Salt Creek Beach recently played host to a monumental gathering of film enthusiasts, environmental advocates, and surf culture aficionados at the second annual Endless Summer + Dana Point Film Festival. This year’s event held from May 2-5, attracted a record-breaking crowd of about 5,000 attendees. As one of the most scenic and culturally significant festivals in Southern California, the event is quickly becoming a pivotal platform for filmmakers and conservationists aiming to spotlight oceanic and surfing themes.

The festival opened with an exclusive VIP event at Station Craft Brewery, drawing in prominent figures including filmmakers, Mayor Joe Muller, and other distinguished guests. As the festivities unfolded, the festival’s commitment to blending arts, entertainment, and environmental advocacy shone brightly across various events held throughout its duration.

Among the winners at the festival, Volcom Entertainment’s “MUNCH” took home The Killer Dana Award for Short Film. The award for Best Surf Documentary was scooped up by “Trilogy,” while “Teahupo’o Surf Camp – Road to Paris 2024” was heralded as the Best Sports Documentary. “To Be Frank” was recognized with the Special Jury Award, underlining the festival’s diverse cinematic palette that ranges from adrenaline-pumping surf films to thoughtful environmental documentaries.

The festival’s schedule was packed with engaging activities. For instance, a film showcase by Volcom at Salt Creek Beach Park set a lively vibe with an eclectic mix of films, sumptuous local eats, and spirited live performances. The Sunrise-to-sunset entertainment encapsulated the festival’s ethos — celebrating the endless summer spirit while advocating for marine conservation.

Over 40 hours of film screenings took place at key venues such as the Dana Point Women’s Club and the OC Sailing and Event Center. These sessions were accentuated with expert-led discussions focusing on marine conservation, a cornerstone of the festival’s mission. The community-driven spirit of the festival was further amplified by a free CPR clinic hosted by I-SEA Sunglasses, where attendees learned life-saving techniques from revered athletes.

The festival’s penultimate day featured a vibrant beach party and a nostalgic screening of Dana Brown’s “Step Into Liquid.” This celebration of surf culture and oceanic beauty underscored the festival’s dedication to its roots in the surfing world and its commitment to ocean preservation.

Wrapping up the festival, Sunday saw performances by notable Hawaiian artists and a delightful screening of Disney’s “Moana,” which captivated both the young and the young-at-heart. The day also featured a showcase of vintage cars by the Southern California Woodie Club, adding a touch of historical charm to the modern festivities.

In essence, the Endless Summer + Dana Point Film Festival is more than just a series of film screenings; it’s a dynamic celebration of marine life, surfing culture, and global oceanic conservation. Each year, the festival harnesses the power of cinematic storytelling to inspire action and awareness, cementing itself as a vital cultural event in Dana Point and beyond, fostering a deeper connection between communities and the ocean that sustains them. For further insights and updates on award-winning films, enthusiasts are encouraged to visit the festival’s official website.