Camp Mokuleia and Bellows Field Beach Park are part of a network of glamping options in Nanakuli, Hawaii and surrounding areas on Oahu. The Nanakuli region sits on the western coast of Oahu, approximately 30 miles from Honolulu. The area experiences less rainfall than the eastern parts of the island, averaging just 20 inches annually, making it favorable for year-round camping with fewer cancellations due to weather conditions.
What to do
Explore rock climbing walls: Camp Mokuleia is located near Hawaii's highest concentration of rock climbing routes. According to Alan B., "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."
Visit Ka'ena Point: The westernmost accessible point on Oahu offers unique ocean views and is accessible from Camp Mokuleia. "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.
Try adventure activities: For those seeking thrills, Bellows Air Force Station offers numerous recreational options. "Tons of amenities here though, putt-putt, driving range, bar w/ pool table, foose, beach equipment rental, paint ball, small bouldering area!" reports Mike L.
What campers like
Uncrowded beaches: Many glamping sites in Nanakuli and surrounding areas offer access to less-trafficked beaches. Brittany B. mentions about Camp Mokuleia: "This was my favorite campground I stayed at while on O'ahu! It was the least expensive, and felt the safest. I had a tent spot right by the beach... The beach area was really nice and not crowded at all."
Unique coastal positioning: Sand Island State Recreation Area offers an industrial-adjacent beach experience that's distinctive from other Oahu locations. 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 and there's a nice surf break if the swell is in."
Clean facilities: Despite their beachfront locations, many glamping sites maintain well-kept amenities. Jeffery C. says of Sand Island State Recreation Area: "Clean grounds great beach access clean restrooms," while Stephanie Z. noted at Camp Mokuleia that "The bathrooms are a walk away inside a yurt. We were assigned a bathroom for just our site and given a key for it."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Winter camping requires strategic location choices in Nanakuli and surrounding areas. Stephanie Z. explains about Camp Mokule'ia: "In January, the winds were strongest from the East and we had to vacate our other campground when winds were up to 20MPH off the ocean. This side of the island gave us a break from the wind."
Reservation windows: Booking well in advance is essential for some properties. For Bellows Air Force Station cabins, Sandy S. advises: "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."
Military access requirements: Some glamping facilities have restricted access. Sandy S. notes about Bellows Air Force Station: "There are cabins and apartments for rent if you have base access," while Leilani P. clarifies about Bellows Field Beach Park: "You must be active or retired to enter and reserve these military sites."
Tips for camping with families
Beach safety considerations: Different beaches offer varying levels of safety for children. Sarah I. mentions about Sand Island: "The beach isn't the nicest but it's good for little kids," making it suitable for families with young children.
Activity options: Living Circle Farms Hawaii and similar glamping sites offer diverse entertainment options beyond beach activities. Ben A. notes about Bellows Air Station: "There is a shopette within walking distance of every site as well as a gas station, mini golf, a driving range, 3 hiking trails, 1 walking path, a small bar, and a Starbucks."
Site selection: Choose campsites strategically for family needs. Mike L. cautions about certain areas at Bellows Air Station: "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."
Tips from RVers
Site spacing concerns: RV and tent sites at some locations may feel cramped. Mike L. advises about glamping at Bellows: "Tent campsites are way too close together! Every 2 sites should be combined to make 1."
Sand management: Fine Hawaiian sand requires extra precautions for equipment. Sandy S. warns: "The sand here is so fine, it will make its way in to your tent, no matter how tight you close it up."
