The town of Taghazout, just 20 kilometres from Agadir, has gradually acquired the status of Morocco’s surfing capital — during recent years it seems that tourism is developing at an accelerated pace. The town lies on the coast among the foothills of the Atlas mountains, and this has earned it a unique place in the affections of the hundreds of thousands of visitors who flood into the area every year. In the past, the town was of no particular interest to anyone except for the fishermen and the Berbers, but as the centuries passed and conflict with colonial powers (the Portuguese, Spanish, and so on) receded, a settled community developed here. Mosques and a few factories were built and then in the late 1960s, this stretch of the coastline began to be discovered by young people travelling the world. The vibe created by the hippies, campers, tents, and surfing enthusiasts still prevails, but it is now a little more restrained and a distinct part of a comprehensive offer of tourism.
If you are interested in surfing, Taghazout is an essential stop. And even if you’re not interested in water sports, you can still enjoy discovering its laid-back international atmosphere, its good restaurants, and the activities on offer here, such as yoga or camel rides.
Morocco’s surfing capital
Agadir is one of Morocco’s best regions for surfing. It contains several towns noted for their good surfing conditions (right-breaking waves, lots of peaks, and north and north-eastern winds). Taghazout is exceptional, and is now considered by many to be Morocco’s surfing capital. The town’s outstanding qualities as a surfing destination have been an open secret since the 1960s and 70s, when Australians and Americans began to arrive (and stay) here. Here they found spectacular enclaves with waves so impressive that they were given names such as Killer Point, Anchor Point or Mysteries.
The best time to go surfing in Taghazout is during the winter, although throughout the rest of the year too, you will still find good waves at other points along the coast. One great advantage of the beaches here is that they are suitable both for expert surfers and for novices. People come here, not only to ride the waves, but also to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, the beautiful sunsets, and the unique alternative lifestyle.
Places to see in Taghazout
Whether you’re planning a surfing break in Taghazout or a one-day excursion from Agadir, you can make the experience complete by adding other activities. Below, you will find various suggestions, from a hike through the Sus Masa Nature Park or Paradise Valley to a walk in the Sahara desert.
Sus-Masa Nature Park
This nature park, created in 1991 and covering 33,000 hectares, occupies a long, narrow stretch of the coastline between Agadir and Aglou. The main rationale for making this a protected area was its ornithological value, as almost 300 types of birds overwinter here, including herons and flamingos. If you are a interested in ornithology, the Sus-Masa Nature Park is an essential stop on your Morocco itinerary.
The best way to enjoy this setting is on an excursion with specialist guides who can tell you about the habitat and its characteristic flora and fauna. The excursions are normally undertaken in all-terrain vehicles, as they allow travel through all areas and enable you to see species in danger of extinction, such as he Dama Gazelle and the Sahara Oryx.
The Sahara Desert
From Taghazout or Agadir, there are plenty of excursions available to the Sahara Desert, and they are all highly recommended, as they offer a completely different experience from the coast. On a one-day excursion, you can enjoy the sight of an undulating sea of sand dunes, along with a camel ride and other activities such as sandboarding. On the 4×4 tour (which can take a full day), you are normally taken to visit local craftsmen, given a glimpse of life in the small villages that you pass through, and have the chance to eat typical cooking in local restaurants. This is undoubtedly a highly enjoyable and educational holiday activity.
Paradise Valley
Paradise Valley is another popular excursion destination from Taghazout and Agadir. It consists of a 4×4 tour and some hiking in a rocky, mountainous area, with gaping gorges, waterfalls, and natural pools. The best way to see it is with a local guide who can take you to the most picturesque spots, and through the most charming villages. A dip in a natural swimming pool is the finest reward after a long trek. As it is not unduly demanding, it is an activity that can be undertaken even if you’re travelling with children.
Taghazout beach
The battering that the beaches of Taghazout receive from the Atlantic draws thousands of visitors (surfers and lovers of other water sports such as wind- and kitesurfing) to this town, once just a fishing village but now a thriving tourist resort. The long strip of sand that edges the town is divided into several beaches with local names. They are stretches of sand with a few jutting rocks and cliffs, where you will find internationally famous surfing spots. If you just want to stroll, sunbathe or go horse- (or camel-) riding, any part of the beach is fine, but if you want to surf, it is worth noting these names: Anchor Point, Killer Point, Hash Point, and so on. Less experienced surfers are advised to head for the Panorama beach, which lies just beyond the town’s last jetty.
Where to stay near Taghazout
An excellent, relaxing hotel, just a few kilometres from Taghazout, is the Allegro Agadir, a four-star hotel with 321 rooms, and set in attractive gardens. Its beach-side location makes it the perfect choice for lovers of water sports. It has all the facilities you will need, including an enormous swimming pool, several bars, and a buffet restaurant. If you’re travelling with children, you may like to know that the hotel offers a Mini Club with a garden and a pool for the youngest members of the family.
To complement the hotel’s own leisure facilities, there are restaurants, beach clubs, shops, and snack bars all a mere stone’s throw from the establishment. Quality and good service are guaranteed at the Allegro Agadir.
