World’s Largest Long Distance Outrigger Canoe Race

Big Island • March 8, 2017

The 2017 Queen Lili‘uokalani Long Distance Canoe Race, the world’s largest long distance outrigger canoe race, welcomes paddlers from around the world to its starting line for five days of exciting canoe racing.

As the State’s Official Team Sport, outrigger canoe racing is a significant and fundamental Hawaiian cultural event in Hawaii. Kona’s place in canoe regatta history is unrivaled and for the last four decades, the Queen Lili‘uokalani Long Distance Canoe Races has continued to share Hawaiian culture through the sport of outrigger canoe racing with the world.

Queen’s Race participants are immersed in culture and history, including the spectator-friendly signature18-mile race on Saturday that follows a historically and culturally significant course running between Kamakahonu Bay, a National Historic Site and Pu‘uhonua O Honaunau National Historic Park. 

Other Queen’s Race cultural events include a Historic Walking Tour through Historic Kailua Village, multi-day Hawaiian Cultural Fair, International Paddlers Night, Paddling Talk Story, Torch Light Parade, and a traditional Hawaiian Luau.

The 2017 Queen Lili’uokalani Long Distance Outrigger Canoe Races are sponsored in part by the Hawaii Tourism Authority, Queen K 76, Corona, OluKai, Ocean Paddler Television, King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel, Hulakai and numerous corporate and community donors.

Thursday, August 31 through Monday, September 4, 2017 – Long distance race: September 2, 2017

  • Organizer:  Queen Lili‘uokalani Long Distance Canoe Races
  • Phone:   808-937-3255
  • Website:   http://www.kaiopua.org
  • Address:  Post Office Box 3079 , Kailua-Kona, HI, 96745
By Cheryl Lee August 29, 2025
Whether you prefer sit-down with a view or a quick bite, we offer choices based on cuisine, ambiance and location.
By Cheryl Lee August 29, 2025
Get out and explore! All points of interest contain This Week Map coordinates and are free unless noted.
By Cheryl Lee August 29, 2025
Treat yourself and your loved ones with a special gift from the Big Island. Below are some local retailers offering unique island finds.
By Cheryl Lee August 29, 2025
Makalei Golf Clulb is an upland course in Kailua-Kona with staggering views and challenging holes-so much you'll forget your handicap and just relish the stunning scenery.
Hawaii’s diverse national parks, from volcanic craters and sacred coastal sites to historic landmark
By Cheryl Lee August 9, 2025
Plan your visit to Hawaii’s national parks with tips on history, best times, fees, and must-see attractions across the islands.
By Cheryl Lee July 18, 2025
Isle of windswept beaches, no traffic lights
By Cheryl Lee July 18, 2025
Residents of the Valley Isle say “Maui no ka oi,” meaning “Maui is the best!” It could be because of the long stretches of white sand beaches …or the idyllic offshore views of neighboring Lana‘i, Kaho‘olawe, Moloka‘i and the tiny islet of Molokini.
a big dark storm rolling in off the shore of waimea hawaii
By Gavin Hillman June 23, 2025
Many wonder if Hawaii has a dangerous hurricane season - and generally no, they don't. This guide goes over everything you should know about hurricanes in Hawaii.
By Gavin Hillman June 17, 2025
If you're planning a trip to Oahu, there's one thing you absolutely can't miss — the beaches. Oahu is home to some of the most famous and diverse coastlines in the world. Whether you want to snorkel with tropical fish, surf world-class waves, take long walks on soft sand, or simply relax under the sun, there's a beach on Oahu for you. In this guide, we'll take you through the top beaches to visit on Oahu , what makes each one special, and tips for getting the most out of your beach days.
By Gavin Hillman June 17, 2025
Hawai‘i’s breathtaking beaches, lush rainforests, and rich cultural traditions make it one of the most sought-after vacation destinations in the world. But before you pack your bags and book that long-awaited trip, it’s essential to understand the current travel requirements and restrictions for visiting the Hawaiian Islands. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about traveling to Hawaii in 2025, including passport and ID rules, airline requirements, health-related protocols, inter-island travel, and tips for a stress-free island getaway.