Why You Should Surf in Morocco (and How to Plan Your Trip)
Morocco has become one of the most famous surfing spots around the world. The Atlantic Ocean coast expands with various surf spots of all skill levels. With good swells, warm weather, and rich cultural experiences, surf in Morocco provides the surfing community with a one-of-a-kind mix of adventure and relaxation — and it is an amazing place to travel. Whether you’re just starting out or already a seasoned surfer, plenty of spots exist to enjoy the waves.
Why Morocco is a Surfer’s Paradise
Morocco is considered as a paradise for surfers for different reasons as follows:
Year-Round Surfing Conditions
Morocco has everything you’re looking for in a surf destination; one of the most appealing things about the country is its year-round surfing season. The best time to surf in Morocco depends on your preferences and experience:
- Summer (April to October): The summer months are the best time to surf in Morocco for beginners as the waves are smaller and more manageable, and good weather makes the day perfect.
- Winter (October to March): Winter is the best time to surf in Morocco for intermediate surfers when the powerful swells and larger waves call for intermediate to advanced surfers to the region.
Weather and Water Conditions
Morocco has a mild year-round climate with temperatures between 60° F and 80°F (16° C and 27° C). Water temperature is anywhere from 60-70°F (16-21°C), so a wetsuit is needed to keep from being cold during the winter.
Accessible Locations to Surf in Morocco
From Taghazout to hidden spots along the Moroccan coast, Morocco has over 1,800 miles of coastline and endless surf spots. This variety guarantees every surfer has a wave to their liking, skill & style.
Vibrant Culture and Hospitality
Morocco doesn’t stop with the waves; it also has a thriving culture to add to your surfing experience. When you’re not on the board, there’s plenty to do with savoring traditional Moroccan cuisine to bustling souks and historical landmarks.
The Top Surfing Beaches in Morocco
Morocco has some great beaches for all levels of surfing. Here are some of the most popular surfing beaches in Morocco:
1. Imsouane
One of Morocco’s best spots for beginners is Imsouane because of the long, mellow right-hand waves. These are the best opportunities for beginners to train their paddling technique, catch a wave, and generally surf without the pressure of big, scary waves.
Its small waves make it a perfect learning environment and ideal for fostering your confidence. Imsouane is a laid-back village with a very relaxed atmosphere and is a good place for beginner surfers.
2. Essaouira
Due to its small to medium-sized waves that are predictable most of the time, this place is perfect for learners still grappling with fundamental skills. It has shallow water, especially with sand at the bottom, so beginners are less likely to get injured.
Furthermore, the surf schools in Essaouira include lessons primarily for beginners and offer a progression form of surfing lessons. Its cultural factor also keeps the vacation more adventurous and fun, making Essaouira one of the best places to surf.
3. Taghazout
Taghazout, situated close to Agadir, is one of the most famous Morrocan surfer destinations. The area comprises a combination of various surf zones, including those suitable for intermediate surfers. Intermediate surfers will find Anchor Point and Devil’s Rock, two well-known locations best suited to improving one’s skills on the board.
It offers great waves that are challenging but manageable breaks for improving and building confidence. Taghazout has plenty of choices regarding surf camps and schools that will help you find your feet.
4. Sidi Kaouki
Further south of Essaouira, Sidi Kaouki has a less rushed surf environment than the Taghazout. Intermediate surfers looking for more practice in a mellow wave will love this place.
Sidi Kaouki is a consistent( but not too stacking) beach break, which makes it perfect for surfers to practice ramps and learn surfing. On the other hand, the relaxed atmosphere of the beaches is enhanced by the relatively uncrowded beach, and surfers can perform uninterrupted.
5. Safi
Morocco’s central Atlantic coast, Safi, is famous for its reliable and strong waves. It’s a great location for intermediate surfers wanting to be challenged by more serious conditions. But this break is mixed; it includes beach and point breaks.
Saifi is really good, not too overpowering, but has a consistent beach break, so it is a good place to work on your maneuvers and wave knowledge. In addition, relatively uncrowded beaches make the atmosphere nice and relaxed so that surfers can surf without any distractions.
6. Anchor Point (Taghazout Area)
Located outside of Taghazout, Anchor Point is one of Morocco’s most iconic and hardest surf spots. Powerful left-hand waves break over a shallow reef, making this point break a world-famous wave. Great for more advanced surfers looking for the perfect high-performance surf experience.
The waves here are long and have multiple sections in them, enough options to keep the experienced surfer entertained. It can get extremely crowded, but if you are up to the challenge and want some of the best surfing Moroccan has to offer, Anchor Point is a must.
The Surfing Camp Experience in Morocco
Morocco’s surfing camp is perhaps one of the best places to engage in surfing activities to achieve the best results. At these camps, you get accommodation, lessons, tours, equipment, guided surf sessions, and whatever you need for a perfect surfing vacation.
Why Choose a Surfing Camp in Morocco?
You can take surfing lessons in Morocco even if you have never practiced surfing in your life. There is a place to stay, and it is always nice to find people interested in the same activities as you are. Such camps are useful in participating in Morocco’s surfing atmosphere.
What to Expect at a Surfing Camp
- Professional instruction: You can always find specialized teachers who deliver lessons according to your expertise.
- Group dynamics: Group learning with other surfers makes the process quite social, plus you enjoy yourself too.
- Packages: Many camps offer surfing, instruction, lodging, meals, and other necessities.
Recommended Surfing Camps
Most surfing camps offer packages tailored to your skill level:
- Beginner Surfing Camp: These camps mainly deal with the fundamentals of surfing. You can get a daily lesson, rent equipment, and get lessons from professional teachers.
- Intermediate Surfing Camp: Intermediate camps are for those who already know how to ride a wave. The coaches take them on different rides at the surf breaks.
- All-Inclusive Experience: This allows you to attend many camps that include yoga, Moroccan cuisine, historical tours to other places, etc.
Surfing camp in Morocco provides extensive packages for both novice surfers and people with some experience. Their surfing accommodation is pretty popular, including small lodges near prime surfing locations.
Surfing Lessons in Morocco
If you are not willing to take up the surfing camps, you don’t have to worry because you can still get high-quality surfing lessons in Morocco. These lessons can be taken in almost all major surf locations and are taught by professional surf instructors focusing on safety and entertainment.
What Do Surfing Lessons in Morocco Include?
- Personalized Instruction: Whether you’re a beginner or an intermediate surfer, lessons are tailored to your needs.
- Surfing Equipment: Each lesson incorporates the use of a surfboard, a wetsuit, and a leash so there is no need to organize the equipment on your own.
- Safety and Etiquette: The instructors give guidelines on how to deal with the water to avoid causing harm to other surfers and defend other surfers who cause harm to you.
Benefits of Local Instructors
Local instructors know about the conditions in the region, and they give valuable advice on how to handle Moroccan waves. They ensure you learn in a safe, enjoyable environment.
Surfing Equipment in Morocco
You should know that in surfing, having the right equipment could help make a huge difference. Luckily, Morocco has a variety of shops where boarding and surfing equipment can be rented or bought.
Renting Surfing Equipment
Most surf shops and camps provide rental services, offering:
- Shortboards, longboards, and foam boards
- Full-body wetsuits of different thickness
- Leashes and surfboard wax
If you are going to travel or just practice surfing – renting is the right choice.
Bringing Your Equipment
Most experienced surfers like to use their equipment. When traveling by plane, find out about fees and rules concerning surfboard carriage from your airline.
Buying Equipment Locally
If you are planning on purchasing your own equipment you will be able to get good quality boards and accessories from surf shops in places such as Taghazout and Agadir.
Costs and Availability
- Board rental: About $10- $15 per day.
- Wetsuit rental: Around $5-$10 per day.
- Packages: Some of the camps out there offer equipment for free.
The Surfing Accommodation Experience
Staying close to the surf means you spend most of the time out in the water, catching the waves and making your surfing accommodation experience better. Surfing accommodation in Morocco is also quite interesting and gives the visitor a classic experience, not just a comfortable stay.
Types of Accommodation
- Surf Lodges: There are many camps which contain lodges with beautiful sea views and a very social feeling.
- Riads: These are a more exquisite option, providing comfort, individual approach, and authentic architecture of the Moroccan guesthouses.
- Beachfront Hotels: If you want to get more classy accommodations, there are several luxury places near famous surf sites.
Amenities
Most accommodations provide:
- Moroccan cuisine
- Creative places where people can walk through, for example, the roof gardens
- Yoga classes or wellness treatments.
Choosing a good surfing partner like Moroccan Break is a great way to enjoy your vacation as the beach is near, and there are good facilities.
Exploring Moroccan Culture
Surf in Morocco is not just limited to the waves! It goes well past the ocean, into the traditional values of the country. A cultural and historical context makes up the dream adventure. Take time to explore local attractions, such as:
Beyond Surfing
Although Surfing is fun, Morocco is a place with many cultural attractions. Dedicate some time to walking narrow streets of heaving souks, trying Moroccan cuisines, and visiting popular attractions such as Marrakesh and Fes Medinas.
Local Cuisine
Your culinary experience will not be complete without taking Tagine, Couscous, and other professionally prepared fish meals. Most surfing accommodations also provide traditional meals in manageable price brackets.
Planning Your Surfing Trip
Planning your trip in advance will save you a lot of trouble in the long run. You can prepare yourself before going surfing by following the below-outlined steps:
Step 1: Decide When to Go
Choosing the surfing season in Morocco is the main factor that most beginners and professional surf lovers must consider, depending on the waves and their level. Surfing in summer is probably best for first-timers while the winter season best suits the pro-surfers.
Step 2: Choose Your Surf Spot
Evaluate your surfing skills and choose a surf spot that compliments that. If you are still in doubt, it is advisable to attend a surfing camp in Morocco where the instructors can better decide on your current skill level.
Step 3: Book Your Accommodation
Secure a place to stay that’s close to the surf. Many of the camps and lodges offer all-inclusive packages to make things easier for you.
Step 4: Pack Wisely
Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, swimwear and casual clothing. If you’re renting equipment, there’s no need to pack heavy gear.
Step 5: Embrace the Experience
Take a chance to experience new things, both in and out of the waves! Morocco is a fabulous place for a trip with something for everyone, from surfing lessons in Morocco to cultural excursions.
Final Thoughts on Surf in Morocco
Morocco is literally a surfer’s dream – waves for days, beaches for hours, and a culture so rich that being there doesn’t seem like enough. If you’re a beginner or experienced surfer, no matter your skill level, there’s something for you.
Whether it’s your first lesson or you’re striving to perfect your skills, Morocco has no shortage of things to do and see. So, do you want surfing experiences in Morocco? Plan your trip today!
