Morocco: Africa's Surfing Paradise

Morocco's most iconic surf spot. A world-class right-hand point break that peels over a rocky reef for up to 300 metres. When a solid northwest swell hits, Anchor Point delivers long, powerful walls that draw surfers from across the globe. The village of Taghazout above the break has transformed into a vibrant surf hub with cafes, hostels, and boutique riads.

Just north of Anchor Point, Hash Point offers a more forgiving right-hander that breaks over a sand-covered reef. It works on smaller swells and provides excellent intermediate-level waves with long, workable faces. The paddle-out is straightforward and the atmosphere mellow compared to Anchor.

A heavy, powerful right-hander that only breaks on bigger swells. Named not for danger but for the orca whales occasionally spotted offshore. When it's on, Killer Point produces thick barrels and long walls that challenge even expert surfers. Access requires a short scramble down the cliff.

The mellow little sister to Taghazout, just 3 km south. Tamraght's main beach break offers gentle, rolling waves ideal for beginners and longboarders. The village retains an authentic Berber character with banana plantations, local markets, and a laid-back vibe that attracts yogis and creative types. Several excellent surf schools operate right on the sand.

Home to the longest right-hand wave in Africa, Imsouane's Bay is a magical crescent where waves can peel for over 800 metres on the right swell. The wave is mellow and forgiving, making it paradise for longboarders and intermediates. The fishing village remains wonderfully uncommercialised with fresh seafood tagines served dockside.

The more powerful sibling to The Bay, Cathedral is a heavy reef break at the northern end of Imsouane that produces hollow, fast barrels. It requires a bigger swell and more experience to surf safely. The name comes from the cathedral-like rock formations that frame the lineup.

Morocco's wind capital and a UNESCO-listed coastal gem. While the consistent trade winds (the Alizee) can make traditional surfing tricky from April to September, they create world-class conditions for kitesurfing and windsurfing. Moulay Bouzerktoun, 25 km north, hosts international kite competitions. The beach break in town works well on calm winter days.

A sleepy coastal hamlet 25 km south of Essaouira that remains blissfully undeveloped. The long, empty beach break offers consistent, forgiving waves and far fewer crowds than the Taghazout area. Wind picks up in the afternoon but mornings are often glassy. Several eco-friendly surf camps have sprung up without spoiling the tranquil character.

A remote desert peninsula jutting into the Atlantic in Morocco's deep south. Dakhla's 40 km lagoon is arguably the finest flatwater kitesurfing spot on Earth, with butter-flat water, constant wind, and zero obstacles. The ocean side offers uncrowded reef breaks and beach breaks. The surreal landscape of white sand dunes meeting turquoise water makes this a bucket-list destination.

A charming cliff-top village between Tiznit and Sidi Ifni with a string of spectacular cove beaches below. Each cove catches different swells, offering variety for all levels. Mirleft has avoided mass tourism and retains a genuine, artsy atmosphere. The colourful French-colonial architecture and argan-shaded plazas add character.

Home to a world-class right-hand point break known simply as "The Garden." This long, walling wave breaks off the old Portuguese sea wall and can produce rides of 200+ metres. Safi is also Morocco's pottery capital, giving a cultural dimension that most surf spots lack. The break is powerful and best suited to experienced surfers.

The closest quality surf to Rabat, located near the mouth of the Sebou River. Mehdia's beach breaks are powerful and punchy, offering fast barrels on solid swells. The Kasbah of Mehdia overlooks the break, adding historical atmosphere. Popular with the Rabat and Kenitra surf communities, it can get busy on weekends.

A tranquil lagoon town on the northern Atlantic coast, known more for birdwatching at Merja Zerga than for surfing. However, the exposed beach north of the lagoon mouth picks up good swell and offers uncrowded peaks for those willing to explore. The town is a refreshingly local, non-touristy experience.