Camping in Hawaii
October 11, 2008 7:11 PM Subscribe
Camping recommendations for the Hawaii Big Island?
My fiancee and I are looking for the best places to camp on the Big Island in November. We have found plenty of listings of campgrounds, but very few recommendations. We'll definitely camp at Volcanoes NP, and probably at Spencers Beach, but what else is really worth a visit? We're renting a 4WD, and we are keen for moderate hikes in to some more isolated camp sites. We're not fussed about facilities, but are looking for legal camping in stunning locations.
My fiancee and I are looking for the best places to camp on the Big Island in November. We have found plenty of listings of campgrounds, but very few recommendations. We'll definitely camp at Volcanoes NP, and probably at Spencers Beach, but what else is really worth a visit? We're renting a 4WD, and we are keen for moderate hikes in to some more isolated camp sites. We're not fussed about facilities, but are looking for legal camping in stunning locations.
Im pretty sure you need a permit to camp in Waipio now. Its been a few years since I camped there, so check it out before you go. Regardless, you should try to hike up to Hi'ilawe (the waterfall) if it hasnt recently dumped rain (in which case you'd have to swim up river to get there). If its not possible to camp Waipio, try Pololu Valley. It has some beautiful and dramatic scenery as well, and not as much crowds.
Good call on Spencers beach, its nice up there.
I also recommend the black sand beach in Punalu'u. Southern BI is gorgeous, quiet and spiritual. If you stop in Ocean View, make sure you go to Dessert Rose Cafe for the frickin best loco moco ever made. Its a local favourite, you gotta try it. Camping at Volcano is gonna be great, have fun! aloha
posted by osloheart at 5:15 AM on October 12, 2008
Good call on Spencers beach, its nice up there.
I also recommend the black sand beach in Punalu'u. Southern BI is gorgeous, quiet and spiritual. If you stop in Ocean View, make sure you go to Dessert Rose Cafe for the frickin best loco moco ever made. Its a local favourite, you gotta try it. Camping at Volcano is gonna be great, have fun! aloha
posted by osloheart at 5:15 AM on October 12, 2008
Response by poster: Thanks for the tips. Waipio sounds perfect, but unfortunately it seems that camping is now forbidden (see this and this). Pololu Valley sounds great, and it seems that camping is available, but I can't find any details; might have to take our chances when we get there.
posted by rocks009 at 7:07 PM on October 13, 2008
posted by rocks009 at 7:07 PM on October 13, 2008
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Be forewarned - the "hike" in that I'm referring to is actually a paved road. Barely driveable, so very little traffic. If you're more concerned with the camping than the hike, it probably won't bother you.
posted by postcommunism at 11:48 PM on October 11, 2008