Surfing in Morocco: complete guide to the best surf spots, seasons and tips
Morocco is one of the world’s most popular surfing destinations. With its sunny climate almost all year round, its regular waves from the Atlantic and its unique atmosphere blending local culture and surfing spirit, the country has a lot to offer.
Just a few hours’ flight from Europe, it’s the ideal location for a surf trip with a change of scenery. Whether you’re a beginner looking for gentle, safe waves, or an experienced surfer in search of long, powerful straights, the Moroccan coastline has something for everyone.
From Taghazout to Imsouane, via Sidi Kaouki and the unmissable Anchor Point, each spot has its own character. In this guide, we present the best places to surf in Morocco, the ideal time to go and our practical tips for preparing your trip.
Why choose Morocco for a surf trip?
Morocco is a surfer’s paradise, and not just for the quality of its waves. Here’s why it attracts thousands of riders from all over the world every year:
- A sunny climate: over 300 days of sunshine a year, with pleasant temperatures even in winter.
- Consistent waves: thanks to Atlantic swells, the surfing season lasts almost year-round.
- Spots for all levels: whether you’re a beginner or an expert, you’ll find waves to suit you.
- A unique atmosphere: between friendly surf camps, a warm welcome from the locals and a rich Moroccan culture, the experience goes far beyond surfing.
- Affordable: accommodation, food and transport are all affordable compared to other international surf destinations.
When should you go surfing in Morocco?
Morocco is a dream destination for surfers the world over. With its Atlantic coastline generous with swells and a variety of spots to suit all levels, the Cherifian kingdom appeals to beginners and professionals alike.
Best time to surf in Morocco
The main surfing season in Morocco runs from September to April. It’s during this period that the Atlantic swells bring regular, sometimes powerful waves, ideal for intermediate and experienced riders.
- Autumn (September-November): perfect conditions, still-warm water, powerful but accessible waves.
- Winter (December – February): more solid swells, spots that light up, a real playground for experienced surfers.
- Spring (March-April): still good swells, fewer people in the water, pleasant weather.
What about summer?
From June to August, the Atlantic calms down. This is the ideal period for beginners: smaller waves, warmer water, summer atmosphere in the surf camps.
For more details, see our dedicated page: Best time to surf in Morocco.
Surfing calendar - Morocco (Atlantic)
3 colors: Great / Good / No.
Taghazout/Agadir = winter points (NW). Essaouira + summer = wind and colder water (upwelling). Aim early for glass.
Where to surf in Morocco? The best spots
Morocco boasts hundreds of surf spots spread over more than 3,000 km of coastline. Here’s a selection of the most not-to-be-missed:
Taghazout
A small village that has become the surfing capital of Morocco. Here you’ll find legendary spots such as Anchor Point,
Imsouane
Nicknamed the “village of long rides”, Imsouane is famous for its bay, which offers one of the longest straights in the world. Here, you can stand on your board for over two minutes!
Ideal spot for beginners and advanced riders alike who want to work on their style.
Safi
A spot for experienced surfers only. Safi is known for its powerful, tubular waves, compared with the world’s best barrels.
Essaouira
A lively coastal town, Essaouira combines surfing, kitesurfing and culture. The waves are more accessible, ideal for beginners and intermediates.
Dakhla
In the south of Morocco, on the border with the Sahara, Dakhla is a unique destination. Its lagoon is perfect for kitesurfing, but the Atlantic Ocean also offers great waves.
Surfing in Morocco - Practical information
Surfing
- Level: All levels
- Wave types: Right – Left – Shorebreak
- Fund types: Beachbreak and reefbreak
- When to go: All year round
- Best period: November to May
- Average water temperature: 19°C
- Average temperature (on land): 20°C
Before you leave
- How to get there : Plane
- Airports: Agadir, Marrakech, Essaouira and Casablanca
- Documents required: Passport valid for at least 3 months from date of entry; no VISA required for visitors from the European Union.
- Recommended documents: International driving license, International VISA/MASTERCARD
On site
- Official languages: Classical Arabic and Amazigh
- Languages spoken : Classical Arabic, French
- Vaccines required: None
- Getting around: Renting a car
Surfing in Morocco for beginners
Morocco is an ideal destination for learning to surf
Its waves are accessible, its schools numerous and its climate pleasant all year round. Spots like Imsouane, with its legendary Bay that rolls out a gentle, endless wave, offer the perfect playground for safe progress. In Taghazout, the beaches of Panorama and Devil’s Rock welcome beginners every day in a friendly atmosphere, while in Essaouira, the soft, regular waves allow you to string together take-offs without pressure.
Many surf camps offer complete packages including accommodation, lessons, equipment and meals, at a much more affordable price than in other countries. Supervised by passionate instructors, you’ll make rapid progress while enjoying the warm atmosphere of coastal villages.
Whether you’re going solo, with friends or family, Morocco combines all the right conditions to make your first waves an unforgettable experience.
Beginner surfing: where to go and how to choose your first surfing destination?
Morocco's top surfing destinations
Preparing your surf trip to Morocco
A surf trip to Morocco is a unique experience combining quality waves, fascinating culture and breathtaking scenery. If you plan your trip well, you’ll make the most of the best surf spots and experience total immersion in the Moroccan surfing world.
Budget & cost of living
Morocco remains an affordable destination. About :
- Surf camp: €25-40 per night including meals.
- Surfing lessons: €20-30 per session.
- Local meal: 3-5 € in a snack bar, 10-15 € in a restaurant.
Transport
- From Europe: direct flights to Agadir, Marrakech, Essaouira or Dakhla.
- Locally: shared cabs, local buses, or car rental if you want to explore several spots.
Accommodation
Morocco is full of surf camps, inns and riads. Most are run by passionate surfers, with a family atmosphere.
What to do in Morocco?
Morocco is a land of contrasts, where every traveler will find something to his or her liking.
Whether it’s discovering its bustling medinas, a desert adventure, a mountain hike, a gourmet break or a relaxing moment in a hammam, this country offers a multitude of memorable experiences.
Beyond surfing, Morocco is a destination that can be fully experienced through its traditions, landscapes and unique hospitality.
Discover the local culture
Between two sessions, lose yourself in the lively medinas, stroll through the souks and let yourself be carried away by the colors and scents. Essaouira seduces with its bohemian atmosphere, while Marrakech and Agadir allow you to immerse yourself in the Moroccan effervescence.
A taste of gastronomy
A couscous shared after surfing, a tajine with sweet and savory flavors, or simply fish grilled in the harbor… Moroccan cuisine is part of the experience. Add to this the ritual of mint tea, and your trip takes on an authentic dimension.
Explore the landscape
Just a few hours from the coast, the Atlas mountains and Sahara dunes offer memorable getaways. Hiking, bivouacs and desert sunsets are the perfect complement to a week of surfing.
Experience the surf & wellness atmosphere
Many surf camps now combine yoga, meditation and a chill lifestyle. Rooftops facing the ocean, sunsets and a friendly atmosphere balance out the days of intense sessions.
FAQ -
All you need to know about surfing in Morocco
When is the best time to surf in Morocco?
Imsouane owes its fame to the Bay, a legendary wave considered to be one of the longest in the world.
How long does a wave last in Imsouane?
With the right conditions, some surfers manage to stay on a single wave for more than two minutes, a rare and unforgettable experience.
Is Imsouane suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The Bay is perfect for learning, thanks to its gentleness and regularity.
When is the best time to surf in Imsouane?
Peak season is from September to April, but summer is still an ideal time to make gentle progress.
Are there any surf camps in Imsouane?
Yes, there are plenty of surf camps in the village, offering complete packages for all levels.