Camp Erdman Beach

Camp Erdman Beach, Oahu

Located on Oahu's northwestern shore, Camp Erdman is a long white-sand beach that marks the end of Farrington Highway.Just beyond this beach, the highway turns into a dirt road. The beach is named after Harold R. Erdman (1905-1931). The camp is mainly used as a summer camp for children and year-round for retreats and workshops.

In 1926, the YMCA leased these 10 beachfront acres from Walter Dillingham and built this camp on it. Walter Dillingham was the uncle of Harold R. Erdman, who died in a horseback riding accident in 1931. After his death, his mother Marion Dillingham Erdman requested that the camp be named in memory of her son.

Key Features

Remote setting: Quiet northwestern Oahu beach near the end of Farrington Highway

White sand: Long shoreline with pale sand, coastal plants and open ocean views

YMCA camp: Adjacent to the historic Camp H.R. Erdman property

Scenic coast: Waianae Mountain backdrop, lava rocks and rugged shoreline views

No lifeguards: Remote beach conditions require extra caution

Limited facilities: Bring water, sun protection and supplies for the day

Seasonal surf: Winter waves can be large and dangerous

Best for: Scenic walks, fishing, photography, solitude and experienced surfers

Ocean safety: Check surf and currents before entering the water

Facilities

Parking

No facilities

No lifeguards

Activities

Surfing

Fishing

Plan Your Visit

Camp Erdman Beach is best for scenic shoreline walks, fishing, photography and a quiet northwest Oahu stop. Bring water, sun protection and supplies, since facilities are very limited, and avoid entering the ocean when surf or currents are strong.

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Visitor Reviews

Reviews and Ratings

2.5

Rated 2.5 out of 5 based on 2 rated visitor reviews.

Add Your Review

Nathaniel Takao

Thu Oct 07, 2021

Due to liability campers are not allowed to swim on the beach

Nathan

Thu Oct 07, 2021

The beach is good but campers are not allowed on the beach due to liability or sometimes we are low on lifeguards.

Photo gallery

Camp Erdman Beach Photos

Browse Camp Erdman Beach photos featuring azure blue water, long white sand shoreline, beach naupaka, black lava rocks, uncrowded beach scenery and views along Oahu's northwestern shore.

Location, Parking and Directions

Camp Erdman Beach is located near 69-385 Farrington Highway in Waialua on Oahu's northwestern shore, close to the end of the paved portion of Farrington Highway before the road continues toward Kaena Point. Parking is limited and the area is remote, so arrive prepared with water, sun protection and current ocean-condition information.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Camp Erdman Beach located?

Camp Erdman Beach is located near 69-385 Farrington Highway in Waialua on Oahu's northwestern shore, close to the end of the paved road before the route toward Kaena Point.

Is Camp Erdman Beach good for swimming?

Camp Erdman Beach is not a beginner-friendly swimming beach. There are no lifeguards, and surf, currents, reef and rocks can make conditions unsafe. Only consider entering the water when the ocean is very calm and after checking current conditions.

Are there facilities at Camp Erdman Beach?

Facilities are very limited. The beach has parking nearby, but visitors should not expect restrooms, showers or lifeguards. Bring water, sun protection and any supplies you need.

Can you surf at Camp Erdman Beach?

Experienced surfers may use nearby breaks when conditions are right, but this remote coastline is not suitable for beginners. Winter surf can be large and dangerous.

What is Camp Erdman?

Camp H.R. Erdman is a YMCA camp and retreat facility located next to this stretch of coastline. The beach area is known for its remote white sand, scenic shoreline and proximity to the Kaena Point area.