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"I've been Santa since the early '70s for my own kids and lots of other kids. I used to go to houses and it brought lots of joy," he said.
Now, Pless rides the waves in his special made Santa suit and into the hearts of many.
As owner of M & M Surfing School in Seal Beach, Pless surfs nearly every day. So, he combined two things he loves; surfing and bringing joy to others.
"I decided to take Santa to the beach because it brings the spirit of Christmas to the beach and people like surfing with him," he said.
For the first time, surfing Santa this year is a family affair. Pless' wife, Jill is surfing as Mrs. Santa and his son, Michael Jr., portrays Frosty the Snowman.
"There's a good reaction from people because it brings joy to everyone, adults and kids, just to see Santa out there," he said." taking only Christmas Day off.
Pless, who started surfing at 12, not only runs a surfing school, but a respiratory business and at one time a decorating business. He also teaches science to kids grades kindergarten to 12 for his wife's home school business.
"In my spare time I sleep a little," he said.
Although his days are full, Pless enjoys all he does.
"Surfing is actually my real job and the funny part - it's not a job," he said. "Hopefully, I bring some type of joy and enjoyment for people who are near me, which I try to do yearround. The Santa thing is just at Christmas."
When he's on shore between riding waves, surfing Santa gets the same reactions as a department store Santa.
"Everyone is always very excited. They gather around and tell Santa what they want for Christmas and the kids come up and say `hi,' " he said.
Pless surfs as Santa the entire month of December,
Surfing Santa Claus at Seal Beach set World Record Video 2010 - Christmas World Records.
