Surfing in Morocco: Unleash Your Inner Surfer at Surf Camp

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Have you ever dreamt about surfing the Moroccan waves?

It’s an incredibly exotic destination. And if you ask anybody who has surfed Morocco, they’ll tell you that it’s an unforgettable experience!

By all accounts, it should be on the bucket list of any surfer who loves to travel. Or any traveller who’s looking for a new adventure.

Ask anyone in the know – Morocco is a surfer’s paradise! With its long stretches of coastline, perfect waves, and warm weather, it’s no wonder surfers love it.

Personally, I love to travel, I love surfing, and I love Africa. So, of course, I’m thinking that my next trip to Africa should start in Morocco, riding the waves.

But I’m a newbie when it comes to surfing – a rookie, a gremmie at surfing, period! Though I am working on the lingo.

So while I’m there, I’d love to up my surfing game. Surf camp sounds like the way to do that.

Surf camp sounds like a great way to learn a few things. It should also be a great place to meet other surfers and travellers.

Fortunately, Morocco is not known just for its gnarly waves. It also has a lot of great surf camps to choose from.

They’re in areas known for having the most epic surf spots in Morocco, like Anchor Point, Killer Point, and Boilers.

Many of the camps are also located in beautiful areas like Taghazout, Tamraght, and Essaouira. Win-win! Great for surfing and great for exploring.

So in preparation for my trip, I’m on the hunt for the best Morocco surf camps. I also want to discover the best places for a beginner – and an intermediate surfer, which I hope to become – to surf.

Plus we’ll discuss the best time of the year of the year to plan a wave riding expedition in Morocco.

You’re invited along on this search. I hope it’ll make plans for your own surf trip to Morocco a little easier to make.

I’ll discuss safety in Morocco, too, and all that goes with it below. Here I’ll just say that I’ve travelled to Morocco as a solo female, and had an amazing time!

Let’s surf Morocco!

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Riding Morocco’s Waves

There are about 20 great spots in Morocco known for their incredible waves. Each has its unique characteristics, catering to different levels of surfers. Plus, there are over 50 surf camps in Morocco.

Let’s start with Morocco surf camps – here’s my shortlist.

Morocco Surf Camps

For the most part these camps offer packages. These include surf lessons, your equipment, Moroccan meals, and accommodations. Plus a ready-made group of surf buddies.

Some also have optional excursions, as well as accommodations that can be rented if you want to stay longer. Rent their gear, surf, and enjoy!

Several of these camps are less than US $500 for a surf package!

1. Surf Star Morocco, Tamraght, Morocco 🏄🏻‍♂️:

⭐️ Rated: 5 out of 5 stars with 226 reviews

What you get:

• the camps last 5 days
• 3 hours/day of surf lessons, split between morning and evening
• photo feedback sessions + 1 free surf photo
• max 8 students per instructor
• Wifi all across the whole guesthouse

Surf Star Morocco is a fairly budget-friendly surf camp. It includes accommodation, all meals, transfers from Agadir (see map), as well as your surf lessons.

Surf equipment such as surfboards and wetsuits are also included in the package. Experts might prefer to have their own boards, but I’d really rather not have to fly with one.

Accommodations are in a shared room with either a private or shared bathroom. It’s all about meeting other surfers, right? But couples will have private rooms with double beds.

Surf Star offers beginner, intermediate, and advanced classes, as well as surf and yoga packages. I love yoga, and the thought of beach yoga/surf lessons sounds amazing!

The camp is a 10-minute walk to the beach and a 30-minute drive to Agidar City. There is an optional social outing every week. *Optional usually means there’s an extra fee to take part.

Surf Star also offers what they call Stay, Chill, and Eat. It’s just what it sounds like. Stay once the camp is over and surf, eat, and relax.

You can hang out on one of the 3 terraces and take part in the weekly social outings if you like. Make it your home away from home.

You can rent a board and wetsuit and practice what you learned. It sounds like a fun place, and it’s definitely on my list!

Tamraght itself is a small Berber fishing village built into a hillside. It’s about 3 km from Taghazout, another town known for its waves. You won’t want to leave without doing some exploring.

Surf Star Morocco has excellent reviews on TripAdvisor. Reviews matter! Past guests have had some great things to say about the surf lessons, the friendly, helpful staff, and the overall vibe.

Here’s just one of the great Surf Star Morocco reviews:

I spent 4 days in Surfstar and enjoyed my best stay in Morocco!
The staff is helpful and friendly: they pick you up from the airport and stay with you during the whole stay. They are available for any need you have.There are two surf sessions every day, with prepared instructors who come with you in the waves. Food is delicious, rooms and bathrooms are very clean.I could not ask for better!

– Elena May 2022 (read more reviews)

2. Surf Berbere, Taghazout, Morocco 🏄🏻‍♀️:

⭐️ Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars with 228 reviews

What you get:

• the camps last 5 days, with 7 days accommodation
• twice daily surf lessons, 2 hours each
• max 8 students per instructor
• Wifi connections throughout

Surf Berbere is a popular budget Taghazout surf camp. It’s located on the waterfront, great for a sunset over the water.

They offer 7-day packages for beginners. Surf lessons are twice a day and are typically 2 hours long. There are also 7-day packages for experienced surfers and a 1-month surf instructor course.

Packages include 7 nights accommodation in a prime, central location, meals, and your surf lessons. Equipment such as boards and wetsuits are also included.

Class sizes have a maximum of 8 students per instructor. The camp is close to some great surf spots like Immesouane and Boilers, and it’s also right in town.

Accommodations are in a shared room with a private bathroom. Couples get private double rooms. Rooms can be rented apart from the surf lessons, as well.

There are optional activities for you also while with Surf Berbere. For example, day trips to Paradise Valley in the High Atlas Mountains.

Optional here, too, means there’s an extra fee. And there are yoga and massages! Also extra.

The town looks lovely – a little touristy, but not overtaken. There’s a new promenade to walk along, and horse rides on offer. Another surf camp to consider!

Surf Berbere has great reviews on TripAdvisor, too. Guests praise the quality of the surf lessons and the relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.

What have past surfers said about Surf Berbere?

It’s right by the beach, and you fall asleep to the sound of the sea. The food is wonderful, and dinner is served on a rooftop terrace overlooking the ocean and the Taghazout bay. The surf camp seems to self-selectively attract only interesting people, the guests are all passionate about learning to surf and exploring Morocco.

– Oscar F (read full review)

3. Surfline Morocco, Tamraght, Morocco 🏄🏿:

⭐️ Rated 5 out of 5 stars with 125 reviews

What you get:

• the camps last 5 – 14 days
• daily 2-hour morning surf lessons, & 1.5 hours in the afternoon if you’re up for it
• video analysis and photos
• Wifi in the accommodations

A third inexpensive choice on my shortlist is Surfline Morocco surf camp. Like the others, Surfline includes your accommodation, meals, and surf lessons.

You can choose to have your lessons in English or French, 2 languages that are spoken in Morocco. Choose between beginner 5, 7, 10, and 14-day packages.

You can even opt for a 30-day surf and stay package.

I don’t know about you, but that sounds exhausting to me! Also, all but the 5-day package includes airport and bus transfers in the price.

Of course, surf equipment such as surfboards and wetsuits are included in the packages.

The Surfline hostel is located about 15 minutes from what’s known as the Banana Point surf spot, close to Tamraght’s beach. They have 1, 2, 3, and 4-person rooms, and the ubiquitous rooftop terrace.

These rooftop terraces are one of my favourite things about staying in Morocco. The views are spectacular! I would love to see these terraces everywhere I go.

You can even take a swim in the pool on Surfline’s terrace. I am absolutely adding this one to my list of possibilities for surfing Morocco.

The reviews on TripAdvisor for Surfline Morocco are terrific, with many guests praising the quality of the surf lessons and the knowledgeable and experienced instructors.

What have past surfers said about Surfline?

I had such an amazing time with Surfline. Mo, the instructor is friendly, professional and helped to really learn how to surf. The food was fantastic. The place is clean and unique. I am definitely coming back!!

– LaineeBL (read more reviews)

4. Paradis Plage Surf Yoga & Spa Resort, Agadir, Morocco 🏄🏻‍♀️:

⭐️ Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars with over 1,135 reviews for the resort itself

What you get:

• 2-day and 5-day lesson packages
• daily 1.5-hour surf lessons
• Wifi in the accommodations
• Open-air cinema

Paradis Plage Surf Yoga & Spa Resort is a more high-end surf camp located in Taghazout, Morocco. Actually, it seems to be more of a hotel that offers surf lessons.

The surf house has bar and lounge areas, and a large rooftop terrace. There’s also an open-air cinema behind the surf centre. Who doesn’t love to watch a movie under the stars??

The difference here is that the packages don’t include accommodations. The lessons are reasonably priced at under US $70 for 2 days or under US $160 for 5 days.

You can then choose from the variety of accommodations they offer, from junior suites to villas. This is where the price can start to add up. You will also purchase your own meals.

Other differences from the surf camps stem from the fact that you won’t be living in a surf house with your fellow students. This cuts down on the camaraderie and fun that can go along with a communal situation.

On the other hand, if too much togetherness goes against your grain, this might suit you perfectly. The resort is equipped with a beautiful spa, pools, restaurants and bars, as well as a yoga retreat.

Reviews mention local dogs and cats wandering through the resort. If that might bother you, it’s best you know about it. For me, it would be a plus, though I’d be trying to bring them home with me.

I’m adding Paradis to my list for the alternative accommodations (luxurious). And I have to say it – for the dogs and cats. They’re also on what looks like a gorgeous stretch of beach.

Paradis Plage Surf Yoga & Spa Resort has top reviews on TripAdvisor. Many guests praise the luxurious accommodations and the high-quality surf lessons.

What have past surfers said about Paradis Plage?

…5 stars for the fantastic surf team who provide great lessons and do it with big smiles and buckets of kindness.

-ann j (read the rest of this review)

5. Munga Guesthouse Surf School, Taghazout, Morocco 🏄🏾:

⭐️ Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars with 157 reviews for the Guesthouse

What you get:

• individually curated packages
• a choice of accommodations depending on your budget
• Wifi in the accommodations
• on-site cocktails

Munga Guesthouse Surf School Morocco describes itself as a combination of an art hotel and a traditional BnB. It looks like a beautiful property, and the reviews support that!

Munga offers build-your-own, personally curated surf camps. During my research, I didn’t find any packages listed, so I contacted them, as they are listed as a surf school.

I received a very quick reply, stating that they are happy to curate personal packages and that they do this often. They also stated that they work with world-class instructors.

Package details are at the bottom of their page.

At the time of this writing, they offer a 15% discount on surfing packages. For example, say you booked 5 nights accommodation with surfing each day, breakfast will be included at their restaurant Favela.

Your price will depend on which accommodation you choose – you’ll find a list of pricing below. You’ll also find pricing for surf lessons and other activities.

Then 15% would be subtracted from the total, giving you your surf/stay package price.

In addition, they will curate a 3-course fixed menu for lunch for US $25 and dinner for US $35, excluding alcohol.

Again, be sure to check out the package details. You’ll find contact info there, too, if you have questions – my emails were answered within the hour.

And of course, you always have the option of exploring Taghazout and eating elsewhere! I would do this at least a couple of times.

Munga is going on my shortlist because it looks absolutely amazing, and I like the idea of having a surf package put together just for me. I also got a really good vibe from my interaction with the manager.

The spa treatments sound wonderful, too. And keep in mind, it’s hard to find a spot in Taghazout where you can have a beer or a glass of wind, and you can find them here!

Of course, this all means that the surf class might be just me. So much for hanging out with other surfers. I’ll have to think about that. Maybe just a few days here.

Munga gets high reviews on Tripadvisor, hyping the food, the personal service, and the unique atmosphere.

What have past surfers said about Munga Guesthouse?

 Guest house is a unique place, there is some many hotel similar now but this one give a unique morocco experience! the bar is the place to be where all the surfer come for a drink. i enjoy the vibe! For the surfing, I heard Moun the owner, was part of the National surfing team, so you can get the best advice from him and doing surf trip.

– Raphael (read the full review)

6. Sandycamps, Imsouane, Morocco 🏄🏽‍♀️:

⭐️ Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars with over 90 reviews

What you get:

• 7-day lesson packages for all levels
• 5 x 2.5-hour surf lessons
• one photo analysis session
• Wifi available

* Despite the destruction in Imsouane in early 2024, Sandycamps is still is still in operation.

Sandycamps is a popular surf camp in Imsouane, another little fishing village. This one is about an hour up the coast from Taghazout and Tamraght.

Sandycamps has hostel-style accommodations with 2 – 5 beds and private bathrooms. You can also choose a double room with a lounge and a separate bathroom area.

Top-end equipment is included in the package, as well as all meals. Not beverages like soda, juice, and coffee, though.

One caveat is that there are no packages that don’t include yoga lessons. You’ll have two 1-hour yoga lessons per day, which sounds like a great way to relax after a day of surfing on ‘Magic Bay’.

The seven-day package at this Imsouane surf camp is about US $225 more than other seven-day packages mentioned here. You can choose to add more surf or yoga lessons for a fee.

You also get access to all of the camp’s toys, including skateboards, table tennis, the pool, karaoke and more. There are 2 restaurants and a bar for you to enjoy, and a lot of live music!

In addition, you’ll have the option to taking part in the weekly excursion to the port city of Essaouira. The Medina there is a UNESCO site, and you can browse art galleries and craft shops to your heart’s content.

If you’re worried about a language barrier, English, Spanish, French, and Arabic are spoken at here.

I’ve added Sandycamps to my list because the place sounds fun! There seem to be lots of opportunities to meet other surfers, and there’s even a movie room.

And “Magic Bay”, with its insanely long righthand wave is something I want to see!

Like the other camps on the list, Sandycamps is rated highly on Tripadvisor. The staff, surf and yoga instructors, and the food all got special applause.

What have past surfers said about Sandycamps?

I personally (my girlfriend and 4 friends too) found the stay in imsouane and at sandycamps to be absolutely amazing over my 1 month stay with them. The couple who run the camp buisness as well the staff there were absolutely lovely and genuine people who would do all they could to support you and be there should you need them.

– Luca (read the full review)

7. Atlanticzin Watersports, Essaouira, Morocco

⭐️ Rated 5 out of 5 with over 300 reviews

What you get:

• 4, 6, or 8-day packages for all levels
• 6, 10, and 12 hours of surf instruction
• accommodation in a traditional riad
• Wifi available

Essaouira is a port city about 2 hours north of Imsouane. Essaouira Morocco’s surfing is done primarily on the city’s main beach.

Known often as The Wind City, Essaouira gets strong sirocco winds blowing in from the Sahara. Unfortunately for experienced surfers, the wind causes havoc with the waves.

I would plan to be in Essaouira, Morocco surfing in the winter, though. Winter winds whip up great beginner-sized waves. It actually sounds like a terrific time and place for rookies.

Accommodations at Atlanticzin look a bit more traditionally Moroccan than the other options. Rooms are in a riad-style building, which basically means that they’re built around a courtyard.

When I travel, I always like to stay in traditional accommodations if I can, so that’s a plus for me. Each room comes with a private bathroom, too. All surfing equipment is included

Like Sandycamps, yoga is included in all of the surf packages, but this one is a bit cheaper.

Incidentally, the winds make Essaouira the perfect place for kitesurfing Moroccan-style! If you love kitesurfing, or have always wanted to try it, kitesurfing camps are available too.

I don’t know that Essaouira would be the best place to plan a whole surf trip around. I am adding Atlanticzin Watersports to my list, though.

It would work perfectly if I decide to split my trip between it and the beautiful Munga Guesthouse.

Atlanticzin gets excellent Tripadvisor reviews – a big thumbs up all around!

What have past surfers had to say about Atlanticzin Watersports?

From the moment I entered the surf school, it immediately felt like visiting friends. The guys at Atlanticzin are amazing 🤙🏽. Thanks to everyone for the warm welcome, showing me arround in Essaouira and especially thanks to Soufiane for the lessons.

– alessandro (read more reviews)

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Morocco Surf Coast Map

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Stay Safe in Morocco

If you’ve never been to Morocco, you might have a mental image of it as a beautiful, even mystical place. And it absolutely is.

But, you may be wary of travelling here. Maybe because you might think of it as a part of the Middle East? Or maybe just too foreign to feel safe.

In reality, Morocco is not a part of the Middle East. Nor is it a dangerous place, and it really shouldn’t be missed.

Like anywhere, you need to make an effort to be aware of your surroundings at all times. This can be a challenge when you’re distracted by the sights and sounds of a new place.

It’s also a good idea to avoid walking around after dark. There are exceptions, of course. If you’re out for dinner with a group of surfers in a part of town that’s popular with travellers, for example.

Just remember to keep your wits about you (ie. don’t drink too much).

But there are no special precautions you need to take in Morocco. The people are friendly, and you’ll enjoy getting to interact with them.

Read more on safety in Africa in 41 Top Travel Safety Tips.

What to Wear in Morocco

While Morocco is an Islamic country, it’s fairly liberal in terms of dress these days. While you’re here, though, it’s still important for women, especially, to dress appropriately.

I suggest that women bring modest clothes, and men too. It’s all about respecting the culture. But these rules have become much more relaxed in recent years.

You should be ok in shorts and T-shirts, especially in surf towns. Nothing too revealing, though.

Women should bring options for covering their shoulders, knees, and chest. Even just capris might make you more comfortable if you feel like you’re drawing unwanted attention.

You may want to opt for loose-fitting, lightweight pants, long flowy skirts, and long-sleeved shirts with a loose weave. The days are warm.

But dress really is more of a personal choice now.

Swimsuits should be worn on the beach only, though, and nudity and provocative clothing are not permitted. Plus, always be discreet when changing.

While men can wear shorts, they are less likely to stand out as tourists if they wear long trousers instead.

Keep this in mind when travelling in conservative countries. Women travelling alone are less likely to be subjected to harassment if we dress modestly.

It’s all a part of the experience.

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The Best Places to Surf in Morocco

The best places for beginners to surf are the ones that are home to the surf camps mentioned above:

Essaouira – this spot is popular for its consistent waves and laid-back atmosphere. 

Imsouane – it’s especially famous for its long, peeling waves and stunning scenery. 

Taghazout – Taghazout is an internationally renowned surf destination.

Tamraght – a lesser-known surf spot favoured by some for its uncrowded waves. A bit of a hidden gem.

Once your lessons are done and you’re shredding those waves, it will be well worth your time to stick around for a while!

Most of these surf camps offer options that make this easy.

And if you’re really feeling it, Taghazout is home to some spots like Boilers and Anchor Point. These are spots that advanced surfers come to Morocco for.

The Best Time of Year to Surf Morocco

You can enjoy an average of 300 sunny days a year on this coast, so it’s perfect for watersports any time of year. Temperature-wise, anyway.

But even though Morocco is a place of near-constant sunshine, that’s not all you need for great surfing.

The best months of the year to catch a great wave are from September through April. These winter months are when the big waves make their appearance.

They also bring with them the most consistent waves, water, and weather. You can count on the waves rolling in and the water being warmer than cold. The air is warm, too, but not as warm as summer temps.

But one benefit to being a newer surfer is that I’m not looking for the big swells. And I can find a “good wave” at my level any time of year. Ankle biters for the win!

Surf Gear to Bring with You

What you’ll need will be provided at your surf camp. All reports are that it’s difficult to buy surf gear once you’re here. Any extras you think you want to have, you should bring with you.

One question that’s come up is about surf booties. There are a few reasons to wear booties for surfing:

• if the water temperature is 15.5ºC (60ºF) or colder
• if you’ll be in the water for 3 hours or more
• if there are sharp rocks that you need to walk over to get to the water
• if you need extra traction on your board

You shouldn’t have to worry about rocks while you’re surfing. And surf lessons won’t keep you out longer than 3 hours. But outside the classes, that’s up to you.

As for the cold, February can bring water temperatures as low as 16ºC (61ºF). Whether or not you want to wear booties is a decision you’ll have to make. Don’t be a hero!

If you tend to feel the cold, you might want to take surf booties with you. Here are a couple of highly rated options:

You should also bring your preferred sunscreen and/or zinc, as you’re not likely to find it once you’re here. If you burn easily, a UPF-rated rashguard to wear when you’re not in a wetsuit might be a good idea, too.

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Travelling to Morocco to Surf: Frequently Asked Questions

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Summing It Up: Surfing in Morocco

And there you have it! Thanks for taking this journey with me to explore Morocco’s surf camps. I hope you learned as much as I did.

We’ve found amazing options that promise a fantastic time at surf camp. Picture sun-drenched beaches, exhilarating waves, and the camaraderie of fellow surfers.

If you have questions or if you have a recommendation for a camp you’re familiar with, feel free to contact me.

See you in Morocco!

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Read more about Africa:

➤ Standard Luggage Co. Carry-On Candid Review
➤ What to Bring to Africa: 10 Unexpected Essentials
➤ 15 Steps to Planning an Amazing Trip to Africa
➤ The 17 Best African Countries to Visit 2023

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