An Introduction To Essaouira Surf
- Author | Matt K
- Updated | February 17, 2025
Essaouira surf, nestled on Morocco’s stunning Atlantic coast, combines consistent waves with a rich cultural atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for surfers seeking a car-free experience. This vibrant seaside town offers easy access to surf spots and a laid-back charm that appeals to all skill levels.
The main surf beach, Essaouira Bay (Plage d’Essaouira), is just a 10-minute walk from the town center, offering gentle, beginner-friendly waves and a welcoming vibe. For those looking to advance their skills, the beach also provides sections with slightly stronger breaks, perfect for building confidence.
Essaouira is home to several surf schools and rental shops conveniently located near the beach, making it easy for visitors to take lessons or gear up for a session. These schools cater to all levels, from complete beginners to experienced surfers seeking local guidance.
Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced surfer, Essaouira surf caters to all levels, offering local expertise to help improve your skills.
In addition to its surf-friendly offerings, Essaouira surf is complemented by the town’s vibrant cultural scene. With paved roads, local souks, & a lively medina just a short walk from the beach, Essaouira is as much a cultural surf destination as it is a prime surf spot. This blend of reliable Atlantic waves & Moroccan heritage provides a truly unique experience for surfers looking to explore both the surf & the rich culture of the region.
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In This Guide
Best Time To Surf Essaouira
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
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Peak Essaouira Surf Season | November to March
Suited For Intermediate & Advanced
During the winter months, Essaouira surf thrives with consistent & powerful swells, primarily coming from the North Atlantic. Wave heights typically range from 6 to 10 feet, offering challenging conditions ideal for more experienced surfers. Essaouira surf benefits from prevailing offshore winds in the mornings, which contribute to clean, well-formed waves, perfect for advanced surfers looking to push their limits.
Popular spots like Sidi Kaouki & Douar Ouassane are known to perform well during this period, though they are beyond the 5km (3-mile) radius & require a car to access. While the surf is at its best, be prepared for cooler air temperatures & less predictable weather conditions.
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Shoulder Essaouira Surf Season | April, May, September & October
Suited For All Skill Levels
Spring & autumn bring more moderate Essaouira surf conditions, with wave heights typically ranging from 2 to 4 feet. These seasons are perfect for surfers of all skill levels, as the swells are less intense but still offer plenty of opportunities for progression.
The weather is milder, & the beaches are less crowded compared to the peak season, creating a more relaxed atmosphere. Essaouira Bay (Plage d’Essaouira) consistently delivers waves during these months, making it a great spot for beginners & intermediates alike. With manageable conditions & fewer crowds, spring & autumn are ideal times to enjoy Essaouira surf.
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Low Essaouira Surf Season | June to August
Suited For Beginners
Summer offers smaller Essaouira surf, with wave heights typically ranging from 1 to 3 feet, making it an ideal time for beginners to practice & improve their skills. The warm, sunny weather attracts tourists, but the surf spots remain relatively uncrowded, allowing for a more relaxed experience.
While the waves are gentler, morning sessions are recommended to take advantage of cleaner conditions before the afternoon winds pick up. With its mellow waves & pleasant weather, summer is the perfect season to enjoy Essaouira surf & progress in your skills.
Essaouira Surf Temperature, What To Wear & Rainfall Guide
Essaouira Surf Temperature:
18–20°C (64–68°F)
What To Wear:
A 3/2 mm full wetsuit is recommended. The Atlantic upwelling keeps the water cool, despite warm air temperatures. Winds can be strong, making extra warmth essential for longer sessions.
Rainfall:
Summer is the driest season, with only 0–2 rainy days per month. Expect consistent trade winds, sunny skies, and small, clean surf.
Essaouira Surf Temperature:
19–21°C (66–70°F)
What To Wear:
A 3/2 mm wetsuit is still ideal, though on warmer days, some surfers opt for a shorty. Wind begins to ease, offering smoother conditions and solid swell.
Rainfall:
Rainfall remains low, with around 2–5 rainy days per month. Expect mild weather, offshore breezes, and increasing swell size as the season progresses.
Essaouira Surf Temperature:
17–19°C (63–66°F)
What To Wear:
A 4/3 mm wetsuit is best for winter. The water is at its coldest, and offshore winds can make sessions feel even chillier, especially in the mornings.
Rainfall:
This is the wettest season, but still relatively dry, with around 5–8 rainy days per month. Swells are at their most consistent, producing powerful waves ideal for experienced surfers.
Essaouira Surf Temperature:
17–20°C (63–68°F)
What To Wear:
A 3/2 mm wetsuit is best for most of spring, though later in the season, a shorty may be enough on warmer days. Wind starts to return, making dawn patrols the best bet for cleaner surf.
Rainfall:
Rainfall remains low, with around 3–6 rainy days per month. Expect a mix of mild, sunny days and occasional showers as the surf season transitions.
Surf Spots Within 5km or 3 Miles From Essaouira
| Essaouira Surf Spots | Distance from Essaouira | Wave Size | Wave Quality | Skill Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Essaouira Bay (Plage d’Essaouira) |
In the town centre |
1-4 foot |
Soft beach break |
Beginner to intermediate |
|
Plage Tagharte |
In the town centre |
1-4 foot |
Beach break |
Beginner to intermediate |
Further Information To Essaouira Surf Spots
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Works on all tides
- Wind: East-southeast
- Swell Direction: Northwest
- Crowd Factor: Moderate
Essaouira Bay, also known as Plage d’Essaouira, is a picturesque beach break featuring both right and left-hand waves over a sandy bottom. The waves can be fast and powerful, making it suitable for surfers of varying skill levels.
The bay is particularly popular during the winter months, from September to April, when consistent swells grace the Moroccan coastline. Access to the beach is convenient for those on foot or bicycle, with well-maintained paths leading directly to the shoreline.
Surfers should be mindful of strong northeast winds, which are common in the region and can affect wave quality. It’s advisable to check local surf reports before heading out to ensure optimal conditions.
Rating: 4/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid to high tide
- Wind: East-southeast
- Swell Direction: Northwest
- Crowd Factor: Low to moderate
Plage Tagharte is a serene beach located just south of Essaouira’s main bay, offering a tranquil surfing experience away from the more crowded spots. The beach features mellow beach break waves suitable for beginners and intermediate surfers, with both left and right-handers breaking over a sandy bottom.
The ideal conditions occur during mid to high tide, with northwest swells and east-southeast offshore winds enhancing wave quality. Access to Plage Tagharte is convenient for pedestrians and cyclists, with pathways leading directly to the beach. Public transportation, including local buses and taxis, can drop visitors near the beach entrance.
The area is less developed than Essaouira Bay, providing a more natural and peaceful environment. Surfers should be aware of potential strong northeast winds, which can create choppy conditions. It’s recommended to consult local surf forecasts to choose the best times for a session.
Rating: 3.5/5
Travel Time To Essaouira Surf Spots
| Essaouira Surf Spots | Walking Time | Biking Time | Public Transport |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Essaouira |
5-10 min. |
Not required |
Not required |
|
Plage Tagharte |
5-10 min. |
Not required |
Not required |
Essaouira Surf Lessons & Surf Schools
Essaouira surf schools offer a wide range of options for surfers of all levels, ensuring that everyone can find the right place to improve their skills & enjoy the waves.
Holy Surf Camp Essaouira Sidi Kaouki provides high-quality instruction with a focus on personalized coaching to help you progress in your surfing journey.
Loving Surf Essaouira offers a supportive and friendly learning environment, perfect for beginners and intermediates. Essaouira Beach School is a reliable choice for those seeking professional guidance and a fun, safe experience on the waves.
Come Surfing Surf School combines expertise with a welcoming atmosphere, ensuring an enjoyable surf session for all ages. Surf and Therapy integrates mindfulness and wellness into its surf lessons, making it a unique option for those seeking a holistic approach. Surfari Essaouira rounds out the list, delivering engaging and tailored surf coaching to enhance your skills.
With such a variety of Essaouira surf schools available, you’re sure to find the perfect one to enhance your surfing experience.
Essaouira Surf Camp
Looking for the perfect surf getaway? Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to refine your skills, these surf camps offer the ultimate mix of expert coaching, ocean adventure, relaxed coastal vibes. Stay in comfortable, social accommodations just minutes from the waves immerse yourself in the local surf scene.
4-Day Beginner Essaouira Surf Camp With Atlanticzin Watersports
Experience four days of surf, sun, & adventure with Atlanticzin Watersports in Essaouira. This beginner-friendly package includes three days of hands-on surf coaching, where you’ll learn the fundamentals of paddling, popping up, & riding waves in a supportive environment.
You’ll enjoy six hours of surf lessons, three days of yoga sessions to improve balance & flexibility, & unlimited surfboard rental throughout your stay. Accommodation is in a relaxed guesthouse just minutes from the beach, with daily breakfast & a group dinner to connect with fellow surfers. Find Out More
6-Day Beginner or Intermediate Essaouira Surf Camp With Atlanticzin Watersports
Experience Atlanticzin Watersports for a six-day surf adventure in Essaouira, perfect for beginners & intermediates looking to progress. Enjoy 10 hours of expert-led surf lessons, unlimited surfboard rental, & four days of yoga to enhance flexibility & balance. Stay five nights in a comfortable guesthouse near the beach, with daily breakfast & a group dinner to connect with fellow surfers. Find Out More
3-Day Essaouira Surf Camp & Yoga Retreat In Sidi Kaouki With Surf Camp Essaouira
Enjoy three days of surf, yoga, & relaxation in the peaceful surf village of Sidi Kaouki. This retreat includes two days of surf coaching with certified BF1 instructors, daily yoga sessions on an ocean-view rooftop, & transport to the best surf spots based on conditions. You’ll stay in a cozy private room, with all meals provided, including homemade packed lunches for the beach. Airport or bus station transfers are included, along with high-quality surf equipment for the duration of your stay. Find Out More
8-Day Beginner & Intermediate Essaouira Surf Camp In Sidi Kaouki With Surf Camp Essaouira
Spend eight days improving your surf skills with expert coaching in Sidi Kaouki. This all-inclusive camp features six days of surf lessons, unlimited access to high-quality surf equipment, & transport to the best waves. Stay in a beachside guesthouse with a swimming pool, enjoying full board with delicious meals prepared by in-house chefs. The experience also includes a half-day visit to Essaouira, airport or bus station transfers, & plenty of time to soak in Moroccan culture. Find Out More
Discover your ideal surf camp below—compare options across Morocco and around the world!
Essaouira Surfboard Hire
Essaouira surfboard hire options are plentiful, providing surfers with high-quality boards tailored to the area’s conditions.
Loving Surf Essaouira provides a diverse selection of high-quality boards tailored to local conditions. Essaouira Beach School offers convenient board rentals, perfect for discovering the area’s surf breaks.
Come Surfing Surf School ensures easy access to reliable gear with flexible rental options. Meanwhile, Surf Worldwide Essaouira caters to all surfing needs with an extensive range of boards, making it easy to find the right equipment for any wave.
With such a variety of Essaouira surfboard hire services, you’ll have the perfect gear to enjoy the area’s vibrant surf scene.
Essaouira Surf Report & Surf Cam
While you’re enjoying your time, staying updated on Essaouira surf conditions is key to making the most of your sessions. Websites like Surf-Forecast and Surfline provide detailed weather and Essaouira surf reports, including swell size, wind direction, and tide times, to help you plan your day.
For those wanting a real-time view of the waves, Surfline offers live surf cameras at many popular breaks. However, access to these cameras requires a paid subscription. Despite the cost, Surfline’s cameras can be a valuable tool for surfers who want to check conditions before heading out. With these resources, you’ll always be in the know about the best times to hit the water.
How To Get To Essaouira Surf
- Marrakech Airport (RAK) To Essaouira
Distance: 180km (110mi)
Getting from Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK) to Essaouira surf offers several options depending on your budget, time, & preference for comfort. For most travellers, the Supratours bus offers a great balance between affordability & comfort. If you prioritize convenience, especially with luggage or surfboards, a private transfer is the best way to go.
Public Transport | Cheapest Option
- Time: 3.5-4 hrs.
- Cost: Approx. $10-$15 USD per person
Details:
There is no direct public bus from Marrakech Airport to Essaouira, so you’ll first need to take a local bus (L19) or a taxi ($3–$5 USD) to Marrakech’s main bus station (Gare Routière or CTM station).
From there, board a CTM or Supratours coach to Essaouira, which takes about 3 hours. These buses are comfortable, air-conditioned, & provide luggage storage. Tickets can be booked in advance online or at the station.
This is the most affordable way to reach Essaouira but requires a transfer in Marrakech.
Shuttle Service
- Time: 2.5-3.5 hrs.
- Cost: Approx. $20-$50 USD per person
Details:
Several shuttle services operate between Marrakech Airport & Essaouira, either as private or shared transfers. Many companies align their schedules with flight arrivals, ensuring minimal wait times.
Shared transfers are more affordable but may include stops in Marrakech before heading to Essaouira. Private shuttles offer a direct & comfortable ride with luggage space & air conditioning. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Accommodation In Essaouira
| Accommodation Type | Description | Price Range (EUR)* | Price Range (USD)* |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Hostels |
Dormitory-style accommodation |
€10 to €22 |
$12 to $25 |
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Mid-range Hotels/Serviced Apartments |
Studio apartments, motels, or 1-bedroom units |
€25 to €70 |
$30 to $80 |
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Luxury Stays |
Luxury beachfront resorts or high-end apartments |
€90 to €180 |
$100 to $200 |
|
*Rates are per night and subject to change. |
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Find Your Perfect Stay
When planning your stay at Essaouira, Tripaneer should be your first stop, offering a seamless booking experience for surf camps and unique local adventures that truly capture the spirit of the coast. Tripaneer’s curated options ensure you start your journey with the best blend of excitement and comfort.
For those interested in a wider array of accommodation, Booking.com presents a range of luxurious beachfront properties and cozy apartments just steps away from the sand, while Hostelworld caters to budget-conscious travellers with its selection of affordable hostels and social surf lodges.
Moroccan Travel Information: The 7 Essentials You Need To Know
Discover Essaouira: What To Do When The Waves Are Flat
When the surf is flat in Essaouira, plenty of exciting activities await. Here are 5 recommended ways to make the most of your time.
Exploring Marrakech: The Best Sights & Landmarks to Visit
If you find yourself with a few wave-free days, consider venturing to nearby Marrakech for a blend of historical landmarks, vibrant souks, & Moroccan cuisine. Marrakech is only a short bus ride away, making it a perfect cultural escape when the surf is flat.