Four days, two spots: on the Atlantic coast, Imsouane and Taghazout come up in every conversation among surfers, but they have little in common. One is a fishing village at the end of a bay where the same wave rolls on for several hundred metres; the other is a surf town lined with spots, schools and cafés overlooking the ocean. For a long weekend, it is best to choose with your eyes open.
Imsouane: a long right-hander and a quiet village
Imsouane is known for its bay, where a long wave rolls towards the beach and lets you stay on your feet for a long time, which makes it a popular place for longboarders and for surfers consolidating the basics. Other, more powerful waves break nearby and call for experience. The village is still small: a few cafés, surf schools, simple accommodation and a relaxed atmosphere, far from the hustle and bustle.
Taghazout: more spots, more schools, more going on
About twenty kilometres north of Agadir, Taghazout has a wide variety of spots along just a few kilometres of coastline: sandy beaches where beginners learn in the whitewash, such as Panoramas, and more demanding point breaks reserved for experienced surfers, such as Anchor Point. There are also far more surf schools, equipment hire shops, restaurants and places to stay.
How to choose according to your level
- Beginner: Taghazout, for its sandy beaches, its many schools and waves that are easier to tackle.
- Intermediate: Imsouane, to learn how to read a wave and string together long rides down the bay.
- Experienced: Taghazout and its point breaks, provided you are familiar with the day's swell.
- Mixed-ability group: Taghazout, where the greater number of spots means everyone can find their own.
When is the best time for a long weekend?
From May to September, the waves are smaller and the water warmer: this is the ideal time to get started. From October to April, the Atlantic swells are more consistent and powerful, which suits experienced surfers better. In winter a wetsuit is still essential, with the water at around 17 °C.
Organising a four-day weekend
Four days are enough for two full days on the water, provided you keep travel to a minimum: choose a single base and make the most of it. Plan your transfer from Agadir or Essaouira airport, which is shorter to Taghazout and longer to Imsouane.
Our surf weekend in Imsouane and Taghazout, three nights and four days, is designed with this in mind. To tailor it to your level and dates, request a quote.
To find out more about the spots, the season and the equipment, read our guide to surfing in Morocco.
Frequently Asked Questions
Imsouane or Taghazout for a beginner?
Taghazout, in general: sandy beaches, plenty of schools and waves that are easier to tackle. Imsouane also suits keen beginners with supervision, thanks to its bay.
Can you surf in both Imsouane and Taghazout over the same weekend?
It is possible, but the two villages are several tens of kilometres apart: over four days, it is better to choose a single base and spend more time in the water than in the car.
When is the best time for a surf weekend in Morocco?
May to September for beginners, with smaller waves and warmer water; October to April for the most consistent and powerful swells.
Can I hire equipment on site?
Yes: both villages have schools and shops where you can hire boards and wetsuits. Experienced surfers can, of course, bring their own boards.