Written on : 15 October 2019 By : Melchior Burin des Roziers
Morocco is an African country that enjoys a privileged position since it is located in the northwest corner of the continent. From the Mediterranean to the Atlantic, its coastline extends over 3,416 km and offers surfers hundreds of spots to indulge in their favourite sliding sport. There is something for every taste and every level. Here is our list of the best surf spots in Morocco.
Imsouane, perfect for beginners
Between ocean and desert, 70km north of Agadir and 100km south of Essaouira you will find Imsouane. Situated on a magnificent white sandy beach, if you are still a beginner, take advantage of long straight lines to practice surfing. You will be able to get up easily on your board, without the risk of being hit by the waves. The launching is done from the fishing port and the exit by the beach. The bottom is made of sand on a straight reef break, the best tides are the mid-tide and low tide. The best wind is north, northeast and the best swell is 2-4 m. The ideal time to surf is from November to April.
If you consider yourself an experienced surfer enough to face more powerful waves, all you have to do is go to the beaches around Imsouane Bay, such as the Cathedral, considered to be the perfect beach break for those who are more advanced. There you will find that the best wind is the one from the east.
Safi, an excellent tube spot
2 hours and 20 minutes from Marrakech, you will find Safi - one of the best surf spots in the world according to Tom Carroll, star surfer of the 80s. We don't go for the quality of the water (which can be quite dirty at times, due to the proximity to the port) but rather for 'Rass Lafaa's long tube'. This famous wave only wakes up in a big swell at low tide and remains surfed by the best surfers in the world. Be careful, it can be capricious and dangerous as many of the planks have broken. This spot is a straight breakpoint reserved for experts during heavy winter swells, which reach 2-5 m in the best conditions.
To the north of Morocco, near Kenitra. The mythical Charatane wave (Mehdia) takes its name from the wreckage of a ship that ran aground at the mouth of the Oued Sebou. It is one of the most beautiful left in the country (point break) which operates in large swells of more than 2 m. You can only surf at high tide (so as not to be disturbed by the wreck at low tide) without wind or with south or east winds. Ideal for experienced intermediates and surfers, it is best to go there from September to February, although sometimes heavy swells can be observed in summer.
The Anchor's Point, Taghazout's treasure
It is one of the most beautiful locations in Morocco, recognized internationally and on the list of any self-respecting surfer. This is a straight breakpoint for intermediate and experienced surfers. It can be rolled out over 200-300 m with a nice tube section at the beginning and a lot of power. Plan a thick board that makes rowing easier and allows you to catch waves and speedily. For the launch, it will be necessary to jump off rocks and row very quickly out of the impact area. The ascent to the lineup requires a certain physical condition to counter strong currents and avoid the surfers around you. At rising tide, with an easterly wind and a swell of 1.5-3.5 m, it is best surfed between October and April.
The terrible Dracula
Still in Taghazout, this spot takes its name from the tooth-shaped rocks that hide beneath the waves. The water is also populated by sea urchins at this location. This is a straight breakpoint less frequented than the previous spot but with a swell of similar size. The Dracula wave is hollow, powerful and tubular. It is reserved for the most experienced due to its high danger. Launching and exiting are particularly delicate. If you still have the courage to go after that, take your tickets between May and October, the best time.
