2026 Kukio Blue Water Swim

The Kuki’o Blue Water Swim, set to take place on Saturday, September 19th, 2026, marks the grand return of this beloved annual event for its nineteenth year. Competitors will embark on a challenging yet rewarding journey through crystal-clear waters as they swim from Kua Bay to Uluweuweu Bay at Kuki’o over a distance of 1.2 miles.
Participants can look forward to an invigorating morning with early check-in starting at 6:30 AM, followed by body marking and mandatory pre-race meetings until the official start time of 8:00 AM from Kua Bay. Race day activities conclude around noon when swimmers cross the finish line on Kukio Beach for a well-deserved breakfast and awards ceremony at picturesque Kikaua Lawn.
Registration fees are $60, which includes a competitor shirt and swim cap. An additional Assist Division is available for those who wish to use fins (excluding mono fins) or snorkels while swimming; this division also comes with the same benefits as the Open Division but does not affect overall rankings due to competitive fairness guidelines. Note that post-August 20th registrants may face limited shirt size availability and women's and children’s sizes will no longer be provided.
Safety is paramount for all participants, so race officials reserve the right to cancel or alter event conditions based on weather or ocean safety concerns. In such cases, entry fees remain non-refundable as a precautionary measure to ensure financial stability during unexpected circumstances.
Race day logistics require all vehicles to park at Kukio starting from 6:00 AM and walking approximately 15-20 minutes to the registration area near Kua Bay. Swimmers are advised to bring only essential items for their swim, with a provided gear bag available upon check-in that must be used exclusively during the event.
Awards will celebrate individual achievements across various age categories, recognizing both male and female top three finishers in each division alongside overall winners for men and women. It’s important to note that swimmers utilizing fins or snorkels are acknowledged but do not qualify for these awards; their times are recorded under the Assist Division.
This event is more than just a competition—it fosters community spirit, promotes an active lifestyle amidst breathtaking scenery, and ensures every participant enjoys a memorable experience on this special day.