Havana Libre: When Surfing Becomes an Act of Resistance

Surfing in Cuba - Marco Bava / Havana Libre

While in much of the world surfing is synonymous with freedom, travel and a connection with the ocean, in Cuba the reality is different.

Directed by Corea Mclean, this film follows the story of Frank González and Yaya Guerrero, two key figures within Cuba’s surfing community who, despite a lack of resources and restrictions surrounding water sports, refused to give up their passion.

Building his own surfboard - Havana Libre

Here, surfboards, competitions, and surf schools are not part of the everyday landscape. Cuban surfers have grown up facing challenges that go far beyond finding good waves. Entire generations built their own boards, shared equipment, and traveled across the island in search of surf, keeping alive a culture that received no support from the authorities.

For years, surfing and other water activities were viewed with suspicion in Cuba. The constant attempts by people to flee the island using anything capable of floating led police to distrust even those who simply wanted to enter the ocean for sport. As a result, surfers faced harassment and fines for entering the water.

People trying to flee the island - Havana Libre trailer

Against this backdrop, Frank and Yaya strive to create a place for surfing within their country's sporting culture. A pivotal moment arrives when surfing is officially included in the Tokyo Olympic Games, presenting an opportunity to bring the sport out of the shadows and seek official recognition.

Riding the wave - Marco Bava / Havana Libre

However, the road ahead is far from easy. Frank receives an invitation to compete in a qualifying event abroad, a decision that could mean being separated from his family. Meanwhile, Yaya faces her own challenges as she works to create new opportunities for future generations of Cuban surfers.

Frank looking out at the ocean - Havana Libre

What would you be willing to risk to pursue your passion?