Each year, we bring together filmmakers, activists, students, and storytellers to share powerful films that inspire connection to the outdoors, elevate untold stories, and ignite change. Whether you’re an established director or picking up a camera for the first time, this is your chance to be part of something bigger.

🌍 What Makes Coast Different

Coast Film & Music Festival is more than just a festival—it’s a celebration of stories that matter. From the mountains to the sea (and the places in between), our curated programs span adventure, conservation, culture, mental health, and the human spirit.

The weeklong event includes:
🎥 Nonfiction and documentary film screenings
🎤 Topical discussions + speaker panels
🌟 Networking with filmmakers, athletes, and changemakers
🎶 Live music and community gatherings

Each program block is themed and organized around issues like climate change, ocean plastics, Indigenous wisdom, adaptive sports, environmental justice, and cultural identity.

We’re proud to support films from around the world—short and long form, from creators of all backgrounds. Most selected films are under 20 minutes. Foreign language films must include embedded English subtitles.

🎟️ Submit Your Film by June 9, 2025

We accept nonfiction and documentary films ranging from 60 seconds to 90+ minutes. Whether your work is rooted in personal experience, environmental activism, cultural identity, or bold imagination, your voice adds to a growing community of storytellers helping us see and understand the world in new ways.

We’re seeking films that go beyond entertainment—stories that connect, challenge, and inspire. Projects that elevate underrepresented voices, explore our relationship with nature, and ask the questions that matter most.

At Coast, we believe film is a powerful tool for shifting perspectives and igniting meaningful change. This is your invitation to be part of a festival that values craft, impact, and authenticity. Whether you’re just starting out or well into your journey, your story matters here.

SUBMIT YOUR FILM

🏆 Awards + Recognition

Coast is committed to recognizing and promoting filmmakers and their important stories. Each year, we present nine awards, including the prestigious CFF MacGillivray Freeman Environmental Filmmaker of the Year, which comes with a $3,000 cash prize.

We also support student filmmakers through our Coast Student Filmmaker Program, with a dedicated student track at the festival and a scholarship for a graduating Laguna Beach High School student pursuing film.

🎓 The Coast Film Foundation’s Student Film Education Program

“Igniting Passion Through Film”

Through our nonprofit arm, the Coast Film Foundation, we’re committed to nurturing the next generation of filmmakers and environmental advocates.

Our Student Film Education Program empowers young people with tools for storytelling and filmmaking, while also introducing conservation principles through film.

Our Goals:

Show Inspiring Films that spark curiosity and build community
Provide Filmmaking Education through accessible curriculum and resources
Create Opportunities with mentorship, scholarships, and festival access for students

Whether it’s helping a student attend the festival, supporting a school program, or recognizing emerging talent, we’re here to amplify young voices.