The ocean race is back for 2026!!!! We're stoked to bring back a world-class race to Santa Cruz and the Paddlefest. We'll welcome SUP, Prone, OC1, and Surfski racers on Saturday morning, March 28th, at Cowell's Beach. Race is limited to first 100 competitors, so sign up now!

The ocean race brings true open-water racing back to the Santa Cruz Paddlefest, challenging paddlers to test their skill, endurance, and ocean awareness along the iconic Santa Cruz coastline.

SUP and prone paddlers will take on a 5-6 mile course with a beach start and beach finish, while OC1 and surfski competitors will race a longer 8–10 mile course with a water start, navigating real ocean conditions and dynamic coastal energy. Designed to reward smart racing, fitness, and ocean skills, the SCPF Race is a centerpiece event for paddlers ready to push themselves in classic Santa Cruz conditions.

Top 3 Finishers in each discipline, age group & gender will be awarded medals.

Candice Appleby, of Ocean Academy, is the 2026 Santa Cruz Paddlefest race director.

Disciplines: SUP 14’ & Under, Prone, SurfSki, OC1

Age Groups (Men & Women): Youth 17& Under, Open 18-39, Masters 40-49, Sr Masters: 50-59, Legends: 60+

Location: Cowell’s Beach

Saturday March 28th Race Schedule:

   7:00-8:15am Registration/Check-in

   8:15-8:30am Opening Ceremony

   8:30-8:45am Race Briefing (MANDATORY)

   9:00-9:10am Race Start(s)

   12:00-12:30pm Awards