The principal purposes of HCRA are to:

1. Engage in, promote, encourage participation in, and provide education and instruction in Hawaiian and Polynesian culture through canoeing and other related activities on a local, national, and international basis;

2. Foster, encourage and promote interest in the sport of and science of canoe racing and canoeing in the State of Hawaii;

3. Encourage, maintain and perpetuate authentic Hawaiian canoe racing and preservation of Hawaiian Koa canoes; and

Promote competitive inter-club, inter-island, and international Hawaiian canoe racing. In its pursuit of this purpose, the HCRA may sponsor and/or conduct canoe regattas and races as may be decided upon by its membership,. The HCRA shall also develop or assist in the development of: Uniform Race Rules; Bylaws; Codes of Ethics; Membership Criteria; and such other materials as it deems necessary for the use and guidance of its members.

The Hawaiian Canoe Racing Association was formed for the purpose of engaging in charitable, educational, cultural, and recreational activities associated with Hawaiian canoeing, including the promotion of outrigger canoe racing and the construction and preservation of authentic Hawaiian Koa canoes.