Dakhla, surfing paradise between desert and ocean
Do you dream of waves that roll out as far as the eye can see, without crowds or compromise? Surfing in Dakhla offers you just that: powerful desert waves, a unique setting where ochre sand and turquoise ocean mingle, and spots to suit all levels. Between the legendary straights of Foum Labouir, the wild waves of Oum Lamboiur and the isolation of La Sarga, this surfing destination embodies adventure. Dakhla is a state of mind: between the slow rhythm of the desert and sunsets, surfing in Dakhla transforms every wave into an unforgettable story.
Read our complete guide to surfing in Morocco.
Why choose Dakhla for your next surf trip?
Dakhla is the perfect combination of the Atlantic Ocean and a giant lagoon. The best of both worlds: powerful waves for experts and flat water for beginners. Looking for a spot with something for everyone? This is the place.
Dakhla’s waves have a well-deserved reputation. In winter (October to March), Oum Lamboiur rolls out long, steady tubes, while La Sarga offers quieter waves, ideal for beginners. Wave consistency? When the wind is offshore, conditions are almost perfect. And for beginners, the lagoon is an ideal learning ground, with no risk of overcrowding.
Looking for a complete change of scenery? Here, the Sahara desert meets the dunes and the ocean. The spectacular natural setting is a complete change from everyday life. You surf in the morning, explore the dunes on an electric motorcycle in the afternoon, and finish with a sunset on the beach. If you want to get the full picture, our complete guide to surfing in Morocco will give you even more ideas.
You don’t have to be a pro to enjoy Dakhla. Numerous surf schools offer courses to suit everyone. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, spots like Foum Lbouir or Arish await you with moderate waves. And if you prefer kitesurfing, the 45 km lagoon is a paradise with its constant north-easterly wind.
So, are you ready to escape to a place where the rhythm is different and the waves legendary? Dakhla is much more than a surf spot: it’s an immersion in a world where desert, ocean and board sports blend in harmony.
When is the best time to surf in Dakhla?
Dreaming of perfect waves in Morocco? Dakhla hides an ideal season for taming its waves. Did you know that this destination between the desert and the Atlantic offers exceptional conditions at certain times of the year? The contrast between the golden dunes and the cold waves of the North Atlantic swells creates a unique atmosphere.
The answer is clear: winter, from November to April. This is when the North Atlantic swells hit the coast with regularity. But one month in particular stands out…
Summer, though less intense, is not to be overlooked. The steady thermal wind makes Dakhla an ideal spot for kitesurfing. The gentle waves also appeal to surfers in search of a quiet ride.
And the decor? Unique. The dunes of the Sahara border the turquoise waters of the ocean. At La Sarga, the fast-moving waves are a real challenge. Local schools adapt their courses to all levels, whether you’re solo or in a group.
To plan your trip: for the end of the season, check out our guide to where to surf in April. In the middle of winter, our article on where to surf in December will open up other possibilities. And for those in doubt, our analysis of the best time to surf in Morocco is a must.
| Saison | Période | Qualité des vagues | Température de l'eau | Niveau recommandé |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hiver | Novembre - Avril | Excellente (houles régulières et puissantes) | 17-19°C | Intermédiaire à Expert |
| Printemps | Mai - Juin | Bonne (houles en baisse, moins de monde) | 18-20°C | Tous niveaux |
| Été | Juillet - Août | Faible (petites vagues, idéal débutants) | 20-22°C | Débutant |
| Automne | Septembre - Octobre | Très bonne (retour des premières grosses houles) | 19-21°C | Tous niveaux |
Practical information about Dakhla
Surfing
- Level: All levels, depending on spot
- Wave types: Long and gentle (Foum Labouir), hollow and powerful (La Sarga)
- Bottom type: Sand and rock
- When to go: All year round, best conditions from October to April
- Best period: October – April
- Average water temperature: 18-22°C depending on the season
- Average ground temperature: 20-30°C depending on the season
Before you leave
- Time difference: GMT+1
- Flight time (from Paris): Approx. 4h30
Airports: Dakhla (10-15min) - Documents required: Passport valid 6 months after entry
Vaccinesrequired: None required - But recommended: Hepatitis A, Typhoid
On site
- Languages spoken : Arabic, Berber, French, Spanish
Currency: Moroccan dirham (MAD) – Please note that there are no ATMs on site. - Cost of living: Affordable, meals around 5-20€.
- Safety: Good, but normal vigilance recommended
Getting around: Shared cab, car rental
The best surf spots in Dakhla: from beginner to expert
Foum Labouir: the perfect, accessible right
Foum Labouir, just a few minutes from Dakhla, is an iconic surf spot. This point break offers long straights of several hundred meters, ideal for perfecting your curves or enjoying a long, leisurely ride.
Its versatility attracts all levels: beginners feel at home in small swells, while intermediates and advanced surfers enjoy more powerful waves. The sandy, rocky bottom makes the spot relatively safe, as long as you remain vigilant at high tide, where a few rocks are exposed.
Ideal conditions: rising tide improves wave quality. The period from October to May remains the most reliable, with a steady easterly wind. Online forecasts (wind, swell, tide) allow you to plan your session with complete peace of mind.
Oum Lamboïur: the desert wave
Just 6 km from Dakhla, Oum Lamboïur offers a striking backdrop: arid desert and cliffs overlooking a technical straight running over a sandy bottom. This spot offers hollow sections, perfect for precise maneuvers.
In winter, waves reach 1.5 to 3 meters, with a northerly wind blowing between 15 and 25 knots. In summer, the water warms to around 20°C, but the strong wind (6 to 8 bft) favors freeride. The air oscillates between 18°C and 24°C, in a dry climate all year round.
Suitable for intermediate surfers, beginners can also try their hand in more moderate conditions. The proximity of the Westpoint hotel and the desert landscape make this an unforgettable spot.
La Sarga: adventure at the end of the runway
La Sarga has to be earned. Requiring a 4×4 to access, this legendary spot offers a legendary right, tubular in winter, rolling out over hundreds of meters on a sandy bottom.
Reserved for experienced surfers, it shines from October to March with waves from 2 to 4 meters. The north/north-easterly wind creates ideal offshore conditions for tube surfing. In summer, the water reaches 23°C, but the prevailing wind (6 to 8 bft) attracts wingfoil enthusiasts.
Nearby, the Océan Vagabond eco-lodge offers immersive accommodation. Take advantage of organized excursions to enjoy this jewel in complete safety.
These spots are among the jewels of southern Morocco, but there are many others. Discover Morocco’s best surf spots in our complete guide.
El Arish: quiet gentleness
Just 30 minutes north of Dakhla, El Arish has a peaceful atmosphere and consistent waves. This northwest-facing beach break rolls out clean rights and lefts, perfect for surfers looking for a calmer spot than Foum Labouir.
The waves are generally gentle and accessible, between 0.5 and 1.5 meters, ideal for beginners or intermediates who want to progress without pressure. The sandy bottom and wide beach make it a very safe spot.
In winter, the Atlantic swells bring a little more power, while in summer, the water reaches 22°C and sessions lend themselves well to longboarding or leisurely twin surfing. Easy access by car and the proximity of small local surf schools make this a perfect option for a relaxed session.
Accommodation and learning: Dakhla's surf camps and schools
Dakhla offers a well-established surfing ecosystem, combining accommodation and initiation. Surf camps offer an all-in-one package: accommodation, lessons and transport to the surf spots. You’ll find everything from comfortable bungalows to top-of-the-range lodges, often with swimming pools and ocean views.
Packages generally include :
- 7 nights full board.
- Daily lessons with certified instructor.
- Equipment rental (board, wetsuit).
- Transfers to spots.
It’s the ideal option for concentrating on practice without worrying about organization. Some camps include additional activities such as quad biking or yoga, to combine relaxation and sport.
With mild temperatures (17°C to 22°C), Dakhla is accessible all year round, but the ideal season is from November to March for optimal waves.
Accommodation ranges from family bungalows and traditional riads to luxury lodges. For those on a tight budget, L’Auberge des Nomades offers packages from €80/person (€110 for two). If you’re looking for peace and quiet, opt for camps nestled between sand and lagoon, with simple but functional rooms.
How to get to Dakhla
Getting to Dakhla is easier than it looks. The quickest way is by plane: you can fly direct from Paris with Royal Air Morocco or Transavia, often with your board included in the ticket. If you’re coming from another city, a stopover in Casablanca or Agadir is current.
Dakhla airport is about 20 minutes from the center and the main surf camps. Most accommodations offer shuttle or 4×4 transfers, so there’s no need to worry about transportation.
You can also come by road from the north of Morocco, a long crossing of the Atlantic Sahara, perfect for a surf trip, provided you like desert landscapes and patience!
Remember to check your passport (valid for at least 6 months), your travel insurance and the conditions for transporting your surfing equipment.
Once you’re there, everything’s easy: the roads are safe, local cabs are affordable and most surfcamps organize trips between the town, the lagoon and the ocean spots.
What else is there to do in Dakhla?
Dakhla is more than just waves! Between lagoon, desert and ocean, the region offers a host of activities to vary the pleasures.
You can start with a kite or wingfoil session on the lagoon, a world-famous spot for its perfect conditions.
For a more tranquil experience, take a boat trip and watch the dolphins or flamingos.
Nature lovers will love exploring the White Dune, a sandbar in the middle of the lagoon, or relaxing in the Asmaa hot spring.
On the desert side, opt for a 4×4 or quad excursion along the Saharan tracks: lunar landscapes guaranteed.
Gourmets can enjoy fresh oysters at the oyster farm facing the lagoon, or dine at sunset in a Berber camp.
Finally, for a total break, an argan oil massage, a yoga session facing the water or a sunset from the cliff are the perfect way to round off a day in Dakhla.
FAQ - Frequently asked questions
Where can you surf in Dakhla?
Dakhla, a true surfer’s paradise, is packed with incredible spots. The most famous is Foum Labouir, close to the town, with its long straights perfect for practicing your tricks. A little further afield, Oum Labouir offers a unique desert setting, with waves to suit all levels. For the more adventurous, La Sarga is a world-class wave reserved for experienced surfers. And if you want to explore other spots, the lagoon is ideal for beginners or for a chill session.
What really makes the difference is the variety of spots. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, you’re bound to find what you’re looking for. What’s more, if you want to discover other places to ride in Morocco, our complete guide to the best surf spots in Morocco will give you plenty of ideas.
Is Dakhla a safe destination?
Yes, absolutely! Dakhla is renowned as a very safe destination. You’ll find a chill atmosphere, a large international community and a welcoming population. It’s a popular spot for surfers from all over the world, and the atmosphere is quite serene, even for solo travelers or women.
And if you’re wondering whether the French are welcome here, they are. The Moroccan culture of hospitality is very much alive here. The locals are curious, smiling and ready to help if you need it. You’ll have no trouble communicating, as many people speak English or French, as well as Arabic.
Where else in Morocco can you surf?
Dakhla is certainly the most mythical spot, but Morocco is full of nuggets. Essaouira, Taghazout, Tamraght… Each spot has its own personality. If you want a complete trip, Dakhla is a safe choice, but you can also take a road trip along the Atlantic coast to discover other waves. And for the more motivated, a session in Dakhla in winter, then heading south to Portugal to take advantage of the end of the winter season, is a combination that’s attracting more and more surfers.
For total immersion, I recommend that you consult our guide to the best time to surf in Moroccowhich will help you plan your trip according to your level.
Is Dakhla a nice place to visit?
Yes, it is! Dakhla is much more than a surf spot. It’s an experience in itself. Between sunsets over the Dune Blanche, tastings of freshly-baked oysters, 4×4 rides in the desert, and chill evenings on the beach, you won’t be bored for a second. The pace is different, you’re really in disconnection mode.
And for the non-surfers with you, it’s a good plan too. The lagoon offers ideal conditions for kitesurfing, winging, or just enjoying the turquoise water. In short, Dakhla is a destination with character, where you can ride, land and marvel in a thousand ways. It’s clearly an unforgettable adventure.
Can we enjoy the water in Dakhla apart from surfing?
Of course you can! You can take a leisurely dip in the lagoon, where the water is super-calm and warmer than in the Atlantic. It’s even a good alternative when the waves are too big. You can also swim on ocean beaches, but beware of currents and waves, especially in winter. In summer, you can swim more easily, as the water is warmer and conditions milder.
For moments of relaxation, the lagoon is your ally. You can paddle, snorkel or simply splash around. It’s also a great spot for the non-surfers in your party. And if you’re looking for other places to enjoy the water, our guide to the best surfing destinations in Morocco could inspire your next trip.