As the towering Atlas Mountains slope down to meet the Atlantic Ocean, they give way to long, sandy beaches and deep underwater trenches - a topography that churns out endless waves, creating a veritable surf factory catering to surfers of every skill level. Since the 1960s, European wave riders have been crossing the Straits of Gibraltar in search of Morocco's warm waters and epic right-hand point breaks.
Now, the word is well and truly out and surfers flock from around the globe to surf Morocco’s coastline. Most famous among the country’s surf destinations is the village of Taghazout, which has become a hotspot for surf camps and schools. But sublime waves can also be found further afield, catering to those in search of a more uncrowded, off-the-beaten-path experience.
With its alluring blend of North African culture and high-quality waves, Morocco remains a must-visit destination for adventurous surfers.
In this article, discover the best places to surf in Morocco for all levels, as well as recommended accommodations and the ideal time to visit for pumping waves.
Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links, meaning I earn a small commission when you make a purchase. Affiliate links cost you nothing and ensure my content stays free!
Taghazout
Best place to surf in Morocco for a surf town vibe
Once a small fishing village, Taghazout now teems with world-class surf schools, yoga studios and eco-friendly accommodations that beckons wave riders from near and far. At the heart of Taghazout's allure is its diverse array of surf breaks, each offering a unique challenge and experience for surfers of all skill levels.
The crown jewel is undoubtedly Anchor Point, a legendary spot renowned for its steep takeoffs, overhead barrels and carving sections that challenge advanced surfers. On a good day, the sand and reef bottom create the kind of wave that surfers dream about, delivering a thrilling ride that lives up to the hype.
Boilers, named after the boiler of a sunken shipwreck lurking just beneath the surface, is another legendary wave that demands respect. The strong currents and shallow reefs here create dangerous conditions, especially on bigger days. But for the bold and experienced surfer willing to take the risk, the reward is epic, tubing barrels of the highest order.
For those looking for a more mellow vibe, Hash Point offers the perfect alternative. This right-hander gained fame as the spot where surfers too relaxed from smoking Morocco's cannabis crop would congregate, drawn by its fun peaks and zippy sections. La Source is another suitable spot for intermediate surfers, with playful rights and elusive lefts that cater to those with a bit of experience under their belt.
On the southern edge of Taghazout lies Panoramas, a right-hand point break that's a gem for intermediate surfers looking to hone their skills. The atmosphere here is blissfully chill and surprisingly uncrowded considering its proximity to most accommodation.
Surf hotels in Taghazout
An upmarket eco-resort with beach bungalows and villas, yoga classes, a spa and a farm-to-table restaurant.
Eclectically decorated rooms and sunny patios with views of the waves, plus two onsite restaurants.
Budget-friendly doubles, twins and dorms, a mural-filled lounge and a communal kitchen for cooking up post-surf meals.
Best places to surf in Morocco
Tamraght-Aourir
Best place to surf in Morocco for an authentic village atmosphere
Just south of Taghazout, the laid-back village of Tamraght offers a more authentic, local experience for travellers and surfers alike. Perched atop a picturesque coastal hillside, Tamraght features pink-hued houses and buildings clustered together in a compact, intimate setting that immediately feels Moroccan.
While Taghazout has become increasingly popular with international surf camps and hotels catering to all sorts of travellers, Tamraght has a more low-key, community-oriented vibe, with only a handful of surf camps and lodgings scattered throughout the village. Just next door, the neighbouring town of Aourir provides essential amenities like an ATM, a gas station and a lively weekly market that’s not to be missed.
For surfers, the waves around Tamraght and Aourir tend to be more gentle and well-suited for beginners and intermediate-level wave riders. Cro-Cro is one of the more popular breaks amongst surf camps in the area and can get busy by mid-morning. Those seeking a bit more of a challenge can venture over to the smooth, consistent right-hand point break of Banana Point, where longer walls allow for drawn-out turns and manoeuvres.
Surf hotels in Tamraght-Aourir
A hidden guesthouse decorated with local textiles and breezy hammocks. Delicious family-style meals are served at dinnertime.
An eco-conscious hostel with comfortable dorms and an ethos around sustainability.
A budget hostel with sun-drenched patios and communal spaces designed for surfers of all abilities.
Best surf spots in Morocco
Imsouane
Best place to surf in Morocco for longboarders
If you’re a longboarder, then make a beeline for Imsouane, a small fishing village on the route that connects Essaouira with Agadir. It’s home to one of the longest waves in Morocco - when the conditions align, you can experience rides of up to 2.5 minutes - something that most surfers can only dream of.
While La Baie is the most famous wave in Imsouane, there’s also Cathedral, a right-hander that can withstand swells up to three metres. It’s more technical than Imsouane’s mellow bay waves but on smaller days, it’s equally as accessible. Goofy footers can challenge themselves on the Reef, which barrels on bigger swells while the Oued river mouth produces gentle waves that are ideal for beginners.
While Imsouane has long been known for its coastal charm, it has recently undergone significant changes following the government bulldozing of many dwellings in preparation for modern developments. That being said, there are still a handful of traditional surf houses in the village that are keeping its spirit alive as one of the best places to surf in Morocco.
Surf hotels in Imsouane
Traditional tented camp with all the modern conveniences. A short drive from Imsouane’s breaks.
Beautifully decorated doubles, twins and dorms with views across the breaks.
An affordable Imsouane surf hostel with a blue-hued sun terrace and board rentals.
Best places to surf in Morocco
Essaouira - Sidi Kaouki
Best place to surf in Morocco for kitesurfers
Essaouira is a coastal Moroccan city that has earned a reputation for its consistently windy conditions, making it a prime destination for kitesurfing enthusiasts. However, the city also offers a few options for those looking to develop their board riding skills, though it may not be considered the most epic surf spot in the region.
The city’s main beach, Plage Essaouira, provides small but fun surf conditions that are well-suited for surf lessons and beginner-friendly sessions. For those seeking larger waves, the more exposed section of Plage Tagharte can deliver substantial swells, though the conditions can be fickle and unpredictable. Venturing a bit further south from the city, a rocky track leads to Cap Sim, a wave that can barrel impressively when the swell and wind conditions align.
About 30 minutes' drive south of Essaouira lies the village of Sidi Kaouki, which is quickly establishing itself as the premier surf destination along this stretch of Morocco's coastline. Sidi Kaouki boasts five or six distinct peaks that will appeal to more experienced surfers, particularly at the northern end of the bay. As a result, a growing number of surf camps have set up shop in Sidi Kaouki, offering lessons, board rentals and easy access to the consistent waves.
Surf hotels in Essaouira - Sidi Kaouki
Atlantic Ocean views within an 18th-century Jewish merchant's house in the heart of Essaouira’s medina.
Serene rooms with a sunny terrace and rooftop pool, all just a stone’s throw from Sidi Kaouki’s beach.
Sustainably designed earth domes, a solar-heated hammam and a communal kitchen. Ideal for yoga and surf retreats.
To learn more about why Essaouira is one of Morocco's must-visit destinations, check out this Ultimate Guide to Essaouira. It details things to do, the best time to visit and incredible places to stay.
Best surf destinations in Morocco
Safi
Best place to surf in Morocco for experienced surfers
Located halfway between Essaouira and Casablanca, Safi is a hidden gem that has captured the attention of the global surfing community. This bustling port is home to some of the most challenging waves in the country but remains off-the-beaten-surf-camp track. Surfers who make the journey to Safi are rewarded with world-class waves that can barrel for up to 500 metres, offering an exhilarating and technical ride for even the most seasoned wave riders.
The power and scale of Safi's waves is awe-inspiring, with the walls of water generated by a combination of strong ocean currents, unique underwater topography and Atlantic Ocean swells. For advanced surfers seeking to push the boundaries of their skills, Safi's breaks provide the perfect testing ground, with tricky conditions that include rip tides, jagged rocks and unpredictable wave patterns.
Over the years, this rugged surf spot has developed a reputation amongst the international surfing community as a premier big-wave destination, drawing in thrill-seekers from around the globe. And for those seeking to escape the crowded lineups and tourist-heavy vibes of Taghazout, a trip to Safi offers the chance to experience one of Morocco's most epic and awe-inspiring surfing adventures.
Surf hotels in Safi
Dar Dada $$
A beautifully decorated two-bedroom apartment with all the modern conveniences, all in the heart of Safi.
A newly renovated apartment with two bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen and plenty of traditional Moroccan touches.
Best surf spots in Morocco
Mirleft
Best place to surf in Morocco off-the-beaten-track
On Morocco's sun-drenched southern coastline, the charming seaside town of Mirleft has established itself as a prime surf destination. Unlike the bustling crowds and packed lineups of more famous spots further north, Mirleft offers a peaceful, uncrowded surf experience year-round.
From September through April, powerful swells generated deep in the North Atlantic make their way to the region, delivering dream conditions to the area's diverse array of breaks. Powerful, waves peel endlessly down the point, offering an exhilarating challenge for experienced surfers, while gentler peaks provide the perfect canvas for beginners to hone their skills. Even in the summer months when the Atlantic's energy subsides, Mirleft still boasts a bounty of playful, waist-to-chest high waves that are ideal for novice surfers to cut their teeth.
Further down the coast, the whitewashed town of Sidi Ifni showcases an impressive variety of wave options. The region's most renowned break is a long, winding right-hander that runs over a rocky bottom, delivering fast rides for intermediate to advanced surfers. But Sidi Ifni also features a pair of quality left-hand waves that will appeal to goofy footers.
To the south, the wave at Legzira is another gem, a fun, rippable right-hander that's well-suited for intermediate surfers. And just a stone's throw away, the exposed beach break at Aglou Plage comes alive on small to medium swells, offering a high-performance wave for those seeking to push their limits. Rounding out the region's surf bounty is the nearby village of Tifnit, home to a couple of reef breaks running both left and right.
Surf hotels in Mirleft
Perched atop a cliff, this enchanting hotel features individually decorated rooms, cosy fireplaces and an outdoor pool.
Situated directly on the beach, this whitewashed Sidi Ifni hotel boasts a breezy coastal aesthetic and a sunny interior courtyard.
Peaceful rooms with private patios in a gorgeous garden setting.
To learn more about visiting Mirleft, including how to get there and the best places to stay, check out this Ultimate Travel Guide to Mirleft and Sidi Ifni.
When is the best time to surf in Morocco?
While you can surf in Morocco throughout the year, the prime surf season stretches from September through to April. This is when all the essential elements converge to create the ideal conditions. As winter storms rage up north, they generate consistent, powerful swells that roll in steadily from the open ocean. While the Atlantic waters may be chilly in the middle of winter, the temperatures are still relatively mild, especially compared to surf destinations further north. Air temps are also pleasantly warm and the crowds are typically thinner than in the peak summer months of July and August.
Comments