HELLS BELLS 2026 PREVIEW → An Ocean Start, Hills & Plenty of Adventure

Plan B kayak at Hells Bells 2024 – let’s hope conditions allow for an epic ocean journey in 2026!

With 80+ teams already signed up, Hells Bells is shaping up for another big year on the Sunshine Coast.

And this year, we’re planning something a little different.

AN OCEAN START

Conditions permitting, Hells Bells will begin on the ocean.

There’s an island sitting just offshore that we’ve been looking at for years, waiting for the right race and the right opportunity to include it. This year, we’re hoping to finally make it happen.

Of course, the ocean will have the final say. We’ll make the call based on conditions closer to race day, but if everything lines up, expect a memorable start to 24 hours of racing.

WHAT TO EXPECT

From there, expect a proper Hells Bells course.

There’s a long bike leg with plenty of hills, some fantastic and challenging navigation, and a mix of familiar Hells Bells country and plenty of new trails.

Being based on the coast means there will be some urban travel along the way, but don't mistake that for an easy race. You’ll get wet. You’ll get muddy. And there’s plenty of proper adventure packed into the course.

You can expect fantastic paddling through the turquoise waterways surrounding Race HQ, some world-class mountain bike trails, and even a few opportunities to stop at a cafe along the way if you’re racing with the right priorities.

We’ve also found some excellent coastal trekking and coasteering that will give GeoQuest and Terra Nova down south a run for their money.

All up, it’s shaping up as a varied, challenging and very Sunshine Coast edition of Hells Bells.

CONDITIONS ARE LOOKING GOOD

The early weather predictions are currently looking very good for race weekend.

That said, it’s August and the Sunshine Coast can still bite. If the westerlies kick in, particularly for a late-race paddle, expect it to get cold. Come prepared.