The ocean race is back!!!! We're stoked to have brought back a world-class race to Santa Cruz and the Paddlefest. We welcomed a diverse international field of SUP, Prone, OC1, and Surfski racers on Saturday morning, March 28th, at Cowell's Beach. The race sold out in 2026, with a 100-competitor cap.

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 take on a 4.5-mile course with a beach start and beach finish, while OC1 and surfski competitors will race a longer 7.5-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