If you’re a surf lover, chances are you also enjoy movies that capture the spirit of the waves. From legendary documentaries to fiction films with a true surfer’s soul, here’s the ultimate list of the best surf movies ever made — picked by surfers, for surfers.
Get ready to travel the world without leaving your screen.
🎬 Top 10 Must-Watch Surf Movies
H1. The Endless Summer (1966)
Director: Bruce Brown
A timeless classic. This documentary follows two California surfers chasing summer around the world. They ride waves in Africa, Tahiti, Australia, and Hawaii. A must-see for every surfer.. so that check it out here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lmHQ9v2ijsQ
H2. Big Wednesday (1978)
Director: John Milius
A cult classic fiction film about three friends growing up surfing through the ‘60s and ‘70s, disrupted by the Vietnam War. It didn’t perform well at the box office, but became a surfer favorite over time.
You can see the trailer here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-iP4bAuD4NM
H3. Step Into Liquid (2003)
Director: Dana Brown
The son of Bruce Brown brings a new generation of surf storytelling. Featuring legends like Laird Hamilton and Taj Burrow, this film explores waves from Pipeline to remote surf spots across the globe.
Don´t miss it here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hl5WC4TBwm4
H5. Castles in the Sky (2010)
Production: Taylor Steele
Less a movie, more a visual journey. A mix of surf, travel, and culture from places like Iceland, India, and Peru. Perfect for those who love soulful surf adventures.
You can see the movie here https://www.redbull.com/es-es/films/castles-in-the-sky
H6. Unstoppable (2018)
Director: Aaron Lieber
The true story of Bethany Hamilton, who lost her arm to a shark at age 13 — and came back stronger, becoming a top-level surfer.
Netflix offers this surf documentary
🎞️ Hollywood Surf Films Worth Watching
Hollywood has also explored the surf scene, with mixed results. Here are the ones actually worth your time:
H7. Point Break (1991)
Director: Ericson Core
Keanu Reeves goes undercover in a gang of surf-bank robbers. Action-packed and full of surf soul. Avoid the 2015 remake.
H8. Chasing Mavericks (2012)
Directors: Curtis Hanson, Michael Apted
Based on the life of Jay Moriarity, who made headlines for his wipeout at Mavericks and became a surf legend before his tragic death at 22.
In this link you can see the movie https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_hGsTNg8atg
H9. In God´s hands (1999)
Director: Zalman King
Historia de tres surfistas que recorren los lugares más exóticos del planeta
H10. Surf’s Up (2007)
A fun animated movie shot like a surf documentary. Penguins, waves, and laughs — perfect for kids or anyone who loves a good surf story.
🌊 What’s Your Favorite Surf Movie?
Did we miss one?
Drop your favorite surf film in the comments and help others discover new must-watch titles. See you in the next set!