"Many of us ride winter and summer, but the ultimate thing for us would be to have an endless summer. The only way to do this is to travel around the world."
The Endless Summer (1966)
Surfing is more than a sport; it's a lifestyle, a culture, and for many, a spiritual experience. Over the years, filmmakers have captured the essence of surfing through documentaries, feature films, and animated adventures that not only celebrate the waves but also the magic of surfers who ride them. This was a tough list to whittle down into ten and we definitely had to let go of some epic movies but we've given it a go anyway!
Here's a look at the top ten surf movies of all time that every surf enthusiast should watch, as well as where you can watch them yourself!
Check out the best surf movies ever made (in our humble opnion):
The Endless Summer (1966)
Directed by Bruce Brown, The Endless Summer is a seminal surf documentary that epitomises the wanderlust of surf culture. The film follows two young surfers, Mike Hynson and Robert August, as they travel the world in search of the perfect wave, from the pristine beaches of Hawaii to the uncharted waters of Africa. Brown's soothing narration, combined with the film’s breathtaking cinematography, invites you into a world where the sun always shines and the waves are endless. The film not only popularised surfing but also introduced the concept of surf travel, making it a must-see for anyone with a passion for the ocean. Many surf adventures have stemmed from this groundbreaking film!
To watch Endless Summer go to: Apple TV or Prime Video (Apple is the cheaper option to rent the film)
Surf’s Up (2007)
Surf's Up is a refreshing take on surf culture, told through the lens of an animated feature. This mockumentary-style film introduces Cody Maverick, a penguin from Shiverpool, Antarctica, who dreams of becoming a professional surfer like his hero, Big Z. The film cleverly blends humour, action, and emotion, with authentic surfing sequences that appeal to both young viewers and seasoned surfers. The involvement of real-life surfers like Kelly Slater and Rob Machado, who lent their voices to the characters, adds a layer of authenticity that resonates with surf enthusiasts, making Surf's Up more than just a children’s movie—it’s a tribute to the surfing community. It also has an amazing soundtrack which you can check out here.
To watch Surf's Up go to: Apple TV or Prime Video
View from a Blue Moon (2015)
View from a Blue Moon is a cinematic masterpiece that showcases the life and talent of John John Florence, one of the most gifted surfers of his generation. Filmed in ultra-high definition, this documentary offers an intimate look at Florence’s life, from his childhood in Hawaii to his rise as a world champion. The film’s stunning visuals capture the beauty and power of some of the world’s most famous waves, including those in Hawaii, Australia, and Africa. With a compelling narrative and breathtaking footage, View from a Blue Moon stands out as a modern classic that pushes the boundaries of surf filmmaking.
To watch View from a Blue Moon go to: Apple TV, Prime Video or Kanopy
Momentum Generation (2018)
This poignant documentary tells the story of the Momentum Generation, a group of young surfers who revolutionised the sport in the 1990s. Directed by Jeff and Michael Zimbalist, Momentum Generation features iconic surfers like Kelly Slater, Rob Machado, Shane Dorian, and Taylor Knox, who all lived together in a house on the North Shore of Oahu. The film delves into their intense friendships, rivalries, and the pressures they faced as they transformed from surf prodigies into legends. It’s a powerful story of brotherhood, competition, and the relentless pursuit of greatness, offering a rare glimpse into the lives of some of the most influential surfers in history.
To watch Momentum Generation go to: Apple TV or Prime Video
Andy Irons: Kissed by God (2018)
Andy Irons: Kissed by God is a deeply moving documentary that explores the life and tragic death of three-time world champion surfer Andy Irons. The film goes beyond the waves to uncover Irons’ battles with bipolar disorder and addiction, shedding light on the darker side of professional surfing. Through interviews with family, friends, and fellow surfers, the documentary paints a complex portrait of a man who was both a fierce competitor and a vulnerable human being. It’s a sobering reminder that even those who seem to have it all can struggle with inner demons, making this film a must-watch for those who want to understand the true cost of greatness. To watch Andy Irons: Kissed by God go to: Apple TV or Tubi
Psychic Migrations (2022)
"Psychic Migrations" is a visually stunning surf film from the renowned Veeco Production studio, a branch of Volcom that has been producing influential surf films for over two decades. Directed by Ryan Thomas, a veteran in surf cinematography, the film takes viewers on a global journey, capturing the essence of surfing in diverse and remote locations. The film is shot across breathtaking spots like the West Indies, East Indies, Australia, Polynesia, and Central and South America, merging the thrill of surfing with an almost spiritual exploration of these unique landscapes. Psychic Migrations stands out as a poetic ode to the adventure of a surf trip, blending perfect surfing with the stunning natural beauty of the world’s most remote coasts.
The cast features some of the most talented surfers in the world, including legends like Kelly Slater, Yago Dora, Parker Coffin, Joan Duru, Imai Devault and many more rippers.
Riding Giants (2004)
Directed by Stacy Peralta, Riding Giants is a documentary that delves into the history and culture of big wave surfing. The film showcases the lives of pioneering surfers like Greg Noll, Jeff Clark, and Laird Hamilton, who pushed the limits of what was thought possible on the water. With gripping interviews and archival footage, Riding Giants not only highlights the physical challenges of big wave surfing but also explores the psychological and emotional aspects of riding these immense waves. It’s an exhilarating tribute to the bravery and innovation of big wave surfers and a must-watch for anyone fascinated by the extremes of human endeavour.
To watch Riding Giants go to: Apple TV
Momentum (1992)
Momentum, directed by Taylor Steele, is a cult classic that captured the energy and progression of the early 1990s surf scene. The film features a young Kelly Slater, alongside a host of other up-and-coming surfers who would go on to dominate the sport. With its fast-paced editing, punk rock soundtrack, and groundbreaking footage, Momentum became a defining film for a new generation of surfers. It’s more than just a surf movie; it’s a time capsule of a pivotal moment in surfing history, when the sport was rapidly evolving and new styles and approaches were being forged.
Quiksilver Young Guns II (2006)
If you’re looking for a surf film that pushes boundaries, Quiksilver Young Guns II delivers. This epic sequel to Kelly Slater and the Young Guns takes you deep into the Mentawai Islands, where Kelly Slater and a crew of next-gen surf prodigies—including Dane Reynolds, Ry Craike, and Julian Wilson—take on some of the most perfect waves on the planet. With helicopters, jet skis, and insane aerial footage, the film captures these surfers ripping through Mentawai’s flawless lineups like never before. Featuring the debut of future stars Clay Marzo and Julian Wilson, Young Guns II is all about progressive surfing and the ultimate pursuit of perfection.
To watch Quiksilver Young Guns II go to: Youtube
Big Wednesday (1978)
Big Wednesday, directed by John Milius, is a classic surf film that vividly portrays the lives of three close-knit friends—Matt, Jack, and Leroy—through the transformative years of the 1960s and 1970s. Featuring Gary Busey, Jan-Michael Vincent, and William Katt, the film captures their youthful enthusiasm for surfing, their separation due to military service in Vietnam, and their eventual reunion.
As they return to their favourite beach a decade later, the friends confront the personal changes and challenges they've faced. The film poignantly reflects their journey from carefree youth to experienced adulthood, underscoring the deep, enduring bond they share with each other and the ocean. Big Wednesday masterfully combines epic surf sequences with a narrative about friendship, loss, and rediscovery, making it a timeless ode to the surfing lifestyle.
To watch Big Wednesday go to: Apple TV or Prime Video
There you have it—ten films that will not only fill your time but also ignite your stoke for your next surf adventure.
Let us know below if we missed any surf movies!
If you’re ready to turn that inspiration into the surf trip of a lifetime, reach out to us, and we’ll make it happen.
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