Preparing your surf trip to Morocco

Choosing the right time for a surf trip in Morocco

Morocco offers surfing conditions all year round, but certain seasons are more favourable depending on your level:

• Beginners (May – September): Smaller swells, warmer water and ideal conditions for learning.
• Intermediates (October – April): Longer, more regular waves, making it easier to progress.
• Advanced (November – March): Powerful winter swells, ideal for experienced surfers looking for a thrill.

Best Spots by Season

• Taghazout & Tamraght: Open all year round, with waves to suit all levels.
• Imsouane: Perfect for long straights accessible to intermediates.
• Safi & Boilers: Reserved for winter experts with powerful barrels.
• Dakhla: Ideal for a surf & kite experience in an unspoilt setting.

Equipment: What to bring

The Right Combination

• Summer (May to September): Water between 20-23°C, shorty or lycra are sufficient.
• Winter (November to March): Water around 17-20°C, wear a 4/3 mm wetsuit.
• Mid-season (October and April): 3/2 mm suit recommended.

Surfboards

• If you’re traveling light, renting a board on site is a good option.
• For experienced surfers, bringing your own board means you’ll have the right equipment for the conditions.
• Shops in Taghazout, Essaouira and Dakhla offer a wide choice of rental boards.

Other essential equipment

• Leash and wax adapted to water temperatures.
• Strong sun protection (water-resistant sun cream, UV protection lycra, cap).
• First aid: Disinfectant, bandages, sunburn cream.

Accommodation : Where to stay on a surf trip?

Morocco offers different accommodation options to suit your budget and experience:

• Surf Camps: Ideal for complete immersion with lessons, meals and a friendly atmosphere (e.g. Taghazout, Tamraght, Imsouane).
• Hostels & Guesthouses : A good compromise between comfort and affordability.
• Riads and hotels : For a more comfortable stay, especially in Essaouira or Agadir.
• Van Economical option for freedom-seeking travelers.

Getting around easily in Morocco

• Rent a car: The best way to explore the surf spots freely.
• Cabs & Buses: Available but less practical for transporting equipment.
• Organized transfers: Some surf camps offer airport shuttles.

Best airports for a Surf Trip

• Agadir (AGA): 40 min from Taghazout.
• Marrakech (RAK): 3-hour drive from the main spots.
• Essaouira (ESU): Ideal for reaching Sidi Kaouki and Imsouane.

Budget : How much does a surf trip to Morocco cost?

Morocco remains an affordable destination for a surf trip:

• Airfare: €100 to €400 depending on the period.
• Accommodation: Between €10 (hostel) and €100 (luxury hotel) per night.
• Board hire: Approx. €10-15 per day.
• Food: €5 to €15 per meal.
• Transport: Car rental from €20/day.

Good plans to save

• Opt for a surf camp including accommodation, meals and lessons.
• Travel out of season to benefit from reduced fares.
• Favour local cuisine and souks to eat at lower cost.

What else is there to do?

Morocco offers much more than just waves. Here are some ideas for activities to complete your stay. Read our complete guide to what to do in Morocco…

• Discover the souks and medinas: Marrakech, Essaouira, Agadir.
• Desert excursions: Merzouga dunes, bivouacs in Zagora.
• Hiking in the Atlas: Paradise Valley, Toubkal ascent.
• Tasting of Moroccan cuisine: Tajines, couscous, pastillas.