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Beach Break Entertainment brings the art of independent film and storytelling to California’s San Mateo County coast. Through year-round screenings and the annual Beach Break Film Festival, a fiscally sponsored non-profit, we create spaces for conversation, community, and cinematic discovery.

Founded in 2020 to connect people safely through film, Beach Break has evolved into a cultural hub presenting impactful documentaries, shorts, and features that spark dialogue about our world. Our events combine the charm of outdoor movie nights with the depth of filmmaker Q&As and panel discussions that explore real issues and inspiring ideas.

Each December, the Beach Break Film Festival transforms Half Moon Bay into a coastal celebration of independent cinema. Held between Christmas and New Year’s, the three-day festival features powerful films and shorts, engaging panels, and unforgettable gatherings beneath the coastal stars.

We’re proud to partner with venues such as Jettywave Distillery in Princeton Harbor and Sea Bowl Entertainment Center in Pacifica—easy escapes for locals and Bay Area visitors alike. Every screening also gives back: Beach Break has donated more than $42,000 to community nonprofits including the Pacific Beach Coalition, Sea Hugger, Cabrillo Education Foundation, and others.

From our debut showing of Chasing Mavericks to today’s diverse lineup, Beach Break Entertainment continues to honor the power of film to inspire, connect, and bring people together on the coast.

“Julie Mell and Beach Break Entertainment are amazing to work with. Together we put on a very successful fundraiser for Square Peg Foundation. There’s a lot of moving parts to put on a drive-in movie fundraiser, and Julie was one step ahead of each one. From identifying, negotiating and setting up the beautiful HMB location to sourcing the food trucks to helping us get press and fundraise, Julie and her team were amazing. Julie has created a truly enchanting service for the Coastside community, and I look forward to the next time we are able to work together.” —Michael Yablon, Director of Square Peg Foundation

“You nailed it last night! Excellent job! We had a wonderful time. I was told last night when we got home that we are going to participate in every one of these movie nights. My wife and daughters loved it! What went right: the woman who walked down the line of cars waiting to get in and confirmed the ticket list -- great thinking!  Made entry very smooth. The popcorn and candy and cookies; super yummy, we loved the wagon cart!” —Brian Arnold

“Fantastic! I'm a proud donor to this. This will be a great addition to coastal life if we keep it going regularly.” —Ian Patterson

“We loved the movie, loved the jelly beans, loved the friendly people, including the amazingly diligent folks parking our cars and selling concessions. Well done! Can’t wait til the next one.” —Michael B. Day

We are especially grateful to our past, current and future sponsors who help us to spread joy along the coast and make sharing these extraordinary films possible. Want to become a sponsor? Contact Julie Mell at julie@beachbreakentertainment.com.

Past Presenting Sponsors

Thank you!

Beach Break Entertainment organizer Julie Mell gives thanks to sponsors, the city of Half Moon Bay and YOU for making our kick-off event such a success. Aired before the feature film Chasing Mavericks on August 13th, 2020.