A Surfer's Guide to Morocco

Taghazout is home to a number of surf camps and shops, and beginners can find experienced instructors to help them practice their techniques on the waves. The small fishing village is home to a predominantly Berber population. Located 19 kilometres from the popular seaside resort of Agadir, Taghazout is the main surfing destination in Morocco. While some surfing hotspots can get pretty crowded, it is still possible to find parts that are relatively deserted.

Anchor Point, with its sand and reef breaks is one of the most sought-after surfing spots in Taghazout. It’s possible on a good day to ride the waves for almost a kilometer. Other popular surf spots in the area include Hash Point, with its right-side waves, Killer Point, Mysteries, and Panorama.

The small town of Tamri is around a 30-minute drive to the north of Taghazout. Easily accessed from the larger surfing destination for a day of fun on the waves, the main area is a good place for surfing when other places along the coast are flat. It offers good surfing for people of all experience levels.

Imsouane is just north of Tamri, and so also easily accessed from Taghazout. It features two great breaks: The Bay and Cathedral. The Bay is ideal for long boards. Cathedral’s point break is fast.

Tiguert is between Taghazout and Tamri. The tricky reef break at Unicorns’ is usually quiet. Boilers, where you can see the remains of a shipwreck at the start of the wave, is a busier surfing area, thanks to the consistent waves. Draculas’ is a large break, located near the light house. Desert Point is often said to be among the premier surf spots in the whole country.

Tamraght is located just south of Taghazoute. Another small fishing village, it is also known for its many banana plantations. Surfing enthusiasts who stay in Taghazoute often take trips to Tamraght for more terrific surfing. Major breaks in the area include Banana Point and Devil’s Rock.

Agadir’s sandy beaches attract many holidaymakers each and every year. There are also some great places for surf-lovers too. Killers Beach is often packed with people looking to ride the long waves. There are numerous surf shops and instructors in and around Agadir.

Known for its almost year-round winds, Essaouira attracts many people looking for chilled out water adventures. Whether you’re looking for kite surfing, windsurfing, or surfing, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy. Both ends of the beach offer good surfing; the lighthouse end is ideal for when the swell is small, whereas the end closer to the harbour is perfect for when the swell is bigger.

La Grotte is located 16 kilometres from Essaouira. The waves are big and powerful, perfect for if other parts of the coast are relatively flat.

Sidi Kaouki is 25 kilometres to the south of Essaouira. It boasts a long sandy beach and is great for intermediate to advanced surfers. It is easy to reach on a day trip from Essaouira.

The industrial and port city of Safi is located on Morocco’s Atlantic Coast, part way between Essaouira and El Jadida (on the way to Casablanca). There are several surf camps and shops close to the beach. The right-hand break features hollow waves and wide barrels. The surfing is exciting! Do be careful of the rocks, though. If the conditions aren’t right, however, you’ll be disappointed.

The country’s capital of Rabat is within easy reach of some good surf spots. Oudaya offers great winter surfing for beginners. It’s located close to the old kasbah.

Casablanca, Kenitra, Sidi Ifni, Mirleft, and Tangier also have a good selection of surf shops and camps, with easy access to exciting waves.

October to April is generally the best time to catch the most awesome waves in Morocco. The earlier part of the season, from September to October, is great for surfing almost everywhere along the Atlantic Coast. If you want to surf in the summer, Rabat and Safi typically offer the best waves.

Most major surfing areas have top-class facilities for enthusiasts. You’ll have no problems buying surf boards and other gear in places like Taghazoute, Agadir, Essaouira, and Rabat. The economic heart of the country, Casablanca also has a decent selection of surf shops.

As with anywhere in the world, learn a little about the local culture before visiting. The surf vibe is generally relaxed in Morocco. The farther you venture away from the more popular surfing spots, however, the more important it is to be aware of the local surf culture. For example, female surfers may receive unwanted attention in some areas, especially if not wearing modest clothing on the beaches. Watch out for jellyfish in the waters.

Hybrid boards can really help you to make the most of the waves in most conditions. Expect fairly basic accommodations away from major tourist areas. Surf camps are ideal for beginners, with instruction, transportation, and accommodation all included. Experienced surfers with their own gear, however, should have no problems finding somewhere to stay and navigating the main surfing areas.

Great surfing is just one of the many reasons to plan a trip to Morocco.