As a cinema devotee, I find myself yearning for the opposite season each passing summer and winter. In the heat of summer, I can’t help but dream of the crisp, cooler days of winter. However, come winter, it’s the vibrant energy of summer that I miss. There’s nothing quite like catching a wave during a stunning sunset at the seashore – an exhilarating experience even if I don’t surf myself.
To put you in the right frame of mind, we’ve compiled a list of the top ten surfing movies on Netflix, organized from least to most impressive (based on IMDb ratings). This list includes several documentaries that highlight compelling real-life stories. These films are inspiring, heartwarming, thrilling, and will surely ignite your interest in surfing. You might even consider purchasing a board after watching!
10. Blue Crush (2002)
Movie Rating: 5.7 out of 10
Origin Countries: United States and Germany
Genre Categories: Drama, Romance, Sports
Primary Language: English
Anne Marie, an avid wave rider, resides in a seaside cottage shared with three companions. They frequently take to the ocean for surfing sessions. Anne Marie’s little sister is another resident, and they both prepare diligently before the upcoming Pipe Masters tournament arrives.
Anne takes great delight in her waterfront life, yet this tranquility is disrupted when Matt, a professional football player, enters her world.
This film is more of a soothing, brain-relaxing romantic movie with ample surfing scenes sprinkled throughout. It may not be the most mind-blowing romantic movie ever made, but it’s definitely better than some I’ve seen. If you’re looking for something to help you unwind and enjoy without requiring much mental effort, Blue Crush is perfect for that purpose. As an added bonus, it will also put you in a summery mood.
Watch the trailer here.
9. Lakey Peterson: Zero to 1000 (2013)
Movie Rating: 6.1 out of 10
Originated from: United States, Australia, Brazil, France, Indonesia, and New Zealand
Genre Categories: Documentary and Sports
Primary Language: English
Lakey Peterson clinched victory at the 2012 US Open of Surfing, establishing herself as a global surfing sensation. Despite overwhelming her opponents, she faced challenges on her path to success.
Aaron Lieber, the director of this documentary, provided us a glimpse into the private life of Lakey, showcasing the numerous sacrifices she endured in her pursuit of becoming an elite athlete.
The film about Lakey Peterson is truly inspiring, and it left me feeling energized and motivated. While the narrative itself is captivating, what really stood out to me was the cinematography. The visuals are breathtaking, and I found myself completely engrossed. Moreover, the soundtrack is exceptional and adds a layer of emotion that enhances the overall experience.
Watch the trailer here.
8. Magnetic (2018)
IMDb Rating: 6.5/10
Country of origin: France
Genre: Documentary, Sport
Language: French
As a passionate cinephile who finds solace in the vastness of the sea and the beauty of nature, I invite you to join me on an exhilarating adventure. This documentary takes us beyond the ordinary, delving into the lives of some of the world’s most daring extreme athletes. From adrenaline-pumping downhill bikers and thrill-seeking skydivers to the graceful surfers riding the mighty waves, we’ll journey together to the limits of human endurance and courage.
This French documentary is an extraordinary fusion of various sports (not just surfing), showcasing them at their peak. It’s guaranteed to ignite your enthusiasm and adrenaline, transporting you to far-flung destinations such as New Zealand’s wilderness, the heart of Pakistan, Tahiti, and beyond.
Watch the trailer here.
7. Surf’s Up (2007)
IMDb Rating: 6.7/10
Country of origin: United States
Genre: Animation, Adventure, Comedy, Family
Language: English
Hailing from Antarctica, teenage penguin Cody Maverick is a passionate surfer who is often dismissed by his fellow penguins as a fool. However, Cody remains undeterred in his pursuit of competing in the Big Z Memorial Surf Contest at Pen Gu Island, an event that pays tribute to his surfing hero and legend, Big Z.
At the tournament, things weren’t going smoothly, resulting in Cody suffering a wipeout. Subsequently, he encountered Geek, an ex-surfer residing in the jungle, who imparted crucial guidance to Cody – teaching him skills for surfing and life, with the aim of helping him emerge victorious.
As a long-time fan, let me share why Surf’s Up remains a timeless classic: This animated masterpiece is a must-watch, whether you’re revisiting it or experiencing it for the first time. For me, it was an unforgettable part of my childhood, and I believe it would make a fantastic choice for a family night in. The movie offers valuable lessons that your children can learn alongside Cody’s journey.
Watch the trailer here.
6. Resurface (2017)
Movie Rating: 6.9 out of 10
Origin Country: United States
Category: Documentary, Sports, and Short Films (also falls under the genre of War)
Primary Language: English
Bobby Lane, a war veteran suffering from years of recurring nightmares, depression, and seizures, had contemplated suicide as the only escape from his trauma. However, everything changed when he encountered Van Curaza, a previous big wave surfer who established Operation Surf and devoted his life to assisting veterans in finding tranquility through surfing.
Due to an increasing amount of scientific evidence supporting the therapeutic effects of the sea on both mind and body, charities like Operation Surf and the Jimmy Miller Memorial Foundation are harnessing the power of surfing as a means to assist veterans in overcoming physical and emotional scars.
Remarkable aspect: This Netflix-produced short film, running just 26 minutes, is an impactful documentary that may prompt you to shed various types of tears, ranging from sorrow to joy, as Bobby eloquently recounts the extensive physical and emotional hardships he faced as a war veteran.
After uncovering the rejuvenating properties of the sea for body and mind, he regained fresh determination to carry on living. Surfing became his salvation, and today, groups such as Operation Surf are assisting a multitude of veterans in managing their emotional struggles by surfing together.
Watch the trailer here.
5. Under an Arctic Sky (2017)
Movie Rating on IMDb: 7.0 out of 10
Origin Country: United States
Genre Categories: Documentary, Brief Film, Adventure, Sports
Languages Used: Icelandic and English
A particularly severe storm, possibly the most severe one in the past 25 years, is approaching the icy coastlines of Iceland. At the same time, six daring surfers have already embarked on their journey along those very shores, seeking ideal spots to ride the chilly yet awe-inspiring waves.
The film, Under an Arctic Sky, is remarkable! It offers approximately 40 minutes of non-stop thrill. The stunning landscapes it portrays will take your breath away, and the predicaments the six surfers encounter will keep you on tenterhooks. In my opinion, its IMDb rating of 7.0 could have been even higher.
Watch the trailer here.
4. Surfwise (2007)
IMDb Rating: 7.1/10
Country of origin: United States
Genre: Documentary, Sport
Language: English
Documentary Overview: An extraordinary, breathtaking production titled “Dorian Paskowitz: The Doc’s Journey,” directed by Doug Pray, delves into the unique life of Dorian Paskowitz, affectionately known as ‘The Doc.’ Born and raised in a modest beachside camper with his wife and nine children, Dorian and his family were schooled at home and learned to live harmoniously within the resources provided by nature.
I find myself captivated by those who choose to embrace nature’s ways, immersed in the freedom of surfing waves and the thrill of the hunt, all while shunning societal norms and structures. Their lives, lived with an unbridled joy and sense of liberation, mirror that of untamed animals in the wild.
The exceptional nature of Surfwise: While it may appear bizarre and puzzling to us, Surfwise stands out as an extraordinary entry on this list. Living against all norms and societal expectations, creating a life entirely your own is truly amazing. It’s not easy and certainly falls short of perfection, but the Doc and his family find happiness, which is what truly matters. Among all films on the list, it is my absolute favorite.
Watch the trailer here.
3. Bethany Hamilton: Unstoppable (2018)
IMDb Rating: 7.4/10
Country of origin: United States
Genre: Documentary, Sport
Language: English
At thirteen, Bethany Hamilton suffered a shark attack and lost an arm. Her recovery was grueling, yet she remained determined to become a pro surfer. The ocean’s vastness continued to captivate her even amidst the youthful hardship that befell her.
Currently, Bethany embodies the roles of a mother, a passionate surfer, and an inspiration to all, demonstrating the incredible potential that lies within every individual.
In my humble opinion, there’s little I can add that hasn’t already been said about the captivating film chronicling Bethany Hamilton’s life. This tale of resilience, determination, and passion for surfing stands out as one of the most inspiring and uplifting stories in the sport’s annals.
Hamilton is an extraordinary individual who continues to inspire others despite enduring hardships that few could bear – both physically and mentally. Her story serves as a reminder that with perseverance, courage, and an unwavering spirit, one can overcome even the most daunting challenges and emerge stronger on the other side.
In short, this film is not just about surfing; it’s about the indomitable human spirit and the power of hope in the face of adversity. I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone seeking inspiration, motivation, or simply an entertaining, heartwarming viewing experience.
Watch the trailer here.
2. Fishpeople (2017)
IMDb Rating: 7.7/10
Country of origin: United States
Genre: Documentary
Language: English
Embarking on a captivating 48-minute journey, I invite you to delve into some of the most awe-inspiring tales you’ve yet encountered – not merely about surfing, but the profound connection between humans and the ocean as a whole. Prepare to be amazed as you witness how immersing oneself in the ocean, through diverse activities, can bring about truly transformative experiences for us, human beings.
The amazing aspect of this documentary: Some aspects within this film left me truly impressed. The section focusing on spearfishers, whose lungs have evolved specifically to aid them in their fishing, left me utterly astounded. Although it’s not lengthy or highly recognized, you can stream it on Netflix – I highly recommend taking the time to watch it.
Watch the trailer here.
1. Given (2016)
Movie Rating: 7.7 out of 10
Origin Countries: United States, Australia, Fiji, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Marshall Islands, Morocco, Nepal, New Zealand, Peru, Senegal, South Africa, Thailand
Genre: Documentary
Language: English (used)
Given” – The Heartwarming Journey of a Unique Family, Tracing Their Legacy Across the Globe as Narrated by a Child, Completing a Cycle of Family Tradition and Contemplation.
What makes Given exceptional: This movie has earned high praise for a reason. It tells an enchanting family-focused adventure story from a six-year-old’s perspective. The journey is captivating, and there are valuable life lessons hidden within, but even if you’re just interested in the surfing scenes, this film delivers spectacularly.
Watch the trailer here.
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2025-05-23 21:23