Oahu Beach Guide

Police Beach

Police Beach is a quiet North Shore beach near Haleiwa, with reefy water, surf scenery, fishing, beach walks and a low-key residential setting.

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Police Beach

Police Beach, Oahu

Police Beach is a quiet North Shore shoreline, even though it sits between better-known surfing beaches. It is not far from Haleiwa, but access is limited. The beach stretches from Papa'iloa Beach to Pua'ena Point Beach Park. Because the backshore is private property, most visitors reach Police Beach by walking along the shoreline from one of those nearby beaches. Episodes of the TV series LOST were filmed here.

The beach has sand in some areas, but much of the water's edge is covered by lava rock shelf. The ocean bottom offshore is rocky too, so this is not a swimming beach. Strong rip currents can also form, especially when the surf is up. Several surf spots are located offshore, and local fishermen sometimes come here for shoreline fishing.

This stretch of coast was leased by the Honolulu Police Relief Association in 1975 and used as a campsite for members of the Honolulu Police Department. That history is how Police Beach got its name.

Key Features

Quiet North Shore beach near Haleiwa and Waialua
Residential beach setting with limited public access points
Reefy water and changing seasonal surf conditions
No lifeguards at the beach
Popular for beach walks, fishing, surf watching and quiet scenery
Winter surf can be powerful along this coast
Sea turtles are sometimes seen along this North Shore stretch
Close to Papailoa Beach, Laniakea Beach, Kawailoa Beach and Chun's Reef
Not a developed beach park with full facilities
Park legally and do not block driveways, gates or private beach paths

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is it known as Police Beach?

Police Beach is a local nickname for this small North Shore beach area near Haleiwa. It is one of those beach names you are more likely to hear from residents or surfers than see on a big sign.

How is Police Beach different from Laniakea Beach?

Laniakea is the well-known turtle-viewing stop where many visitors pull over along the highway. Police Beach is usually quieter and more residential, with fewer quick-stop crowds and a more low-key beach-walk setting.

Is Police Beach a good swimming beach?

Usually no. Reef, rocks and changing North Shore surf make swimming limited, especially in winter. Most visits are better for walking, fishing, surf watching or quiet time on the sand.

Can you see turtles at Police Beach?

Sea turtles are sometimes seen along this North Shore stretch. If you see one, keep a respectful distance, do not block its path and never touch or feed it.

What should visitors know about access?

This is a residential beach area with limited public access points. Park only where allowed, stay on public routes and keep noise low around nearby homes.