5 Best Surf Movies Filmed at Pipeline

The infamous Pipeline produces iconic, left barrels, big and powerful enough to scare any surfer. It was first filmed way back in 1961 when Bruce Brown captured video of Phil Edwards' pioneering rides at the break. He featured these clips in his film, Hollow Days, showcasing the incredible wave to the world. Since then, it has not only become home to multiple surf competitions a year, but Hollywood and surf videographers can’t stay away. Here are the best surf movies filmed at Pipeline.

Blue Crush

The 2002 film, Blue Crush, takes place on the North Shore of Oahu. It tells the story of Anne Marie and her determination to not only surf the infamous Pipeline but conquer the wave and win a title at the upcoming Pipeline Competition. The surfer girl meets a football boy, and you know how this kind of story goes. Despite some Hollywood cheesiness, there are plenty of great surf clips and features from pros like Coco Ho, Bruce Irons, Keala Kennelly, and our very own Jamie O’Brien. You can rent the movie here.

North Shore

North Shore is another Hollywood portrayal of this classic surf scene. A surf champion from Arizona of all places uses his prize money from winning a wave pool surf competition to travel out and master the waves on the 7-mile miracle. Along the way, he learns the true meaning of surfing, the power of the ocean, and a lot more about himself. You can rent the movie here.

Step into Liquid

Step into Liquid is the first solo project done by Dana Brown, son of the famous surfer, filmmaker, and first filmer of Pipeline, Bruce Brown. It follows real surfers at breaks like Pipeline, Da Nang in Vietnam, and even the massive waves at Cortes Bank. The film features famous surfers like Laird Hamilton, Layne Beachley, Dan Malloy, Kelly Slater, and Jamie O’Brien. This classic film is a must-watch for all surfers and can be rented here.

Momentum Generation

This film follows the ultimate surfer squad; Rob Machado, Kelly Slater, Kalani Rob, Benji Weatherley, Shane Dorain, and more through their teenage years and rise to fame as professional surfers. Momentum Generation is a look behind the scenes at these surf legends' iconic careers, waves, drama, and important names in the North Shore scene. You can rent it here.

Bustin Down the Door

Bustin Down the Door takes us back to the birth of professional surfing. A group of Australians and South Africans determined to make a living out of riding waves, cause upset in the North Shore surf scene, and change the surf industry forever. This film is a must-see for any surfer interested in the history of surfing. You can rent this movie here.

Did these Surf Movies filmed at Pipeline inspire you to get out in the waves? Check out the Jamie O’Brien Surf App here for anytime, anywhere surf coaching.