Experience Open Water

Our Events

A great way to participate in our efforts to create a community of supporters. Our regional events are always aligned with national events that support and honor our First Responders and Veterans.

Upcoming Social Events

Thank you to everyone who joined us for our social events this year — your enthusiasm and support made the season genuinely special! Social events for individual crafts will return in March, and we’re already excited to bring everyone back together. In the meantime, stay tuned for details on upcoming outrigger canoe social events happening this winter!

Wild Buffalo Relay

The OpenWater Women’s Team paddles each spring from Avalon Harbor on Catalina Island to the Newport Aquatic Center. This program brings together incredible women who are first responders, veterans, spouses, and community advocates. Check out our 2026 video recap to hear how this program has impacted the women on the team. 

Memorial Day Paddle Race

On Memorial Day, Newport Aquatic Center (NAC) x OpenWater have come together to support the health and wellness of every first responder, veteran, active military, and their families.  

9/11
Honor Challenge

Our purpose and intention is to honor the men and women who lost their lives in the attacks on September 11, 2001 through a meaningful set of exercise and time with our community. 

Veterans Day
Channel Crossing

This crossing is how we honor Veterans Day and continue to bring awareness to the mental health issues faced by our Nation’s Veterans and First Responders. Watch our 2025 video to see the impact of this epic program.

The 9/11 Honor Challenge
presented by Crown Ace Hardware

We’re stoked to share highlights from the 2025 9/11 Honor Challenge.

We are grateful for the support of our community and sponsors – 6 years and counting!

Volunteer for an event!

1.

Please Fill The Form

We will need your information to properly get in touch with you later.

2.

Setup Introduction

We love to get aquatinted with our participants and community. We will schedul an introduciton with you so that we can learn abotu how you want to get involved.

We are grateful for your interest and look forward to connecting!