How to watch

Baywatch became a global phenomenon following the lives of the lifeguards of Los Angeles County. Anchored by David Hasselhoff and a rotating cast, it grew into one of the most-watched shows in television history, spawning spin-offs and eventually a comedic 2017 film reboot.

At its peak, Baywatch was reportedly the most-watched television show on the planet, syndicated in dozens of countries and cementing its slow-motion beach runs into pop culture forever. The 2017 movie, starring Dwayne Johnson and Zac Efron, leans into self-aware comedy and winking nods to the show's over-the-top reputation, offering a very different flavor from the earnest drama of the original.

🕐 Release Order

Release order lets you follow the franchise from its late-'80s beginnings through its various incarnations.

1. Baywatch (1989-2001)
2. Baywatch Nights (1995-1997)
3. Baywatch: Hawaii (1999-2001)
4. Baywatch (2017)

The original series and its spin-offs share a world, while the 2017 film is a separate comedic reboot of the concept.

📖 Story Chronology

Story chronology follows the original run and its spin-offs in order, with the 2017 movie standing apart as a modern reimagining.

1. Baywatch (1989-2001)
2. Baywatch Nights (1995-1997)
3. Baywatch: Hawaii (1999-2001)
4. Baywatch (2017) — a standalone reboot

Which Order Should You Choose?

Start with the original series to understand the phenomenon. The 2017 film can be watched on its own as a self-aware comedy — you don't need the show to enjoy it, though longtime fans will catch the nods.

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