If you’re a fan of surfing, then you’re going to love these 17 best surfing movies of all time. These films will take you on a journey around the world to some of the most famous surfing spots. You’ll experience the thrill of riding the waves and the camaraderie that comes with being part of a surf community. So grab some tacos, beer, and maybe some popcorn while we binge some of the best surf movies of all time.
Here are the 17 best surfing movies of all time:
17) Five Summer Stories (1972)
This film follows five young friends as they spend their summer days surfing and enjoying the carefree lifestyle of Southern California. The movie is set in the early 1970s and captures the surfing culture of the time perfectly.
16) Bustin Down The Door (2008)
This documentary tells the story of the young guns of surfing who took on the establishment in the 1970s. It was a time when surfers were pushing the boundaries of what was possible on a wave. This film features interviews with some of the pioneers of big-wave surfing, including Peter Townend, Shaun Tomson, and Wayne Bartholomew.
Watch Bustin Down The Door Full Movie:
15) Step Into Liquid (2003)
This film is a celebration of the surfing lifestyle. It features some of the world’s best surfers as they ride the waves in locations all around the globe. From Scotland to Hawaii, this film captures the beauty and power of the ocean.
14) Proximity (2017)
Proximity is a documentary about big wave surfing. It features some of the world’s most famous surfers, including Kelly Slater, John John Florence, and Stephanie Gilmore. The film follows the athletes as they prepare for and ride some of the biggest waves on the planet. The film follows eight of the world’s best surfers – four legends and four rising stars – as they search for new waves and a deeper understanding in exotic destinations.
13) North Shore (1987)
Before entering art school in the autumn, Rick (Matt Adler) sets out to spend the summer surfing Hawaii’s beaches. Knowing nothing of the local habits Rick runs into some trouble but gets a room in the house of surf guru Chandler (Gregory Harrison) by chance. Here he learns the difference between “soul surfers” and those who do it for fame and money, all while catching the attention of a beautiful local girl.
The movie features a few pro surfers, including Shaun Tomson, Gerry Lopez, Laird Hamilton, Mark Occhilupo, Mark Foo, Derek Ho, Ken Bradshaw, and many others.
12) Big Wednesday (1978)
Big Wednesday is a coming-of-age surf movie set in the 1970s. The film follows three friends – Matt, Jack, and Leroy – as they navigate their way through the ups and downs of adolescence. Surfing is a central theme in the film, and the waves at California’s famous Malibu beach are truly breathtaking.
11) View From A Blue Moon (2015)
This film follows the world’s most famous surfer, John Florence, as he travels around the globe in search of the perfect wave. Featuring stunning cinematography and some of the most jaw-dropping surfing footage ever captured on film, View from a Blue Moon is a must-watch for any fan of the sport.
10) Lords of Dogtown (2005)
On the outskirts of 1970s Los Angeles, skateboarding is a way of life. When one group meets another from across town, they are naturally at odds. But as these two groups start hanging out, the differences in culture seem to dissolve. The kids come up with a name for themselves: Lords of Dogtown.
One day, one of the guys finds out about the first skateboard competition ever put on by professional skateboarder Tony Alva. They all work together using their creativity and skills to make their own boards and take on the pros in this historic event.” This is one of the most classic surfing movies.
9) The September Sessions (2002)
In late September 1999, six-time world surfing champion Kelly Slater brought his buddy Jack Johnson along for a getaway to the islands off Sumatra to document the greatest crew of surfers ever assembled for a surfing retreat. The September Sessions is a must-see for any fan of either surfing or Kelly Slater.
8) Riding Giants (2004)
Directed by Stacy Peralta, Riding Giants tells the story of big wave surfing. It features interviews with some of the most famous surfers in the world, including Laird Hamilton and Greg Noll. If you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping film, then this is the one for you.
Throughout the movie, there are interviews with surfers, historians, and others who want to address some (simple?) questions…
- What is the relationship between man and nature in big-wave surfing?
- What are the limits of human endurance when it comes to conquering Mother Nature’s most powerful forces?
And what will be the future of these “extreme” sports like surfing? This is one of the most entertaining and theatrical surfing movies we have watched.
7) Billabong Odyssey (2003)
One of the most iconic opening sequences on the list. Mike Parsons + Jaws in Maui. If you’ve seen it, you’ll never forget it.
6) Point Break (1991)
Starring Keanu Reeves and Patrick Swayze, Point Break follows a group of bank robbers who are also expert surfers. The FBI sends in an undercover agent, Johnny Utah, to track them down. Point Break is an action-packed thriller that will keep you guessing until the very end.
5) The Endless Summer II (1994)
The sequel to The Endless Summer follows Robert August and Mike Hynson as they return to the world in search of more waves. This time, they’re joined by Pat O’Connell and Jim Blears. The Endless Summer II is just as good as the original and is a must-see for any surfing fan.
4) Soul Surfer (2011)
Based on a true story, Soul Surfer follows Bethany Hamilton as she recovers from a shark attack that took her arm. She returns to surfing and becomes a champion surfer. Soul Surfer is an inspiring film about never giving up on your dreams.
3) Blue Crush (2002)
Starring Kate Bosworth, Blue Crush follows a group of female surfers as they prepare for the biggest surfing competition of their lives. Blue Crush is an empowering film that will inspire you to chase your dreams. Not going to lie… this is where part of my love for surfer girls began.
2) Chasing Mavericks (2012)
Based on the true story of Jay Moriarity, Chasing Mavericks follows Jay as he sets out to surf the infamous Mavericks waves. With the help of veteran surfer Frosty Hesson, Jay trains to become a big wave surfer. Chasing Mavericks is an inspiring film about following your dreams and overcoming obstacles.
1) The Endless Summer (1966)
Bruce Brown’s masterpiece follows two young surfers, Mike Hynson and Robert August, as they travel the world in search of the perfect wave. From Africa to Australia, they find waves that are both exhilarating and dangerous. The Endless Summer is a must-see for any surfing fan.
This was the first surfing movie that truly got me insanely excited to start traveling so I could surf more waves.
So there you have it, the 17 best surfing movies of all time. Grab your popcorn and get ready for some serious wave action!