This Hawaiian Destination Is Great For A Beachside Camping Adventure

Camping is all about getting back to basics, reconnecting with nature, and taking a break from city life. Whether it's finding the perfect RV campground or chasing star-lit skies across the country, there's no better feeling than ditching the hustle and bustle in exchange for a laid-back outdoor adventure — especially if it's one that involves campfire stories, roasted marshmallows, and no screens in sight.

While there are countless places dotted around the United States where you can pitch a tent, there's truly no place like Hawaii to do so. With its stunning volcanic landscapes, lush green forests that go on for miles, and — of course — a myriad of iconic beaches to choose from, Hawaii is a camper's paradise.

If there's one spot that's perfect for a beachside camping adventure, it's Anini Beach. Home to the longest and widest fringing reef — which borders along the coastline — Anini Beach Park is tucked away in the North Shore of Kauai and boasts a pristine 2.5 miles of untouched golden sands and turquoise waters for visitors to enjoy.

Known for being a lot quieter and laid-back than most Kauai beaches, Anini Beach Park Campground has everything you need to set up camp comfortably. With 120 spots available — from single tent sites to dispersed and group camping options —fees start at $3 per night for a basic site. In addition, the beach park also offers two entry points. Guests can either choose to park their car in the lot and then walk to their site, or boat-in to the camping grounds.

Once inside the park, some of the most popular activities include snorkeling, fishing, paddle boarding, swimming, and windsurfing. However, it's important to keep in mind that Anini Beach does not have a lifeguard on duty, so it's important to exercise caution if you or your travel group plans on entering the water.

Back on land, Anini Beach Park Campground has basic amenities that guests can use to make their stay more comfortable. These include showers, sinks and toilets, picnic tables, and designated trash disposal areas. Additionally, the campground also takes a short break every week for maintenance — closing on Wednesday mornings at 10 AM and reopening by noon on Thursday. Plan your visit accordingly so you're not surprised by closed gates!

Although Anini Beach Park Campground is open year-round, the best time to visit is during summer. Better yet, visiting during off-peak season — which starts in April and goes all the way through to June — means you'll have a better chance at avoiding the crowds and even snagging some great deals. In terms of getting to Anini Beach, the easiest way is to hitch a flight from any major airport to Lihue Airport — the main airport on Kauai. Then, the easiest thing to do is rent or hire a car. From the airport, Anini Beach is roughly 28 miles (or a 45-minute drive) away.

Having a car also means you'll also have the opportunity to explore other nearby attractions beyond the beach park. Princeville, for example, is a popular resort hotspot that's great for shopping, dining, and even golfing. If you're craving a little more luxury after a few nights of camping by the beach, Princeville might be just what you need. However, if you'd rather stick to the outdoors, the Princeville Botanical Gardens — just 6 miles away — sets the backdrop for a perfect day out that includes guided tours of the area and local chocolate tastings.