Camping near Maili, Hawaii, offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.
What to do:
- Swimming and Surfing: Many campers enjoy the beautiful beaches. At Mālaekahana State Recreation Area, one reviewer mentioned, "The beautiful cove has great beginner waves for surfing." This makes it a perfect spot for families wanting to introduce their kids to the ocean.
- Hiking: Explore the nearby trails. A visitor at Kahana Campground — Ahupuaʻa ‘O Kahana State Park noted, "A good close trail is the Crouching Tiger trail which is pretty steep and muddy, so bring good hiking boots!"
- Kayaking: The calm waters around Kahana Campground are great for kayaking. One reviewer shared, "The Bay has a beautiful sandy beach which is great for beginner surfers and kayaking."
What campers like:
- Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms. A visitor at Bellows Field Beach Park said, "The bathrooms were decent," highlighting the importance of cleanliness.
- Scenic Views: Many love the ocean views. One camper at Mālaekahana State Recreation Area remarked, "Malaekahana Campgrounds offers an exceptional camping experience with stunning ocean views."
- Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Camp Mokuleia are noted for being safe and welcoming for families. A reviewer mentioned, "It was the least expensive and felt the safest."
What you should know:
- Crowded Weekends: Many campgrounds can get busy, especially on weekends. A camper at Bellows Field Beach Park noted, "The campsites were all very crowded and loud throughout the weekend."
- Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Sand Island State Recreation Area, have fewer amenities. A visitor mentioned, "There are showers and bathrooms with beach access, but I prefer to go to other beaches to swim."
- No Pets Allowed: If you're traveling with pets, be aware that many campgrounds, including Mālaekahana State Recreation Area, do not allow them. One frustrated camper stated, "There are no dogs allowed on ANY Hawaii State Campground!"
Tips for camping with families:
- Choose the Right Campground: Look for family-friendly spots like Camp Mokuleia. A parent shared, "My son is 5 and I feel this is the perfect age to stay off the beaten path."
- Prepare for Roosters: Be ready for early morning wake-up calls from roosters, especially at Mālaekahana State Recreation Area. One camper humorously noted, "Be ready for roosters to wake you in the morning."
- Plan Activities: Bring along games and activities to keep kids entertained. A reviewer at Kahana Campground mentioned, "Makes for a fun weekend activity with family/friends."
Tips from RVers:
- Check Hookup Availability: Some campgrounds, like Bellows Field Beach Park, offer electric hookups, which can be a big plus for RVers. A camper noted, "The best sites are waterfront."
- Book Early: Popular spots fill up fast. A visitor at Kahana Campground advised, "You will need to come early on a Friday to get a spot for the weekend."
- Be Prepared for Limited Space: Some campgrounds have close quarters. A reviewer at Sand Island State Recreation Area mentioned, "It's tucked far back behind a coast guard base mixed with old commercial buildings."
Camping near Maili, Hawaii, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors with family and friends. With beautiful beaches, fun activities, and a welcoming atmosphere, it's a great choice for your next adventure!
