The coast north of Agadir is one of the best places in the world to learn to surf. The water is surfable all year, the waves are varied, and there are many surf schools with experienced instructors. Even if you have never stood on a board, a few lessons can be enough to ride your first waves.
Why learn to surf here?
- Waves all year: there is usually somewhere suitable for beginners, whatever the season.
- Mild water: cool but comfortable with a wetsuit.
- Many surf schools offering lessons, equipment and transport.
- A relaxed atmosphere in villages like Taghazout and Tamraght.
Best beginner spots
Tamraght and Banana Beach
The beaches around Tamraght, between Agadir and Taghazout, have gentle, sandy-bottomed waves that are popular with surf schools.
Taghazout area beaches
While the famous point breaks of Taghazout are for experienced surfers, nearby beaches offer softer waves for lessons. Read our Taghazout travel guide.
Imsouane
About 90 km north of Agadir, the bay of Imsouane has long, slow waves that are perfect for learning and for longboarding. Discover it in our Imsouane guide.
Agadir beach
On small days, Agadir’s main beach can also have gentle waves for beginners, with board rentals nearby.
When to go
From October to March, Atlantic swells bring the biggest waves; beginners then go to sheltered spots. In summer, waves are usually smaller, which is ideal for first lessons. Spring and autumn are good all-round seasons.
What happens in a surf lesson?
- On the sand: your instructor explains safety, how waves work, and how to paddle and stand up (“pop up”).
- In the white water: you practise catching broken waves close to shore, with your instructor helping you time each wave.
- Progress: after a few sessions, many people can stand up and ride towards the beach.
Lessons usually last two to three hours, with a soft, wide beginner board and a wetsuit provided.
Safety tips
- Always learn with a qualified instructor at first.
- Surf only at beginner spots that match your level.
- Learn to recognise rip currents, and never surf alone.
- Respect the “right of way”: the surfer closest to the breaking part of the wave has priority.
- Use reef shoes at rocky spots, and lots of sun cream.
- Stay out of the water if conditions look too big.
What to bring
- Swimwear to wear under the wetsuit
- Water-resistant sun cream and lip balm
- A towel and warm clothes for after
- Plenty of water and snacks
Getting there
Most surf schools offer transport from their base. If you are staying in Agadir and want to surf in Taghazout or Imsouane, a private transfer saves time, especially with boards. We offer transfers between the airport and Taghazout and can arrange other routes; contact us.
