About

Na Pali Race is a Stand Up Paddleboard, Prone Paddleboard, Foil, OC-1, OC-2, Surfski, and Holupuni Sailing Canoe race from Haena Beach Park, along Na Pali Coast, finishing at Polihale State Beach Park, Kauai, Hawaii. The Na Pali Race is an unforgettable paddling experience where this unique venue can be the ultimate downwind run, offering amazing mountain backdrops, waterfalls, caves, cliffs, and crystal clear waters. From start to finish the course is approximately 17 miles. The Na Pali Race is designed to be an elite paddleboard race and charity event, where “Paddle for the Pali” is an encouraged fundraising effort aspect of the event, as well as setting the stage for the worlds best to compete for grand prizes and recognition.

Na Pali Coast is one of the most beautiful places in the world. As an event we like to promote the cultural and natural heritage of this special place and inspire people around Hawaii and throughout the world to be appreciative of the environment, history, and culture of indigenous peoples. “Paddle for the Pali” means a portion of event proceeds and sponsorships will benefit the Na Pali Coast ‘Ohana, a grassroots non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation of the natural and cultural resources of the Na Pali Coast State Park, Kaua’i, Hawai’i. Each year $10 from each entry fee as well as any monies raised during the event for the donation drawing are given to support the efforts of the Na Pali Coast ‘Ohana. To learn more about the ‘Ohana please visit Napali.org.

Suggested donation to Na Pali Coast ‘Ohana is $20. For each $5 contributed donation you will receive one donation drawing ticket. For every $20 worth of tickets you will receive 5 tickets. Donation drawing tickets can also be purchased separately.

There are awards for top finishers in all categories grass roots style.

This is an inclusive race also inviting other craft to “Paddle for the Pali” in fun run style divisions, but event priorities are most focused on SUP, Paddleboard, and OC-1 participants depending on amount of entrants.

Na Pali Coast is known to have strong currents, strong winds, and dangerous ocean conditions. The coastline is only accessible by boat or helicopter for a rescue. There is no cell phone service along the coastline and the start and finish line beach areas have spotty cellular service at best. Paddlers must have both ocean and paddleboard experience to participate in the Na Pali Race.

Safety will be enhanced by having certified water patrol lifeguards along the course for the duration of the event who can be of service in case of any emergencies as well as a limited amount of escort boats overseeing the course. Haena County Park (start line) has lifeguards as well.

Although we provide escort boats for the event, we do not offer individual one to one attention unless there is an emergency. Contestants are highly encouraged to have their own escort boats and safety plan in place. The boats are merely for spotting support and it is in your best interest to hire your own escort boat, especially if you want refreshments, one-to-one support, and guidance during the race. Safety of all participants is the number one priority for this event and we strongly encourage each participant to have solid equipment, a leash, and a back up plan in order in case of emergency. All escort boat captains must understand the course, be on the same page for safety plans, sign waiver, and agree to rules of the event. There will also be a briefing for boat captains prior to the event.

Na Pali Race is one special day of the year where paddle enthusiasts can get together and enjoy the coastline and have a great day on the water.

 

1 Comment

  • steve cole

    Evan, I was about to sign up for the race and wanted to know how to make a donation to Tyrus… is it included in the registration? or a place where it can be noted?
    Thanks,
    Steve

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