Want to go to Morocco’s surf capital? Then go to Essouira. This pretty little coastal town has become an international hub for the surfing community, who love its big, bad breakers and its sweeping sandy beach. Take an Essouira surfing trip, and you’ll be joining the generations of surfers who have made this windswept Atlantic town their home.
Essouira’s winds come in from two directions, making the swell unpredictable. Surfing off the town centre beach is not world-class, but the waves are more than enough to keep beginners and the more laid-back happy. The winter swell is the best.
It is the beaches around Essouira that off the most to surfers with windsurfing and kitesurfing more popular on Essouira’s town beach). There are some genuinely world-class surf spots hidden off the beaches of this stretch of coast.
Safi is one of the best, around 30 km north of Essouira. The town itself has no surf scene to speak of – it’s the kind of place surfers go for the surf, not to hang out. It can be tricky to find, but it’s worth it. It is a fast, powerful point break with swell up to and over 5m. It’s one for the experienced only.
Sidi Kaouki is a more popular spot with more varied surfing. It lies around 25 km to the south of Essouira. It is a relaxed town which has started to attracted a good few international travellers, and has a good surf scene, with several surf schools. It has a nice long beach break that works for beginners and the experienced.
Take an Essouira surfing trip and explore lovely beaches and ancient villages. When the day’s over, head back to the town of Essouira, where you’ll find laid-back bars and authentic cuisine.
