A Veritable Surfers' Paradise in Morocco


Surfing has been practiced in Morocco for almost as long as it has been practiced in other parts of the globe. Surfing in Morocco was initiated by a group of Australian and American surfers in the 1970s, who were also fascinated by the exoticism and the magic of the country. But lately the sport of surfing has slowly gained momentum in Morocco and many organizations have originated to educate the locals as to its tourism and visitor potential. Several surfing schools and clubs have rapidly sprung up and international competitions have been organized to promote surfing in Morocco, a country that has some of the most wonderful surfing spots available all in one region.

Some of the best surfing spots in Morocco are located around Agadir, a major city in Southwest Morocco, on the Atlantic coast. The small fishing village of Taghazoute, 12 miles north of Agadir, has been quite possibly the main headquarters of Moroccan surf for years, and its fine beaches and appealing waves keep attracting an increasing number of surfers and visitors to the region.

Near Taghazoute you will find the famous Anchor Point, possibly the best known surfing spot in the region, if not in the whole country. There you can enjoy a whole range of different waves not only at Anchor Point, which was so named by Jimi Hendrix in 1967 due to the anchors that were left from earlier times, but also in Mysteries, Dog Steps, The Source, and Killer Point, which takes its name from the killer whales which are often spotted basking off the point.

But there are other excellent surfing spots all along the Atlantic Moroccan coast. Experience surfing in the long sandy beaches of Oualidia, Dar Bouazza, Taghazout (where you will find the attractive and mellow Bannana Beach), Agadir, Sidi Ifni, the El Haouzia Beach in Azemmour (near El Jadida), the Bouznika Beach (between Rabat and Casablanca), Kenitra and Essaouira. This latest city, a consolidated tourist resort which offers innumerable attractions, among which its fascinating medina, listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage site, numerous international competitions take place. Also, less than 2 miles south of the city of El Jadida, the surf spot of Sidi Bouzid is an international standard point-break for surfers. Its waves are ranked among the top 10 in the world, thanks to their regular, fast and powerful nature.

Another excellent spot, well-known throughout Morocco by all the surfers of the Moroccan circuit, is Moullay Bousselham, a small fishing town near Kenitra. Moullay Bousselman offers five main surfing spots, the Hawaii, the Foum Al Marja or "The Mouth of the Lagoon" spot, the Oued spot, the one near the Oued, and the 'Secret Spot', so called because its location is zealously and proudly kept secret by the surfers of Moullay Bousselman.

But, as in many developing countries, water is a vital and priceless resource. Moreover, as in most African countries, it is also a very scarce one indeed. Particularly Morocco, with over 2000 miles of Atlantic and Mediterranean coastline, has a very heavy dependence on water and its proper maintenance and care. The diversity of its wildlife, the stability of its developing but still poor economy and, most importantly, the health and welfare of its people rely crucially on its cleanliness, supply and sustainment.

Many organizations and associations are working conscientiously to avoid the dumping of industrial waste onto the sea, for the conservation of the sea and fresh water sources, and against the inequitable allocation and lack of provision of water. But all these circumstances, which have caused an enduring crisis that points to fatal long-term consequences, are still an unfortunate occurrence, although avoidable if we become aware of them and campaign or act upon them. Remember this: no water, no surfing!

So, come to Morocco and enjoy one of the best, most challenging and riveting surfing locations in the world. Its climate provides excellent surf weather all year round, with water temperature at 16°-18° Celsius (60°-65° Fahrenheit) for most of the year. Besides, Morocco offers countless attractions and assets: a fascinating, millenary history; a rich and exquisite cuisine; a most diverse and affordable accommodation; and a people notorious for their generosity and hospitality. And of course, a fragile but precious, invaluable water.

Your surfing Moroccan adventure will be even more successful if you choose the most suitable accommodation Morocco has to offer according to your needs. Most riads and guest houses will help you organize your transportation and rent all the equipment you may need for a most pleasant and enjoyable surfing experience. Also, many hotels in Morocco will even plan your surfing expedition to the last detail and will be happy to recommend you the best way to discover the finest waves.


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