Camping on Kauai, Hawaii: Best Kauai Campgrounds 2026

Name: Kauai
Address: Kauai

Swathes of tropical rainforest, soaring coastal cliffs, and lush green valleys blanket Kauai, Hawaii’s northernmost island. If you’re looking to discover Hawaii’s natural wonders, the Garden Isle is the place to do it, whether hiking through the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific," swimming beneath waterfalls, or snorkeling and surfing along golden sands. Campers can choose from an array of campgrounds with options ranging from beachside tent sites to rustic mountain cabins, and with daytime temperatures rarely falling below 74°F (24°C), camping is enjoyable year-round. If camping in winter, come prepared for rain, as Kauai gets more than its fair share of Hawaii’s wet weather.

Top-rated campgrounds in Kauai

Fern Grotto Inn

1. Fern Grotto Inn

Kapaa, HI

Experience the charm of Kauai like never before at Fern Grotto Inn, where historic plantation cottages meet modern comforts in a stunning tropical setting. Nestled in the picturesque Kapaa town on the east side of the island, our vacation rentals offer a unique blend of authentic island-inspired decor and contemporary amenities, ensuring a memorable stay. Centrally located along the serene banks of the Wailua River, our property is enveloped by lush fruit trees and is just a short stroll from the beach. With Poipu and Princeville only 15 miles away, you’ll have easy access to some of Kauai’s most beautiful attractions. At Fern Grotto Inn, we go the extra mile to enhance your adventure. Guests can take advantage of our complimentary gear, including snorkeling equipment, beach essentials, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and bicycles, making it easy to explore the island’s natural beauty. Choose from our spacious 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom unit or various studio options to find the perfect accommodation for your getaway. Our boutique-style atmosphere is designed to impress, ensuring you and your loved ones feel right at home in this slice of paradise. While our sun-drenched cottages invite relaxation with their fresh, island-inspired interiors, the private gardens beckon

Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park

2. Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park

100%

(14)

State park in Hawaii · 3 sites

Seeing the sacred, soul stirring natural beauty here should be at the top of everyone's bucket list.

Pets

Campfires

Toilets

Polihale State Park

3. Polihale State Park

100%

(6)

State park in Hawaii · 1 site

If you have the wheels to get you there, this state park will sure be a sweet reward.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Kōkeʻe State Park

4. Kōkeʻe State Park

100%

(1)

State park in Hawaii · 1 site

Welcome to paradise! No joke, Koke’e State Park on the island of Kauai is the textbook definition of the word. Well almost anywhere on the island may fit that description, but not everywhere can you get views of the Napali Cliffs and Kalalau Valley from 4,000-feet elevation. Now that’s a view you don’t see everyday! Hit the trails to hike through native rainforest and along the rim of Waimea Canyon to arrive at some mind blowing, high elevation views. Bring the fishing pole to score some very clean trout in the rushing creeks, pick plums in the trees above, and even hunt for wild pigs in certain areas. Pitch your tent to stay awhile, and pretend you are a primitive human living off of the land in the garden of eden. You might just want to throw in the towel at your old life and live here forever more.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Swathes of tropical rainforest, soaring coastal cliffs, and lush green valleys blanket Kauai, Hawaii’s northernmost island. If you’re looking to discover Hawaii’s natural wonders, the Garden Isle is the place to do it, whether hiking through the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific," swimming beneath waterfalls, or snorkeling and surfing along golden sands. Campers can choose from an array of campgrounds with options ranging from beachside tent sites to rustic mountain cabins, and with daytime temperatures rarely falling below 74°F (24°C), camping is enjoyable year-round. If camping in winter, come prepared for rain, as Kauai gets more than its fair share of Hawaii’s wet weather.

Top-rated campgrounds in Kauai

Fern Grotto Inn

1. Fern Grotto Inn

Kapaa, HI

Experience the charm of Kauai like never before at Fern Grotto Inn, where historic plantation cottages meet modern comforts in a stunning tropical setting. Nestled in the picturesque Kapaa town on the east side of the island, our vacation rentals offer a unique blend of authentic island-inspired decor and contemporary amenities, ensuring a memorable stay. Centrally located along the serene banks of the Wailua River, our property is enveloped by lush fruit trees and is just a short stroll from the beach. With Poipu and Princeville only 15 miles away, you’ll have easy access to some of Kauai’s most beautiful attractions. At Fern Grotto Inn, we go the extra mile to enhance your adventure. Guests can take advantage of our complimentary gear, including snorkeling equipment, beach essentials, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and bicycles, making it easy to explore the island’s natural beauty. Choose from our spacious 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom unit or various studio options to find the perfect accommodation for your getaway. Our boutique-style atmosphere is designed to impress, ensuring you and your loved ones feel right at home in this slice of paradise. While our sun-drenched cottages invite relaxation with their fresh, island-inspired interiors, the private gardens beckon

Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park

2. Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park

100%

(14)

State park in Hawaii · 3 sites

Seeing the sacred, soul stirring natural beauty here should be at the top of everyone's bucket list.

Pets

Campfires

Toilets

Polihale State Park

3. Polihale State Park

100%

(6)

State park in Hawaii · 1 site

If you have the wheels to get you there, this state park will sure be a sweet reward.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Kōkeʻe State Park

4. Kōkeʻe State Park

100%

(1)

State park in Hawaii · 1 site

Welcome to paradise! No joke, Koke’e State Park on the island of Kauai is the textbook definition of the word. Well almost anywhere on the island may fit that description, but not everywhere can you get views of the Napali Cliffs and Kalalau Valley from 4,000-feet elevation. Now that’s a view you don’t see everyday! Hit the trails to hike through native rainforest and along the rim of Waimea Canyon to arrive at some mind blowing, high elevation views. Bring the fishing pole to score some very clean trout in the rushing creeks, pick plums in the trees above, and even hunt for wild pigs in certain areas. Pitch your tent to stay awhile, and pretend you are a primitive human living off of the land in the garden of eden. You might just want to throw in the towel at your old life and live here forever more.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Kauai camping guide

Where to go

Na Pali & the North Coast

The rainforest-cloaked North Shore is dotted with glam resorts, sweeping bays, and coastal campgrounds. Swimming, snorkeling, and windsurfing are on the menu at Anini Beach, Haena Beach, and Hanalei Black Pot Beach, all of which have campsites, while hikers can hop between sea caves and waterfalls along the Kalalau Trail. In the northwest, the Na Pali region is renowned for its soaring sea cliffs and spectacular views, with four public campsites to choose from.

West Kauai

Hikers will find their slice of Hawaiian paradise in West Kauai, where the sweeping mountain landscapes provide plenty of opportunities to escape the crowds. The dramatic scenery of Waimea Canyon is the big draw for adventurers, along with nearby Kokee State Park and its modern cabins and tent sites. Prefer beachfront camping? You’ll need a permit to pitch your tent along Polihale Beach State Park, home to one of Hawaii’s longest beaches.

East Kauai

Coconut palms and sugar-white sands fringe the aptly nicknamed “Coconut Coast” of east Kauai, and you won’t have to travel far to find a beach view or a waterfall—Wailua Falls and Opaeka’a Falls pull in the biggest crowds. Camping options are limited along this wild stretch of coast, but Anahola Beach Park on the northeast shore and Hanama'ulu Beach Park, further south, both have seafront campsites.

Lihue & the South

Sunseekers make a beeline for Kauai’s south shore, and the coast around Poipu is lined with idyllic beaches and lively resorts. The National Tropical Botanical Garden and the blowhole at Spouting Horn Beach Park are both must-sees, but you can also camp along wild beaches at Lucy Wright Beach Park or explore the salt pools and snorkeling holes at Salt Pond Beach Park.

Top camping destinations around Kauai

Kōkeʻe State Park

26 campgrounds

Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park

Frequently Asked Questions

Is camping allowed in Kauai?

Yes, camping is allowed in Kauai, Hawaii. There are several campgrounds and parks on the island where you can set up camp and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Some popular camping locations in Kauai include Haena Beach Park, Anini Beach Park, and Polihale State Park. Keep in mind that permits are often required for camping in Kauai, so be sure to check with the specific campground or park for their regulations and requirements.

Is it legal to camp on the beach in Kauai?

In Kauai, camping on the beach is legal only in designated beach parks and campgrounds. You will need to obtain a camping permit from the County of Kauai or the State of Hawaii, depending on the location. Some popular beach campgrounds in Kauai include Anini Beach Park, Haena Beach Park, and Salt Pond Beach Park. Camping outside of designated areas, including on the beach, is illegal and can result in fines. To learn more about beach camping in Kauai and to find campgrounds, visit Hipcamp.

How do you camp in Kauai?

To camp in Kauai, follow these steps:

Choose a campground: Kauai offers various campgrounds, including state parks, county parks, and private campsites. Some popular options include:
- All Kauai camping
- Hiking and camping in Kauai
- RV camping in Kauai
- Glamping in Kauai
- Surfing and camping in Kauai
Obtain necessary permits: For state and county parks, you'll need to obtain a camping permit. You can apply online through the Hawaii State Parks website or the Kauai County Parks website. For private campsites, follow the reservation process provided by the campsite.
Prepare your gear: Pack essential camping equipment, such as a tent, sleeping bag, cooking gear, food, water, and appropriate clothing for Kauai's tropical climate. Don't forget sunscreen, insect repellent, and a first-aid kit.
Follow camping rules and regulations: Adhere to the rules and regulations of the campground you choose, including quiet hours, fire restrictions, and waste disposal. Leave no trace and respect the environment.
Enjoy outdoor activities: Kauai offers various outdoor activities, such as hiking, surfing, swimming, snorkeling, and exploring the island's natural beauty. Plan your activities and make the most of your camping experience.

Remember that reservations and permits for public campgrounds cannot be made on Hipcamp, but you can learn about them and find information on private campgrounds.