Witches in kayaks, on paddleboards take over Dana Point Harbor

Grab your broomsticks, um, paddles, witches!

A gathering of decked-out kayakers and paddlers dressed as witches held an annual Halloween jaunt around Dana Point Harbor on Sunday, Oct. 26, launching from Pure Watersport and making their way toward Baby Beach.

Warlocks were invited, too.

The event, now in its seventh year, was created by friends Monique Cassis and Denise Willmes-Sobolik, who are part of the “Ladies of OC Beaches” group.

They would regularly gather to kayak the harbor, often stopping to chat during their morning outings. During one paddle, someone mentioned wearing witch hats the weekend before Halloween.

Six people showed up the first year. So Cassis put the word out on social media, inviting others outside of the group.

“We’re in kayaks, but we know a lot of people paddleboard,” she said. “We just invite everybody, it doesn’t matter. It started getting big…the witches on paddleboards look awesome.”

The costumes have gone beyond just hats, with some people showing up fully decked out in witches wear.

It’s an event that brings people together.

“I get teary-eyed every year,” Cassis admitted. “It just feels so good to see people gather, especially since COVID, it’s just nice to see people out and have a good time.”