The Channel Islands Harbor is turning 60 this year, and we’re celebrating with a variety of fun, community-focused events all year long. One of the highlights is the First Annual Kayak & Paddleboard Poker Run, hosted by the Anacapa Yacht Club – and everyone’s invited to take part!

This family-friendly event welcomes kayakers and paddleboarders of all skill levels to enjoy a playful morning on the water.

What is a Poker Run?

A poker run is a fun, non-competitive event where participants stop at designated checkpoints to collect playing cards. At the end of the route, the person with the best poker hand wins a prize – no paddling speed required! All human-powered vessels are welcome!

The poker run starts at 9 a.m. on Saturday, August 16th from the Channel Islands Harbor Public Launch Ramp (pictured below) and finishes at the Anacapa Yacht Club!

Paddle a scenic course, collect your cards, and wrap up the day with a BBQ lunch at Anacapa Yacht Club, followed by a prize ceremony celebrating the best (and worst) hands.

Register today and help us kick off what’s sure to become a new favorite harbor tradition.

Event Details:

Location: Channel Islands Harbor
Date: Saturday, August 16, 2025
Start Time: 9 a.m.
Cost (lunch included): $25 for adults, $10 for children 14 and under

Registration fees go directly toward your lunch and prize packages, so your participation helps support the fun.

Need Equipment?

If you don’t own a kayak or paddleboard, don’t worry – there are several ways to get on the water.

Hopper Boat Rentals and Channel Islands Kayak Center both offer rentals within the harbor. Channel Islands Kayak Center and Hopper Boat Rentals will offer a $5/hour discount on single and tandem kayaks. That equates to $10/hour for single kayak and $20/hour for a tandem for this event. We recommend booking kayaks in advance.

 

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The Anacapa Yacht Club also has a limited number of kayaks available for use on a first-come, first-served basis. Please email anacapapokerrun@gmail.com for more information.

Why Join the Poker Run?

• Open to all skill levels
• Family-friendly and community-focused
• A creative way to explore the harbor
• A chance to win great prizes
• Celebrate the harbor’s 60th anniversary with a brand-new tradition
• Receive Harbor swag with registration!

Grab your friends, your paddle, and join us for a memorable day on the water.

Register today and help us kick off what’s sure to become a new favorite harbor tradition.

For more anniversary events and updates, visit our event calendar or follow us on social media.