In Photos: Why You Should Go Surfing in Morocco

Rabat – If you worry that you lost your chance to visit Morocco this summer, here is some good news: The best season to visit the “surfing coast” of Morocco is October to April, although the waves charm surfing enthusiasts all year round.

Surf hostels usually offer a package of lessons and transportation. Here, a hostel bus drove the surfboards to a beach outside Taghazout. Photo: Paula Vinova

The Moroccan coast captivates visitors with its landscape and beautiful beaches while being one of the world’s top surfing destinations.

Catching the last waves of the day in La Source. Photo: Paula Vinova

Morocco has a long surf history: Taghazout and Essaouira, coastal cities west of Marrakech, have been on surfers’ radar since the 1960s. The area transformed to accommodate the international, multicultural community and is now radiating with bohemian vibes from every surf camp, hostel, and cafe. Their variety allows every traveler to find venues that suit them, both ambiance- and price-wise.

Taghazout, a small fishing village, turned into Morocco’s “surf capital.” The village is bustling with hip restaurants and surf shops residing right next to shops selling traditional Amazigh (Berber) artisanry.

A view of Taghazout from one of the surf hostels located uphill. Photo: Paula Vinova

In Taghazout, the predominantly Amazigh population mixes with surfers, travelers, and backpackers from all over the world.

The locals are not only the best “born-on-waves” surfing instructors, they also know the shortest paths to the best spots. Photo: Paula Vinova

There are plenty of surfing spots all around Taghazout, some of them within walking distance. At Anchor Point, Panoramas, Banana Beach, and Boilers, the world-class waves suit any surfer level, from complete beginners to wave breakers.

Some surf spots, especially those for beginners, are never as empty as in the picture, so experienced surfers always look for quieter places to catch some waves. Photo: Paula Vinova

The travelers to Essaouira, apart from enjoying great surfing spots, can admire a historic port and an ancient medina. The city is on the UNESCO World Heritage list.

Surfers and travelers can fly to Agadir and take a shared taxi to Taghazout or Essaouira. Agadir is also well-connected with Marrakech by a three-hour bus ride.