Northern Morocco
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Positives
- Swell consistency
- Protected jetty breaks
- Easy access
- Fascinating culture
Negatives
- No world-class spots
- Cool winter water
- Urban hassles
- No alcohol
Northern Morocco surf travel guide
Surfers arriving in Morocco in the winter surf season either fly into the central cities or immediately drive south to the famous waves around Agadir. This is understandable when the weather in Northern Morocco is cold and the 1000kms of NW-facing beachbreaks are usually closed-out, cross-shore and uninviting. The area from Tangier to Rabat is predominantly beach, but there are a few notable spots, particularly Medhiya, which offers wind and swell protection behind long, rivermouth jetties. The same set-up can be found at Doura in Rabat, plus a load of slabby reefbreaks that are ridden by the large local contingent. The beachbreaks of Skhirat and Bouznika to the south are places to check in the summer months of smaller swells and crowded beach resorts. Mohammedia has the famous beach peaks of Sablettes, while Casablanca has a few shorebreak-style waves along the extensive, built-up beachfront. Goofies will want to check out Dar Bouazza, a rare left point in a land of rights. There is every chance a travelling surfer will pick up a few decent waves in winter, especially at the protected jetty breaks, but Northern Morocco is generally considered a spring to autumn destination although high summer will be windy.
Surf spots in Northern Morocco
Research the 19 surf breaks in Northern Morocco and discover what spots suit the current conditions.
Break lowdown
We’ve collated the wave data giving you a unique insight into the 19 breaks in Northern Morocco.
When to go
Surf and weather statistics to help plan your surf trip to Northern Morocco
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- feb
- mar
- apr
- may
- jun
- jul
- aug
- sep
- oct
- nov
- dec
Travel Information
General
- Current Time
- Tourists
- 12,289,000
- Population
- 36,910,560
- Tourist Info
- Tourist Info
Security
Health
Money
- Currency
- MAD
- Exchange rate
- $1 = 10 DH MAD
Cost of living
Communication
- Dialing in
- +212
- Dialing out
- 00
- Emergencies
- 177
- Language
- Arabic, French, Berber.
Electricity
- Plug Type
- ce
Visas
Most passport holders do not need a visa. Instead a free "visa waiver" is issued at customs and allows tourists to stay in Morocco for 90 days. Full visa details here
Accommodation
Budgeteers can pay from $5 for quite good quality hotel beds. Eating is cheap ($4 for a 3 course meal). Luxury is available at European prices. Tagines and couscous make for tasty local cuisine: no pork or alcohol.
Activities
Spectacular architecture includes the casbah’s in Rabat and Salé and the world’s tallest mosque (Hassan II Mosque) in Casablanca. Enjoy Sidi Bouknadel’s exotic gardens, Rabat Surf club and open-air markets in medinas.
Hazards & hassles
Avoid the sharp barnacles, urchins and rocks. Keep a close eye on personal possessions. Avoid carpet shops. Smoking hash is an illegal temptation; don’t get caught with it! Beware of industrial and residential pollution at rivermouths (oued) after strong rains.
Handy Hints
Marhaba Surf School. Surf shops in Rabat (Ocean & Beaches) and many in Casa’. Avoid Ramadan month when everything slows down. Remember that small restaurants don’t have toilet paper in the bathrooms. It’s a muslim country (99% are Sunni), so dress respectfully.
Due to global pandemic, Visas, Getting There, Getting Around or Accommodation information and pricing may have changed. Always check Government Travel Advice before travelling.