Explore
/
United States
/
Hawaii
/
State Parks
/
Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area

The best camping in Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area, HI

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.

Namakanipaio cabins at night. Clean, comfortable, and convenient.

1. Hāpuna Shelters

0.7mi from Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area · 4 sites · In Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area

Calm seas comb the tranquil shore lines; all is quiet, bathed in situational peace of mind

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area adventure.

Popular ways to camp

Camper favorites near Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Snag sold-out campsites.

Get notified the instant a national park campsite becomes available, for free.

See the best spots in one place.

Explore 500K+ public lands, RV resorts, and private sites you won't find anywhere else.

Book with confidence.

Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.

Stories from the community

Amazing sunrises over the Pacific Ocean from bed!!!

Shane

3 weeks ago

1 night at Hamakua Christmas Tree Forest

Such a beautiful spot! Peaceful, enjoyable stay with incredible ocean view. Wish we could have stayed longer!

Courtney

3 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Roadside Fruit Stand Exotic Orchard

Very peaceful camping spot, and the stars were incredible! Woke up to a herd of sheep greeting us and spent some time with them.

Justine

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Hamakua Christmas Tree Forest

The bungahigh cabin had amazing views and was in a good location for exploring the east side of the island! Nancy was very kind and made check in super easy. Everything was as described and we appreciated the supplies for bugs, thankfully the bugs weren’t bad though. Definitely a camping feel with a comfortable bed.

November 2025

19 ft campervan

1 night at Ohia Hale

We had a small campervan on Colin's property for the night and it was a great time! Colin was very helpful in directions and responsive for whatever we needed.

Natasha

October 2025

3 nights at Magical yurt, stunning spa bathroom

Magical yurt with so many amazing points to mention. Spacious and well equipped kitchen, great location. The spa bathroom feels so luxury - though be sure to bring your own hairdryer - I got caught out with that! Every other thing you would expect from a hotel or vacation rental was included though - even flippers!

Dani

October 2025

2 nights at Waipio KOA

This was a unique and beautiful experience to share with people living in and off the valley land of Big Island. If you’re an experienced camper/adventure seeker you’ll love this stay. You meet at the top of the valley and hike or drive down. Joel and his friend Kama were very helpful in making sure we were comfortably set up for our stay. My partner and I learned so much about what life is like in the valley and the land itself. There is a deep respect for the people and land here, and all guests should come with this shared respect and curiosity. They were extremely generous with their time, space, and knowledge. Joel showed us how to harvest food that we then cooked together in the outdoor kitchen space. We then explored the nearby secluded black sand beach where we played with Yoshi, the resident dog🐕 If you’re lucky you’ll meet the most affectionate host, Ulu 🐈 An unforgettable stay! We hope to return some day

Omar

October 2025

2 nights at Waipio KOA

Staying here was truly one of the most unique and special experiences of our big island trip — the highlight, without question. Jo’el and Kama were incredibly generous and welcoming hosts who made us feel like part of their world. They brought such warmth and fun to the entire stay. This isn’t your typical stay — it’s an authentic, local experience that comes with its own quirks and adventures. But that’s exactly what makes it magical. We got to pick fresh fruit from the orchard, cook meals in the outdoor kitchen, and experience life the way locals do. The secluded black sand beach nearby was absolutely stunning, and we even got to play Yoshi ball with Yoshi the dog and hang out with Ulu the cat — both total stars of the place. If you’re looking for something real, grounding, and unforgettable, this is it. We absolutely loved every minute and would recommend it 100%.

Hannah

October 2025

1 night at Hamakua Christmas Tree Forest

Beautiful location! Greeted with a smile and banana bread! Perfect for some glamping and a nice walk around the farm!

Colin

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Roadside Fruit Stand Exotic Orchard

Nice surroundings, quiet and felt secure. Code for entry was wrong so probably need to update that. We were able to get it from the fruit stand before close. But if we arrived later not sure what we'd do. Overall great experience.

Nina

October 2025

23 ft campervan

1 night at Roadside Fruit Stand Exotic Orchard

We camped in our campervan and it was easy parking, quiet and level. Make sure you communicate with the camp before getting there as we didn’t have cell service once there and the starlink did not show up on our phones. Also make sure you screen shot the route or download your map app.

Shakara

October 2025

1 night at Hamakua Guesthouse

Very cool place to stay with great amenities and comfortable hammock

Jessica

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Big Island Retreat

Fantastic little cabin on beautiful and abundant land. Really well appointed cabin with so many extras we didn’t anticipate! Coffee maker, kitchen utensils and pots, bathroom and soap necessities, and more!

Karleen

October 2025

4 nights at Waipi'o Lodge

We love everything! Always our first leg on the island. ❤️

Anne

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at Ohia Hale

This was a great spot to camp! Easy to find with Colin’s directions. It was a very place to put down our tent and settle in for the two nights we spent there! We would absolutely back.

Anastasiya

October 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Roadside Fruit Stand Exotic Orchard

Lovely and peaceful spot! Unfortunately we couldn’t make it before dark so had a hard time navigating to the place and within the grounds. But once we got settled we were amazed by the Milky Way view - best stars I’ve seen in a long time! The sheep gave us a very friendly greeting & we thoroughly enjoyed the fruit stand offerings. Def recommend it for a basic and peaceful camping experience!

Daniel

October 2025

19 ft Class B

With kids

1 night at Roadside Fruit Stand Exotic Orchard

A somewhat dusty but otherwise lovely spot in the middle of nowhere. Well maintained port-o-potty. Curious sheep under a spectacular milky-way night sky, shooting stars included. We got free fresh fruit in the morning. Thanks! :)

Kasey

October 2025

2 nights at Gingerhill Farm Retreat

We loved this location. So close to lots of the activities we had planned around Kona. Also not far from restaurants and a laundromat. The room was close to the parking area. We had a little decking where we could dry our swimwear. The room was nice and spacious so we could spread out our suitcases. Didn’t explore the farm much because it was raining but loved patting the cat that liked to sleep on the decking. The room also felt very private and the farm is behind a locked gate. Definitely recommend

Graham Good

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Ohia Hale

great communication, awesome location! Colin was an easy to work with host.

Anjulie

October 2025

With kids

3 nights at Hamakua Guesthouse

Very comfortable and welcoming, kitchen is well stocked, property and location are great. Easy access to many attractions. We would gladly stay again!

Annabelle

October 2025

19 ft campervan

1 night at Ohia Hale

Collin was a very kind and generous host. The road going to camp site is difficult but managable, would recommend a 4WD. Very safe, beautiful and peaceful environment.

Top-rated campgrounds

Hamakua Guesthouse

95%

(298)

48mi from Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area · 7 sites · Lodging · Pepeekeo, HI

The Hamakua Guesthouse is located on the south end of Hawaii's breathtaking Hamakua Coast. Established in 2012 we are easily accessible to all the Big Island attractions such as Volcanoes National Park (1 hour South), Waipio Valley (1 hour North), and the countless sights and adventures along the Hamakua Coast, it is the perfect location to base your Big Island adventure vacation. The legendary Akaka Falls State Park is only 4 miles away from the Hamakua House. Onomea Bay is only 4 miles away, which is the home of the Hawaii Botanical Gardens. It is an unforgettable drive to get there and the bay is a wonderful place to have a picnic. We are only 1 mile (easily walkable) from the quaint main street of Honomu, HI. This town was established in the sugar cane plantation era and remains today boasting some wonderful gift shops, two restaurants, a coffee house, and the Island's best Zip Line Tours. Guests have access to our open air full bathroom with running water and a stunning rainfall shower (located at the main house). They also have access to our covered outdoor kitchen with grills, a sink, prep space, dining area, dishes, cups, silverware, and cookware (also located at the main house).

Ohia Hale

90%

(350)

39mi from Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Captain Cook, HI

As all the land here is born of lava, many moons ago this land began to host plants and critters. Long after, it was sculpted and a number of families and farmers have contributed to what we have today. An abundance of fruit and vegetables within sight of the ocean. Peaceful breezes and warming sun make for unparalleled tranquility. Today the land still gives back to its visitors. Come recharge. As this is agricultural lands, there are many critters. Dogs, chickens, pheasants, peacock, mongoose, and many birds. Tge invasive coqui frog is annoying to some and calming to others. The micro climate here swings from warm and dry to wet quickly. Best to always prepare for rain. There is snorkeling, beaches, local food, Cafe, BBQ, poke, fish-n-chips, grocery, Sunday farmers market and hiking nearby. It is peaceful here, but also an active farming community. As an organic farm, we put alot of effort into soil building and as such, there are soft places that will be damaged by the weight of a vehicle. Staying on the driveway is best. We will guide you to where you need to go. Our road is paved, but bumpy. Any vehicle will make it without damage if driven slowly. 1 to 4mph tops. *Be sure to avoid the camper rental companies that restrict certain roads. Aloha and have a great day.

Roadside Fruit Stand Exotic Orchard

96%

(12)

22mi from Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Honokaa, HI

We have a hidden exotic fruit orchard tucked away through rolling green hills, perched over the Hamakua cliffs, overlooking the pacific. We sell our fruits ripe and cut ready to eat at our roadside fruit stand, open 10-6 daily including holidays! We serve local fresh juices and machete open coconuts to drink ice cold. We grow mango, durian, lilikoi, star fruit, chocolate sapote, buddhas hand citrus, finger limes, tangerines and tangelos, jackfruit, tree grapes, mangosteen, white pineapples, mountain apples, berries, spices and much more. We are home to dozens of rescue animals, many who came from Puna during the 2018 lava flow. Meet peaceful sheep, lambs, chickens, ducks, turkeys, geese and a lovable pet pig. Not to mention our friendly farm cats. We are a community of a few passionate farmers and fruit lovers. There’s a family- myself Rose, my partner Matthew and our daughter Mela, plus several awesome guys and girls who help out in different areas to grow our lives together!

Waterfront Paradise

2.2mi from Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area · 1 site · Lodging · Puako, HI

Stay the night in a stationary campervan in beautiful, iconic Puako Bay. It’s equipped with everything you need for camping, swimming, snorkeling, and more. Your van includes a small kitchen with a fridge, stove, sink, and hot water shower. You’ll also have access to a golf cart to explore the many beautiful beach accesses along the street, as well as a two-person kayak for your ocean adventures.

Hamakua Christmas Tree Forest

97%

(53)

43mi from Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging · Honomu, HI

Our campsites are situated on 13 acres off the Historical Hamakua Coast, and home of the Hamakua Christmas Tree Forest. Awesome ocean view of the beautiful Pacific are a guarantee. It is quiet, safe ,and private with easy access just 3/4 mile off of the Hawaii Belt Road, (Highway 19), up a paved county maintained road. At Waikaumalo Park, "roughly a half mile" walk or ride away, you can take a cool dip in the fresh water stream surrounded by tropical foliage. Papa'aloa Country Store and Cafe has a restaurant and offers a wide selection of grocery items only 5 miles away. Botanical World Adventures just 3 miles away offers the Umauma Experience with ziplining, biking tours, trails exploring tropical flora, and triple waterfall views and adventures. Akaka Falls is only 6 miles away in Honomu. Laupahoehoe Point is only 15 minutes away offering swimming, fishing, and relaxing in the lava rocks and waves. All this is just 20 miles north of Hilo!

Waipi'o Lodge

98%

(216)

19mi from Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area · 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!!

IO's NEST LOOKOUT on the Hamakua

98%

(42)

45mi from Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area · 1 site · Lodging · Pepeekeo, HI

The IO's Hale studio is perched high on the Pu'u overlooking sweeping ocean and countryside views. A breath of nature.... Nearby Akaka Falls, is one of Hawaii's favorite nature sites. IO's nest is a private enclosed living area with spacious open Lanai. Enjoy an opportunity to spend time in the beauty of nature. Comfortably accommodates two people with queen bed. Bathroom facilities nearby. Covered parking.

Gingerhill Farm Retreat

95%

(42)

34mi from Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area · 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.

Sacred Nature Sanctuary

100%

(20)

38mi from Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area · 8 sites · Lodging · Captain Cook, HI

Welcome to our 10-acre sanctuary on the western coast of Hawai‘i’s Big Island. Set on a working Kona coffee farm with fertile soil that nourishes year-round tropical fruits, cacao, and medicinal plants, this land is a place of abundance and renewal. Surrounded by blooming flowers and the songs of native birds, guests often describe it as both energizing and deeply restful—a space where dreams and creativity expand naturally. We offer a variety of accommodations, including private suites and an A-frame house with a full kitchen and 1.5 bathrooms, giving you comfort and independence during your stay. Our sanctuary is located in a quiet rural area, about 45 minutes from Kona International Airport and roughly two hours from Hilo Airport on the island’s eastern side. Here, you’ll find the sweet serenity of nature along with the grounding rhythms of the farm—a true immersion in Hawai‘i’s natural beauty.

Waipio KOA

88%

(8)

19mi from Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging · Honokaa, HI

After arriving between 12-4 pm at the meet up location; waipio valley's lookout pavilion connected to flush toilet bathrooms, we will meet the local information officer and kahuna proceeding down Waipio road as we drive your 4x4 vehicle or guide your hui single file on foot 2.5 miles to Waipio's KOA to set camp for your stay. Please refrain from walking or driving Waipio road prior to or after our meetup as the current road safety restrictions prohibit all non-Hawaiian island residents from entering the valley without a local escort. Waipio KOA is an active farm to table fruit orchard, la'au lapa au medicine garden, and apo ohana community center. Waipio KOA shares a mission to unify the seven star tribes from all major honua (earth) continents in apo (circle) formation to spread equality, peace, and harmony around our shared planet earth. he ali'i ka aina he kauwa ke kanaka Now is the hour to come together in unity and equality to share ha breath, kala light, aina land/earth, and wai water. Once your camp is set, you will be walking distance from a potable spring, waterfalls, a black sand beach, Waipio stream and Waimanu Valley campground 9 miles on the Muliwai wilderness reserve trail. Wild horses, birds, pigs and farmers are commonly scene throughout the valley. When surf and ocean conditions allow you may enjoy kayaking, swimming, diving, fishing, surfing and seasonal whale and dolphin watching. As camp hosts we will provide the best guidance during your stay and are available for more intimate one on one assistance with your choice of activities should you need. Please specify what your intentions for this camp experience are during our meeting at the valley lookout. As active farmer gardeners we are seeking extra hands in work projects and welcome long stay extensions involving a work trade agreement. Be sure to let us know if you are interested in this option to extend your stay. Although it may be perfectly fun and fabulous to camp in the rain, extreme rain and high flood water conditions may result in a cancelation of your reservation. In accordance with hipcamp's cancelation policy, we can refund your payment 72 hrs before your arrival date. Mahalo for your kokua and we look joyward to seeing your happy camper smile. E Komo Mai

The Kikala Waterfall Lodge

92%

(81)

47mi from Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area · 5 sites · Lodging · Wainaku, HI

The Kikala Waterfall Lodge at the Mauna Kea Cloudforest Bioreserve is a lodge nested in a botanical garden and farm dedicated to the preservation of the world's plant biodiversity. Situated on the southeast facing flanks of Mauna Kea overlooking Hilo Bay and the Hamakua Coast, the bioreserve benefits of a unique climate where the lowland rainforest climate zone (Koeppen climate Zone Af) overlaps with the oceanic temperate mountain zone of Mauna Kea (Koeppen Climate Zone Cfb). The result is a cool and wet climate zone that supports many of the world's endangered palms and conifers. The bioreserve features 14 acres of riverfront Cloud forest. The Kikala river runs through the middle of the bioreserve, so Kikala Waterfall Lodge guests on the bioreserve have private exclusive access to prime waterfalls and swimming holes. The Cloudforest bioreserve isn't just home to botanical wonders, Hawaiian native hawks and many other beautiful Hawaiian birds like to nest in the cloudforest. The lodge community center features a Zendo that can support a contemplative yoga and meditation practice. The Bioreserve features gardens with a Japanese Zen influence to encourage a contemplative retreat experience.

Big Island Retreat

100%

(19)

33mi from Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area · 1 site · Lodging · Paauilo, HI

Tiny house on owner occupied land, a small food forest, plenty of privacy, private cooking and living space, outdoor shower and bathroom, electricity, loft, room for up to four. Futon beds, fresh linens and towels provided. Access to washing machines and lines to dry. Catchment water as well as drinking water provided, access to small fridge.

Other options near Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area

Ho‘okena Beach Park

45mi from Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area · 11 sites · Captain Cook, HI

Ho'okena Beach Park stands out as a unique destination due to its rich cultural heritage as one of the last active Hawaiian canoe fishing villages in Hawaii. This historical site features remnants of an old commercial steamship pier and showcases traditional fishing practices that have been passed down through generations. Visitors may be fortunate enough to witness local fishermen launching their canoes or returning with a fresh catch. The beach itself is a stunning blend of fine gray sand and diverse coral, creating a picturesque setting. Depending on the season, the tranquil blue waters reveal vibrant underwater landscapes teeming with colorful fish. During the south swell, boogie boarders can be seen skillfully riding the waves near the shore. The breathtaking sunsets and sunrises over the cliffs add to the park's allure. Ho'okena Beach Park also offers an exceptional camping experience. Guests can sleep under a blanket of stars while listening to the calming sound of waves crashing on the shore. Waking up to the gentle sea breeze and stunning views makes this campground a truly unforgettable destination. Whether you're looking for outdoor activities, natural beauty, or a taste of Hawaiian culture, Ho'okena Beach Park has something for everyone.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Ho‘okena Beach Park

45mi from Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area · 1 site · Captain Cook, HI

Experience the unique charm of beachfront tent camping at Ho‘okena Beach Park, where you can pitch your tent beneath swaying palm trees along a pristine sandy shoreline. This idyllic location not only offers a stunning ocean view but also provides a serene escape into the lush Hawaiian landscape. Ho‘okena Beach Park features convenient permit camping with access to nearby showers and restrooms, ensuring a comfortable stay. Enjoy the picnic pavilions, perfect for gathering with family and friends, and take advantage of the excellent snorkeling opportunities just steps away from your campsite. Rich in cultural history, this area is located near Captain Cook, allowing visitors to explore the fascinating heritage of Hawaii. With its combination of natural beauty and recreational activities, Ho‘okena Beach Park is the perfect destination for those seeking adventure and relaxation in a tropical paradise.

Pets

The best camping in Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area, HI guide

Overview

About

It’s no secret—Hawaii’s Big Island is pretty darn beautiful. And Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area is no exception, too. With towering palms, lush greenery and—of course—the beautiful blue Pacific Ocean, you might just literally gasp in awe when you drive up to Hāpuna. A sandy trail offers hiking along the coast with stunning ocean views, but besides that, swimming, picnicking, and good ol’ fashioned relaxing are some of the park’s most popular activities. Itching to spend the night at this beautiful spot? Hāpuna has got you covered with a selection of A-frame shelters to rest your head at after a long day of… well… relaxing!

Nearby attractions

The largest active volcano in the world, Mauna Loa is well known for its frequent activity and large lava flows. At dusk the lava flows begin to glow, transforming the volcanic landscape into a spectacle that can’t be missed. With easy access to an essential Big Island experience, camping near Mauna Loa will ensure you get the most out of your experience.
Unwind and connect with nature while camping near the inviting Spencer Beach Park. With its white sand, clear waters, and safe swimming conditions, it's the ideal backdrop for a fun-filled camping getaway.

Be the first to review

Share your experience here to help other campers.