The best star host campgrounds in Hawaii

Although Hawaii is around 2,000 miles from the continental U.S., it's definitely worth the flight. While this tropical island chain is known for its large resorts and sandy beaches, it’s also an incredible place for hiking and camping, not only because of its year-round warm weather, but also because of its sheer diversity of landscapes. Here you’ll find towering volcanoes, tropical forests, massive canyonlands, and historic sites where you can learn about the history and cultural traditions of the islands. And if you don’t want to stay in a resort, you certainly won’t have to: there are many places to set up your tent, from beachfront campgrounds to private retreats.

99% (4.3K) • 87 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Hawaii

Although Hawaii is around 2,000 miles from the continental U.S., it's definitely worth the flight. While this tropical island chain is known for its large resorts and sandy beaches, it’s also an incredible place for hiking and camping, not only because of its year-round warm weather, but also because of its sheer diversity of landscapes. Here you’ll find towering volcanoes, tropical forests, massive canyonlands, and historic sites where you can learn about the history and cultural traditions of the islands. And if you don’t want to stay in a resort, you certainly won’t have to: there are many places to set up your tent, from beachfront campgrounds to private retreats.

99% (4.3K) • 87 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Hawaii

1. Waipi'o Lodge

98%

(216)

6 sites · Lodging · Honokaa, HI

Waipi'o Lodge and Campsite is located in Kukuihaele less than a mile from majestic Waipiʻo Valley. In a place where horses and wild turkeys often wander by, this is the old Hawaiʻi. A place where neighbors stop to talk and life is sweet as the smell of sugar cane grass. You'll enjoy a wonderful ocean view and the many fruit and macadamia nut trees on the property. We usually have perfect weather- sunshine, blue skies, a nice breeze, with temperatures in the high 70's. The campsite is part of the Waipi'o Lodge, which has three bedrooms and a common space living room. Our camping guests are welcome to use the outside kitchen, covered lanai, and Lodge bathroom. We also have high speed Wi-Fi. Our guests tend to be excellent company, usually visiting from Europe, the US Mainland, Australia and beyond. Many use our place as a launching point for hiking in Waipi'o Valley or backpacking trips into Waimanu Valley.  Join us!!

2. Gingerhill Farm Retreat

96%

(47)

10 sites · Lodging · Kealakekua, HI

Gingerhill Farm Retreat is a farm community dedicated to exploring sustainability, self-sufficiency, and stewardship of the land. To these ends, we have transformed our lush five-acre plot into a verdant botanical food forest. As you meander through our gardens and orchards, you will marvel at the incredible abundance and beauty that surrounds you. Through our various programs, we invite the community and international guests to join us in our daily routine of work and wellness. Come enjoy expansive ocean views and postcard sunsets. Eat delicious, healing farm-to-fork food. Spread some mulch; sow some seed. Get intimate with nature and find your unadulterated self. We would love to see you on the farm.

3. Peaceful Tiny Home North Shore

99%

(72)

3 sites · Lodging · Mokuleia, HI

Escape to your own slice of paradise in this charming tiny home nestled on a Hawaiian farm. Surrounded by fruit trees and panoramic mountain views, this cozy space offers the perfect blend of tranquility and adventure. Wake up to the sound of birds and unwind on your private lanai. With a fully equipped kitchenette, comfortable sleeping,outdoor shower and close by access to hiking trails, beaches, and nearby attractions, this tiny home is the ideal getaway for those looking to experience the authentic beauty of Hawaii. If you are looking to immerse yourself in a serene island lifestyle look no further.

4. Jacaranda Ridge

96%

(35)

2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Hawaiian Ocean View, HI

Welcome to the private and secure community of Kula Kai View Estates in Hawaii. Situated on three-acre properties, our community offers a tranquil and convenient location halfway between Kailua Kona and Volcanoes National Park. Just a short three-minute drive from Highway 11, you'll find yourself within five minutes of stores, gas stations, and restaurants. Within walking distance, you can explore the world-renowned Kula Kai Caverns, known for their natural beauty and geological wonders. From our community, you'll also be treated to a breathtaking view of the ocean and the southernmost point in the US. We offer a private cabin for your comfort and convenience. The road leading to the cabin is well-maintained, providing easy access, and there is ample parking available for vans or RVs. The cabin features a full stand-alone restroom equipped with a shower, toilet, sink, and hot water. Additionally, we provide a washer and dryer on-site, ensuring you have all the amenities you need. While our property is on the grid for power, we also offer Wi-Fi access if needed. Whether you're traveling around the Big Island or simply seeking a place to relax and enjoy beautiful sunsets, our cabin provides a perfect retreat. And if you find yourself caught in a rain shower, you can take advantage of our facilities to dry your clothes. Come and experience the beauty and convenience of our private community in Kula Kai View Estates. Whether you're a traveler exploring the Big Island or seeking a peaceful escape, our cabin is the ideal place to unwind and make the most of your Hawaiian adventure.

5. The Beach

97%

(366)

6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Ewa Gentry, HI

This is the only beachfront private property campsite on the island. Park right next to your tent. No worries about having to leave your car out of sight. This spot is behind a locked gate that you have a key for no curfew come and go as you like. Most choose not to go anywhere they like it right here. I've heard from more people that stayed elsewhere on the island and they say they wish they came here first. Oceanfront island style getaway with mango, banana and coconut trees in the yard. Hear the ocean while you fall asleep. restroom, hot shower with changing room, fresh water, 110v electricity for phone or laptop charging no plug for vans to run a/c or fridge, washing machine available for $10 per load, beachfront cabana with lounge chairs and hammock. An 8-man tent with 2 rooms available or bring your camper/van/car.*($50 tent rental fee for the two room tent that includes air mattresses setup and tear down) Gated property with your host Kawika onsite for any of your needs.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

K

Kari Jay

1 week ago

2 nights at Gingerhill Farm Retreat

My partner and I enjoyed our stay at Zach and Iris's place SO much! They've created a Garden of Eden, and we'd love to visit again.

J

Julien

1 week ago

18 ft campervan

1 night at The Beach

All was perfect! The place is amazing, direct on the beach. You have all facilities there, all very functional and also well decorated. David is a very good host that will arrange everything for you to have a good time!

L

Lisa

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Beach

Beautiful beach, hot showers, gated, this spot has it all. David was very kind and helpful. He goes out of his way to assure your happy.. I give it a 10 out of 10. Highly recommend.

Nikki

2 weeks ago

3 nights at Peaceful Tiny Home North Shore

Beautiful farm stay with the most beautiful lanai! We enjoyed our stay, and Maria was super responsive to all my questions and immediately answered. Mahalo!

J

Jess

2 weeks ago

16 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to The Beach

This is a lovely private beach campground with lots of great amenities like a hot water shower, places to charge your devices and a wind sheltered area to park/set up a tent. David came by to check in on us a couple of times and ask if we needed anything else which we thought was really kind! Great for couples looking to enjoy the beach :) thank you so much David!

L

Lisa

2 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at The Beach

This was the BEST camping experience we've ever had. The host and his wife were both really helpful and incredibly nice. You have plenty of privacy regardless of where on the property you stay. It's only a couple minutes drive to everything youd want to be close to. Never felt more secure at any camping spot then I do here. The beach is amazing here añd Mark has a nice seating area for guests right on the beach was made sunrise and sunset watching comfortable and easy to enjoy. I highly recommend this place and am looking forward to coming to stay again sooner rather than later.

Rachel

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Peaceful Tiny Home North Shore

Maria was very easy to communicate with before our arrival and throughout our stay. Her home was comfortable and had everything we needed. As we spent the day out exploring and returned after sunset, it’s helpful to note that the outdoor shower can be quite dark at night, with the only light coming through the bathroom window inside the house. We enjoyed our stay and appreciated Maria’s hospitality.

A

Amara

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to The Beach

We had a great stay and would absolutely recommend this spot, especially for locals looking for a quiet, easy getaway without leaving the island. The host, Kawika, was very communicative and helpful. We stayed in Hit the Cube, which felt more like glamping than camping. It’s a nicely upgraded trailer with a comfortable bed, TV, dining area, full kitchen (fridge/freezer), private bathroom, and reliable hot water. Everything was clean and well maintained. The beachfront location was incredibly peaceful and uncrowded. We visited during stormy weather, so we didn’t get to enjoy the beach as much as planned until the last evening and morning, but even then it was beautiful. Aside from a few friendly night fishermen, the beach felt almost empty. We enjoyed using the beach fire pit, and on one sunny day my footprints were the only ones along the shore. The property also felt very safe and secure. It’s gated, and we felt comfortable the entire time, day and night. We’re locals and mainly wanted to relax and unplug. Ewa Beach was a great choice, with some surprisingly good nearby food options such as Spoon Bunsik and Domo Domo, a fancy new restaurant on a golf course 5 minutes down the road. Ewa Beach Massage & Spa down the road was a great couples massage experience as well. Would be a good spot for locals who like shoreline fishing at night too. Overall, this was a calm, unique, and relaxing place to stay, and we’d happily return—especially in better weather.

Lisa

3 weeks ago

17 ft campervan

3 nights at The Beach

David was an amazing host! The camp was just as advertised only steps from the beach. As a solo female travler David made me feel welcome and I felt very safe! I had an issue with my van and David jumped in and save the day. Would highly recommend this camp and I will definitely be back!! And the shower/toilet is 100% worth the add on!!

J

Juhyang

3 weeks ago

3 nights at Peaceful Tiny Home North Shore

Maria’s place is a beautiful, nature-friendly retreat where you can hear birds singing instead of city sirens. It’s a truly special and relaxing place. Maria is a very kind and caring host.

J

Jenny

3 weeks ago

16 ft car

3 nights at The Beach

David was more than welcoming especially due to the fact that we had damaged our phone and he had been trying to get in touch with us all day. There had been a bad storm the night before we arrived but the site was clean and tidy. Showers were hot and WC’s clean. We had use of tables and chairs, kitchen prep and cleaning area, gas barbecue and beach loungers. The beach so close was a real bonus which we took advantage of for fishing and swimming. Local 7/11 was a 10 minute walk away. We would stay again.

K

Kévin

December 2025

4 nights at Peaceful Tiny Home North Shore

Lovely place with an amazing view ! The house is well equiped I recommend

E

Edward

December 2025

6 nights at Peaceful Tiny Home North Shore

The tiny home was great! Enough space for 2 with an amazing view. A great option away from the busy side of the island with plenty of beaches, hiking, and other activities nearby. There was even a very friendly cat that would hang out on the porch with us while we ate our dinners. Would definitely stay again!

Thomas

December 2025

Tent

With kids

2 nights at The Beach

This was everything we wanted and more from a shoreline camping experience. The hosting, the bathroom, the shower, the view...perfect. Watching the sunrise over Waikiki was a core memory for my son and I. Highly recommend stopping by for a few nights.

S

Scott

December 2025

1 night at Gingerhill Farm Retreat

The hosts and property offer guests an adventure to remember.

R

Ryan

December 2025

19 ft campervan

3 nights at The Beach

Amazing site! We loved it! Beach access! Very private and secure. David was awesome! Highly recommend!

A

Anna-Lia

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Beach

Our family loved camping at David’s site! Directions were clear and we were able to park right next to the tent so there was no struggle to unload or repack your gear. The site was quiet and peaceful since we were the only ones renting for the 2 nights we stayed. The flush toilet, sink, kitchen sink station and hot shower were so convenient. David was a kind and thoughtful host offering his filtered water since we forgot to pack our own (he also has potable water at the site) and a charcoal grill so we could roast s’mores while we watched airplanes in the distance and fireworks on Friday night. We played soccer during the day in the grassy area of the site and caught crabs at the beach right in front of the campsite at night. The beach isn’t much much for little ones to swim in but we just drove 3 minutes down the road to Pu’uloa Beach park where there was small beginner surf, boogie boarding and swimming. My 6 year old said “I give this place 5 stars!” We all had a blast. Thank you David for accommodating our last minute staycation away from crowds and the bustle of Black Friday! A hui hou!

D

Dolores

November 2025

17 ft campervan

1 night at The Beach

The warm shower was very nice and the bathroom. Having a private beach with lounge chairs was a luxury. We only stayed one night but it was very convenient and relaxing. We appreciate the very accommodating host and very good communication.

Ingmar

November 2025

20 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at Jacaranda Ridge

Breathtaking views! The best bathroom and the kindest host. Something to note is that the site is right by the house if you don’t mind. Overall one of the most beautiful remote site! (Don’t drive down to the lower part of the property like me, volcanic rocks are no joke on an incline)

A

Alan L.

November 2025

17 ft campervan

2 nights at The Beach

Awesome spot! Friendly helpful host beautiful beach!

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best star host camping in Hawaii guide

Where to go

Oahu

Oahu is the state's most-visited island. While many visitors head straight to Honolulu's sandy Waikiki Beach, the island offers plenty to experience outside the big city, with gorgeous beaches all over, plus tons of hiking trails. If you want to camp, you’ll find options at Ahupua'a 'O Kahana State Park and Bellows Field Beach Park, both on the island’s eastern shores.

The Big Island

The Big Island's size isn't its only claim to fame. It's also known for its tasty Kona coffee and for its abundance of volcanoes, including Kīlauea and Mauna Loa, both in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, one of four national parks on the island. There are also lots of places to camp on the island, including at the Kalōpā State Recreation Area and the Kīholo State Park Reserve (weekend camping only).

Maui and Molokai

Maui is well known for its large resorts and gorgeous scenery, especially in the emeraldine ʻĪao Valley State Monument and from Haleakalā National Park, the best place on the island for a sunrise hike. Reservable campsites can be found at both Wai'ānapanapa State Park and the Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area. The nearby island of Moloka'i is a quiet alternative, without the big development found on other islands. Camping is available in the island's Pālāʻau State Park.

Kauai

Dubbed the "Garden Isle" for its numerous gardens and overall lush landscapes, Kauai feels quieter and more laid-back than Maui or Oahu. Its best-known hiking areas include the pristine Nāpali Coast (only accessible by foot or boat) and the vibrantly hued Waimea Canyon State Park, often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific." You can camp in the Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park, provided you obtain a permit in advance, or in Kōke'e State Park and Polihale State Park.

When to go

Hawaii only has two real seasons: a hotter, dryer summer season (April–October) and a cooler, rainier winter (November–March). The resorts and tourist destinations across the islands are at their busiest during the summer and winter vacation months, and hotel and flight prices tend to soar during these periods. Late spring and early autumn are ideal for avoiding rainfall and crowds. Flights from the mainland are generally at their cheapest between January and March.