Best Campgrounds near Ocean Pointe, HI

Campgrounds along Oahu's coastline provide both recreational and scenic opportunities within driving distance of Ocean Pointe, Hawaii. Public beaches and state parks like Sand Island State Recreation Area, Bellows Field Beach Park, and Mālaekahana State Recreation Area offer established campsites with varied amenities. Most locations accommodate tent camping, while select sites such as Bellows Field Beach Park also support RV camping and cabin rentals. The campgrounds typically feature beach access with mountain views, creating a distinctly Hawaiian camping experience that balances natural surroundings with proximity to urban areas.

Reservations are essential for most campgrounds, particularly during summer months and holiday weekends when sites fill quickly. Many state park campgrounds operate on specific schedules, with some only open Friday through Monday or Wednesday. Camping fees vary from approximately $9-10 per person at locations like Mālaekahana to flat rates at other parks. Facilities range from basic (toilets and picnic tables) to more developed (showers and electric hookups). Weather considerations include potential rain, especially at locations like Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden near the Ko'olau Mountain Range. A visitor noted, "The campground was recently put under new management and has invested in new cabins and facilities. You may not find a better site on Oahu."

Beachfront camping represents the primary appeal for most visitors to Oahu's campgrounds. Ahupua'a 'O Kahana State Park offers sites directly on the sand with views of both sunrise over the ocean and sunset behind the mountains. Campers frequently mention the balance between natural settings and accessibility, with most beach campgrounds providing reasonable amenities while maintaining a connection to Hawaiian landscapes. While privacy can be limited at some locations due to proximity to roads or other campsites, the beach access generally compensates for these drawbacks. Several campgrounds experience weekend crowds from local residents but offer quieter weekday stays. One camper shared, "Every camp site is perfect, all close to the water and with beautiful views. Like lots of Hawaii, we just kept our swimsuits on all the time while visiting."

Best Camping Sites Near Ocean Pointe, Hawaii (15)

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Recent Reviews near Ocean Pointe, HI

73 Reviews of 15 Ocean Pointe Campgrounds


  • Saraj B.The Dyrt ADMIN User
    Feb. 24, 2025

    Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden

    Camping in Jurassic Park aka Kahua Kuou Campsite

    If you need a break from the constant buzz of Honolulu, Ho‘omaluhia Botanical Gardens was my perfect getaway. Just a short 8-mile drive from Waikiki, this is a tropical paradise tucked beneath the Ko‘olau Mountain Range.

    PROs:

    -Views! Towering green cliffs in the misty jungle. 

    -No City Noise, Just Nature - no honking, no sirens - just chirping birds, rustling leaves, and the occasional gecko. 

    -Luxury (by camping standards). Plenty of bathrooms with running water, foot-washing stations, and dishwashing sinks. 

    -Roomy, Level Campsites - Plenty of foliage to make your site private.

    -Hiking Trails - I recommend going to the lake. Though I read beforehand that fishing was allowed, it was posted not allowed this past weekend.

    -Cool Mountain Nights - Temps drop to a comfy 70°F.

    Tips:

    -You NEED a Permit - No permit, no camping. An attendant checks at the entrance gate. I recommend reserving 1-2 weeks in advance to guarantee your spot. I bought a 3-day permit to stay 1 night as that was the only option. Camping is only allowed on weekends, Friday through Monday.

    -Bring Bug Spray - The biting gnats will eat you alive. Other than that, there were no other pests, besides the occasional chicken wanting my dinner.

    -Expect a Little Rain - The Ko‘olau Range is basically a cloud magnet, so pack a rain jacket/poncho.

    -Pack light - Parking is in a lot and you have to walk in to your site from there.

  • Skarlet R.
    Oct. 28, 2024

    Mālaekahana State Recreation Area

    Telegram cn

    Telegram is full of travelers discussing hidden gems, and Mālaekahana is ideal for those craving both sun and adventure. Imagine a similar beachside escape in Hong Kong, where nature and ocean views make a refreshing getaway.

  • Skarlet R.
    Oct. 28, 2024

    Mālaekahana State Recreation Area

    Telegram中文

    Telegram groups in Hong Kong are buzzing about stunning camping spots, and Mālaekahana seems like the perfect inspiration. Hong Kong nature lovers would enjoy a similar beachside setup, bringing a slice of Hawaii closer to home.

  • Ben A.
    Jun. 10, 2024

    Bellows Air Force Station

    Great for a weekend retreat from the craziness othe week.f

    Me and my wife cone camping here at least 10 times a year if not more. It s a great place to be with the sound of the breaking waves at every camping site and a lot of good amenities. There is a shopet with is 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 stabucks. The staff is always so welcoming and its truly a great place to spend your time.

  • C
    May. 18, 2024

    Mālaekahana State Recreation Area

    Great Place

    Malaekahana Campgrounds in Hawaii offers an exceptional camping tubidy experience with stunning ocean views, clean facilities, and a tranquil environment. The location is perfect for both relaxation and adventure, with plenty of activities like swimming mp3 juice, hiking, and exploring nearby attractions. It's y2mate an ideal spot for families and solo travelers alike to connect with nature and enjoy the beauty of Hawaii.

  • Jake C.The Dyrt ADMIN User
    Aug. 8, 2023

    Maleka Farm

    Vanlife or tent camping in Hawaii

    Jake from the Dyrt here!  Maleka Farm is a great spot for those needing a place to rest while exploring the area.  Check them out and be sure to leave a review on the Dyrt!

  • D
    Apr. 27, 2022

    Kahana Campground — Ahupuaʻa ʻO Kahana State Park

    Beachfront Camping

    One of the few areas you can camp right on the beach. It is a bit loud because it's right next to the road but it's definitely a trade off with waking up next to the ocean and the beautiful mountains surrounding. The bathrooms are pretty good as far as camp bathrooms go.

  • A G.
    Dec. 15, 2021

    Mālaekahana State Recreation Area

    Family friendly and affordable paradise

    Hidden gem for those wanting a more authentic Oahu experience! I suppose we came "off-season" and post-pandemic, so we might be a bit fortunate; We felt like we were at our own little piece of paradise. We stayed in the Hale 14 which was great because it was close enough to walk to and hear the waves, but far enough that I felt like my son wouldn't wander off into the surf. My son is 5 and I feel this is the perfect age to stay off the beaten path. Our Hale was so affordable and exactly what I'd expect when paying less than $60 a night. You can only stay 10 days. There is a gate to keep random cars out of the camping area. The beautiful cove has great beginner waves for surfing. The "beds" are vinyl and not too thick, but of you're taking advantage of everything it shouldn't be a problem. This is not the Ritz (which I have frequented), however it's perfect for a single mom wanting to show her son the world on a budget. We will definitely be back. So grateful for this place having a family friendly, budget friendly Hale away from home! Be ready for roosters to wake you in the morning and cold showers. But I'll take Hawaii on a budget any day. If you really feel the need, get a hotel on your arrival and departure and just Live Aloha the rest of your stay!!!


Guide to Ocean Pointe

Camping options near Ocean Pointe, Hawaii range from mountain forests to beach settings, with elevations from sea level to over 1,500 feet at inland sites. The Ko'olau Mountains create distinct weather patterns across the island, with windward side campgrounds receiving more rainfall than leeward locations. Most campsites open Friday through Wednesday morning, closing midweek for maintenance.

What to do

Mountain hiking trails: Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden offers several hiking trails through 400 acres of tropical vegetation and alongside a 32-acre lake. "The hike with fishing gear, cooler, kids, is a little long..bring a wagon!" notes Mike L. The garden provides unique camping opportunities away from the beach.

Paddleboarding and water sports: The waters at Camp Mokuleia on the northwestern tip of Oahu remain calm during summer months. "The water is pretty mellow (at least during the summer) and is great for stand up paddling," shares Apryl E. This location also puts you near the Mokuleia climbing wall with over 60 routes.

Off-road adventure camping: Mountain camping at Peacock Flats requires 4WD vehicles to access. "The drive in can take 1-1.5 hours or longer depending on the conditions of the road," explains Laura H. This remote location provides stargazing opportunities rare on Oahu. "On a clear night however the sky is amazing!" adds Mike L.

What campers like

Privacy levels: Kahana Campground provides tree-lined campsites. "There are plenty of trees for shade and to put up your hammock," notes Laura H. However, some sites offer limited seclusion: "Campsites are fairly close together and not super well marked/differentiated between, but there is plenty of room," reports Brittany B.

Cultural experiences: Several campgrounds connect visitors to Hawaiian cultural activities. "Make sure to take in the cultural aspects of this park too," recommends Amber A. about Kahana Campground. At Kualoa Regional Park, camping puts you near famous filming locations while remaining "tucked away from the massive crowds there to see Chinamans Gat," according to Mike L.

Morning beach access: Direct beach access distinguishes many campsites. "You can roll out of your tent in the morning right onto the sand and take a stroll along the beach or dive into the water," explains Laura H. This waterfront proximity creates built-in recreation options without travel time.

What you should know

Reservation windows: Mālaekahana State Recreation Area requires advance planning, especially for cabin rentals. "The campground has an automatic gate for security and helpful resident staff," notes Steve & Ashley G. Campsites here operate on a code-access system for safety.

Weather considerations: The Ko'olau Mountain Range catches clouds and creates rain patterns. "It can rain a lot in this area so keep that in mind," cautions Sarah I. about Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden. Peacock Flats experiences similar mountain weather: "The sites can be quite wet, we hammock camped the first time we came out to stay off the ground."

Military access requirements: Several camping areas require military identification. "This area is available to DoD ID card holders only," explains Mike L. regarding Bellows Air Force Station. Military areas typically offer more amenities but require documentation checks: "Highly recommend having paperwork, permits, IDs all together in advance because you have to pass through military checkpoints."

Tips for camping with families

Sand management strategies: Beach camping means dealing with sand in everything. "The sand here is so fine, it will make its way in to your rent, no matter how tight you close it up," warns Sandy S. about Bellows Field Beach Park. Bringing additional tarps helps create sand-free zones.

Centralized campground amenities: Sand Island State Recreation Area offers family-friendly facilities. "Clean grounds great beach access clean restrooms," states Jeffery C. The shoreline provides swimming appropriate for younger visitors: "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," adds Sarah I.

Weekday camping advantages: Weekdays offer significantly reduced crowds at most campgrounds. "This rec park is one of the least visited since the area is no longer a busy as it used to be," notes Sandy S. about Sand Island. For families seeking quieter experiences, Sunday through Tuesday reservations typically encounter fewer local weekend visitors.

Tips from RVers

Limited RV hookup locations: Only specific campgrounds accommodate RVs near Ocean Pointe. Sand Island State Recreation Area provides "electric-hookups" and "sanitary-dump" facilities, though without specific sewer or water hookups. Bellows Field Beach Park also supports RV camping with electrical connections.

Site spacing considerations: RV sites often place vehicles close together. "Tent campsites are way too close together! Every 2 sites should be combined to make 1," cautions Mike L. about Bellows Air Force Station. This proximity affects privacy between camping units and sometimes causes foot traffic through sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near Ocean Pointe, HI?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Ocean Pointe, HI is Sand Island State Recreation Area with a 3.7-star rating from 8 reviews.