“Riding the Crest” - Surfing Hawaii – 9-minites from Waikiki in 1940

A newsreel from Pictorial Films:

“Produced by Frederic Ullman, Jr., for Pictorial Films in the early 1940s, this relatively short “Sportreel” black-and-white film is titled “Riding the Crest” and takes it viewer to Honolulu, Hawaii. At mark 02:20, the narrator explains one of the island’s most popular sports: body surfing. (The title itself is a reference to surfing and the ability to successfully ride the crest of a wave.) 

“The narrator explains the “how to” basics of surfing as we see scenes of novice and expert surfers out in the ocean. The viewer is also introduced to surfboarding starting at mark 03:04, in which the brave hearted are said to ride a “streamlined ironing board” as men are shown heading out to the Pacific Ocean and the narrator again explains the basics.

"Scenes of outrigger canoes follow, and at mark 05:44, the viewer is returned to surfboarding as we see a bikini-clad novice surfer practicing her balancing techniques on dry land, followed by more scenes of experienced surfers riding the waves. 

“As the sun sets at mark 08:34, the narrator reminds the viewer that “so long as there is a surf on the island, there will be sport … and sportsmen to ride the crest.” 

“This short documentary explores the vibrant and deeply rooted sporting culture of Hawaii, centered around the natural beauty and power of the ocean. It highlights traditional Hawaiian water sports such as outrigger canoeing, body surfing, and surfboarding, emphasizing their simplicity, physical challenge, and connection to the islands’ spirit. 

“Outrigger canoeing requires teamwork and precision to navigate dangerous coral reefs, while body surfing and surfboarding test individual skill, balance, and courage against powerful waves. The film introduces young local talents like five-year-old surfer Georgie Kaeo and shows how even visitors can learn the techniques with practice. 

“Above all, it celebrates the Hawaiian people’s joyful, fearless relationship with the sea—where the real talent needed is simply a love of sport and the willingness to embrace nature’s rhythm.”

WATCH IT HERE