Whether you’re drawn to the adrenaline-pumping thrill of catching a monster wave or the soulful connection surfers share with the ocean, there’s a world of stories waiting to be told.

That’s why we’ve put together this list of the top surfing documentaries you simply must watch.

Each film offers a unique glimpse into the passion, challenges, and triumphs that define this extraordinary lifestyle.

So, get comfortable, grab your popcorn, and let these documentaries take you on a captivating ride through the highs and lows of the surfing world.

The Endless Summer

Few surf documentaries have left as lasting an impact as “The Endless Summer.” So much so that the documentary’s opening scene, with surfers silhouetted against a vibrant sky, has become an iconic visual in surf culture.

Released in 1966, this film revolutionised the genre with its global adventure and captivating commentary. It follows surfers Mike Hynson and Robert August as they travel the world in search of the perfect wave, visiting locations like South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti, Hawaii, and California.

The film’s original mission was to highlight Cape St. Francis in South Africa. However, it evolved into a broader exploration of global surf culture. This expansion gave viewers a glimpse into diverse surfing spots and cultures around the world.

Adding to its charm is the memorable soundtrack by The Sandals, which complements the film’s adventurous spirit.

Despite being initially rejected by several distributors, “The Endless Summer” gained popularity through successful screenings in smaller venues, eventually securing its place as a beloved classic in surf film history.

Riding Giants

“Riding Giants” plunges into the heart-pounding world of big wave surfing. Directed by Stacy Peralta, this documentary provides a thrilling look at the sport’s origins and development, featuring surfing legends like Greg Noll, Jeff Clark, and Laird Hamilton.

These pioneers pushed the boundaries of what was possible, tackling giant waves that could reach heights of 70 feet.

The film draws upon a mixture of archival footage and personal interviews, creating a rich narrative that captures the spirit of wave riding.

Viewers get to see the extreme conditions and risks that big-wave surfers face, as well as their motivations and the sheer passion that drives them.

Momentum Generation

The ‘90s were a transformative period for surfing, and “Momentum Generation” captures this era perfectly.

Utilising unseen archival footage from the early ‘90s, “Momentum Generation” provides a nostalgic yet insightful look into the lives of a close-knit group of friends who also happen to be surfing legends, including:

These surfers, often referred to as the Momentum Generation, grew up together in Hawaii, sharing a house rented by Benji Weatherly’s mother.

The film delves into the hardships of their early lives, personal tragedies, and the fierce competition that drove them to greatness.

Central to the story is the VHS video “Momentum,” which served as a bonding point for the group and gave this surfing documentary its name.

Their journey from misfits to champions had a huge impact on the surfing world, making this documentary a compelling watch for any surf enthusiast.

Andy Irons: Kissed By God

“Andy Irons: Kissed By God” is a poignant exploration of the life and legacy of, yes, you guessed it: Andy Irons.

This documentary covers his meteoric rise in the surfing world, his intense rivalries with Kelly Slater, and his struggles with addiction and mental health.

It’s a raw and honest portrayal that aims to dispel misconceptions surrounding bipolar disorder and addiction by sharing Irons’ personal battles.

A significant part of the documentary is dedicated to the impact of Todd Chesser’s death, which deeply affected Andy and his peers.

All in all, the documentary is a heartfelt tribute to a surfer who left an indelible mark on the sport and is certainly well worth a watch.

Bra Boys

“Bra Boys” takes viewers into the gritty world of the Bra Boys surf gang in Maroubra, Australia.

Directed by Sunny Abberton, this documentary focuses on themes of brotherhood, identity, and social issues, portraying the tight-knit group’s fight for respect and survival.

The film delves into the historical oppression and social pressures faced by the gang, offering a raw and unfiltered look at their lives. It’s not just about surfing; it’s about the bonds formed through shared experiences and the quest for identity in a challenging environment.

Sea Of Darkness

“Sea Of Darkness” delves into the darker side of surf discovery in the mid-70s, focusing on a group of surfers in Indonesia. Famous surfers like Martin Daly and Dave Burnett are featured, showcasing their adventurous spirit and daring exploits.

Mike Boyum, another central character, is depicted as a charismatic and controversial figure whose actions left a lasting impact on the surf community.

The documentary doesn’t shy away from the darker aspects of this era, including drug smuggling. However, despite its intriguing content, “Sea Of Darkness” lacks the polished production value of other surf documentaries, which may affect viewer engagement.

That said, for some, the film’s rawness adds to its authenticity, making it a fascinating watch for those interested in the untold surfing-related stories.

Step Into Liquid

Directed by Dana Brown, “Step Into Liquid” is a visually stunning tribute celebrating the global spirit of surfing and the iconic waves that define the sport.

The documentary features elite surfers like Laird Hamilton, Kelly Slater, Layne Beachley, and Taj Burrows, showcasing their incredible skills and passion for the waves.

One of the film’s most memorable quotes, “You can’t stop the waves, but you can learn to surf,” encapsulates the resilience and adaptability that surfing represents.

Overall, it’s a must-watch for anyone who loves the ocean and the thrill of riding its waves.

View From a Blue Moon

“View From a Blue Moon” follows John John Florence on a breathtaking global surfing journey. It’s the first surf film captured in 4K resolution, offering viewers an unparalleled visual experience.

Florence and his friends travel to various surfing spots around the world, from the South Pacific to the uncharted waters of Africa, showcasing their incredible skills and the beauty of these locations.

The film’s high-definition footage and innovative cinematography set a new standard for surf documentaries and surf movie enthusiasts, making it an absolute must-watch.

Girls Can’t Surf

“Girls Can’t Surf” is a powerful documentary highlighting the struggles and triumphs of female surfers fighting against sexism in the surf industry.

The film portrays how a group of determined women transformed the surfing landscape by striving for professional equality.

Featuring interviews and stories from renowned female surfers like Jodie Cooper, Frieda Zamba, and Layne Beachley, the documentary captures their challenges and groundbreaking achievements.

Overall, “Girls Can’t Surf” is an inspiring film that celebrates the resilience and courage of these trailblazing women, making it an essential viewing for anyone interested in the evolution of surfing and gender equality in sports.

Given

“Given” is a unique and heartwarming documentary that follows a family of surfers exploring global surf spots and cultures.

The film is narrated from the perspective of a six-year-old boy, adding a fresh and innocent viewpoint to the storytelling. With a 1 hour and 15 minutes runtime, “Given” offers an inspiring and uplifting look at the world, making it a delightful watch for surf fans and families alike.

Plus, the film’s breathtaking cinematography showcases stunning landscapes, enhancing the immersive experience for viewers.

A memorable quote from the film, “The ocean connects us all, regardless of language or culture,” reflects its central theme of unity and connection through surfing.

Ride the Cinematic Waves: Dive Into Surf Culture With One of These Documentaries

Surfing documentaries offer a fascinating glimpse into the world of waves, showcasing the sport’s evolution, the personal stories of surfers, and its cultural impact.

From the classic “The Endless Summer” to the groundbreaking “Girls Can’t Surf,” each film on this list provides a unique perspective on the surfing world.

So what are you waiting for? Grab your board, hit play, and ride the cinematic waves of these top surf documentaries.

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