The main bay is where you learn. These are the spots we drive to when the swell picks up or you are ready for something with more shape.
Most beginner lessons happen in the Essaouira bay, and for good reason — it is one of the most forgiving beach breaks in Morocco. But the coast either side has a lot more to offer once you can ride.
Essaouira bay
Long, sandy and sheltered by the islands, the main bay stays workable when other spots are too big. Waves are usually flat and easy, which is exactly what you want under a first pop-up. This is where our group lessons run.
Sidi Kouki
About half an hour south, Sidi Kouki picks up noticeably more swell than town. It is a long open beach with several peaks, so it rarely feels crowded, and it suits improving surfers who want a proper wave without a heavy takeoff.
Tafedna
Further down the coast, Tafedna sits in a bay that offers cleaner, more organised waves on the right swell. It is a longer drive and a quieter stop — usually a full-day trip rather than a morning session.
Moulay Bouzerktoun
North of town, Moulay is best known as a windsurf and kite wave spot, and it gets serious when the swell is up. Not a beginner destination, but worth the drive to watch if the forecast is big.
How we choose
We check swell, wind and tide each morning and pick the spot that matches the group's level. Transport to the spot of the day is included in every surf lesson, so you are not paying extra to chase conditions.
Our surf trips run as full days with guide, transport, equipment and food — a good option if you want to see more of the coast than the town beach.
Surf lessons are listed on the NaneaKite home page; for a full week on the coast, see our surf camps in Essaouira.
Ready to get on the water?
Tell us your dates and we will put together the right lessons or camp for your level.
