Surfing Santa Contest

The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel’s Annual Surfing Santa & Stand Up Paddle Board Contest was developed by the oceanfront resort in 2010 to benefit Surfers Healing, the original surf camp for children with autism. Honoring the resort’s commitment to supporting local worthy causes, while embracing Dana Point’s surf culture, the hotel began with a Holiday Surfboard Auction in benefit of Surfers Healing, before creating a holiday surf competition. Both events not only highlight the resort’s world-class location overlooking a famous surf break but also their mission to give back to the local community by connecting in a meaningful way. The surf and SUP contest is a two-day event, November 20-21, 2021, where contestants dress like Santa or other holiday-inspired characters and battle it out in the waves of Salt Creek Beach, located directly below the resort and known as one of the best surfing destinations in Southern California. Since partnering with Surfers Healing, the resort has raised over $440,000 for the non-profit and looks forward to continue making an impactful difference in the lives of children with autism.

Event details and schedule

The surf/SUP event is open to men and women of all ages and $60 per contestant, per category. You are welcome to register for as many categories as you’d like!

Registration supports Surfers Healing and includes a swag bag, Surfing Santa t-shirt, lunch, snacks and beverages throughout the day.

Contestants are also encouraged to dress as Santa or other holiday-inspired characters as they battle it out in the waves! If you’re feeling festive, please register for the costume contest. Winners will receive a cash prize! There’s no fee to participate as this is included in the contest registration.

For day-of, registration opens at 7:30 a.m., with the first event taking place at 8 a.m. A waiver must be completed, either in advance online via ACTIVE or at the event. Please bring sunscreen, a towel, and any other beachwear and amenities like chairs, umbrellas, etc.

While there will be food and beverages for the contestants, we ask that spectators bring their own snacks and drinks, as the event will be limited and there will not be any concessions available for purchase.

Parking is available at Salt Creek Beach Parking lot.