Overview of surfing in Essaouira
Essaouira is a bohemian surf town on Morocco’s Atlantic coast, famous for its windswept beaches, historic medina, and laid-back lifestyle. Known as the “Wind City of Africa,” it’s long been a magnet for windsurfers and kitesurfers, but in recent years, it’s also become a favorite for surfers chasing mellow waves, easy beach breaks, and a strong cultural experience.
Unlike Morocco’s heavy point breaks further south—like Anchor Point in Taghazout—Essaouira offers a friendlier, more accessible surf scene. The waves here are forgiving, sandy-bottomed, and beginner-friendly, though there are also reef setups nearby for intermediates. Add to that the town’s artistic vibe, bustling souks, and stunning coastal scenery, and you’ve got one of the most balanced surf destinations in North Africa.
Essaouira isn’t about chasing the heaviest barrels—it’s about cruising fun waves, practicing your skills, and soaking up Moroccan culture. It’s the perfect spot for surf schools, retreats, and anyone looking to combine wave riding with food, music, and history.
Surf Regions in Essaouira
Essaouira Bay
The main surf area right in front of town, this long sandy bay stretches for nearly 5 km and is considered the main beach for surfing in Essaouira. Essaouira Bay is a classic beach break, known for its soft and consistent waves, making it ideal for beginners and intermediates. The beach is easily accessible from the city center and is a beautiful beach with golden sand. Surf schools line the beachfront, and the vibe is welcoming. Within Essaouira Bay, Plage Tagharte is a popular area, especially known for its consistent waves and proximity to local landmarks.
Sidi Kaouki
A short drive south of Essaouira, Sidi Kaouki is a quiet surf village with long sandy beaches and multiple peaks. This great spot is famous for its beach break, where the waves are stronger and more powerful than in Essaouira Bay, offering fun sessions for intermediates and advanced surfers looking to catch more challenging waves. The laid-back, rustic setting makes it a favorite for surf camps and retreats.
Moulay Bouzerktoun
Famous as a windsurfing and kitesurfing hub, Moulay Bouzerktoun also has quality waves when the wind calms. Surf enthusiasts seeking challenging conditions are drawn to this spot. The point breaks here can produce fast, hollow rides, though they’re less reliable than Essaouira Bay or Sidi Kaouki.
Imsouane (Day Trip)
About 2.5 hours north, Imsouane is Morocco’s longest right-hand point break. It’s not technically Essaouira, but many visitors make the trip to score rides that can last for minutes at a time. Surfers love the thrill of being able to catch long rides at this location. It’s an essential side trip for surfers staying in Essaouira.
Getting there
Essaouira is located on Morocco’s Atlantic coast, making it a scenic and accessible surf destination. Essaouira has a small airport (Essaouira-Mogador), with direct flights from several European cities such as Paris, London, and Madrid. Most visitors fly into Marrakech (about 2.5 hours inland) and take a bus, taxi, or rental car to Essaouira.
Once in town, most surf spots are within walking distance. Sidi Kaouki and Moulay Bouzerktoun require short drives, with taxis and surf camps offering transport. Car rentals are affordable—around AU$50–70 per day—and useful if you want flexibility to explore. Essaouira’s position on the Atlantic coast also makes it a convenient base for exploring nearby surf spots.
Crowds
Essaouira Bay is popular with learners and surf schools, so expect crowds of beginners in the whitewater and inside sections. When surfing in crowded conditions, especially at popular peaks, it’s important to respect other surfers to ensure safety and maintain good etiquette in the lineup. Outside peaks are less busy. Sidi Kaouki has more space, with multiple peaks spreading surfers out. Moulay Bouzerktoun rarely feels crowded due to its exposure and size. Imsouane can be busy, but the sheer length of the wave spreads everyone out.
Lineup Lowdown
Lineups in Essaouira are friendly and mellow. Most surfers are beginner surfers or intermediate surfers, and locals are welcoming. Respect is still important—wait your turn, don’t drop in, and give learners space. At Sidi Kaouki, more experienced surfers dominate the outside peaks, but the vibe is relaxed.
Surf seasons and when to go
The best time of the year to surf in Essaouira
Surf Seasons and When to Go
The best surf season in Essaouira is from October to April, with the winter months (November to March) bringing bigger swells and more consistent waves due to strong Atlantic exposure. During the winter months, experienced surfers can enjoy reliable surf conditions and offshore winds. In contrast, the summer months are characterized by smaller, less consistent waves, but these conditions are ideal for beginners seeking fun, manageable surf with plenty of sun. For intermediates, winter is the prime time to score.
Water Temperatures and Weather
Ocean temperatures range from 16–22°C, which affects your wetsuit choice. Winter requires a 3/2 or 4/3 wetsuit, while summer is comfortable in a springsuit or even boardshorts on warm days. Air temps average 20–25°C most of the year, with cooler nights in winter and hot, dry afternoons in summer. Strong winds are a defining feature—mornings are best for clean surf before sea breezes pick up.
Can’t-Miss Surf Spots
Essaouira Bay
The heart of the surf scene, Essaouira Bay is considered one of the best surf spots for learning, especially at low tide when the small waves and sandy bottom make it safe for beginners. Long sandy stretches provide plenty of peaks, with surf schools offering rentals and lessons right on the beach. The soft sand is a key safety feature, giving beginners confidence as they practice. The waves are mellow and forgiving, great for learning to pop up, practice turns, or just enjoy a cruisy session. There’s nothing like the thrill of catching waves for the first time at this spot.
Sidi Kaouki
A rustic surf village with long, open beaches, Sidi Kaouki delivers more powerful waves than Essaouira Bay. The peaks are consistent and work across tides, making it a great place for intermediates and advanced surfers. The village vibe is laid-back, with surf camps, cafés, and affordable accommodation right by the beach.
Moulay Bouzerktoun
When the wind drops, Moulay Bouzerktoun can offer excellent point breaks with fast, hollow rides. It’s more exposed and less consistent, but when conditions align, it’s a rewarding wave. Best for confident surfers who can handle currents and wind.
Imsouane (Day Trip)
Not in Essaouira itself, but worth mentioning—Imsouane is Morocco’s longest wave, offering rides of 500 metres or more. A right-hand point break, it’s perfect for longboarders and anyone who loves endless walls. Day trips are easy to arrange from Essaouira, and many surf camps include it in their itineraries.
Surf Lessons and Learning to Surf in Essaouira
Essaouira is one of the best places in Morocco for learning to surf. The sandy-bottom waves at Essaouira Bay are gentle and forgiving, ideal for first-timers. Numerous surf schools line the beachfront, offering group, semi private, and private lessons to suit different learning preferences. Experienced instructors provide safety guidance, equipment instructions, and personalized coaching to ensure a safe and effective learning environment. Using essential equipment like the right board and wetsuit is crucial for safety and progression. Board and wetsuit rentals cost around AU$20–25 per day.
Sidi Kaouki also has surf camps that cater to beginners and intermediates, with packages including accommodation, meals, and daily lessons. Joining a surf camp is a popular way to combine your stay with expert instruction and a supportive community. Essaouira’s combination of soft waves, consistent conditions, and strong surf culture makes it a dream learning environment.
Essaouira surf travel guide
Find trips that fit a flexible lifestyle
Safety and Etiquette
Essaouira’s waves are generally safe, with sandy bottoms and mellow power. Strong winds and rips can appear, especially at Sidi Kaouki, so beginners should stick with surf schools. Reef awareness is needed at Moulay Bouzerktoun. Standard etiquette applies: respect priority, don’t drop in, and give learners space in crowded peaks.
Surf and Yoga Retreats
Essaouira has become a hotspot for surf and yoga retreats, blending Morocco’s wellness culture with its surf scene. Retreats typically include surf lessons, yoga sessions on rooftops or beaches, healthy Moroccan meals, and cultural activities like souk visits and cooking classes. Prices range from AU$900–1,800 per week, with stays in boutique riads or eco-lodges.
Accommodation Options for Surfers
- Essaouira old town (medina): Budget guesthouses and hostels AU–60, boutique riads AU–150. The old town is a historic medina known for its Moroccan architecture and vibrant markets, and is close to popular surf spots. Many accommodations are within walking distance of a local surf shop for gear rentals, advice on local surf conditions, and friendly staff.
- Essaouira beachfront: Surf camps AU–100 per night, mid-range hotels AU0–180
- Sidi Kaouki: Surf camps AU$40–90, rustic lodges AU$80–120
- Moulay Bouzerktoun: Basic guesthouses AU$30–60, eco-lodges AU$100–200
Comparison to Other Surf Destinations
Essaouira, Morocco stands out as a unique surf destination, offering a mellower vibe than Taghazout or Agadir, with smaller, friendlier waves. This ultimate guide to Essaouira surf covers everything from local surf conditions and the best spots to the rich culture that surrounds the area. Compared to Portugal, Essaouira surf offers warmer water in winter and a stronger cultural immersion. Unlike Bali, Essaouira isn’t about heavy reef breaks—it’s more about sandy-bottom beach waves and chilled sessions. It’s perfect for beginners, intermediates, and surfers wanting to combine travel, culture, and surf in one.
Expenses
- Accommodation: AU$30–200 per night
- Food: AU$5–10 for local meals, AU$20–40 for dining in restaurants
- Transport: Car hire AU$50–70/day, taxis AU$20–40 for short trips
- Surf Costs: Rentals AU$20–25/day, lessons AU$40–100/session
- Retreats: AU$900–1,800 per week
Essaouira is more affordable than Europe or Bali, though slightly pricier than Morocco’s smaller surf towns due to its tourist appeal.
Cultural Notes
Essaouira is a city that serves as a cultural crossroads of Arab, Berber, and African influences, offering visitors a rich local culture to explore. The old medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is surrounded by impressive city walls and filled with blue-and-white alleyways, markets, and artisan shops. The pace of life is slow and friendly. Modest dress is appreciated away from the beach, and haggling in markets is part of the experience. Music is also central—Essaouira hosts the famous Gnaoua World Music Festival, which draws crowds every summer.
To truly experience the unique blend of surf and culture, make sure to visit Essaouira and discover all that this vibrant city has to offer.
Cell Coverage and Wi-Fi
Cell coverage is reliable in Essaouira town and along the main surf beaches. Wi-Fi is common in hotels, cafés, and surf camps, though speeds can vary. In Sidi Kaouki and Moulay Bouzerktoun, coverage can be patchy.
Final Thoughts
Essaouira is one of Morocco’s most unique surf destinations. It’s not about heavy, world-class barrels—it’s about fun, mellow waves in a town that blends surf culture with music, history, and art. The city’s main beach serves as a central hub for surf activity, offering easy access and gentle waves ideal for beginners. For those seeking more, the southern end of Essaouira Bay features unique surf spots, and both seasoned surfers and more advanced surfers can find challenging waves at certain breaks, especially when the swell picks up.
Mogador Island stands as a scenic landmark visible from the beaches, adding to the coastal beauty and natural landscape. In addition to surfing, wind surfing and kite surfing are also popular water sports here, with local surf schools offering lessons and gear for all levels. Many surf schools coordinate lessons and changes via a quick WhatsApp message, making scheduling easy and informal.
With beginner-friendly surf, strong retreat culture, and stunning coastal beauty, Essaouira is perfect for travellers who want more than just waves.
If you’re chasing Morocco’s heaviest surf, head south to Taghazout or Safi. But if you want a balance of surf, culture, and relaxation, Essaouira delivers. From the mellow walls of Essaouira Bay to the rustic charm of Sidi Kaouki and the endless rides of Imsouane, it’s a surf trip that blends adventure with soul.
