It’s Time to Race for the Reef and Support the conservation of West Hawaii Reefs

I have to be honest with you — every year when we start planning Race for the Reef, I think to myself, “How do we top last year?” Well, this year, we are going OFFICIAL with a timed 5k with a resource fair, too! 

This April 25th, we’re bringing the 4th Annual Race for the Reef to HOST Park at NELHA, and I could not be more fired up. If you’ve been part of my race before, it has been about 50 of us running down Alii Drive in an unsanctioned manner, but we have raised over $7000 to pay for the mineral sunscreen that is available for free to the public at the dispensers at Kahalu'u Bay. This year we are expanding to not only raise funds for the sunscreen, but also help two other marine non-profits, too and expanding the race to over 200 participants! 

Why This Race Matters to Kailua Kona 

Living in West Hawaii means we get to experience one of the most extraordinary marine ecosystems on the planet. But that privilege comes with responsibility. Our coral reefs are under real pressure — from rising water temperatures, from chemical sunscreen runoff, from development. These aren’t abstract problems. They’re happening right now, right here in the waters we swim, snorkel, and paddle in every day.

That’s why we created Race for the Reef — and why I’m so proud to watch it grow year after year. When you lace up your shoes and show up on April 25th, your entry fee goes directly to the organizations doing the hard, essential work of protecting and restoring what we love.

Your Registration Supports Three Incredible Organizations

Our 365 Hawaii Island Community Fund chose these partners because we believe deeply in what they do:

• The Kohala Center’s ReefTeach Mineral Sunscreen Dispenser Program — Getting reef-safe sunscreen into the hands of beachgoers is one of the simplest, most impactful things we can do. This program is making that happen.
• ʻĀkoʻakoʻa Coral Restoration Center — These folks are literally growing coral back. I mean, how cool is that? Active reef restoration right here on the Big Island.
• Ocean Defender’s Alliance — Education and advocacy for our marine environment. Because protecting the ocean isn’t just a science project — it’s a community effort.

Here’s What Race Day Looks Like

We kick off at 7:30 AM at HOST Park (NELHA) — a quiet, safe run to the ocean and back again. The setting alone is worth showing up for.

This is a 5K, which means it’s completely doable whether you’re a serious runner or someone who walks every step. I’ve seen first-timers cross that finish line with the biggest smiles. That’s what this event is all about.

On top of the run itself, you can expect:

• Gifts for every registered participant
• Over night stays in local hotels for top winners! 
• Prizes to be won in a 'Lucky Number Game"
• Marine science and ocean conservation education booths — come curious, leave inspired

Sign Up Now — Prices Go Up April 1st

Right now you can grab your spot for just $35 through March 31st. After that, registration goes up to $40. Don’t let a few dollars be the reason you miss this — register early and save!

Register here: https://runsignup.com/Race/HI/KailuaKona/RaceForTheReef

Whether you’re local, a visitor, a seasoned athlete, or someone who just wants to do something good for the ʻāina and the ocean — this race is for you. Come be part of something bigger than a 5K.

I’ll see you at the start line on April 25th. Let’s race for the reef together!

— Julie Ziemelis, Race Director