Who wants to go on a camping trip to Hawaii?
Are you interested in camping in paradise? It seems like a beautiful existence, doesn’t it…pitching a tent on the beach, waking up in the morning to the sun shining and birds chirping? Well….it definitely can be!
The key to having a good time camping in Hawaii is to come prepared. Do your research before you even leave your home. Which campgrounds are you going to stay at? What amenities, if any, do they offer? Do they require permits? What kind of gear do you need? It’s one thing to show up at a hotel with nothing but the clothes on your back, but that’s not really a fun time when you’re roughing it!
What Makes Camping in Hawaii So Special?
Camping in Hawaii offers something you simply can’t get anywhere else on the mainland. Imagine falling asleep to the gentle sound of waves lapping against the shore, or waking up to a spectacular sunrise over the Pacific Ocean. The tropical climate means you can camp year-round, though you’ll want to check weather patterns and avoid the rainier seasons in certain areas.
The Big Island, in particular, offers incredible diversity for camping enthusiasts. You can experience everything from black sand beaches to volcanic landscapes, lush rainforests to stark lava fields – all within a single camping trip. Many campers are amazed to discover they can swim in the ocean in the morning and explore volcanic craters in the afternoon, making camping in Hawaii a truly unique adventure.
State Park and County Camping Options
There are a number of possibilities for campers who want to experience camping in Hawaii. There are camping options in Hawaii State Parks, including Kalopa State Recreation Area, Kiholo State Park Reserve, and Manuka State Wayside beginning at $12/$18 per night. There are shelters that can be rented at Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area, and Kalopa State Recreation Area for $30/$90 per night. Check out a map of camping options at camping.ehawaii.gov.
Camping Sites By The County of Hawaii
If tent camping is more your jam, check out the campsites that are maintained by the County of Hawaii. They charge for their permits per person, and rates are cheaper for Hawaii residents. They have a pretty good selection of locations all around the island, and their website shows which amenities are available at each campground.
When camping in Hawaii, be aware that some campsites are known to be safer than others. Do your research beforehand; search the web and ask around for opinions, especially if you’re planning on travelling alone. The County of Hawaii website is currently slightly out-of-date in one area as well: Isaac Hale is not currently available for camping due to being cut off by the eruption in Leilani Estates.
Safety Considerations and Planning
When camping in Hawaii, be aware that some campsites are known to be safer than others. Do your research beforehand; search the web and ask around for opinions, especially if you’re planning on travelling alone. The County of Hawaii website is currently slightly out-of-date in one area as well: Isaac Hale is not currently available for camping due to being cut off by the eruption in Leilani Estates.
Weather is another crucial factor when planning your camping in Hawaii adventure. While the islands enjoy a tropical climate, conditions can vary dramatically depending on elevation and location. Coastal areas tend to be warmer and more humid, while higher elevations can get surprisingly cool at night. Rain is common on the windward (eastern) sides of the islands, so waterproof gear is absolutely essential.
It’s also important to respect the local environment and culture. Many camping areas are located on or near sacred Hawaiian lands, so be mindful of cultural protocols and Leave No Trace principles. This means packing out all trash, staying on designated trails, and being respectful of any cultural sites you may encounter.
Alternative Accommodation Options
Camping in Hawaii isn’t for everyone. If you love your comforts– your plush bed, your television, and four walls around you–roughing it in a tent is probably not for you. Our Lodge offers Cozy Rooms, Studios, and suites with air-conditioners, bathrooms, kitchenettes, and other amenities.
But if you’re an outdoorsy type who loves adventure and sleeping out under the sky, we recommend camping on the Big Island. There’s also an intermediate version: come camp at Arnott’s Lodge!.
We are the only campground in Hilo, and we offer a cushy lawn to pitch your tent on, as well as free wifi, free parking, and warm showers. We are a 5-minute walk away from a small beach, and we also offer discounts on our adventure tours for our guests. It doesn’t really count as roughing it, though :).
What to Expect: Activities and Experiences
Camping in Hawaii opens up a world of outdoor activities that you might not experience staying in a traditional hotel. Many campgrounds provide easy access to snorkeling spots where you can see tropical fish and maybe even sea turtles. Hiking opportunities abound, from easy coastal walks to challenging volcano hikes that reward you with incredible views.
Night sky viewing is another incredible perk of camping in Hawaii. Away from city lights, the stars are absolutely spectacular. The Big Island, in particular, is famous for its clear skies – it’s home to some of the world’s most important astronomical observatories on Mauna Kea.
For those interested in fishing, many camping areas provide access to excellent shore fishing spots. Just make sure you have the proper licenses and are familiar with local regulations.
Essential Gear for Hawaiian Camping
Some basic gear to bring camping:
- Tent (waterproof!)
- Sleeping bag
- Pillow
- Insect repellent
- First aid kit
- Food/water
- Flashlight
- biodegradable soap
- Sunscreen (FYI, Hawaii is phasing out non-mineral sunscreen. Please help save our coral reefs and choose mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide, NOT the kind with oxybenzone and/or octinoxate!
Beyond the basics, consider packing a portable camp stove if cooking facilities aren’t available, extra batteries for your electronics, and a good cooler if you’re planning to bring perishable food. A portable phone charger or power bank is also wise, as cell service can be spotty in some remote camping areas.
Don’t forget comfortable hiking shoes, swimwear, and quick-dry clothing. The tropical climate means you’ll likely be wet and dry multiple times throughout the day, so moisture-wicking fabrics are your friend when camping in Hawaii.
Making the Most of Your Hawaiian Camping Adventure
The key to successful camping in Hawaii is embracing the island lifestyle – slow down, enjoy the natural beauty, and don’t over-schedule your days. Some of the best camping experiences happen when you allow time for spontaneous adventures, whether that’s following a local’s recommendation to a hidden waterfall or simply spending an extra hour watching the sunset from your campsite.
Remember that camping in Hawaii is about more than just saving money on accommodation – it’s about connecting with the natural beauty and unique culture of the islands in a way that’s simply impossible from a hotel room. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or trying it for the first time, Hawaii’s incredible landscapes and welcoming aloha spirit make it an ideal destination for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
Helpful Resources When Planning Camping in Hawaii
Some helpful links to check out:
- Hawaii State Parks
- County of Hawaii website: plenty of info about the island!
- USGS Website: keep up to date on current volcanic hazards
- LoveBigIsland.com
- HVNP’s website on camping (the park is currently closed, but will hopefully open again soon)
- Wander Wisdom, a travel blog
- Frommer’s, another travel blog
Author: S. Garcia