The long, untouched coastline of Morocco, with its great, constant waves and rich culture, is definitely what has made it a surfer’s paradise for those seeking to get out and relax. Morocco is the land of the right-hand point breaks. Seeing the long waves extending throughout the coastline in surf magazines and pictures, I realized Morocco is a surfer’s paradise. The intoxicating blend of vibrant culture, warm hospitality, and some of the finest African coast breaks always encouraged me to explore its surf-rich shores.
Although it’s a part of Africa, its surfing scenes have created a significant mark on the European surf trail. Morocco has always been present in my surfing life. Not because it’s a place I’m always visiting (I wish!), but because of its proximity to Europe and Portugal, in particular. Some say that surf entered Portugal by the hand of Europeans who passed here while heading down to Africa and would stop and show local Portuguese kids the art of riding waves.
So, if you’re like me, strap your board to the roof of your trusty van and set off on a journey to unravel the secrets of Moroccan surfing.
Morocco is the first place you hit heading south from Europe, separated from Europe by the Straights of Gibraltar. South Morocco (Le Grand Sud / the Great South), containing the main surfing regions, includes the region south of the High Atlas. It runs from north of Safi down all the way to along the Atlantic Coast to the Islamic Republic of Mauritania, bordered in the east by Algeria.
There are surf spots all along the coast of Morocco but the better quality (and well known) waves are found in South Morocco between Essaouira and Agadir.
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With moderate NW to NE winds blowing, surfers often find solace in spots that offer protection against these winds. The mornings in Morocco’s beaches are marked by summer’s N or NW winds. These winds keep the exposed beaches light from onshore conditions. But the desert’s influence is strong. Early morning land breezes heat up quickly, and by afternoon, sea breezes take over.
Here's a quick look at some of the best surf breaks in Morocco:
| Surf Spot | Description | Skill Level |
|---|---|---|
| Safi | The best wave in Morocco when huge swells provide 500 metre rides that feature some of the longest tuberides in the world. | Advanced |
| Anchors | A long world-class righthand point break with long, mellow walls providing some of the best fast peeling barrel sections. | Intermediate to Advanced |
| Killers | A famous sand bottomed world class righthand point break where 250 metre rides are likely when there’s decent swell. | Intermediate to Advanced |
| Imsouane | One of the longest rights in the world, perfect for beginners, intermediates and longboarders. Can turn to world class when the swell gets big enough. | Beginner to Intermediate |
| Banana Point | Mellow right-hand point that breaks over sand, long walls perfect for longboarders. | Beginner to Intermediate |
| Tamri | A friendly beach break suitable for all levels, Tamri is a swell magnet - one of Morocco’s best beach breaks. | All Levels |
5 Best Waves in Morocco, Taghazout - Morocco Part 2
Best Surf Breaks in Morocco
Morocco is full of point-breaks, and the coastline around the Agadir area is packed with spots that come alive with the swells. The most famous surf spots lie just north of Agadir, around the fishing village and surfing mecca of Taghazout.
Taghazout
Taghazout has long been a surfer’s mecca. Its legendary waves like the ‘Ikhf’nout’ and the mesmerizing ‘Anchor Point’ beckon surfers from all around. This charming coastal village is the epicenter of Morocco’s surf scene. Its relaxed atmosphere and vibrant surf culture are infectious. Beginners can test the waters at Banana Beach or Panoramas, while seasoned surfers can tackle the notorious Anchor Point, one of the best right-hand point breaks in the world.
Imsouane
Imsouane is a chill fishing village with an endless wave-the longest in Morocco. Known for its endless point break, Imsouane is a surfer’s paradise. This sleepy fishing village offers an authentic Moroccan experience. You can score long rides at Cathedral Point or The Bay while enjoying the local hospitality. A relaxed vibe and mellow waves, just perfect for longboarders or beginners, are given off by the bay.
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Tamri
Tamri is that spot that pays off for those looking for uncrowded waves. A short drive north of Taghazout, Tamri Beach is perfect for beginners and longboard enthusiasts. The waves are gentle, and the backdrop of the Atlas Mountains adds to its allure. Is the place to go when Taghazout is small. Always offshore in the mornings.
Essaouira
The highway inland from Safi leads you to Essaouira, a former hippie town that has maintained its old-world charm. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed town is a cultural delight. While the waves might not be as colossal as some other spots, Essaouira offers a unique surf vibe, a colorful medina, and a mix of reef and beach breaks. Here, you’ll find surfers battling strong cross-shore winds. But the reward? Gorgeous reef breaks, points, and beach breaks with more swell.
Sidi Kaouki
A wild, undeveloped stretch of coast, Sidi Kaouki is a surreal escape for adventurous surfers. It’s a great place for solitary sessions, and you can ride waves that seem to go on forever.
Morocco’s southern coastline stretches across a vast expanse, offering surf enthusiasts a dreamlike combination of the Sahara desert meeting the Atlantic’s crisp waves. The southern belt of Morocco reaches out from the bustling city of Agadir, navigating its way along a disputed border with Western Sahara, and further extending 800kms down towards Mauritania. It’s not just any stretch; it’s an untouched wilderness - vast, empty, and ready for exploration. Further south, leave the crowds and population behind in search of perfect empty waves. There are real possibilities of finding new or barely surfed spots. If you are struggling to get waves in a crowded lineup in Morocco you are a fool, and a lazy one at that.
The Surf Vibe in Morocco
Surfing in Morocco is not only about the waves. Nowadays, it’s an amalgamation of local tradition and international surf culture.
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Moroccans usually are gracious and welcoming, and you often find yourself sharing a tagine with new friends in beachfront cafes or joining conversational circles on the sand. There’s a sense of community here. Surfers from around the world come together, sharing their love for the sport and embracing Morocco’s ‘no worries’ spirit.
With surf shops, yoga classes, and vibrant nightlife, Taghazout is the ultimate surf hub. Evenings are often spent sipping mint tea while discussing the day’s epic rides or exploring the local souks for treasures.
When to Surf in Morocco
Surfing in Morocco is good all year long, though the best season is from October to April when waves from the Atlantic bring in swells that are strong and consistent. Surf season for Morocco is best in September through to March when you will find consistent swell, relatively warm water and warm air temperatures. The winter storms in the North Atlantic spin northwest swell down to the points and reefbreaks.
Spring and autumn have similar conditions with hotter air temperatures, less consistent swell and fewer crowds. The summer months with its flat spells and stronger winds is generally avoided by surfers. Morocco is best surfed in late autumn through until march, the rest of the year can be pretty uneventful. When the big swells run down the coast the pointbreaks come alive and our advice is to head to Agadir. Anchor Point is a must if you are going to surf Morocco, when it is on it can break up to a kilometre - talk about jelly legs!
Surfers, especially those traveling, need to ensure they download tidal information before their trip, as getting reliable data can be tricky on the move. And forget your thick wetsuits. Morocco’s pleasant climate and exposure to the North Atlantic’s swells make it an attractive surfing destination, especially given it’s close proximity to Europe. A wetsuit is still needed when surfing. But outside the water you can just wear your boardshorts or bikini and your flipflops.
For those venturing into Morocco during the winter surfing season, Northern Morocco is your go-to place. The cold weather, combined with 1000kms of NW-facing beach breaks, is a mesmerizing sight. Although the cross-shore and closed-out waves can be a tad intimidating, spots like Medhiya offer wind and swell protection, thanks to its long rivermouth jetties. As you journey south from El Jadida, Central Morocco unveils a mix of rugged coastlines and enticing beaches. The surfing scene here is lively, with places like Safi’s ‘Garden’ becoming a surfer’s playground.
Beyond the Morocco Surf
While riding waves is undoubtedly the highlight of any Moroccan adventure, there’s more to this country than just surfing. You find yourself wandering through the bustling medinas, discovering the enchanting architecture and savoring the flavors of Moroccan cuisine. The tantalizing aroma of tagines and the spices of the local markets are experiences you won’t want to miss.
Going beyond the coast, Marrakech and Fez offer a mesmerizing journey through time with their intricate palaces, ancient medinas, and vibrant street life. And how can anyone miss the deep blue of Chefchaouen, nestled in the mountains?
The Crowd Factor
Unfortunately, not everything is perfect in Morocco, and, as in other countries where surfing is booming, the crowd factor is a reality. Not only the main surfing spots are filled with surfers from all over the world when the swell is good, but the local surfers and bodyboarders dominate the peak and often drop on you or don’t give you a chance to catch a wave.
Your best chance is to befriend the locals or go with the local surfing schools. Of course, the surf crowd in Morocco varies depending on the season and the specific break. Taghazout can get extremely busy during winter as European surfers flock to the consistent waves. In contrast, spots like Imsouane can be quieter and provide more space to enjoy the waves. Regardless of the crowd factor, don’t be discouraged, and know that the stoke of catching waves transcends language barriers.
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