The Great Canoe Races of Naples

This year’s theme asked a simple question: what do the legends of Southwest Florida look like to you?

The answer showed up everywhere: in costumes on the water, hand-built vessels, decorated boats, and racers fully embracing pirates, sea creatures, coastal folklore, and everything in between. Even the stage spaces carried the same spirit of storytelling and imagination.

What we saw wasn’t just a race — it was Naples bringing its own version of Gulf Coast Legends to life.

As the Canoe Races have evolved, we're proud to feature Naples businesses and community partners all in one place.

From small local makers to established Greater Naples businesses, it gave guests a chance to explore and connect between heats.

Thank you again our vendors for being part of the 2026 Great Canoe Races and helping make the full Race Day experience possible.

So, where did you watch? Swipe for ideas for next year!

From the bridge to boats, the docks to shady park spots, y'all found your own vantages point to catch every heat despite the heat.

We saw plenty of creativity: tents, chairs, umbrellas, bikes, skateboards, and everything in between — all helping y'all stay cool.

The Canoe Races is at its best when the community makes it their own. We can’t wait to see how you show up next year.

How did you stay refreshed at Race Day?

From food trucks to drink tents, Baker Park stayed fueled all day long during the heat.

This year's Canoe Race had more food and beverage partners than ever before — all local businesses keeping spectators and racers fueled between heats.

Find the vendors who helped keep you going, so you can follow and support them year-round.

This year's Canoe Races featured four local bands bringing nonstop music from the first heats to the final celebration.

Something new: live, stageside art from .papa.art Guests could watch creativity unfold in real time and even take part in the experience as it came to life.

From music to murals, this was one of the most vibrant parts of Race Day — and it was all powered by local talent. More than ever, this event felt like Naples showing up for post season celebration.

Thank you Moonstone Riders for giving the Canoe Races a locals-only soundtrack!

Race Day wasn’t just on the water — more than 50 local businesses from across Greater Naples helped bring Baker Park to life. Showcasing products and services with giveaways and games all day long.

Vendor Village was a reminder of how much Naples has to offer all year round. We’re grateful to every business that participated. This event wouldn’t be possible without your partnership!

📸 Practically Professional Heat Recap 🛶

The Pro Canoe Heat is the kind of intensity, competition, and controlled chaos this tradition is known for. Fast lines, close finishes, and just enough friendly rivalry makes this the most competitive heat of the day.

One memorable moment: a returning K9 champion from last year’s Amateur Heat showed up in the helm. No repeat win this time, but definitely a crowd favorite.

Congrats and thank you to our Pro Racers for keeping this thrilling heat's spirit going strong!

📸 Scroll for Kayak Race Pics 🛶

One of the newest additions to schedule, this heats of single-person vessels requires speed, control, and endurance from start to finish.

From Amateurs finding their line to Pros pushing the pace, this heat delivered nonstop action right under the bridge.

A fast and focused part of Race Day. We’re proud to see it growing every year.

Congratulations and thank you to all kayak racers for an incredible showing on the Gordon River!

📸 Paddleboard Photos Are Here 🏄‍♂️🛶

These heats kicked us off and set the tone for fun on the Gordon River. From Amateurs finding their rhythm to the Pros pushing speed and strategy around the course.

Our most memorable moment? One racer brought their dog along for the ride, making for a few extra cheers from the bridge.

Congrats and thank you to all paddleboard racers for starting the day off strong.