Camping near Kailua, Hawaii offers diverse experiences from low elevation beach sites to high volcanic terrain at 4,000 feet. Temperatures range dramatically between coastal and mountain sites, with highlands often dropping below 50°F at night while beach areas remain warm. Weather conditions can change rapidly, particularly during winter months from November through March when campers should prepare for unexpected rain showers.
What to do
Snorkeling with sea turtles: Spencer Beach Park provides calm waters ideal for wildlife viewing. "It's known to be a place where you can swim with green sea turtles," reports Janekim A., who recommends weekday visits when "beaches are teeming with local families" on weekends.
Explore volcanic landscapes: Nāmakanipaio Campground offers unique proximity to active volcanic features. "The all time highlight is that when it got dark we made the 15-20 minute hike up to the Jagger Museum overlook/observatory to see the glowing lava in the crater," shares Sharon N., noting the campground is "technically outside the national park."
Experience local agriculture: JoesNuts.com provides access to nearby farms. "There was a coffee farm within walk distance, the church, peace gardens and just nice little area. Lots of pets, the cow! and baby goats," writes camper T.T., mentioning that "City of refuge and Captain Cook Monument are amazing to hang."
What campers like
White sand beaches: Kohanaiki Beach Park offers direct oceanfront camping. "This is the place to go if you like nice faculties. Better than most parks here the bathrooms can be a trek but they are clean and well tended to," notes Bryce H., adding that "it always fairly packed out so plan fairly early especially on holiday weekends."
Clean facilities: Ho'okena Beach Park maintains well-kept grounds. "Bathroom and outdoor showers were nice and clean. Highly recommend!" reports Brittany R., who found camping "pretty regulated" with a locked gate to access the campsites.
Unique overnight locations: Weekend-only camping at Kiholo State Park Campground requires advance booking. "There are sooo many things to live about this park. The hiking. The proximity to the ocean. Make sure to make a reservation and camping is available on weekends only," advises Jake C.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campsites require advance bookings, particularly during peak season (June-August). The Spencer Beach Park camper Jessica F. warns: "I got yelled at in the morning for not having a permit. I tried to explain that as a bike tourist, I didn't know where I would end up at night, but they were not impressed."
Weather challenges: High winds affect certain locations. "Apparently this place is prone to high winds which we did not see in any review. Get here early to put your tent in a protected spot if you can find it," cautions a Spencer Beach Park visitor named Sar.
Gate closures: Pay attention to access hours for beach parks. At Kohanaiki Beach Park, "The one negative is gates close at 9pm," mentions Raquel M., which limits nighttime activities.
Water access: Mahukona Beach Park offers limited facilities. "It's super peaceful with very few people, but they don't currently have the facilities open. Make sure you bring snorkel gear as well," advises Jake C., noting it's good for snorkeling and potential winter whale watching.
Tips for camping with families
Protected swimming areas: Spencer Beach Park provides ideal conditions for children. "This is such a serene park, lots of parking, trails to hike up to the heiau, beautiful open ocean to swim in, basketball court, bathrooms, a pavilion with outlets," writes Kela W., who adds "Kids really enjoyed this location and we had no issues staying."
Early arrival recommended: Popular sites fill quickly, especially during school breaks. "We showed up in the early afternoon and got the last spot available but only because the original person who got it had upgraded to a cabin," reports Brittany R. about Nāmakanipaio Campground.
Multiple amenities: Look for sites with additional activities beyond beach access. "There was a walking path just up from the beach that we saw a ton of people walking on, roller blading on and running," notes Sasha W. about Spencer Beach Park, which also offers yoga sessions and hammock spots.
Tips for RVers
Limited hookup options: Few campgrounds offer full RV services, so come prepared with water and power. Hawaii County Park Miloli'i Beach Campground accommodates RVs but has limited facilities. "This is more geared for a day used area rather than a camping stay. No drinking water here. If you decided to camp here its little to no privacy," cautions Miles G.
Roadside considerations: Main roads to campgrounds are generally paved, but interior roads vary. Jennifer H. describes Nāmakanipaio as having "Roddy efficient grass sites - big enough for a couple or snag multiple for a family," which may present challenges for larger rigs during wet conditions.
