Sand Island State Recreation Area, Mālaekahana State Recreation Area, and Bellows Field Beach Park offer camping options near Royal Kunia, Hawaii. Sand Island provides beach camping with industrial surroundings and limited nearby stores. The recreation area features sandy beaches with partial tree coverage and grassy areas suitable for tent and RV camping. Mālaekahana campgrounds maintain security with keypad-controlled gate access and offer various accommodation options from tent sites to cabins. The gates close at 7 PM and reopen at 7 AM, requiring campers to plan arrivals accordingly.
What to do
Explore protected beaches: At Mālaekahana State Recreation Area, campers can enjoy less crowded shorelines. "The campground is on Malaekahana Beach one of the most beautiful beaches in Hawaii," notes Steve & Ashley G., who lived nearby for five years.
Try water activities: Bellows Field offers ideal conditions for water sports. "The waves are perfect for buggie boarding and the beach is peaceful," explains Emily W. about her experiences camping at this location.
Set up hammocks: The wooded areas at campgrounds provide natural supports. "Almost all the Area 1 sites have lots of trees to set up hammocks and for the much appreciated shade from the sun," reports Laura H. about Mālaekahana's amenities.
What campers like
Privacy and security: Maleka Farm provides a quiet location for tent and vanlife campers. Jake C. describes it as "a great spot for those needing a place to rest while exploring the area."
Well-maintained facilities: Campers appreciate the upkeep at certain locations. "One of the best campgrounds on Oahu because it is private and very well maintained!" writes Laura H. about Mālaekahana, noting that "the bathrooms have flush toilets and are very clean!"
Beach proximity: Having shoreline access directly from campsites ranks highly with visitors. "Camping next to the ocean what more do you need to know," summarizes Emily W. about her experience at Mālaekahana, highlighting the straightforward appeal of beachfront camping.
What you should know
Gate restrictions: Mālaekahana State Recreation Area implements strict access hours. "Gates close at 7:00 pm. Watch out for centipedes; I got bit and it was extremely painful," warns Crystal C., highlighting both timing constraints and wildlife concerns.
Beach conditions vary: Not all beaches offer the same swimming experience. Sandy S. notes about Sand Island, "It's not the prettiest beach, but if you'd like to go somewhere relatively quiet and not much going on, this would be the beach for you."
Military access requirements: Some campgrounds have restricted access. "You can keep going on the long driveway in, but you'll need military access or sponsorship to get in," explains YEN P. about portions of Bellows Field Beach Park.
Tips for camping with families
Select protected sites: Wind exposure affects comfort at coastal campgrounds. "Initially I was bummed I didn't get a beach front campsite, ours was only a 30 second walk to the beach. But because it's the windward side, it was sooo windy and we really appreciated our campsite set a little farther back from the beach and protected by trees," advises Laura H. about Mālaekahana.
Plan for sand management: Fine sand infiltrates equipment regardless of precautions. "The sand here is so fine, it will make its way in to your rent, no matter how tight you close it up," cautions Sandy S. about Bellows Field camping conditions.
Consider insect protection: Bringing fly control products enhances comfort. "Only suggestion is to bring fly tape or fly traps. A screen tent would be a superb addition," recommends Stephen W. about his otherwise relaxing Bellows Field stay.
Tips from RVers
Research hookup availability: RV sites near Royal Kunia, Hawaii offer varying amenity levels. Park Pick & Play @ Living Circle Farms Hawaii provides five RV sites with 30-amp electrical service and water hookups for self-contained vehicles.
Check reservation requirements: Haleiwa Camper Parking exclusively serves RV campers with reservable spaces, though on-site amenities are limited compared to other motorhome camping locations in the area.
Consider seasonal marine hazards: Certain beaches experience seasonal wildlife concerns. "Beware the manawar here when it's in season. They line up all along the beach," warns Sandy S. about potential encounters with marine stinging organisms at Bellows Field, information particularly important for RVers planning beach activities.
