From the moment you set foot in Senegal, you'll be enveloped by the warm, tropical climate and vibrant spirit that permeates the streets. The lingering influences of French colonialism are evident in the architecture, language and traditions that have been seamlessly woven into the fabric of this modern West African nation. Despite this, Senegal remains distinctly and unapologetically African, proudly embracing its own heritage through music, dance and a pervasive sense of joie de vivre that is infectious to all who experience it.
For surfers, there’s an added allure - uncrowded breaks within easy reach of the lively capital, Dakar. In total, there are around 20 surf spots surrounding the Cap-Vert peninsula (the westernmost point on the African continent), including beach, point and reef breaks. It really is an African surf paradise! Due to the accessibility of the breaks and their close proximity to the cultural attractions of the Senegalese capital, it’s easy to experience a lot beyond the waves themselves.
In this Surfing Guide to Senegal, we’ll highlight the best breaks around Dakar and eco-friendly places for surfers to stay. We’ll also share some of the best things to do in the area (from safaris to culturally immersive day trips) when you’re ready for some time away from the waves.
This article contains affiliate links, which means when you make a purchase through that link, we earn a small commission. Affiliate links come at no cost to you and ensure our content remains free!
N’gor
Located on the northern side of the Cap-Vert peninsula, N’gor is undoubtedly the most well-known surfing destination in Senegal. It was here in the 1960s that the legendary surf filmmaker Bruce Brown captured “The Endless Summer," showcasing the island's world-class waves to a global audience. Since then, surfing in Senegal has grown exponentially in popularity, yet the local charm and welcoming spirit of the people remain unchanged.
While N'gor now hosts more surfers than in the past, the chances of scoring a solo session are still quite high. The island boasts two distinct waves - a powerful right-hander on one side and a mellower left-hander that needs light offshore breezes to really shine. Booties are highly recommended due to the presence of urchins, though the entry and exit points are generally manageable.
Around N'gor, surfers have a few other options, such as the "Baie de Carpes" with its fun A-frame peak. For those seeking a more forgiving wave, the consistent beach break at Yoff may be a better bet, though it caters more to learners than experienced surfers.
Almadie
Hugging the westernmost point of the Cap-Vert peninsula is Almadie, a welcoming neighbourhood that offers an immersive insight into local life. Once in the area, surfers have a few spots to choose from, the most popular of which is Club Med, a powerful right-hander that can pack a punch. The shifting takeoff zone requires some local knowledge and depending on the tide, you can also explore different sections.
Another popular surf spot in Almadie is a break known as "Secrets," which, despite being one of the least powerful waves in the area, has become a hub for surfers due to its user-friendly nature. Just down the coast is Vivier, offering both left and right-hand peaks that work best at different tide times. The right-hander offers the best chance of getting barrelled but it can get crowded quickly. The key is to time your sessions during the week when there is good swell, catching it early in the morning or when most other surfers have departed for the day.
Surfing guide to Senegal
Ouakam
Further down the coast is the commune of Ouakam, which offers a picturesque spot for wave riders due to its cliffside setting and domed mosque. From the streets above, you can gaze down upon the reef that creates Ouakam’s legendary A-frame waves. The left-hand break is best suited for a lower tide, providing a friendly, albeit slow and mellow ride - although you still need to be vigilant of the rocks and sea urchins lurking just beneath the surface.
The right-hand wave, on the other hand, requires a solid swell to activate. When it does, it transforms into a powerful, barrelling beast that demands commitment. Timing the tide is crucial when paddling out - get it right and you'll be rewarded with some of the best waves of your Senegalese surf trip.
Beyond its waves, Ouakam is a fishing-centric community, where locals sell their daily catch right off the boats. Combined with the quintessentially Senegalese urban scenery, it’s a must-visit destination for soaking up the local culture.
Le Virage
On the opposite side of the Cap-Vert peninsula is Le Virage, a must-visit destination that’s ideal for beginner surfers and experienced longboarders alike. This beach break has long, consistent right-hander waves, plus a vibrant Senegalese beach culture that’s all part of the experience.
Thatched-roof umbrellas and sun loungers dot the sand while the zero-waste restaurant at the Copacabana Surf Village serves up delectable local cuisine in an eco-friendly setting. There are no plastic straws or single-use plastic bottles here and all of the leftover food is composted. Boards can also be rented at the Copacabana Surf Village and lessons are also available with experienced guides. It’s an amazing sustainable project to support and worth the visit to Le Virage alone.
Best places to surf in Senegal
Eco-friendly hotels in Dakar for a sustainable surf vacation in Senegal
Best eco-friendly hotel in Dakar
Located partway between N’gor and Le Virage, this boutique Dakar hotel features a handful of breezy rooms centred around a sparkling swimming pool. Yoga classes and massages are available at the onsite wellness centre while the restaurant-bar hosts live music on select nights.
"Lush boutique hotel oasis in the heart of Dakar.” - Birgit (read more reviews here)
Best bed and breakfast in Dakar
Occupying a traditionally styled building near Yoff, this friendly Dakar bed and breakfast features single and double rooms, some with balconies. Aside from the super comfortable beds, there’s an outdoor swimming pool where you can laze in between surfs. Breakfasts are served in the sunny patio.
“Perfect hotel for Dakar.” - Mitchell (read more reviews here)
Best self-catering villa in Dakar
Located in Ouakam, this one-bedroom villa is ideal for surfers seeking a self-catering stay, with a large kitchen and the option for daily cleaning. There’s a mosaic-floored patio where you can relax in between sessions, backed by a mural depicting the nearby beach. The hosts get a big thumbs up from previous guests for their helpfulness!
“Everything was perfect!” (read more reviews here)
Best boutique hotel in Dakar for a luxury stay
In the heart of Almadie, this luxury Dakar hotel features beautifully appointed rooms and suites overlooking a lush garden. There’s a large swimming pool and several lounge areas (both indoor and outdoor) where you can kick back with a good book, plus helpful staff who can assist with restaurant recommendations and transport bookings.
“As good as it gets!” (read more reviews here)
Best holiday apartment in Dakar for groups
With three spacious bedrooms and a well-equipped kitchen, this modern holiday apartment in Dakar is ideal for groups of surfers. It’s located just a stone’s throw from the waves of Ouakam and has a super responsive concierge team who’ll help with everything you need.
“Absolutely amazing place in the centre of Dakar.” - Irina (read more reviews here)
Best time to surf in Senegal
The prime surf season in Senegal runs from October through April, when the region is blessed with consistent, powerful N/NW swells originating from low-pressure systems that form in the North Atlantic Ocean. This is an ideal time to experience Senegal’s breaks, as the subtropical climate provides near-perfect conditions - dry, warm and sunny days that are tempered by refreshing evening breezes. Daytime air temperatures typically range between a comfortable 24 to 28°C, though the ocean can be quite chilly, with water temps fluctuating between 17 and 24°C (bring a 3/2mm wetsuit).
Surfing guide to Senegal
Best things to do in Dakar (away from the waves)
One of the biggest draws of a Senegalese surf adventure is the accessibility of its waves, which makes it easy to combine time in the water with a diverse range of cultural and natural experiences. To help inspire you, here are some of the top things to do in Dakar, whether you want to get up close to African wildlife or discover the region’s slave trade past.
Discover the UNESCO-listed island of Goree
Located just off the coast of Dakar, Goree is a small, car-free island that played a pivotal role in the Atlantic slave trade. Among its colonial-era buildings is the House of Slaves, a sobering museum that stands as a poignant reminder of the untold suffering endured by those who were trafficked through this notorious hub. The 19th-century Fort d’Estrées now houses the IFAN Historical Museum, which offers a comprehensive insight into Senegal's rich cultural heritage, while the Henriette Bathily Women's Museum shines a spotlight on the vital contributions and enduring influence of West African women.
Visit the African Resistance Monument
Perched atop the Mamelles (the two distinctive hills that jut out from the western edge of Dakar) sits a pair of landmarks. On one of the hills stands a historic lighthouse, built in 1864 and now transformed into a stylish restaurant and bar that provides panoramic views across the capital and the Atlantic Ocean beyond. On the other is the 49-metre-tall African Renaissance Monument, a sculpted figure of a man, woman and child reaching toward the horizon. For those willing to make the climb up to Africa’s tallest sculpture, the rewards are immense, with sweeping, 360-degree views stretching across the entire Cap-Vert Peninsula.
This full-day guided tour of Dakar includes a visit to the African Resistance Monument, as well as market explorations and a trip to the UNESCO-listed island of Goree.
Best things to do in Dakar
Float on the pink waters of Lake Retba
Situated just 29 kilometres northeast of Dakar, this shallow salt lake is renowned for its vibrant hues that range from a delicate blush to a brilliant fuchsia. The lake's remarkable pink colouration is the result of a high concentration of salt - in fact, the salinity levels in Lac Rose can reach as high as 40%, making it even saltier than the famously buoyant Dead Sea. This exceptionally high salt content gives the water an almost otherworldly appearance and allows you to effortlessly float on the surface like a human buoy. If you don’t want to swim, you can ride a camel or a quadbike along one of the lake’s sandy beaches.
Taking place across two days (and returning to your Dakar accommodation of choice each night), this highly-rated guided experience includes a safari in the Bandia Wildlife Reserve and a visit to Lake Retba, as well as a boat trip to the car-free island of Goree.
Discover Dakar’s art scene
Dakar is a thriving cultural hub that offers a wealth of opportunities for art enthusiasts. The city is home to a diverse array of absorbing museums and abstract galleries that provide fascinating insights into the artistic traditions of the African continent. The IFAN Museum of African Arts, located in the downtown Plateau area, showcases an impressive collection of traditional sculptures, masks and textiles that offer a glimpse into the diverse artistic expressions of Africa's many indigenous cultures. Just a stone's throw away, the Galerie Arte presents a captivating showcase of modern and abstract works by both established and up-and-coming Senegalese and African artists. For those who prefer to experience "live art," the Village des Arts is a creative oasis where artists can be found working on their craft and exhibiting their works directly to the public.
Embark on a safari in the Bandia Wildlife Reserve
Sprawling across 3,500 fenced-in hectares, this remarkable wildlife reserve has succeeded in reintroducing some of Africa's most beloved animal species, many of which had disappeared over the centuries due to demographic pressures and widespread poaching. Situated just 65 kilometres from Dakar, Bandia can easily be visited as a day trip and offers up-close encounters with giraffes, rhinos, buffaloes and crocodiles. Guests can explore the reserve's rugged terrain in private vehicles, four-wheel drives or one of Bandia’s specially equipped safari trucks, although an organised tour is the most convenient way of getting there. In the drier months, nature enthusiasts can venture out on guided rambles through the dry riverbed of the Somone River, surrounded by Senegal's majestic mahogany trees.
This half-day trip from Dakar takes in the Bandia Wildlife Reserve and the Somone Lagoon, plus it includes a delicious Senegalese lunch.
Comments