Sand Island State Recreation Area and Bellows Field Beach Park provide varied cabin and yurt camping near Ocean Pointe, Hawaii. Located in an industrial area, Sand Island offers spacious camping grounds with beach access. The park features clean facilities including showers, restrooms, drinking water, and electric hookups for basic comfort during overnight stays. The location sits approximately 30 minutes from Ocean Pointe, making it accessible for weekend getaways while maintaining a distinct atmosphere from other Oahu beaches.
What to do
Beach activities for children: Sand Island State Recreation Area offers shorelines particularly suited for families with young swimmers. "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," notes Sarah I. about the protected swimming areas.
Surfing and body boarding: Several beaches near Ocean Pointe offer wave conditions for different skill levels. "The water is great for some body surfing," reports Leah P. about Sand Island's consistent breaks, which work well for beginners looking to practice water sports.
Hiking to Ka'ena Point: Camp Mokuleia provides easy access to one of Oahu's most unique natural features. "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!" explains Alan B. about this northwestern peninsula trail.
Rock climbing opportunities: Outdoor enthusiasts seeking land activities can access numerous climbing routes. "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," reports Alan B. about the options near Camp Mokuleia.
What campers like
Secluded beach access: Many yurt camping options near Ocean Pointe, Hawaii provide direct shore access with fewer crowds than tourist destinations. "This campground is set up for anything from large groups (50+) to small families. There are cabins to rent out or places to pitch a tent. The water is pretty mellow (at least during the summer) and is great for stand up paddling," shares Apryl E. about Camp Mokuleia.
Diverse accommodation options: Sites offer various shelter types from basic tent spots to more comfortable structures. "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 bathrooms and shower facilities were basic but very clean and were nicer than some of the other campgrounds," explains Brittany B. about her Camp Mokuleia experience.
Recreational facilities: Some military-access sites provide additional amenities beyond standard campgrounds. "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," reports Ben A. about the facilities at Bellows Air Force Station.
What you should know
Military access requirements: Several prime camping locations have restricted entry. "There are cabins and apartments for rent if you have base access. I stayed in a cabin near the beach, it was small and clean," explains Sandy S. about Bellows Air Force Station accommodations, which require Department of Defense identification.
Reservation timing challenges: Securing spots at popular sites requires advance planning. "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," cautions Sandy S. about the Bellows cabins.
Variable beach conditions: Not all Ocean Pointe area beaches offer the same experience. "This rec park 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," notes Sandy S. about Sand Island State Recreation Area.
Pet restrictions: Hawaii's camping regulations limit animal access. "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," clarifies riki L. regarding Bellows Field Beach Park policies.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for privacy: Choose locations strategically for the best family experience. "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," warns Mike L. about Bellows Air Force Station's layout.
Protection from elements: Wind patterns vary significantly around Oahu, affecting camping comfort. "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," explains Stephanie Z. about Camp Mokuleia's northwestern location advantage.
Church group accommodations: Several sites accommodate larger religious gatherings. "Camping with the church for a morning baptism. Sandy beach with some tree coverage and grassy spots," shares Emily W. about Sand Island's suitability for community events.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: RV campers should note the specific utilities offered at each site. "There are tons of amenities here though, putt-putt, driving range, bar w/ pool table, foose, beach equipment rental, paint ball, small bouldering area!" explains Mike L. about Bellows Air Force Station, while noting the proximity of facilities compensates for limited RV-specific services.
Security considerations: Gate access systems at certain campgrounds provide additional safety for vehicles and equipment. "The property has a gate with a code that you can go in and out as you please, and the staff were really helpful and kind," notes Stephanie Z. about Camp Mokuleia's security features that benefit RV campers concerned about vehicle safety.
