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.
Essaouira Bay (Plage d’Essaouira) is the main surf beach, situated just 10 minutes away from the town center, with mellow, beginner-encouraging waves and an inviting atmosphere. Students seeking more can find areas of the beach with somewhat stronger breaks for confidence building.
Numerous surf schools and rental shops can be found in Essaouira, which are located conveniently close to the beach so that visitors can easily take lessons or rent gear to get going. The services offered by these schools cater to all: absolute beginner to seasoned surfer wanting local guidance.
This remarkable surf destination has something for everyone, from novice to vastly experienced surfers, making available the local region’s expertise in cost-effective measures to improve one’s wave carving skills.
Essaouira becomes even better with the existing cultural scene. With paved roads, local souks, and a lively medina, all within walking distance from the beach, Essaouira can rightly be called a culturally stimulating surf destination.
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In This Guide
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Best Time To Surf Essaouira
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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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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Essaouira Bay (Plage d’Essaouira) |
In the town centre |
1-4 foot |
Soft beach break |
Beginner to intermediate |
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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 |
|---|---|---|---|
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Essaouira |
5-10 min. |
Not required |
Not required |
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Plage Tagharte |
5-10 min. |
Not required |
Not required |
Accommodation In Essaouira
For your Moroccan surf trip, Trip.com is the ultimate tool to make sure you get listed accommodations near the waves. Whether your style is a hotel right on the beachfront or a quiet bungalow away from the crowds-or anything in between, they carry the options to fit your taste & budget. Booking in advance reduces hassle & lets you focus on surfing.
For those who want to dive deeper into the surfing lifestyle, Tripaneer offers surf camps throughout Morocco. Suitable for all abilities, these camps provide coaching, accommodation & community. Taking part simply improves your skills and makes you feel much more part of Essaouira surf culture.
| Accommodation Type | Description | Price Range (EUR)* | Price Range (USD)* |
|---|---|---|---|
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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 |
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*Rates are per night and subject to change. |
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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. 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
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
Essaouira surf changes quickly, so keeping up with the latest info can be crucial. Surf-Forecast and Surfline deliver consistent, detailed updates on tide patterns, swell height, & wind strength. If you’ve got a Surfline membership, those live surf cams are perfect for scoping your favorite Essaouira surf breaks without leaving your accommodation.
Staying online is just as easy. A Yesim eSIM or a Drimsim eSIM lets you connect right away. You’ll no longer need to visit a SIM shop, just switch on your phone when you land and you’re good to go. It’s ideal for checking morning conditions or keeping updated on your socials.
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
Approx. 3.5-4 hrs.
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
Approx. 2.5-3.5 hrs.
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.
Pre-arrange your shuttle with HolidayTaxis or Welcome Pickups to enjoy a seamless arrival. Your shuttle will be ready when you land, helping you travel from the airport to the beach quickly & without any waiting.
Moroccan Travel Information | 7 Essentials You Need To Know
Morocco’s blend of culture and coastline makes it a rewarding surf destination, but it pays to be prepared. While major cities and tourist areas accept cards, many surf towns operate mainly on cash, so carrying Moroccan Dirhams is very important. French and Arabic are the main languages spoken, although you’ll find English in more touristy locations.
For practical travel details like health care access, emergency contacts, visa information, and local safety tips, our Morocco surf page outlines the 7 essentials you should know before you go.
Travel Insurance For Your Essaouira Surf Trip
Preparing for your Essaouira surf trip means considering all possible risks, including lost gear, injuries, or delayed flights. Check out the crew over at VisitorsCoverage, which offer travel insurance covering medical emergencies, evacuation, cancellations, and damage or loss to your equipment.
Being insured would provide a safety net for your surf trip in Morocco and provide you peace of mind as you go along on your jolly days.
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. Or check out an endless variety of tours, day excursions, and special experiences are waiting for every kind of travel lover on GetYourGuide.
Exploring Marrakech: The Best Sights & Landmarks To Visit
When you have a few free days without the surf, why not hop over to nearby Marrakech for a mix of historical sites, colorful souks, and eating Moroccan food? With a short bus ride to get there, it’s a great cultural escape whenever the surf is flat.
Be sure to check out Viator for a fantastic range of experiences in Marrakech, from guided tours of the medina and excursions to the desert to traditional cooking and cultural performances.