Hawaii is a paradise and the perfect place for a camping getaway. Opportunities for urban camping in Hawaii are available for those who want to stay in or near Honolulu or another large city, and no matter where you stay you will be close to the ocean.
Not sure where to go urban camping in Hawaii? Here are the best spots.
Urban RV Parks in Hawaii
Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden
Located in Kāneʻohe, close to Honolulu, Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden is a free campground known as a peaceful refuge for those who want to get away from it all. The campground has several sites for those in vans or tents and allows you to check-in up until 4 p.m.
The visitors center helps you sign up for group tours where a guide takes you to some of the best nearby landmarks, and you can learn about the catch-and-release fishing program. It takes around 20 minutes to reach the fishing spot where you can use bamboo poles.
Things to do nearby include:
Lualualei Beach Park
Lualualei Beach Park is a great place to relax in Wai’anae as it’s only around 30 minutes from Honolulu. It has a comfort station with clean water and outdoor showers that let you bathe while taking in the scenery.
The surrounding park covers 18 acres and provides easy access to a nearby swimming beach. You’ll also find a nice place for surfing.
When you leave the campground, be sure to head into Honolulu to see the following:
Nanakuli Beach Park
Nanakuli Beach Park is on the western coast of Nanakuli less than 30 minutes from Oahu and has 40 acres that you can explore. Named in honor of a former Hawaiian prince, the park also uses the name of Kalaniana’ole Beach Park. You need to pick up a camping permit online or in-person before your trip as space is limited. The park has lots of swimming and surfing spots but few amenities for campers.
Make sure to see the sights nearby, including:
Malaekahana State Recreation Area
Urban RV camping in Hawaii lets you stay close to landmarks such as the North Shore where you’ll find the Malaekahana State Recreation Area in Laie, which is close to Oahu. You can check in any time after 3 p.m. and stay until noon on your last day. Each site is spacious enough to accommodate up to 10 people. Amenities include outdoor showers that are close to the beach and clean restrooms. You’ll also find picnic tables and fresh drinking water.
Outside of the campground, make sure to see:
Sand Island State Recreation Area
Sand Island State Recreation Area in Honolulu has comfort stations where you can use an outdoor shower and access clean restrooms. This campground is within walking distance of the beach where you can surf and play in the water or snorkel and scuba dive. It has a walking trail that takes you right to the beach and helps you access the restrooms and water fountains. Guests also have access to outdoor showers.
More things to do in Honolulu include:
Where to Urban Camp in Hawaii
- Honolulu is near a good number of campgrounds and is a great place for urban camping in Hawaii.
- Another excellent option is Oahu, where there is plenty of camping available.
- You may also find camping in some of the smaller towns in the state.
Ease of Urban RV Camping in Hawaii
RVing in Hawaii is not possible. There are no true RVs on the islands and the roads are not made to accommodate big rigs. That said, van camping is an option and many people enjoy staying in a van while exploring the state. As mentioned, the roads are narrow, so you do want to drive carefully, but it is totally possible to navigate them in a van. Just make sure to book campsites in advance, as they can book up quickly!
With an RV rental, your urban vacation will be a little more comfortable! After you’ve spent a long day exploring the city, you can relax around the fire at your campsite. Then, retire inside to enjoy all the comforts of home onboard your RV. Plan your perfect urban getaway with an RV rental from RVshare.
