11 Spectacular Spots In Hawaii Where You Can Camp Right On The Beach
With endless summer weather comes endless opportunities for summer activities: swimming, surfing, hiking, and perhaps my favorite — camping trips. And when you think of camping in Hawaii, you imagine pitching your tent in the sand, where you can fall asleep to the sound of crashing waves, and jump into the ocean the moment you wake up. From secluded beaches you can only reach via an arduous hike to easily accessible campsites nestled along the coast, here are 11 phenomenal beach camping spots throughout the Aloha State. The best beach camping in Hawaii awaits.
During the week, this beautiful beach is used as a military training area, but on weekends, fifty campsites open up for residents to enjoy splashing in the ocean during the day, and listening to waves crash against the shore at night.
Address: 41-43 Kalanianaole Highway, Waimanalo, HI 96795
Located on Kauai's northeastern coast is this picturesque spot — can't you imagine setting up your tent between these two lovely trees and spending your days splashing around in the protected waters of this stunning bay?
For a luxurious camping experience, stay in one of Hapuna Bay's charming A-frame cabins in the unforgettable Hapuna Beach State Park. This is state park camping at its finest.
A favorite camping spot for locals, this beachside camping is perfect for a weekend getaway. But be sure to have a durable tent, as it rains frequently, and can get pretty windy here too.
As the only legal campsite on the small island of Lanai, Hulopoe Bay is a 20-minute coastal hike from the island's famous Sweetheart Rock. If you're looking to get away from it all, this is your chance.
Accessible via the strenuous 11-mile, one way, Kalalau Trail, this incredible beach camping spot is the definition of secluded. The trail has been recognized as one of the most beautiful — and dangerous hikes in the entire world, and the beach campground is idyllic, to say the least.
Located past Waianae on Oahu’s west shore lies Kea’au Beach Park, a popular camping destination for those who enjoy beautiful blue water, stunning sunsets, and the simplicity of nature. The grassy area at the campground is perfect for a picnic or a game of frisbee.
Address: 83-431 Farrington Highway Waianae, HI 96792
The stark, coastal, lava-covered park offers camping off an unimproved gravel access road, with no amenities, and no water — recommended only for those serious campers who prefer isolation over large, close together campsites. Ready to get away from it all?
Address: 71-2000 Queen Ka'ahumanu Highway, Kailua, HI 96740
Enjoy beachfront camping with a food truck and fire pit access at this phenomenal campground located on Oahu’s northeastern shore. Consider renting a kayak or paddleboard while you’re there. If you're not interested in pitching a tent, you can stay in one of the charming, plantation-style cabins.
Address: 56-335 Kamehameha Highway, Kahuku, HI 96731
At the end of a long dirt road off Kuamuali’i Highway, Polihale is the largest stretch of sand in Hawaii. While often overlooked for more accessible Kauai beaches, the secluded spot is the perfect place to for a weekend retreat into the wilderness. Who doesn't love state park camping in Hawaii?
It is legal to camp on the beach in Hawaii, as long as you follow the rules, of course. While there are no laws against sleeping on public beaches in Hawaii, you will need to obtain a permit to set up camp at any of Hawaii’s beaches.
What do I need to do to camp on the beach in Hawaii?
Your best bet is to check out the specific campground you’re hoping to stay at, as permit prices and processes vary depending on which island you’re on and whether the campsite is managed by the city, county, or state. Other than permits, which range in price from just $3 to $32 per night, all you’ll need is a tent and some basic camping supplies.
What are the best family campgrounds in Hawaii?
There’s little better than spending a weekend bonding with your family at one of Hawaii’s stellar campgrounds. On Oahu, we love family camping at Bellows Beach, Malaekahana Beach Campground, and Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden. If you’re looking to head inland and get away from it all, we would suggest Koke’e State Park on Kauai as well as Namakanipaio Campground, found near Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on Kauai.
Megan is a freelance journalist residing near Honolulu, Hawaii. She is obsessed with hiking, beach trips, locally-grown coffee, and finding the best acai bowl on Oahu.
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