Since the 1960’s, Morocco has been an essential destination for European surfers looking to escape the cold winters and go in search of sun, warm water and epic righthand points. Separated from Europe by a mere 13kms of the Straits of Gibraltar in the North, Morocco offers a unique African culture and waves along the length of its 2500 kilometres of coastline. Taghazout in the south, with its famed Anchor Point, is a well-known surf hub, but Essaouir, Rabat, Safi and Casablanca all have waves.

Quick Facts

Sun all year round, but waves are best September through to March 

Known for its righthand points, especially in the winter

Surfing opportunities for all skill levels, especially beginner and intermediate surfers

Mix of Arabic and French culture dishes up some of the best cuisine in the world

Where to surf

Surfers will find several first-class surf spots along the whole Atlantic coast, from Tangier to Agadir and further. There are rocky bottoms alternating with sandy ones and reef breaks together with beach breaks, offering surfing opportunities for all skill levels.  Morocco is full of point-breaks, and the coastline around the Agadir area is packed with spots that come alive with the swells. The most famous surf spots lie just north of Agadir, around the fishing village and surfing mecca of Taghazout.

When to go

Surf season for Morocco is best in September through to March when you will find consistent swell, relatively warm water and warm air temperatures. The winter storms in the North Atlantic spin northwest swell down to the points and reefbreaks. Spring and autumn have similar conditions with hotter air temperatures, less consistent swell and fewer crowds. The summer months with its flat spells and stronger winds is generally avoided by surfers.

Attractions

Hike the Atlas Mountains, visit the famous souk, or market, in Marrakesh, take a camel safari to an oasis in the Sahara Desert, walk the beat generation streets of Tangier or recreate the famous scenes from the movie Casablanca. The kite and windsurfing conditions are also world class and the Moroccan mix of Arabic and French culture dishes up some of the best cuisine in the world.

The Country

Morocco is in North African and has a coastline on both the North Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. It has borders with Western Sahara to the south, Algeria to the east and the Spanish North African territories of Ceuta and Melilla on the Mediterranean coast in the north. It has Atlantic and Mediterranean coastlines, a rugged mountain interior and a history of independence not shared by its neighbours. Its rich culture is a blend of Arab, Berber, European and African influences. A French protectorate from 1912 to 1956, it has been ruled by the Moroccan royal family ever since.

Getting There

Fly into the capital Agadir (AGA) in the South to access the waves around Taghazout or into Casablanca (CMN) for access to the North. Ferries from Spain go to either Tangier or the Spanish enclaves of Ceuta and Melilla.

Travel Information

Time Zone

GMT +1

Currency

Dirham

Calling code

+212

Electric

220V