| Duration: | 8 Hour(s) - 0 Minute(s) |
| Tour Category: | Windsurfing |
Windsurfing in Essaouira: The City of Trade Winds
Known historically as the "Wind City of Africa," Essaouira is a world-class pilgrimage site for windsurfers. While Agadir is for the surfers and Dakhla is for the kiters, Essaouira is the spiritual home of windsurfing in Morocco.
The combination of the Alizé (Northeast trade winds) and a massive, crescent-shaped bay makes it an ideal playground for every level, from "First-Dayers" to world champions.
1. The Conditions: A Tale of Two Sessions
The wind in Essaouira follows a very predictable daily rhythm, influenced by the thermal heat of the Sahara:
The Morning Calm: Before noon, the winds are usually light and gentle. This is the "Golden Hour" for beginners. The bay is relatively flat, and the side-shore winds make it easy to practice your stance and sail control without being blown out to sea.
The Afternoon Blast: As the sun heats the interior land, the wind "kicks in" significantly. Between 2:00 PM and 6:00 PM, you can expect 20–30 knots. This is the time for intermediate and advanced riders to plane, jibe, and hit the kickers (small waves) for jumps.
2. Best Spots for Your Level
Essaouira Bay (The Main Beach): A 5km stretch of soft sand. The Mogador Island sitting offshore acts as a natural buffer, filtering the heavy Atlantic swell and creating a safe, semi-flat water area near the shore. No rocks, no reefs—just pure sand.
Moulay Bouzerktoun (25 mins North): This is the "Pro's Choice." Famous globally thanks to local legend Boujmaa Guilloul, Moulay is for wave enthusiasts. The wind is stronger, the waves are world-class, and the vibe is raw and focused.
Sidi Kaouki (25 mins South): A wild, rugged beach with powerful waves and stronger side-onshore winds. Best for advanced riders who want a "big air" experience.
The west coast of Morocco has one of the best windsurfing spots on earth. Professionals travel to Morocco to enjoy the crushing waves of the Atlantic.
Program:
Essaouira is one of the towns; this windy city is ideal for windsurfing. Whether you’re just starting out or if you have been a keen windsurfer for years, you'll enjoy windsurfing in Essaouira. We offer rental of equipment, and if you require a teacher to guide you.
Windsurfing in Morocco, particularly in Essaouira is popular as it offers great conditions.
Also available are transfers from Marrakech and a variety of accommodation options to match any budget. Just drop us a phonecall, email, tweet or Facebook message and we’ll go from there!