Calling Surf Filmmakers: Entries Open for 2026 Save The Waves Film Festival
In 2025, the Save The Waves Film Festival screened in more than 50 locations in 14 countries. From Ericeira to the Gold Coast, Santa Cruz to Nosara, the tour’s tickets and proceeds benefit surf ecosystem conservation projects worldwide.
The Save The Waves Coalition is running it back in 2026. Filmmakers focused on surfing, water sports, or coastal conservation can submit entries to the film fest here. The deadline to enter is March 31. Organizers typically chose 6-8 shorts in the 5-12 minute range, along with a feature film of about 45-60 minutes. For more information, visit the event website here.
“Save The Waves Film Festival helps protect surf ecosystems and inspires others to do the same,” STW Communications Director Lauren Parrino said in a statement. “This is an international tour with heavy local enthusiasm. Proceeds from our screenings go back to community conservation efforts. In addition to having their creation screened for audiences worldwide, filmmakers who are a part of the tour are helping our mission and driving change for surf breaks and coastlines.”
The 2026 tour dates will be released to the public in May. If you want to see the selected films but aren't near a venue, fear not. In an effort to make these films more accessible to everyone, the nonprofit has a “film fest in a box" toolkit for anyone, be it a business or backyard screening, to host a screening. Materials, merch, online promo, it's all provided. Click here if you want to host.
Below is a list of films and shorts that were selected for the 2025 STW Film Festival.
Shorts
O Mentor No Mar - Lukas Olesinski
Visions - Christian Habberstad
Baja Born and Raised - Jesus Salazar
Féileacán - (And the Lost Weekend) - Chris McClean
Erwin - Annie K Fergerson
We are like waves - Jordyn Romero
One shot - Nicholas Pina
Feature Film