Best Time to Surf in Essaouira: Month-by-Month Swell, Wind & Crowds
En résumé
The best time to surf Essaouira is September to April, when Atlantic swells of 1–2 m hit the bay and Sidi Kaouki. Summer (Jun–Aug) remains surfable 7–11am before the Alizé builds. Shoulder months May and October offer the best mix of surf + kite.
Pillar guide: /surf
Essaouira works for surfing year-round — but not every month feels the same. Swell, wind and crowds shift with the seasons. Use this calendar to book the right week for your level.
Best months at a glance
| Rank | Months | Why |
|---|---|---|
| ★★★★★ | Sep–Nov | Consistent swell, milder wind, fewer crowds |
| ★★★★★ | Mar–Apr | Solid spring swells, comfortable water |
| ★★★★ | Dec–Feb | Bigger winter waves — best for intermediates |
| ★★★ | May | Transition: surf mornings + kite afternoons |
| ★★ | Jun–Aug | Small summer waves; early sessions only |
Month-by-month surf calendar
| Month | Swell | Wind | Water °C | Crowds | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.5–2.5 m | Moderate | 16–17 | Low | Intermediate+ |
| Feb | 1.5–2.5 m | Variable | 16–17 | Low | Intermediate+ |
| Mar | 1.2–2 m | Building | 17–18 | Low–med | All levels |
| Apr | 1–2 m | Rising Alizé | 17–18 | Medium | All levels |
| May | 0.8–1.5 m | Stronger PM | 18–19 | Medium | Beginners + kite combo |
| Jun | 0.6–1.2 m | Strong Alizé | 19–20 | High | Early morning beginners |
| Jul | 0.5–1 m | Peak Alizé | 20–21 | High | Dawn patrol / kite focus |
| Aug | 0.5–1 m | Peak Alizé | 20–22 | High | Dawn patrol / kite focus |
| Sep | 1–2 m | Easing | 20–21 | Medium | **Best overall** |
| Oct | 1–2 m | Moderate | 19–20 | Medium | **Best overall** |
| Nov | 1.2–2.2 m | Lighter | 18–19 | Low–med | All levels |
| Dec | 1.5–2.5 m | Variable | 17–18 | Low | Intermediate+ |
Beginners: when should you come?
Best beginner windows: March–May and September–November.
Why? Mellow bay waves, softer winds in the morning, and instructors available every day. Group lessons start from €30/2h with all gear included — book surf lessons or beginner packages.
Summer still works if you accept 7–11am sessions before the thermal wind chops the surface.
Intermediate and advanced
Chase September–April for green waves on Essaouira Bay and longer walls at Sidi Kaouki and Imsouane. Winter brings the biggest swells — bring a 3/2 or 4/3 wetsuit (we supply suits for lessons).
Combining surf and kite in one trip
| Month | Morning | Afternoon |
|---|---|---|
| May–Jun | Surf | Kitesurf / wingfoil |
| Sep–Oct | Surf | Light kite / wing |
| Jul–Aug | Early surf | Full kite day |
See also: best time for watersports and wind statistics.
Prices and crowds by season
| Season | Lesson demand | Lodging | Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| High (Jul–Aug) | High | Book early | Reserve camps 4–6 weeks ahead |
| Shoulder (May, Sep–Oct) | Medium | Best value | Ideal for most travelers |
| Low (Dec–Feb) | Lower | Deals | Great swell, cooler air |
All-inclusive camps from €299/3 days: surf camp Morocco.
FAQ
Is there surf in Essaouira in summer?
Yes, but waves are smaller and wind rises by midday. Book morning lessons and keep afternoons for kite, wingfoil or medina time.
What is the absolute best month to surf Essaouira?
September and October — consistent swell, warmer water, manageable crowds and beautiful light. Closely followed by March–April.
Do I need a thick wetsuit in winter?
A 3/2mm covers most of the year; 4/3mm is comfortable in January–February. Lesson packages include wetsuit rental.
Plan your surf dates
- Surf school Essaouira - Surf lessons - Surf camp packages - Reserve online
Prêt à Surfer à Essaouira ?
Réservez votre séjour surf all-inclusive dès maintenant. Packages à partir de 299€.
Réserver Maintenant