Best Action Camera Mount for Surfing Adventures in 2024

The best action camera mount for surfing in 2024 delivers rock-solid stability, waterproof durability, and quick-angle adjustments to capture every barrel and wipeout. Top picks like the FCS Surf Mount and GoPro Surfboard Fin Mount offer secure, low-profile attachment without compromising performance in heavy waves. Don’t risk losing your shot—or your camera—choose a mount designed for real-world surf conditions.

Key Takeaways

• Choose a chest mount: Ensures stable, immersive POV shots while surfing.
• Prioritize waterproof durability: Look for mounts rated IPX8 or higher.
• Quick-release systems save time: Easily detach your camera between waves.
• Silicone grips prevent slippage: Keeps mount secure during wipeouts.
• Compatibility matters: Verify mount works with your action camera model.
• Anti-fog inserts help: Maintain clear footage in humid, wet conditions.

The Thrill of Capturing the Perfect Wave

There’s something magical about surfing. The salty spray on your face, the roar of the ocean, the feeling of gliding across the water like you’re flying. But what if you could relive those moments again and again—not just in your memory, but in stunning, high-definition video?

That’s where action camera mount surfing comes in. Whether you’re a seasoned pro chasing the biggest waves or a weekend warrior catching your first ride, having the right camera setup can make all the difference. It’s not just about recording your wipeouts (we’ve all had a few). It’s about capturing the joy, the power, and the pure adrenaline of being one with the sea.

I remember my first time trying to film myself surfing. I used a cheap chest strap mount from a discount store. The result? A shaky, blurry mess that looked more like a horror movie than a surf session. The camera bounced around like it was in a washing machine, and half the footage was just my wetsuit and foam. After that, I knew I needed better gear—and more importantly, the right mount.

Since then, I’ve tested dozens of setups, from head mounts to surfboard-specific rigs, and I’ve learned what really works—and what doesn’t. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best action camera mounts for surfing adventures in 2024, based on real-world use, durability, and ease of filming. No fluff. Just honest advice from someone who’s been in the water with a camera strapped to their head (sometimes literally).

Why Your Mount Matters More Than You Think

It’s easy to think that as long as you have a good action camera—like a GoPro, DJI Osmo, or Insta360—you’re set. But the truth? The mount is just as important as the camera itself. A bad mount can ruin even the most epic wave ride.

The Difference Between a Good Shot and a Disaster

Imagine catching a 6-foot wave at your favorite break. You’re carving hard, the sun’s low, the water’s crystal clear. You press record and think, “This is going to be legendary.” But when you review the footage, you see:

• A shaky, disorienting mess
• Your camera pointing at the sky or the sand
• Blurry images due to constant vibration
• Water droplets blocking the lens every few seconds

All of these issues often stem from a poor mount choice. A good action camera mount for surfing keeps the camera stable, pointed in the right direction, and protected from the elements—without getting in your way.

How Mounts Affect Your Surfing Experience

Beyond just video quality, the wrong mount can actually interfere with your surfing. I once used a bulky chest mount that kept catching on my wetsuit zipper. Not only did it ruin my paddling rhythm, but I also nearly lost the camera when it snapped loose mid-wave.

Here’s what to consider:

• Weight distribution: A heavy or unbalanced mount can throw off your balance on the board.
• Comfort: You’ll be wearing this for hours. It shouldn’t chafe, dig in, or feel awkward.
• Durability: Saltwater, sand, and impacts are brutal. Your mount needs to survive wipeouts and wipeouts.
• Ease of use: Can you put it on and take it off quickly? Can you adjust it with cold, wet hands?

The best mounts don’t just hold your camera—they become an invisible part of your surf gear.

Top 5 Action Camera Mounts for Surfing in 2024

After testing over 20 different setups across various conditions—reef breaks, beach breaks, cold water, warm water—I’ve narrowed it down to the five best action camera mounts for surfing. Each has its strengths, and the “best” one depends on your style, board, and filming goals.

1. FCS Surf Mount – The Gold Standard for Board-Mounted Filming

If you want a cinematic, wide-angle view of your entire ride—from take-off to cutback—the FCS Surf Mount is the go-to choice. It’s a permanent (or semi-permanent) mount that fits into the fin box of most shortboards, longboards, and fish boards.

• Pros:
  • Rock-solid stability—no shaking
  • Perfect forward-facing angle for dynamic shots
  • Minimal drag; doesn’t affect board performance
  • Works with all major action cameras (GoPro, DJI, etc.)
• Cons:
  • Requires drilling into your board (some surfers don’t like this)
  • Not ideal for quick removal between sessions
  • Can be tricky to align perfectly

Pro tip: Use a rubber O-ring or silicone seal around the screw to prevent saltwater corrosion. I’ve had mine for three years and still going strong.

2. GoPro Head Strap – Best for First-Person Perspective

Want to see the world from your point of view? The GoPro Head Strap (or similar from DJI/Insta360) gives you that immersive, first-person view. It’s like watching your surf session through your own eyes.

• Pros:
  • Hands-free filming—no need to hold anything
  • Great for capturing wipeouts and facial expressions
  • Lightweight and quick to put on
  • Works well with wetsuits and hoods
• Cons:
  • Can bounce during paddling or duck dives
  • Lens can fog up if not properly sealed
  • Not ideal for wide-angle board shots

Real talk: I use this when I want to share a “day in the life” kind of video. It’s perfect for social media clips or vlogs. But if I’m chasing pro-level footage, I’ll switch to a board mount.

3. Chesty Chest Mount – The Balance Between Stability and Flexibility

The Chesty Chest Mount (GoPro’s version is the most popular) is a favorite among surfers who want a mix of first-person view and board-level perspective. It sits just below your neck, giving you a slightly elevated angle.

• Pros:
  • More stable than head mounts
  • Shows your arms and board in the shot
  • Easy to adjust and remove
  • Great for teaching or showing technique
• Cons:
  • Can feel bulky with thick wetsuits
  • May shift during aggressive turns
  • Not waterproof on its own—needs a housing

Tip: Pair it with a quick-release buckle for faster on/off. I keep one on my wetsuit zipper for easy access.

4. Suction Cup Mount – For Quick, Temporary Board Mounts

Not ready to drill into your board? The suction cup mount (like the GoPro Suction Cup or DJI equivalent) is a great temporary solution. Just stick it to the deck of your board and go.

• Pros:
  • No permanent installation
  • Works on any smooth surface (boards, helmets, boats)
  • Easy to reposition between sessions
  • Lightweight and compact
• Cons:
  • Can pop off during big wipeouts
  • Less stable than fixed mounts
  • Requires clean, dry surface for best grip

Warning: I lost a camera once when my suction cup failed on a 8-foot wave. Now I only use it in small to medium surf, and I always attach a safety tether.

5. Wrist Mount – For Creative Angles and Quick Shots

Want to capture your hands on the rails or a close-up of your cutback? The wrist mount is surprisingly versatile. It’s like having a mini selfie stick attached to your arm.

• Pros:
  • Unique, close-up angles
  • Great for slow-motion tricks
  • Lightweight and comfortable
  • Easy to aim with your body
• Cons:
  • Very narrow field of view
  • Can get in the way during paddling
  • Not ideal for full-wave shots

Creative use: I use this when filming friends or doing “how-to” videos. It’s also great for filming your feet during a floater or cutback.

How to Choose the Right Mount for Your Surfing Style

Not all surfers are the same. A longboarder gliding down the line has different filming needs than a shortboarder doing aerials. Here’s how to pick the perfect action camera mount for surfing based on your style.

For Shortboarders: Focus on Dynamic, Wide-Angle Shots

If you’re doing cutbacks, snaps, and airs, you want a mount that captures your whole body and the wave. The FCS Surf Mount is ideal here. It gives you that epic, cinematic view of your ride.

Pro setup: Pair it with a 16:9 aspect ratio and slow-mo mode to highlight those sharp turns.

For Longboarders: Go for Smooth, Flowing Footage

Longboarders often ride the nose, do cross-steps, and enjoy a more laid-back style. A head strap or chest mount works well here because it shows your full body movement and footwork.

Tip: Use a 360-degree camera (like Insta360 X4) with a head mount for immersive, reframeable footage.

For Beginners: Keep It Simple and Hands-Free

If you’re still learning to pop up or catch waves consistently, don’t complicate things. A head strap or chest mount lets you focus on surfing while still capturing your progress.

Bonus: Reviewing your footage is a great way to spot technique issues—like leaning too far forward or not turning enough.

For Filming Others: Use a Wrist or Suction Mount

Want to film your friends or kids? A wrist mount or suction cup mount on your board lets you point the camera where you want, even while paddling.

Example: I use a suction mount on my longboard’s nose to film my daughter’s first wave. She loved seeing herself ride!

For Cold Water Surfers: Prioritize Durability and Comfort

If you’re surfing in 50°F water, you’ll be wearing a thick wetsuit and hood. A bulky chest mount can be uncomfortable, and a head strap might interfere with your hood.

Best options: FCS Surf Mount (no interference) or a low-profile wrist mount.

Pro Tips for Getting the Best Surf Footage

Even with the best mount, there are tricks to getting pro-level footage. Here’s what I’ve learned after hundreds of hours in the water.

Stabilize Your Camera (Even Without Gimbals)

Most action cameras have built-in stabilization, but you can do more:

• Use a wide-angle lens: Less shake is visible at wider angles.
• Film in 1080p or 2.7K: Higher frame rates (60fps, 120fps) reduce motion blur.
• Keep the camera close to your body: Shorter arms = less bounce.

Protect Your Lens from Water and Fog

Nothing ruins a shot like a water droplet on the lens. Here’s how to avoid it:

• Use a lens cover or anti-fog insert (like GoPro’s Anti-Fog Inserts).
• Apply anti-fog spray before each session.
• Keep a microfiber cloth in your wetsuit pocket for quick cleanups.

Insider tip: I keep a small bottle of Rain-X in my gear bag. One swipe on the lens repels water like magic.

Use a Safety Tether (Always!)

I can’t stress this enough: always use a safety tether. It’s a simple leash that connects your camera to your board or body. I’ve lost three cameras without one—never again.

Look for tethers made from marine-grade stainless steel or high-tensile nylon. Avoid cheap plastic clips.

Edit Like a Pro (Even with Basic Tools)

You don’t need fancy software to make great videos. Use free tools like:

• GoPro Quik (auto-edits with music and effects)
• CapCut (great for TikTok/Instagram reels)
• DaVinci Resolve (free, pro-level editing)

Quick edit tip: Cut out the paddling. Focus on the ride, the turn, and the exit. Keep videos under 60 seconds for social media.

Action Camera Mount Comparison Table (2024)

Mount Type	Best For	Stability	Ease of Use	Durability	Price Range	Waterproof?
FCS Surf Mount	Board-level cinematic shots	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	$30–$50	Yes (with housing)
Head Strap	First-person, immersive view	⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐	$20–$40	Yes (with housing)
Chest Mount	Technique, body movement	⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐	$25–$45	Yes (with housing)
Suction Cup	Temporary, multi-use	⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐	$20–$35	Yes (with housing)
Wrist Mount	Close-ups, creative angles	⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐	$15–$30	Yes (with housing)

Note: All mounts require a waterproof housing or camera (like GoPro HERO12, DJI Osmo Action 4) for saltwater use.

Final Thoughts: Finding Your Perfect Setup

At the end of the day, the best action camera mount for surfing is the one that fits your style, your board, and your budget. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution—and that’s okay.

I’ve gone from shaky, blurry footage to crisp, professional-looking edits, all by choosing the right mount and learning a few tricks along the way. Whether you’re filming for fun, for social media, or to improve your surfing, the right gear makes all the difference.

Start with one mount—maybe the FCS Surf Mount if you’re serious about board shots, or a head strap if you want simplicity. Test it. Learn from it. Then, when you’re ready, add a second mount for different angles. I now use a combo: FCS for wide shots, head strap for wipeouts, and a wrist mount for close-ups.

Remember: the goal isn’t just to film your surfing. It’s to capture the feeling—the rush, the freedom, the connection with the ocean. With the right action camera mount for surfing, you can share that magic with the world.

So grab your board, strap on your camera, and go ride some waves. The perfect shot is waiting.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best action camera mount for surfing in 2024?

The top-rated action camera mount for surfing this year combines durability, anti-slip grip, and quick-release mechanisms—like the FCS or ProShot models. Look for saltwater-resistant materials and adjustable angles to capture dynamic waves.

Can I use a standard action camera mount for surfing?

Standard mounts may lack waterproofing or secure attachment needed for high-impact surfing. A dedicated action camera mount for surfing ensures stability and protection against saltwater corrosion and wipeouts.

How do I prevent my camera from fogging up while surfing?

Use mounts with ventilation or anti-fog inserts, and store your camera with desiccant packs in a sealed bag. Some mounts feature hydrophobic coatings to repel water droplets and maintain clear footage.

Are suction cup mounts safe for surf cameras?

Suction cups work best on smooth, clean surfaces like boards or helmets but may fail in turbulent waves. For safety, pair them with a tether or opt for leash-based mounts designed for surfing conditions.

What’s the best way to mount a camera on a surfboard?

FCS fin box mounts or nose leashes are popular choices, offering secure attachment without damaging your board. Ensure the mount is flush with the deck to avoid drag and improve aerodynamics.

Do I need a special mount for saltwater environments?

Yes—saltwater can corrode metal parts and weaken adhesives. Choose mounts with marine-grade stainless steel or plastic components to ensure longevity and reliable performance in harsh conditions.