Surfing, as has often been said, isn't just a sport; it's a way of life. It's about exploring new places, meeting new people, and experiencing the world in a way that most people never will. And there's no better way to inspire your wanderlust than by watching some of the best surf movies out there. Here are nine surf movies that will inspire you to travel.
The Endless Summer (1966)
The Endless Summer is a classic surf movie that follows two surfers, Mike Hynson and Robert August, as they travel around the world in search of the perfect wave. The film takes the audience on a journey to places like Hawaii, Australia, and South Africa, showing the beauty of each location as well as the unique challenges that come with surfing in different parts of the world. The Endless Summer is a must-see for any surfer who dreams of traveling the world in search of the perfect wave.
What's especially inspiring about The Endless Summer is the film's message of cultural exchange. The surfers featured in the movie not only share their love for surfing with people from all over the world, but they also learn about the local cultures and traditions of the places they visit.
The Endless Summer is a film that will not only inspire you to travel but also to approach your travels with an open mind and a willingness to learn.
Point Break (1991)
Point Break may be a bit of a departure from the traditional surf movie, but it's still a classic in its own right. The film follows Johnny Utah (Keanu Reeves), an FBI agent who goes undercover to infiltrate a group of surfers who may be responsible for a string of bank robberies. Along the way, Utah falls in love with one of the surfers, played by Patrick Swayze.
While Point Break may not be a realistic portrayal of the surfing lifestyle, it's still a fun movie that captures the essence of what makes surfing so appealing. The movie's breathtaking surfing scenes, combined with its action-packed plot, make it a must-see for anyone who loves surfing or just loves a good action movie.
But what really sets Point Break apart from other surf movies is its depiction of the surfing community as a tight-knit group that values loyalty and camaraderie above all else. Watching Point Break will make you want to be a part of that community, to experience the thrill of catching waves with people who share your passion for the sport.
Blue Crush (2002)
Blue Crush is a film that follows a group of female surfers as they prepare for a big competition in Hawaii. The movie is notable for its representation of women in surfing, a sport that has historically been dominated by men.
What's inspiring about Blue Crush is the way it shows surfing as a way of life, rather than just a sport. The characters in the movie are all deeply connected to the ocean and the waves, and surfing is a way for them to connect with themselves and with each other.
Blue Crush is a movie that will inspire you to push yourself to your limits, to pursue your passions no matter how difficult they may seem.
Riding Giants (2004)
Riding Giants is a documentary that explores the history of big wave surfing. The film takes the audience on a journey from the early days of surfing in Hawaii, when surfers rode waves on wooden boards, to the modern era of tow-in surfing, where surfers are able to catch waves that are taller than buildings.
What's inspiring about Riding Giants is the way it shows the evolution of surfing as a sport and as a culture. The movie depicts the surfers who pioneered big wave surfing as fearless risk-takers who were willing to put their lives on the line for the thrill of the ride.
Riding Giants is a movie that will inspire you to take risks, to push yourself beyond your limits, and to pursue your passions no matter what.
Chasing Mavericks (2012)
Chasing Mavericks is a movie that tells the true story of Jay Moriarity, a young surfer who dreams of surfing the legendary Mavericks surf break in Northern California. The movie follows Jay as he trains with an older surfer named Frosty Hesson, who becomes a mentor and father figure to him.
What's inspiring about Chasing Mavericks is the way it shows the power of determination and perseverance. Jay faces a number of challenges on his journey to surf Mavericks, including physical injuries and personal setbacks, but he never gives up on his dream.
Chasing Mavericks is a movie that will inspire you to pursue your own dreams, no matter how big or impossible they may seem.
Given (2016)
Given is a documentary that follows a family of surfers as they travel around the world in search of the perfect wave. The film is notable for its beautiful cinematography and its portrayal of the close bond between the family members.
What's inspiring about Given is the way it shows the transformative power of travel. The family in the movie is able to connect with people and cultures from all over the world, and they learn important lessons about life and love along the way.
Given is a movie that will inspire you to explore the world and to open yourself up to new experiences and perspectives.
Under an Arctic Sky (2017)
Under an Arctic Sky is a documentary that follows a group of surfers as they travel to Iceland in search of some of the most remote and challenging waves in the world. The movie is notable for its stunning cinematography and its depiction of the harsh beauty of the Icelandic landscape.
What's inspiring about Under an Arctic Sky is the way it shows the power of nature and the importance of conservation. The surfers in the movie are deeply connected to the ocean and the environment, and they are committed to protecting the places they love.
Under an Arctic Sky is a movie that will inspire you to appreciate the beauty of the natural world and to do your part to preserve it.
Bethany Hamilton: Unstoppable (2019)
Bethany Hamilton: Unstoppable is a documentary that tells the inspiring story of Bethany Hamilton, a professional surfer who lost her arm in a shark attack at the age of 13. The movie follows Bethany as she overcomes her injury and continues to pursue her dreams of surfing.
What's inspiring about Bethany Hamilton: Unstoppable is the way it shows the power of resilience and determination. Bethany faces numerous obstacles on her journey, both physical and emotional, but she never gives up on her passion for surfing.
Bethany Hamilton: Unstoppable is a movie that will inspire you to overcome your own obstacles and to pursue your passions no matter what.
North Shore (1987)
North Shore is a classic surf movie that tells the story of Rick Kane, a young surfer from Arizona who travels to Hawaii to surf the famous North Shore waves. The movie is notable for its portrayal of the surfing community in Hawaii and its depiction of the unique challenges that come with surfing in that part of the world.
What's inspiring about North Shore is the way it shows the importance of respect and humility in the surfing community. Rick learns important lessons about the culture of surfing in Hawaii and the importance of respecting the local surfers and their traditions.
North Shore is a movie that will inspire you to approach your travels and your surfing with respect and humility, and to appreciate the unique cultures and traditions of the places you visit.