Essaouira · Morocco
Surfing Essaouira Beach
A beach break in Essaouira, Morocco, for beginner and intermediate surfers.
- TypeBeach Break
- LevelBeginner / Intermediate
- Size1-5 ft
- Best monthsOct-Apr
- Crowd2/5
The wave
The main beach in Essaouira runs south from the old town. The bay is sheltered, so the waves are usually small and soft, and it's a good place for lessons.
Essaouira is one of the windiest towns in Morocco, especially from April to September, and the beach is better known for kitesurfing. For surfing, come in winter and go early in the morning before the wind picks up. Sidi Kaouki, 25 km south, gets more swell.
31.505, -9.765 · NW swell, ESE wind, all tides · Open in Google Maps
When to surf Essaouira Beach
Essaouira Beach is at its best from October to April. Conditions it likes: NW swell, ESE wind, all tides. This is how the year looks across Essaouira:
| Months | Verdict | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| October to March | Good | Swell and lighter morning winds; Sidi Kaouki works best |
| Apr | Shoulder | Wind picking up; mornings only |
| May to September | Quiet | Strong north wind most days: kite season |
Waves near Essaouira Beach
| Wave | Area | Type | Level | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cap Sim | Sidi Kaouki | Reef Break | Advanced | 15 km |
| Sidi Kaouki | Sidi Kaouki | Beach Break | Beginner / Intermediate | 17 km |
| Cathedral | Imsouane | Reef Break | Intermediate / Advanced | 74 km |
| Imsouane Bay | Imsouane | Right Point | Beginner / Intermediate | 74 km |
| Tamri | Boilers & Tamri | Beach Break | Beginner / Intermediate | 87 km |
| Boilers | Boilers & Tamri | Right Reef | Intermediate / Advanced | 98 km |
Straight-line distances. By road it is usually further.
Getting there and staying around Essaouira
Transport, costs and the rest of the waves in the area are in the Essaouira surf guide →
A week here costs from about $264 with flights from Europe, or around $947 travelling comfortably. See other surf trips under $500 →
Essaouira Beach: common questions
When is the best time to surf Essaouira Beach?
Essaouira Beach works best from October to April. Ideal conditions: NW swell, ESE wind, all tides.
Is Essaouira Beach good for beginners?
Yes. Essaouira Beach suits beginner and intermediate surfers.
How crowded is Essaouira Beach?
Essaouira Beach is usually quiet: 2 out of 5 on our crowd scale.
Where is Essaouira Beach?
Essaouira Beach is in Essaouira, in the Essaouira region of Morocco (31.505, -9.765). The nearest wave we cover is Cap Sim, about 15 km away.
Last updated October 2026. Seasons, costs and conditions change, so check the details before you book.
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