Sand Island State Recreation Area offers tent camping within an industrial area of Honolulu, approximately 20 miles from Kapolei. The campground provides beach access with areas suitable for young children and occasional surf breaks depending on swells. Facilities include showers, toilets, drinking water, and electric hookups. The recreation area remains one of the less crowded camping options on Oahu despite its proximity to urban areas.
What to do
Body surfing opportunities: Sand Island's beach provides conditions for body surfing when swells are favorable. According to a camper, "the water is great for some body surfing" at Sand Island State Recreation Area.
Rock climbing access: Camp Mokuleia positions visitors near substantial rock climbing opportunities. "This campground is very close to the highest concentration of rock climbs in all of Hawaii! The Mokule'ia wall has over 60 climbs ranging from beginner to expert and includes trad, sport, and toprope routes," notes one visitor at Camp Mokuleia.
Recreational activities: Bellows Air Force Station offers numerous recreational options beyond beach activities. A visitor mentions, "Tons of amenities here though, putt-putt, driving range, bar w/ pool table, foose, beach equipment rental, paint ball, small bouldering area!" The facilities provide entertainment options during inclement weather or for non-beach days.
What campers like
Beach proximity: Campsites directly adjacent to shorelines allow campers to maximize ocean time. One visitor to Sand Island State Recreation Area appreciated that it offers "Clean grounds great beach access clean restrooms," making transitions between swimming and camping convenient.
Relative seclusion: Despite being on a popular island, certain camping areas remain less frequented. A camper noted Sand Island "is one of the least visited since the area is no longer a busy as it used to be. There are showers and bathrooms with beach access, but I prefer to go to other beaches to swim."
Water conditions: The eastern shore locations provide ideal conditions for water activities. A visitor to Bellows Field Beach Park observed, "Bellows has been a favorite because the waves are perfect for buggie boarding and the beach is peaceful. This spot has plenty of trees to set up a slack line and hammock to relax and play."
What you should know
Weather unpredictability: Reservations often require significant advance planning, which can lead to camping during unfavorable conditions. A visitor to Bellows Air Force Station noted, "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. In our case it was rainy and windy."
Military access requirements: Several glamping options near Kapolei require military credentials. A camper clarified, "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. The cabins have partial kitchen necessities, 2-3 bedrooms 1 bath. You must be active or retired to enter and reserve these military sites."
Pet restrictions: Despite information suggesting otherwise, Hawaii state campgrounds prohibit pets. A visitor emphatically stated, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Protected swimming areas: Certain beaches feature calmer waters appropriate for children. A camper at Bellows Field Beach Park shared, "Camping in hawaii is special no matter the time and place. Bellows has been a favorite because the waves are perfect for buggie boarding and the beach is peaceful."
Sand management: Fine sand becomes problematic in tents and equipment. A visitor warned, "The sand here is so fine, it will make its way in to your rent, no matter how tight you close it up. Beware the manawar here when it's in season. They line up all along the beach."
Screen enclosures: Consider additional shelter from insects when glamping near Kapolei. One camper recommended, "Only suggestion is to bring fly tape or fly traps. A screen tent would be a superb addition. Being close to the beach is awesome, great for families, fisherman or divers."
Tips from RVers
Dedicated facilities: Some campgrounds near Kapolei offer specific amenities for RV campers. The newly established Park Pick & Play at Living Circle Farms Hawaii provides five sites with 30-amp electrical hookups, water connections, and sewage disposal facilities tailored for recreational vehicles.
Limited large rig access: Most camping areas near Kapolei cannot accommodate larger recreational vehicles. Bellows Field Beach Park and Camp Mokuleia both indicate they are not big-rig friendly, meaning vehicles over approximately 35 feet may experience access difficulties or be unable to use the facilities entirely.
Site spacing considerations: RV campers should note that sites at some locations provide limited separation. One camper observed, "Tent campsites are way too close together! Every 2 sites should be combined to make 1. Ocean view sites are very sandy and if you are near the restroom, be prepared for beach goers to walk right through your site to use the toilet."
