Lights, Camera, Ocean: The International Ocean Film Festival Returns to the Treasure Coast

There’s something magical about watching ocean stories unfold just steps away from the water itself. In June, Treasure Coast residents will once again have the chance to dive into a world of marine adventure, conservation, science, and storytelling at the 2026 International Ocean Film Festival: Florida Tour.

Hosted by Florida Atlantic University Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute, this increasingly popular event returns on Saturday, June 6, transforming the waterfront campus into a celebration of all things ocean during World Oceans Week.

Following last year’s sold-out festival, organizers are bringing a new lineup of internationally acclaimed short films focused on the beauty, mystery, and fragility of our blue planet. But this isn’t your average movie marathon. Think of it more as part film festival, part marine science fair, and part community gathering  with a healthy dose of ocean inspiration mixed in.

Held at Harbor Branch’s scenic campus in Fort Pierce, the festival offers attendees the chance to mingle with marine scientists, students, conservationists, filmmakers, and fellow ocean lovers while exploring interactive exhibits and research displays. Guests can get an up-close look at Harbor Branch’s marine mammal ambulance, enjoy demonstrations and exhibits, snap photos with “Humphrey the humpback whale,” and browse showcases highlighting current marine science initiatives.

About the Films

This year’s lineup spans the globe. From the icy waters of Norway to the coral reefs of Fiji and Jamaica, stories are centered on climate resilience, coral restoration, shark research, marine protected areas, plastic pollution, and the people dedicating their lives to protecting ocean ecosystems.

Among the featured films is The Race to 30x30 with Sylvia Earle, in which legendary oceanographer Sylvia Earle calls for stronger global ocean protections. Another standout, Changing Seas: Whales in a Plastic Ocean, explores how plastic pollution impacts marine mammals in the eastern Atlantic. Other films spotlight coral reef restoration projects, Arctic kelp forest conservation, sustainable fishing practices, and groundbreaking marine research.

One especially timely thread running through many of the films is hope — not just warnings about ocean decline, but stories about innovation, resilience, and communities finding ways to protect fragile ecosystems before it’s too late.

That message feels especially relevant here on the Treasure Coast, where lagoon health, water quality, seagrass loss, and marine conservation have become deeply personal issues for many residents. Events like this remind us that while environmental challenges may feel overwhelming, local engagement and global awareness still matter.

How and Why to Attend

The festival runs from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., with doors opening at noon. Tickets are $40 per person and must be purchased in advance as they will not be sold at the door. Proceeds from the festival directly support student success programs at Harbor Branch, helping train the next generation of marine scientists, engineers, and ocean advocates.

 For Treasure Coast residents who love the ocean, this event offers something rare: a chance to see our connection to the sea reflected through stories from around the world. Because sometimes the best way to understand the ocean isn’t through statistics or headlines. Sometimes it starts in a dark room, with a glowing screen, the sound of waves, and a reminder of just how extraordinary our blue planet really is.

For tickets and event details, and a full list of films visit www.fau.edu/hboi/filmfest or call 772-242-2214