Émilie Bernard, a traveler with a passion for discovery and a beginner surfer, looks back on her surftrip to Taghazout. She tells us in detail about her impressions, tips and favorites.
Émilie, why did you choose Taghazout for your first surftrip?
Émilie: I wanted a destination that combined surfing, sun and a change of scenery, but I didn’t want to go too far or blow my budget. Morocco quickly appealed to me: it’s just a few hours’ flight from France, the atmosphere is friendly and Taghazout is renowned for its waves, perfect for learning. This small village, with its whitewashed houses and terraces overlooking the ocean, exudes charm. As soon as I arrived, I knew I was going to like it. Besides, I’d been told that winter and spring were the ideal times to start here, so I took the plunge without hesitation.
How did you find the conditions for a beginner surfer?
Émilie: Frankly, perfect. The waves in Taghazout are fairly regular, so you can practice without too many surprises. There are several beaches suitable for beginners, like Panorama or Crocro Beach, where the waves aren’t too powerful. I was able to practice on easy-to-catch foam and learn the basics of the take-off in complete safety. I also liked the fact that the local instructors were really friendly and patient. They take the time to explain the right moves and reassure, which is invaluable when you’re just starting out. After a few days, I started catching small “green” waves.
What advice do you have for those who want to set up in Taghazout?
Émilie: First of all, I’d advise you not to hesitate to take lessons. Even if you’ve already surfed once or twice elsewhere, the guidance of a local instructor makes all the difference. They know the spots by heart, know when and where to go according to the tides, and can really help you progress faster. Remember to protect your skin: the Moroccan sun can be merciless, so a good sun cream and hat are essential after the session.
What equipment did you use on site?
Émilie: I used an 8-foot foam board, which is ideal for beginners. It’s stable, easy to handle and forgiving of mistakes. It’s really the most comfortable option for learning. In terms of clothing, I opted for a 3/2 mm wetsuit. Even in winter, the water is still quite pleasant, so there’s no need for a thick wetsuit.
Apart from surfing, what did you particularly enjoy in Taghazout?
Émilie: What impressed me most was the general atmosphere in the village. Taghazout isn’t just a surf spot, it’s also a meeting place. You meet travelers from all over the world: families, backpackers, yogis and, of course, surfers of all levels. In the evening, after the session, everyone gathers on the café terraces or by the beach to admire the sunset. I loved sharing these moments with people from all over the world.
And then there’s the cuisine. I loved the tagines, the freshly grilled fish and the Moroccan pastries. Every meal was a discovery. I also took the time to go on a few excursions: a walk in Paradise Valley, a detour to the local market in Aourir… This is a region where there’s a lot to see and do, even off the water.
To sum up, Taghazout is the perfect destination for learning to surf while discovering a different culture and experiencing a real human adventure. I couldn’t have wished for a better place for my first surftrip.