If you’re looking for a surfing destination that offers warm weather, uncrowded beaches, and consistent waves, look no further than Taghazout. This charming village on Morocco’s Atlantic coast has become a popular spot for surfers from around the world. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, Taghazout has something for every level of surfer. In this article, we’ll give you everything you need to know to plan the ultimate Taghazout surf trip.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Getting to Taghazout
- When to go
- Where to stay
- Surf spots in Taghazout
- Surf schools and instructors
- What to bring
- Safety tips
- Other activities in Taghazout
- Where to eat and drink
- Shopping in Taghazout
- Conclusion
- FAQs
Introduction
Taghazout is a small fishing village located about 20 kilometers north of Agadir in Morocco. The village has become a popular destination for surfers due to its warm weather, uncrowded beaches, and consistent waves. Taghazout has a laid-back vibe, friendly locals, and plenty of surf shops and schools to help you make the most of your surf trip.
Getting to Taghazout
The easiest way to get to Taghazout is by flying into Agadir Al-Massira Airport. The airport is served by several airlines, including Royal Air Maroc, Air Arabia, and Ryanair. Once you arrive at the airport, you can take a taxi or shuttle bus to Taghazout, which is about a 45-minute drive away.
When to go
The best time to go surfing in Taghazout is between September and May. During these months, the weather is warm and the waves are consistent. The water temperature ranges from 17°C to 22°C, so a 3/2mm wetsuit is recommended.
Where to stay
Taghazout has a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget. You can choose from budget-friendly hostels, surf camps, and luxury villas.
Surf spots in Taghazout
Taghazout is home to some of the best surf spots in Morocco. Anchor Point is the most famous spot and is known for its long, powerful waves. Other popular spots include Hash Point, Panorama, and Banana Point. There are also several beginner-friendly spots, such as Taghazout Beach and Crocro Beach.
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Anchor Point Spot :
Anchor Point sits only a whisker to the west of the village. You might even be able to see it from the rooftop bars of the surf schools in Taghazout. And boy does it make good watching! The break pretty much sums up what it means to go surfing in Morocco. It’s a peeling, long-ride right that comes off a rocky headland that acts like a natural harbour wall. The take-off is right out at the end of the stone, where you can drop in on a perfectly shaped wall that gets hollow and fast. Surprisingly, the bottom is sand, so there is some room for error. Best swell heights are up to 10-12 foot here, which is regular in the winter months. Anchor can handle more, but Bruce Willis would be quaking if you catch our drift.
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Killer Point:
The name should say it all: Killer Point – arguably the heaviest and most pitching point break in the region. The truth is, the spot is named after the resident pod of orcas that sometimes pass through. Still, the way this wave can pack a punch even on low N-NW swells is pretty impressive. Even the paddle out is a muscle-burner, taking up to 20 minutes on the biggest days. True to its Moroccan style, it’s mainly a fast right, but also has a quick left if you’re up to it. Barrel sections aren’t uncommon, but the key is speed in this hollow, steep shoulder.
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Devil’s Rock:
Don’t be put off by the name – Devil’s Rock is actually among the more easy-going of the points on the Taghazout surf spots map. Located on the long plage to the south of the town, it’s a sand-bottomed beach break that breaks low and slow. The direction is mostly from left to right but there are good winter A-frames to boot. Prime height is around the chest to head and you can expect rides of between 50-100m if you manage to get up and sit in the pocket. The beach is a lovely one too!
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Boilers :
Good intermediates and pros in search of a Moroccan right-hand barrel should make their way to Boilers. It’s the farthest north of the main Taghazout surf breaks. The wave sits in a lovely wind channel that’s created by the foothills of the Atlas, so it’s rarely onshore and very sheltered. That lets swells of 6-10 foot come in uninterrupted and create peeling right-handers. The skills here is the take-off, which is fast and comes dangerously close to a rusting shipwreck. Get to know the break before you try it and then get ready for the speediest tube in town!
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Banana Point:
The lovely little (and yes, it probably is the littlest around) wave at Banana Beach is the beginner mecca of Tagazhout. It’s actually closer to the nearby village of Tamraght, and a mere 20 minutes’ drive from Agadir. The accessibility of it all does tend to up the crowds. In fact, the line up at Banana is almost always packed, but there’s a healthy contingent of surf schools so novices have no call to be daunted. Wave wise, we’re talking a mellow, often mushy right-hand point that rolls into several beach peaks, all with a soft sand bottom.
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K17 :
K17 is worth knowing about if you’re a complete beginner or improving intermediate looking for some cruisy beach breaks. On a long, sandy beach, this one cooks up plenty of separate peaks that offer a little punch in the middle of the winter high season and good whitewash for the summer. It’s a favourite of surf schools, so watch out for flying boards!
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La Source :
Depending on the height, the much-loved break at La Source can host all levels of rider. What typically puts the local Taghazout surf schools off is the hard rock-reef floor that rolls underfoot. But that shouldn’t deter you if you’re keen to hit a reef break, because La Source is actually relatively forgiving and fun. At its best (at mid tide and with a NW swell and offshore easterlies) it can form lovely A-frames that are rippable in both directions.
Surf schools and instructors
If you’re new to surfing or want to improve your skills, Taghazout has plenty of surf schools and instructors to choose from. Lessons typically last for 2-3 hours and include all equipment.
What to bring
When packing for your Taghazout surf trip, be sure to bring a wetsuit, surfboard, sunscreen, and plenty of lightweight, breathable clothing. You should also bring a first aid kit and any medications you may need.
Safety tips
While Taghazout is generally a safe destination, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Firstly, always surf with a buddy, especially if you’re new to the area. Be aware of currents and rip tides, and always follow the advice of local surfers and instructors. If you’re renting a car, be cautious when driving, especially on the winding coastal roads.
Other activities in Agadir
If you need a break from surfing, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy in (Agadir). Take a hike in the nearby Atlas Mountains, go horseback riding on the beach, or take a day trip to explore the nearby city of Agadir. You can also relax with a yoga class or indulge in a traditional Moroccan hammam spa experience.
Where to eat and drink
Taghazout has a variety of restaurants and cafes to suit every taste and budget. The village is known for its fresh seafood, so be sure to try some grilled fish at one of the beachside restaurants. There are also plenty of cafes serving up traditional Moroccan cuisine, as well as international options.
Shopping in Taghazout
Taghazout has a number of surf shops and boutiques selling everything from surfboards to clothing and accessories. You can find everything you need for your surf trip, including wetsuits, surf wax, and sunscreen. There are also several markets selling traditional Moroccan handicrafts and souvenirs.
Conclusion
Taghazout is a must-visit destination for surfers looking for consistent waves, warm weather, and a laid-back atmosphere. With its variety of surf spots, surf schools, and accommodation options, there’s something for everyone in Taghazout. Make the most of your trip by respecting local customs, staying safe in the water, and taking advantage of all the other activities and experiences the area has to offer.
FAQs
- Is Taghazout a good destination for beginner surfers? Yes, there are several beginner-friendly surf spots in Taghazout, as well as a variety of surf schools and instructors to help you improve your skills.
- Do I need to bring my own surfboard? While some surf schools provide equipment, it’s recommended that you bring your own surfboard if possible.
- Can I rent a car in Taghazout? Yes, there are several car rental companies in Taghazout, but be aware that driving in Morocco can be challenging, especially for those not used to the local roads and traffic.
- What other activities can I enjoy in Taghazout besides surfing? There are plenty of other activities to enjoy in Taghazout, including hiking, horseback riding, yoga, and exploring the nearby city of Agadir.
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