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 (now in its 13th year), 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 19-20, 2022, 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 $500,000 for the non-profit and looks forward to continue making an impactful difference in the lives of children with autism.