlighting potential access issues for larger vehicles.
Reservation requirements: Most RV sites near Urban Honolulu require advance booking. "The camp store is convenient for ice or marshmallows or any small needs," mentions Laura H., referencing the amenities available to RV campers at Mālaekahana once they've secured their reservation.
