Children with Autism Hang Ten on Miami Beach

Miami Beach, FL – Making new friends, the occasional wipeout and even noodle arms are all part of the fun this week as the City of Miami Beach Parks and Recreation Department is partnering with the University of Miami and Nova Southeastern University Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD) at the 17th Annual Surf Camp for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) now through March 28.

“The kids are the true stars of this beloved annual event,” said Miami Beach City Manager Eric T. Carpenter. “They always bring big smiles to everyone who spends time with them. Our lifeguards look forward to this event every year and making sure the children stay safe.”

Children focus on honing their swimming skills, basic oceanography, meteorology, open water surfing and developing their own abilities. The educational component of the camp is being held at South Pointe Park while the surfing component is being held on the beach adjacent to the park.

The event has been held every year since 2008 with the exception of two years during the pandemic.

“We are honored to be co-hosting the 17th annual Autism Surf Camp with our remarkable partners at the Miami Beach Parks and Recreation Department,” said Dr. Michael Alessandri, CARD executive director. “Each year, this unique collaboration positively impacts the lives of our campers, their families, our counselors and volunteers. The commitment of Miami Beach to programming for those with unique abilities has been unwavering and we are delighted to keep building on this partnership in this and other ways going forward.”

On Friday, March 28, the children will put on a surfing demonstration for their parents and family members. The event takes place from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and will include an award ceremony. Media organizations are invited to attend.

ASD is a neurological and developmental disorder that affects how people interact with others, communicate, learn and behave, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Although autism can be diagnosed at any age, symptoms generally appear in the first two years of life.

WHAT: Surf Camp

WHEN: 9 a.m. daily from March 24-28, 2025

WHERE: South Pointe Park 1 Washington Ave.

Day of Media Contact: Michelle Costa, Communications & Community Outreach CARD Manager: 305.301.4387.

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