Surfing is essential to many cultures worldwide, which is mainly why it is so popular and loved. Not only is it incredibly fun and invigorating, but it also helps you connect better with the earth and nature. Naturally, many fans go out seeking the best surfer movies, and what better way to celebrate this amazing part of the world’s culture and sport than by diving into the top 10 best surf movies to watch in 2024?
10. The Endless Summer (1966)
First on our list of the best surfing movies is The Endless Summer from 1966. This story follows a filmmaker passionate about surfing, Bruce Brown, who embarks on a global journey alongside surfers Michael Hynson and Robert August.
Brown captures their quest to find the ultimate wave, travelling from their home in California to iconic surfing destinations like Hawaii, Australia, and South Africa.
His dry, witty commentary accompanies their adventures, set to the energetic, guitar-driven sounds of The Sandals, as they explore remote beaches and take on the world’s most thrilling surf spots in pursuit of the elusive “Perfect Wave.”
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9. Point Break (1991)
A series of unusual bank heists in Southern California catches the attention of rookie FBI agent Johnny Utah, who goes undercover to track down the suspects.
The criminals wear masks of past U.S. presidents and are led by the magnetic and thrill-seeking Bodhi. What sets this group apart is that they’re not just robbers—they’re adrenaline-fueled surfers.
As Utah becomes more entangled in their world, his growing feelings for Tyler, a fellow surfer with ties to the gang, blur the lines between his duty and personal life.
Watch Point Break now:
8. Blue Crush (2002)
Our next surfing movie follows a girl named Anne Marie who lives for surfing. Residing in a beachside house with her close friends and her rebellious younger sister, she dedicates each morning to riding the waves and training for an upcoming major surf competition.
https://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-4474055489327117 (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});Surfing is her world, and nothing can distract her—until a professional football player, Matt Tollman, enters the picture.
As she navigates her budding romance with Matt, Anne Marie starts to question her priorities, struggling to keep her focus on the ocean while also falling for him.
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7. Riding Giants (2004)
This documentary, directed by skateboarder Stacy Peralta, dives into the world of big-wave surfing, blending elements of sports history with exhilarating action.
It traces the journey of fearless surfers from the 1950s to the present, chronicling the progression of their pursuit of increasingly massive waves.
The film highlights key moments in the sport’s development while focusing on modern-day surfing icons, including Jeff Clark, who first conquered the remote waves of San Francisco, and Laird Hamilton, renowned for his innovation in tow-in surfing.
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6. Chasing Mavericks (2012)
At just 15, Jay Moriarty, a rising star in the world of surfing, uncovers the existence of the legendary Mavericks, one of the largest waves on the planet, not far from his home in California.
Driven by a deep desire to surf these monstrous waves, he seeks the guidance of seasoned surfer Frosty Hesson.
Read more: Top 10 Boat Movies To Watch In 2024
As Frosty mentors Jay in the art of surviving the Mavericks, their journey evolves into a powerful bond that deeply impacts them both, transforming their lives in unexpected ways.
Watch Chasing Mavericks:
5. Soul Surfer (2011)
This list of the best surf movies would not be complete without this story featuring teenager Bethany Hamilton, a gifted surfer, who faces a life-changing challenge when she loses her arm in a shark attack.
Supported by her loving family, she remains determined to get back on the waves and compete, despite doubts about her future.
When Bethany witnesses the aftermath of the 2004 tsunami in Thailand, she finds a deeper sense of purpose, dedicating herself to helping others in need.
Watch Soul Surfer now:
4. North Shore (1987)
Arizona native Rick, played by Matt Adler, dreams of becoming a professional surfer after mastering the wave machines at his local surf park.
With prize money from a recent competition, he heads to Hawaii, aiming to conquer the ocean. However, the real waves prove much more challenging than the ones he’s used to.
https://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-4474055489327117 (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});Struggling to adjust, Rick finds guidance from Chandler, a seasoned surf veteran (Gregory Harrison), and bonds with Kiani (Nia Peeples), a local Hawaiian girl.
Together, they help him pursue his passion for surfing in the unpredictable waters of the Pacific.
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3. Step Into Liquid (2003)
When we think of the best surf movies, we don’t always think of Step Into Liquid, as it is a documentary. However, in this movie, filmmaker Dana Brown explores the world of surfing, travelling to iconic and unexpected surf destinations across the globe.
From the rugged shores of Ireland, where three American brothers test their skills against the powerful Atlantic waves, to the remote Pacific island of Rapa Nui, where surfers ride under the watchful eyes of the ancient Easter Island statues, the film showcases a variety of surfing cultures and locations.
Brown also uncovers vibrant surf communities in surprising places such as Wisconsin and Texas, while highlighting the growing presence of women in a sport historically led by men.
Watch Step Into Liquid now:
2. Big Wednesday (1978)
A deep exploration of the lives of California surfers, following their journey from the early 1960s through the 1970s.
As the Vietnam War unfolds, it shatters the carefree existence they’ve known, forcing them to confront new realities and challenges
This is one of the older and retro best surfer movies on this list, but it is certainly one you’ll want to check out.
Watch Big Wednesday now:
1. Momentum Generation (2018)
The gripping journey of a tight-knit group of surfers from Hawaii, who began their adventure as teens in a modest house on O’ahu, navigating the challenges, hardships, and remarkable triumphs that shaped their influence in the surfing world.
Watch Momentum Generation now:
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