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An Introduction To Imsouane Surf
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By
Matt
- Updated | January 7, 2026
Imsouane is a peaceful surf village on Morocco’s Atlantic coast, loved for its slow rhythm, friendly feel, and long, rolling waves. Life here moves with the tide.
Mornings start with coffee by the sea, surfers walking to the point with boards under their arms, and fishermen bringing in the day’s catch.
The Bay is the heart of Imsouane surf. It is one of the longest right-hand point breaks in the world, with soft, steady waves that seem to glide forever. This makes it perfect for beginners, longboarders, and anyone who enjoys smooth, flowing rides.
The Cathedral sits closer to the rocks and offers a more powerful wave. It breaks faster and can feel more hollow, making it better for surfers with experience and good control.
Everything in Imsouane is close and easy to reach. You can walk through town, follow the road along the coast, and be in the water within minutes.
In This Guide
Best Time To Surf Imsouane
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Peak Imsouane Surf Season | Octoberber to April
Suited For Intermediate & Advanced
Imsouane peak surf season runs from October through April. Strong Atlantic swells create long, clean rides at The Bay and more powerful waves at The Cathedral.
Winter months bring the most reliable surf with bigger sets and thrilling rides. This is the season for surfers seeking long, challenging waves and high-performance sessions.
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Shoulder Imsouane Surf Season | May & September
Suited For All Skill Levels
May and September bring a good balance of wave size and relaxed conditions. Swells are smaller than peak season but still fun, ideal for beginners learning at The Bay and intermediates refining their skills.
With warm weather and calmer waters, shoulder months provide a more relaxed surf experience without huge waves.
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Low Imsouane Surf Season | June to August
Suited For Beginners & Intermediate
From June to August, surf is gentler and more manageable. The Bay offers mellow waves that are perfect for longboard rides and beginners building confidence.
While the bigger breaks are quieter, the summer months create a peaceful, easy-going surf environment with warm water and enjoyable, rideable waves.
Imsouane Surf Temperature, What To Wear & Rainfall Guide
Imsouane Surf Temperature:
20–22°C (68–72°F)
What To Wear:
Boardshorts/bikini, a spring suit, or a light 2–3 mm wetsuit works well.
Rainfall:
Summer is very dry with almost no rain, ideal for surf trips.
Imsouane Surf Temperature:
19–20°C (66–68°F)
What To Wear:
A 3/2 mm wetsuit is comfortable for most sessions
Rainfall:
Rain becomes more likely toward November, but days remain mostly dry.
Imsouane Surf Temperature:
17–19°C (63–66°F)
What To Wear:
A 3/2 mm wetsuit is usually enough, though thicker suits are optional.
Rainfall:
Winter is wetter with more frequent showers and some wind.
Imsouane Surf Temperature:
18–20°C (68–72°F)
What To Wear:
A 3/2 mm wetsuit keeps you comfortable during longer sessions.
Rainfall:
Spring has modest rainfall, fewer than winter but more than summer.
Surf Spots Within 5km or 3 Miles From Imsouane
| Imsouane Surf Spots | Distance from Imsouane | Wave Size | Wave Quality | Skill Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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The Bay / Imsouane Bay |
In town centre |
1-4 foot |
Long, easy rolling point break |
Beginner, intermediate and long boarders |
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The Cathedral |
Approx. 1km (0.6 mi) north |
2-5 foot |
Fast, hollow reef break |
Intermediate & advanced |
Further Information To Imsouane Surf Spots
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid tide
- Wind: Northeast
- Swell Direction: Northwest to west
- Crowd Factor: Moderate
The Bay is world famous for its long, rolling right hand point break that can offer rides lasting many seconds when conditions align. The wave works best around mid-tide when the swell enters the bay and the wind is light or offshore, giving long open faces perfect for longboarders and beginners alike.
This break is especially loved by surfers who enjoy smooth, drawn‑out rides where you can cruise along without too much speed or power. On quieter days, the lineup feels friendly and welcoming, with plenty of room between peaks.
The sandy bottom and gentle shape make it easier to catch waves and poise your board for long runs. Even when the swell is smaller, Imsouane Bay still offers fun waves that let you relax into your session and focus on style and flow.
Rating: 4/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid to high tide
- Wind: Northeast
- Swell Direction: Northwest
- Crowd Factor: Low to moderate
The Cathedral is a more advanced break near rock formations that give it a dramatic name and feel. When northwest swells roll in and the wind stays light, the waves here can be faster and more powerful than at The Bay.
The bottom is a combination of rock and reef, so the wave can hold more shape and speed, offering steeper faces and quicker sections perfect for intermediate and advanced surfers.
High or mid tide can help the wave stand up cleaner, and offshore winds make the faces smooth and easier to read. This break is not usually crowded because it demands more skill and local awareness, so experienced surfers often enjoy long, technical rides here.
Beginners should stick to The Bay or nearby sandy breaks until they feel ready for the power and timing needed at The Cathedral.
Rating: 4.5/5
Travel Time To Imsouane Surf Spots
| Imsouane Surf Spots | Walking Time | Biking Time | Public Transport |
|---|---|---|---|
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The Bay |
5 min. |
Not required |
Not required |
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Praia do Baleal |
5 min. |
Not required |
Not required |
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Accommodation In Imsouane
Your Imsouane surf stay should feel easy and relaxed, and that is where Trip.com comes in. They offer a wide range of places to stay in and around the village, from simple guesthouses to boutique surf lodges.
This makes it easy to find something that fits your style, your budget, and how close you want to be to the water.
If you want a more social and guided surf trip, Tripaneer lists surf camps in Imsouane that include accommodation, meals, surf lessons, and board hire.
These camps are a great way to improve your surfing, meet other travelers, and feel part of the small but welcoming surf community that makes Imsouane such a special place to stay.
| Accommodation Type | Description | Price Range (EUR)* | Price Range (USD)* |
|---|---|---|---|
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Hostels |
Dormitory-style accommodation |
€15 to €35 |
$17 to $40 |
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Mid-range Hotels/Serviced Apartments |
Studio apartments, motels, or 1-bedroom units |
€40 to €90 |
$45 to $100 |
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Luxury Stays |
Luxury beachfront resorts or high-end apartments |
€100 to €250 |
$110 to $270 |
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*Rates are per night and subject to change. |
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Imsouane Surf Lessons & Surf Schools
Imsouane is a small, quiet surf town, so surf schools are more limited than in bigger destinations. Imsouane Surf Experience is a school in town, offering lessons for beginners and providing boards for practice.
Many visitors stay at surf camps (Imsouane surf camps found below), which supply equipment, daily lessons, and coaching as part of their package.
Because the town is small, the focus is on surf camp stays rather than multiple independent schools. This makes Imsouane ideal for those looking to combine learning with a relaxed, community-driven surf experience.
Even with low formal schools, surfers of all levels can enjoy consistent waves and expert guidance through the town’s camps and friendly instructors.
Imsouane Surf Camp
5 Day Surf Camp In Imsouane With The Petit Surfer
This 5-day surf camp in Imsouane is a relaxed and fun way to learn to surf in one of Morocco’s most peaceful surf villages. It is designed for beginners and early intermediates who want steady progress, and friendly coaching,
The camp includes daily 2-hour surf lessons with a professional instructor, plus guided self-practice so you can improve with support in the water.
Three surf skate sessions help build balance and board control, making learning faster and more natural. The gentle green waves in Imsouane are perfect for building confidence.
Guests stay in simple and comfortable rooms close to the ocean, with shared and private options available. There is a pool, a yoga space, and a rooftop terrace where everyone gathers for sunset dinners and relaxed evenings.
Healthy breakfasts, beach lunches, and rooftop dinners are included, along with surfboards and wetsuits during lesson hours.
With a small group size and a warm social feel, this camp is an easy and enjoyable way to learn, improve, and enjoy surf life in Imsouane. Find Out More
More Surf Camp Reads In Morocco
If you want more surf camps in Imsouane, check out our 5 Ultimate Imsouane Surf Camps page. It is a great place to compare different camps, see what is included, and find the stay that best fits your travel style.
If you are planning to explore more of Morocco, there are many great options beyond Imsouane. The 5 Amazing All Inclusive Surf Camps in Morocco guide is perfect if you want everything organised for you, from meals to transfers.
For a relaxed surf town with culture and cafés, the Best Surf Camps In Essaouira list is worth a look. Beginners can start with the Morocco Surf Camps for Beginners, which focuses on friendly coaching and gentle waves.
And if you want to mix surfing with yoga and wellness, the 4 Popular Taghazout Surf And Yoga Retreats page highlights some of the most loved retreat style camps on the Moroccan coast.
Imsouane Surfboard Hire
As mentioned earlier, Imsouane is a small surf town, so surfboard hire options are limited. Imsouane Surf Experience is the main place to rent boards, providing well-kept equipment suitable for beginners and longboarders.
Most surfers stay at surf camps in Imsouane, where boards are included as part of the package. This makes it easy to focus on surfing without worrying about gear.
Imsouane Surf Report & Surf Cam
Imsouane is a small, laid-back surf town where keeping an eye on swell and wind is helpful for a great session at The Bay or The Cathedral.
Surf-Forecast provides reliable surf outlooks, and Surfline offers live cams and real-time updates so you can time your surf days perfectly.
Internet access is useful even in this quiet town. Using Drimsim eSIM or Yesim eSIM lets you stay connected without changing SIM cards.
Activate online and you can check surf conditions, tides, and weather, ensuring your surf sessions run smoothly.
How To Get To Imsouane Surf
- Agadir Al Massira Airport (AGA) To Imsouane
Distance: 120km (75mi)
The easiest way to reach Imsouane surf is by flying into Agadir Al Massira Airport (AGA) and then traveling by road to the village.
Below is a guide with approximate times and transport options to help you choose the best way based on your preferences and budget.
Shuttle Service
Approx. 2.5-3.5 hrs.
Details:
Shared and private shuttle services are available from Agadir to Imsouane. Shared shuttles make stops along the way, while private vans take you directly to your accommodation.
The route can vary in time, so please research your shuttle thoroughly. If you’re staying at a surfcamp, I would recommend them have you organise a ride.
You can also reserve your shuttle early through HolidayTaxis or Welcome Pickups to have a vehicle waiting when you land.
Morocco Travel Information | 7 Essentials You Need To Know
If Imsouane is where you plan to surf, it is worth sorting your travel details before you go. Check your visa requirements and have some Moroccan Dirhams on hand for small purchases. While hotels and bigger shops often take cards, local cafés and markets work best with cash.
Knowing a few basics about safety, drinking water, healthcare, and emergencies makes a big difference. Our Morocco surf page covers everything you need to stay prepared, so you can focus on catching waves at The Bay or The Cathedral, wandering the quiet streets, and enjoying the laid-back coastal lifestyle of Imsouane.
If you are not feeling Imsouane, try some of Morocco’s other top surf spots. Taghazout is a lively town with consistent right-hand point breaks and a buzzing café scene.
Essaouira has historic charm, wide sandy beaches, and gentle waves for beginners. Tamraght, a small village near Taghazout, offers mellow waves, a relaxed vibe, and a few cozy surf camps by the shore.
Travel Insurance For Your Imsouane Surf Trip
Surfing in Imsouane is incredible, but injuries or sudden illnesses can turn a great trip into a stressful one.
VisitorsCoverage offers travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, evacuation, trip cancellations, and damage or loss to surf gear.
The protection provided helps keep your Morocco surf adventure safe and worry-free.
Discover Imsouane: What To Do When The Waves Are Flat
When the swell isn’t working, Imsouane still has ways to enjoy the area. Here are three activities to make the most of your downtime.
For more ideas, GetYourGuide offers tours including boat trips, local village experiences, and guided hikes in nearby coastal areas.
Keep Exploring With More Morocco Surf Destinations
Written by Matt
Surfer for nearly 20 years and an environmental scientist for nine, Matt grew up on the Sunshine Coast in Australia and now calls Melbourne home. He’s all about finding surf towns you can reach without a car and writes simple surf guides to help you do the same.