Barking Sands Airport (IATA: BKH, ICAO: PHBK) serves Kekaha, US.
Traveler sentiment at Barking Sands Airport (PHBK (BKH)) is unique, primarily reflecting the experiences of military personnel, their families, and contractors who have access to this U.S. naval facility and its associated amenities. While not a typical commercial airport, those who can utilize the base often express satisfaction with the remote, scenic location and the available recreational facilities.
What Travelers Love
- Remote and Scenic Location: The airport and surrounding base offer stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and Kauai's rugged landscape. It's situated on the western coast, providing a private beach experience with incredible stargazing due to minimal light pollution.
- Proximity to Natural Attractions: Travelers appreciate its convenient access to popular nearby attractions such as Waimea Canyon and Kokee State Park.
- Affordable MWR Cabins: For those with access, the MWR Cabins are highly praised for being spacious, recently updated, and affordable, often including full kitchens, outdoor showers, and free Wi-Fi.
- On-Base Amenities: The base features a passenger terminal, a parking lot, and a fueling station at the airport. On-base, visitors can find a restaurant, Shenanigans, and a small NEX (Navy Exchange) for groceries.
- Cleanliness: The cabins are noted for having very clean bathrooms.
Common Complaints
- Restricted Access and Limited Public Services: As a military airfield, public access is private and requires prior permission, severely limiting typical commercial traveler experiences. There are no routine customs, agriculture, or immigration services for overseas arrivals, requiring significant advance notice and fees for special requests.
- Limited Airport Facilities: The airfield lacks some basic services found in commercial airports, such as air stairs, lavatory services, and flight planning services.
- Remote Location and Transportation Needs: Barking Sands is in a remote area, making a rental car essential for getting around. It's approximately a 45-minute drive from Lihue Airport (LIH), Kauai's main commercial airport.
- Difficult Cabin Booking: Booking the desirable MWR Cabins can be challenging due to a non-user-friendly online system that lacks a flexible calendar view.
- Environmental and Safety Considerations: Visitors are advised that swimming at nearby beaches may not be recommended due to strong currents. The airfield also has numerous unlit obstacles within safety zones and applies noise abatement procedures for surrounding sensitive areas.
Barking Sands Airport primarily serves military operations, and while it offers essential facilities for its intended users, it is not designed for routine public commercial travel. Those with authorized access, particularly military families utilizing the MWR cabins, generally find the location and its associated amenities to be a highly positive, affordable, and unique experience, despite the logistical challenges posed by its remote nature and military restrictions.
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Where is Barking Sands Airport located?
Barking Sands Airport is located in Kekaha, US, at an elevation of 23 ft. Its IATA code is BKH and ICAO code is PHBK.