Free airport shuttle 3+ nights $0 deposit 
2024 & 2025 Travelers' Choice Award
2024 & 2025 Travelers' Choice Award 
Kauai.
The Garden Isle, your way
Kauai Rooftop Campers
Drop the Routine. Explore. Swim. Relax. Repeat.
Camping on Kauai from $169/night. Everything included, with $0 deposit and free airport shuttle for 3+ nights.
Camping on Kauai from $169/night. Everything included, with $0 deposit and free airport shuttle for 3+ nights.
3,000+ Bookings Google rating Superhost Airbnb
Google rating
AirbnbEXPERIENCE THE TRUE ALOHA SPIRIT OF THE ISLAND — IN STYLE
Hang loose, brah! We’ll handle the details. Let us help make your dream adventure vacation come alive.
Hotel + Rental Car
~$450
per night (average)
vs.
Kauai Rooftop Camper
from $169
camping + transport + gear
No hidden fees. No surprises.
Everything Included
Just show up — every rental comes fully loaded with gear, kitchen, bedding, and more.
Outside costs to plan for:
- Camping permits are separate; book them early.
- No valid car insurance? You will need rental coverage.
✈️ Free Airport Shuttle — 3-night min
🌎 Clean Ocean Program — $20/lb beach plastic
Available Add-Ons
🎥 GoPro 🏄 Surfboard 🎸 Ukulele 🛌 Hammock 🛌 Extra bedding kit (for 2) 🌞 Solar lantern
TESTIMONIALS
Our Happy Clients!
Exploring Kauai with a rooftop camper is a fun and unique way to explore this beautiful island! Our family of 4 spent 12 fabulous days exploring and camping. The extra tent with the rooftop provided plenty of space for us...we had an amazing time! All communication with Jonathan and Jamie was smooth and easy. They are lovely people who genuinely want to provide a great experience.
KatherineMinneapolis, MN
Jamie and Jonathan were excellent hosts! Even though they were on vacation, Jonathan made all accommodations very easy and helped us with every step. Note: if you are under 25, make sure to let them know to make sure you are covered by insurance! Jonathan helped us work it out and we had a great time
DuncanLos Angeles, CA
Jamie and Jonathan are by far the very best experience with Airbnb we have ever had. Truly generous human beings with big hearts. They provided wonderful suggestions, amenities, and a wonderful 5 star experience. We will certainly rent again. For our first experience in Hawaii, they made sure it was second to none. If you're coming to Hawaii to truly experience nature and looking for a 'no nonsense' and easy process to explore the island the way it was meant to be, you could not attain better hosts.
ZackSeymour, TN
We had such an amazing trip with Jamie’s camper! Jamie and Jonathan were both so kind and took their time to explain to us the ins and out of our camper. Communication was easy and the beaches they recommend we visit were like paradise! Will rent again from them when we come back for sure!
CaitlinFairfield, IA
The BEST way to experience the beautiful garden island! Not only a great service--transportation doubling as your lodging--but wonderful and warm hosts. Jonathan and Jamie were so kind and helpful. An absolutely wonderful trip to Kauai--thank you both!
LaniPortland, OR
The Garden Isle
Camping in Kaua'i with Kauai Rooftop Campers
Welcome to Kauai Rooftop Campers, a family-owned 4x4 rooftop camper rental company on the Garden Isle. We help travelers experience Kaua'i's stunning beaches, tropical rainforests, dramatic cliffs, pristine waterfalls, rich culture, hiking, surfing, camping, sun, and fun with fully equipped rooftop campers and local guidance.
Join our ohana
With so much to see and do on Kaua'i, you could easily spend a lifetime exploring the island. We give guests local tips and tricks from our family to yours, so you can make the most of your stay, understand where camping is allowed, and spend less time guessing what to bring or where to go.
An experience of a lifetime
Kauai Rooftop Campers provides a unique way to experience Kaua'i's breathtaking landscapes, from pristine beaches and lush rainforests to dramatic cliffs and enchanting waterfalls. With our well-equipped 4x4 camp cars, rooftop tents, ground tents, and camping gear, you get a flexible, road-ready basecamp while our local team helps you understand where to drive, camp, and explore responsibly.
All-inclusive camping packages
We understand that your time on the island is precious. That is why every rental is packed before handoff with an all-inclusive, ready-to-go camping setup, so you do not need to waste your first day buying bulky gear.
- Fresh coffee and French press
- Pancake mix
- Snorkel sets and beach basics
- Ice chest and water jug
- Kauai Ultimate Guidebook
- Comprehensive camping gear: headlamps, solar lamps, camp chairs, tents, cooking equipment, and more
Clean Ocean Program
During your trip, collect beach plastic and bring it back with the rig. We pay $20 per pound, up to 2 pounds per booking, as part of our Clean Ocean Program. It is a simple way for guests to leave Kauai cleaner than they found it and for KRC to give back to the community.
Why choose us for camping in Kaua'i?
- Best Price Guarantee. We promise competitive rates on the island. If you find a lower price for the same vehicle and dates, ask us and we will review it.
- Flexibility. Enjoy flexible cancellations and options for early check-in, late returns, and additional amenities when available.
- Experience and expertise. As Kaua'i's original camper business, we have helped thousands of guests plan trips around camping permits, local routes, airport timing, and where rooftop tents are allowed.
- Family-owned support. Call us and you get real local help from our family, right here on Kauaʻi.
Additional services and add-ons
Apart from camping equipment and advanced camp cars, we offer additional services and add-ons such as airport rides, surfboards, GoPro rentals, ukuleles, comfy hammocks, inflatable mattresses, extra bedding, and more. Explore our options and tailor your camping experience to fit your needs.
What you will need to get started with us
- Valid driver's license
- Drivers are generally 25 years old or older, with case-by-case options for younger renters
- Proof of car insurance or one of our available third-party rental insurance options
- Passport for international campers
- Necessary camping permits for county, state, or private campgrounds
Aloha support, handled by locals
We will handle the details so your Kauai camping trip feels easy from the first call to the final drop-off. Ask us about routes, camping permits, add-ons, airport rides, and what to bring before you reserve your camper.
Book your Kauai adventure today
We offer more than standard tent camping. We offer a comfortable, convenient way to explore Kaua'i with 4x4 rooftop campers, local support, and the island's natural wonders built into the experience. Let us help make your dream Kauai adventure vacation come alive, without the guesswork. Pick your dates above to check availability, or contact us with questions before you reserve your camper.
Drop the Routine. Explore. Swim. Relax. Repeat.
Not sure where you’ll camp? We’ve got you.
Every legal campsite on Kauai is a county park, a state park, or a private campground — there’s no legal free camping, and “where will we actually sleep?” is the #1 question we get before booking. It’s also the easiest part of your trip once you know the system: permits are cheap, and we sort your campsites with you before you land.
- County beach parks — oceanfront camping, $3 per adult per night for visitors (kids under 18 free). Rooftop tents aren’t allowed at county campgrounds — the ground tent included with every rental has you covered.
- State parks — reserved through the state portal; rooftop tents are generally tolerated. (Heads-up: Kōkeʻe’s campground is closed for improvements until around Spring 2027.)
- Private campgrounds — Kumu Camp (our partner, in Anahola), Camp Naue YMCA, and Camp Sloggett all welcome rooftop tents. Most of the time we can get you a spot at Kumu Camp even when it looks fully booked online.
Got Questions?
Everything You Need to Know
Real answers from real guests. If you don't find what you're looking for, we're just a call or message away.
No, we don't, unless you are booking insurance through us.
We normally set a minimum of two nights for a booking. However, let us know your preferred arrangements, and we can try to accommodate to suit your needs.
Readjusting your booking dates is possible. On our end, it is generally easier to add a day or two than it is to reduce the number of days, as it may be difficult for us to rebook those dates at that time.
We try to work with clients who are twenty-five years and older. However, depending on your circumstances, we may be able to work with you.
If you are younger than twenty-five, try checking with your insurer to see if you would be covered for rental vehicles first.
If you are younger than twenty-five, try checking with your insurer to see if you would be covered for rental vehicles first.
We love to stay in touch! You can easily send us a message or call us at 808-500-6574. For more contact information please visit our Contact Us page. We're also on Instagram.
We are located at:
Anahola Marketplace
4523 Ioane Rd, A-2
Anahola, Kauai, Hawaii 96703
Anahola Marketplace
4523 Ioane Rd, A-2
Anahola, Kauai, Hawaii 96703
Guests normally check-in at 3 pm, but feel free to let us know the time best for you. We are happy to accommodate your travel schedule when we can.
There are a few ways to get to us from the Lihue airport:
- KRC pickup ($85): Keep an eye on promotions — we often offer free pick ups and drop offs. Otherwise, we can have you picked up by one of our drivers directly for a flat fee of $85. We then drive back to our location and you're good to go.
- Uber (~$40): Take an Uber to the pick up location. The cost is variable, but is likely around $40 to our office.
- Kauai Bus ($2): Take the Kauai Bus to the Anahola bus station, which is the nearest stop. Timings are not always regular, so be sure to check the bus schedule.
The vehicle cannot be picked up or left at the airport. However, we offer a personal airport shuttle service — we'll pick you up at Lihue Airport and drive you to our shop, and at the end of your trip, we'll drive you back to the airport after you return the vehicle to us. The shuttle is $85 each way. Bookings of 3+ nights often qualify for a free shuttle — check our current promotions.
Unless you book with a free pick up and drop off promotion, it is $85 each way.
You can easily reserve a pick up/drop off later, after your initial booking, by simply sending us a message. If you decide to cancel your pick up at a later time, we will refund you the full amount, no questions asked, as long as it is at least 24 hours before your ride.
The rooftop tent sleeps 2 comfortably, and we also include a ground tent that sleeps comfortably 2 or 3. With an extra tent add-on, we can fit up to 5 people. The vehicle seats 4 passengers.
Please note that our standard setup gear (bedding, kitchen kit, etc.) is made for two people. If your group is larger, let us know in advance so we can prepare accordingly. You can add an extra bedding kit at checkout to cover two additional guests.
Please note that our standard setup gear (bedding, kitchen kit, etc.) is made for two people. If your group is larger, let us know in advance so we can prepare accordingly. You can add an extra bedding kit at checkout to cover two additional guests.
Every Kauai rooftop camper rental comes loaded with the essentials: rooftop tent, ground tent, ladder, bedding, pillows, towels, camp kitchen kit, double burner propane stove, propane canisters, cookware, plates, bowls, cups, silverware, fresh coffee, pancake mix, ice chest, 6-gallon water jug, first aid kit, flashlight, headlamp, power inverter, phone holder, snorkel sets, table, chairs, island guidebook, and personal concierge tips.
The goal is simple: you should be able to land on Kauai, get your 4x4 rooftop camper, stop for groceries, and head toward your first campsite without needing to buy a full camping setup.
The goal is simple: you should be able to land on Kauai, get your 4x4 rooftop camper, stop for groceries, and head toward your first campsite without needing to buy a full camping setup.
Bring your clothes, driver's license, personal toiletries, reef-safe sunscreen, and any personal adventure gear you prefer. We provide the main camping setup, kitchen gear, beach basics, snorkel sets, towels, bedding, and Kauai guidebook, so you do not need to pack bulky camping equipment for your trip. You'll just have to get groceries once you get here!
Yes! With the rooftop camper, you would need to climb up a small ladder. If this is an issue, we also offer an extra tent you can set up on the ground. This may be more comfortable for both you and your kids.
It's easy! Here is a video you can check out in advance, giving you all you'll need to know in order to set up the tent. Watch the video here
Yes, sleeping in the tent is very comfortable! The tent is quite cozy and spacious, and includes a plushy, three-inch memory foam mat. You'll be right at home!
Yes, we offer surfboards and fins upon request for a small fee. Simply let us know in advance if you would like to use them, so we can prepare them for you. Just make sure to return them after use.
As long as you have a copy of your driver's license, physical or digital, you are good to go! Upon booking, you can provide us with the copy and a photo ID.
Yes, we will give you an extensive guide map of the best spots to visit and camp out in Kauai.
You can drive around Kauai on paved roads wherever you want, however, you can only set up camp in designated sites. This is the usual practice here. We will provide you with a list of the best places to visit and to camp in.
No, wild camping is not allowed in Kaua'i. You may only camp in designated areas with secured camping permits. The cost for permits ranges from $3 to $35 per person. All campgrounds give you access to amenities, such as showers, bathrooms, and picnic tables in each park.
Open
Polihale State Park
Rooftop tent tolerated End of five-mile long dirt road from Mana Village, off Kaumuali'i Highway (Highway 50), Waimea, HI 96766
Camping permit required · Make a reservation online
Camping permit required · Make a reservation online
Temporarily closed due to renovations until early 2027
Kōkeʻe State Park
Kokee Rd, Hwy 550, Kekaha, HI 96752
Camping permit required · Make a reservation online
Camping permit required · Make a reservation online
Rooftop tent allowed
Kumu Camp: Anahola Beach Retreat
4275 Poha Rd, Anahola, HI 96703
Call to make reservation: 808-631-9082
Call to make reservation: 808-631-9082
Rooftop tent allowed
Camp Nau'e YMCA
7420 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei, Kauai, HI 96714
Call to make reservation: 808-826-6419
Call to make reservation: 808-826-6419
Rooftop tent not allowed
Anini Beach Park
Anini Beach Road, Kilauea, HI 96754
County camping permit required · Book on the county website
County camping permit required · Book on the county website
It is a good idea to obtain your camping permits before your trip. You can request permits by visiting the County of Kaua'i Camping Information page online. There you can download the application to print, fill out, and send in to reserve your permit.
In advance, the fees are $3 per night for nonresidents of Hawaii. Accepted payment methods are cashier's checks and money orders.
However, it is not absolutely necessary to reserve your camping permits before your arrival. You can also obtain them at the various permit offices on the island:
Lihu'e Area
Lihu'e Civic Center, 4444 Rice Street, Pi'ikoi Building Lobby
Ph: 808-241-6858 · Mon–Fri: 8:00 am – 4:00 pm (closed 12:00–1:00 pm for lunch)
South / West Side
Kalaheo Neighborhood Center, 4480 Papalina Road, Kalaheo
Ph: 808-332-9770 · Mon–Fri: 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Hanapepe Neighborhood Center, 4451 Puolo Road, Hanapepe
Ph: 808-335-3731 · Mon–Fri: 8:00 am – 12:00 pm
East / North Side
Kapa'a Neighborhood Center, 4491 Kou Street, Kapaa
Ph: 808-822-1931 · Mon, Wed, Fri: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm / Tue, Thu: 8:00 am – 12:00 pm
Hanalei Neighborhood Center, 5-5358 Kuhio Highway, Hanalei
Ph: 808-826-5153 · Mon–Fri: 10:00 am – 1:00 pm, 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm
In advance, the fees are $3 per night for nonresidents of Hawaii. Accepted payment methods are cashier's checks and money orders.
However, it is not absolutely necessary to reserve your camping permits before your arrival. You can also obtain them at the various permit offices on the island:
Lihu'e Area
Lihu'e Civic Center, 4444 Rice Street, Pi'ikoi Building Lobby
Ph: 808-241-6858 · Mon–Fri: 8:00 am – 4:00 pm (closed 12:00–1:00 pm for lunch)
South / West Side
Kalaheo Neighborhood Center, 4480 Papalina Road, Kalaheo
Ph: 808-332-9770 · Mon–Fri: 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Hanapepe Neighborhood Center, 4451 Puolo Road, Hanapepe
Ph: 808-335-3731 · Mon–Fri: 8:00 am – 12:00 pm
East / North Side
Kapa'a Neighborhood Center, 4491 Kou Street, Kapaa
Ph: 808-822-1931 · Mon, Wed, Fri: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm / Tue, Thu: 8:00 am – 12:00 pm
Hanalei Neighborhood Center, 5-5358 Kuhio Highway, Hanalei
Ph: 808-826-5153 · Mon–Fri: 10:00 am – 1:00 pm, 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Our rental insurance includes three protection packages you can choose from to get the coverage you need. You will just need to sign a separate agreement upon booking. Ask us and we will send you a quote from a third party insurer.
These packages do have a deductible, that is often $1,000 in the case that something happens. This is standard in the United States. If you are not from the US, you can still apply for the insurance using your driver's license.
These packages do have a deductible, that is often $1,000 in the case that something happens. This is standard in the United States. If you are not from the US, you can still apply for the insurance using your driver's license.
The Hawaii State Rental Motor Vehicle Surcharge Tax is for rentals to drivers without a valid Hawaii driver's license. If this applies to you, you will need to pay the surcharge — it is currently $7.50 per day. Note that this rate is set by the state and may change periodically.
Yes, we do offer late drop-offs or early departures, $65 on a case by case basis.