Morocco is not the first place most surfers think of when planning their next adventure.
Morocco has two oceans to choose from: the Atlantic coastline (which is the larger of the two), and the Mediterranean coastline. Each coastline offers pretty distinct opportunities where the Atlantic coastline offers ideal conditions for more experienced sufers and where the Mediterranean coastline offers calmer waters.
The Surf Capital: Taghazout
The village of Taghazout, north of Agadir, is the center of Morocco's surf scene. While once an isolated Berber fishing village, it is now a nascent surf town with surf hostels, yoga retreats, and surf schools and camps.
Taghazout's most famous break is Anchor Point, which is a right-hand point break over a reef with swells over 900 feet or 300 meters! Holy moly.
It's best for advanced/expert surfers. Check Surfline's Anchor Point forecast before paddling out.
Other Top Surf Spots
- Hash Point is a more mellow reef break just south of Taghazout, perfect for intermediate surfers and longboarders.
- Killer Point is a powerful and long right-hander break north of Taghazout, and is for advanced/expert surfers only.
- Banana Point is consistent and fun, good for all levels, with a long sandy bay.
- La Source is beginner-friendly with a beach break.
- Essaouira is known more for kitesurfing and windsurfing due to the powerful and consistent trade winds (the Alizé). It is not ideal for shortboarding but a world-class windsport destination.
The Best Time to Surf in Morocco
- October–April: This time of year, you can expect powerful northwest swells, offshore or light winds, uncrowded line-ups (outside of school holiday periods). The water temperatures are around 60 to 68°F or 16–20°C and a 3mm wetsuit is comfortable.
- May–September: This time of year, you can expect flatter swells, more beach visitors, and onshore afternoon winds. The water temperatures are warmer 68–71°F or 20–22°C but, waves are inconsistent.
Surf Schools and Logistics
Taghazout has many surf schools which cater to every level. The surf lessons prices can range from $25–40 for like 2 hours, wiht some including the surfboard and wetsuit. And there are many surf camps that offer week-long all-inclusive packages (accommodation, lessons, meals) for $400–700.
Getting there: fly into Agadir Al Massira Airport, then it's a 30-minute taxi or transfer to Taghazout with many surf camps offering airport pickup.
Beyond the Sea
Morocco rewards surfers who look up from the ocean. The UNESCO-listed walled city of Essaouira, the Sous-Massa valley wildlife reserve, Berber mountain villages, and the souks of Agadir are all within easy reach of the surf coast.