New Launch Site Rules!
We worked hard to update Santa Cruz Paddlefest’s launching regulations and we are happy to bring you some exciting news!
Kayak Launching Regulations
In the past the event has only allowed Kayaks to launch off of Cowells Beach. This year (NEW TO THE EVENT) Kayaks will be allowed to launch off of any sand beach (that is not dog beach) at the discretion of the lifeguard staff.
What this means is during low tide Kayaks will be able to launch from the beaches that pop up by the staircases as long as the lifeguard staff feel it to be within their safety limits. It also means that Kayaks will have to continue to launch from Cowells Beach during high tides. Kayaks will not be allowed to launch off any staircases for safety concerns.
SUP Launching Reulations
Historically SUP were only allowed to launch from Cowells as well. We thought that was silly and worked with the city for a solution. SUP’s will now be allowed to launch from any public access point at the discretion of the lifeguard staff (except dog beach).
What this means is that as long as the stairways appear to have reasonable safe entry and the lifeguard staff are comfortable with the entry and exit of SUPs, they will be allowed to launch from the stairways.
A couple of Reminders
- No competitor may enter the water from the cliff.
- No competitor may enter the water from Dog Beach
- Any competitor that disrupts competition while entering the water WILL face an interference call.
- The lifeguard staff have the final say. Anyone caught disobeying their wishes will face a DQ.
