Our action packed trip through Morocco took us through so many interesting places in the country, but we also wanted to unwind and enjoy the sea side amenities on the coast. And Morocco’s coastline on the Atlantic Ocean sure does deliver! One of the best spots here is Plage Taghazout.
Surfing in Taghazout is considered world class and for good reason! But Plage Taghazout isn’t just about surf camps and hanging 10. It is a huge yoga and wellness center as well!
Plage Taghazout has transformed itself from a sleepy Berber fishing village into a global surf haven. With its consistent waves, laid-back vibe, and fusion of surf and yoga culture, it’s no wonder that surfing in Taghazout has become a bucket-list experience for wave chasers and wellness seekers alike.
So whether you are into catching some tasty waves, chilling at a yoga retreat or just exploring nice beaches and chilling at a hostel or being pampered at a luxury retreat, Plage Taghazout has it all.
In this post we share the best surf camps Tagazhout, yoga retreat, places to stay and eat as well as other nearby areas to hike, golf and enjoy this varied coastline.
Note: As always, we are not profiting in any way from our recommendations.
Best Time to Go Surfing in Taghazout
The prime time for surfing in Taghazout runs from late September through April, when powerful Atlantic swells light up the region’s right-hand point breaks like Anchor Point and Killer Point. This period is ideal for intermediate and advanced surfers seeking challenging waves.
Keep in mind that the water will be relatively cold during this time and you may need a full wetsuit – which most guesthouses and hostels provide.
For beginners, the shoulder seasons of April–May and September offer smaller, more manageable waves, perfect for learning the basics in the whitewash before progressing to mellow line-ups. And the weather during this time is quite lovely.
The summer months of June–August bring calmer seas as well, however, be prepared for very hot weather! It’s still possible to surf, especially for novices looking to practice without the intensity of winter swells.
How to Get to Plage Taghazout
The nearest airport is Agadir Al Massira Airport (AGA), located about 45 km south of Taghazout. From there, you can reach the village by:
Private Transfer: Many surf camps and hotels offer shuttle services upon request. And many surf packages include this cost.
Bus: Bus #32 runs from Agadir’s Place Salam to Taghazout and the Tamri bus #33 stops in Taghazout as well. They run between 6:30 AM and 8:30 PM, with tickets costing about 10 MAD (about $1 USD).
Taxi: Approximately 45 minutes, costing around 300–400 MAD (about $33 USD – $43 USD).
Alternatively, you can fly into Essaouira (152 km north) or Marrakech (274 km away), then take a bus or taxi to Plage Taghazhout.
We drove here from Marrakesh, which took us about 3 hours and 45 minutes, which was mostly on the highway.
Best Surf Camps near Plage Taghazout
Whether you’re a novice eager to catch your first wave or an experienced surfer aiming to refine your skills, Plage Taghazout has a variety of surf camps to suit your needs. Most of these places offer a combination of an all inclusive yoga/surfing combo.
Typical days will start with a yoga session, buffet breakfast, followed by 6 hours of surf coaching, some more yoga and a family style dinner. Or you can pick and choose which aspects you like the most.
Chiwash Place Taghazout
Chiwash Surf is located on a hill overlooking the surf below Plage Taghazout. They offer surf and yoga lessons as well as an overall wellness community feel. Their Berber style house rooftop not only offers yoga lessons but is also a great place to catch the sunset over dinner.
Lessons are catered to your abilities. One of the packages offers a 5 day – 4 night stay (double occupancy) which includes 3 days of surf instruction, all meals with a BBQ night and a movie night, all equipment and airport transfers starting at €340 per person.
Azul Guesthouse Surf
Azul Guesthouse Surf has a ton to offer. Located 200 meters from the beach, Azul Guesthouse is not right on Plage Taghazout, but is a 5 min walk to Devil’s Rock and a 10 min drive to Plage Taghazout proper.
This lovely surf and yoga camp lets you focus on either surfing or yoga or both! Lessons are catered to your preferences and abilities and the place provides an awesome community vibe where you can make new friends and unwind.
You can even host your next retreat here. Repeat guests have made this an annual destination for years. A surf & yoga plan starts at €630 per week with accommodations, food, all gear and airport transfers included.
Surf Coast Morocco
A good option for budget-conscious travelers, Surf Coast Morocco offers packages starting at €83 per night, including daily surf lessons and yoga sessions. The camp is known for its friendly atmosphere and comprehensive approach to surf education.
Wave Gypsy Surf & Yoga
A favorite among solo travelers, Wave Gypsy provides personalized surf coaching and intimate yoga classes. The camp’s cozy environment fosters a strong sense of community among guests creating long time friends.
Kekai Surf House
The Kekai Surf House offers affordable accommodations and flexible surf lessons. It’s a great spot to meet fellow travelers and share surf stories over communal dinners – breaking bread and sharing the fun experiences of the day.
Dfrost Almugar Surf & Yoga Villa
Combining 3 star accommodations (if staying in a private room) with daily surf lessons and yoga sessions, Dfrost Almugar is perfect for those seeking to be right on the beach. Keep in mind that the dorm rooms do not have any windows. However, the ocean-view terraces have good views.
Best Places to Stay in Plage Taghazout
Taghazout caters to a range of budgets depending on your preferences, from luxurious resorts to charming guesthouses and super vibey hostels. If you don’t want to stay at one of the surf camps Taghazout, then these are some great options at luxury, mid-range and budget level hotels.
Luxury Accommodations
Hyatt Place Taghazout Bay: This 5-star resort sits on a hill overlooking the coast of Plage Tagazhout, combining modern design with Moroccan flair. It has spacious rooms, large pools, a spa, restaurants and an 18 hole golf course!
Due to our Globalist status we were upgraded to a lovely suite with ocean views. What makes this Hyatt Place interesting is that it’s the only one worldwide considered a resort. Because it offers such great value for its quality, we actually recommend it above the Hyatt Grand on the water, especially for those using points.
Fairmont Taghazout Bay: A 5-star resort with upscale amenities, including a spa, fitness center, and multiple dining options. Guests appreciate the attentive service and stunning ocean views.
Hilton Taghazout Bay Beach Resort & Spa: This beachfront 5-star resort and spa has stylish rooms, an infinity pool, and a prime beachfront location.
Mid-Range Options
Amouage Taghazout: This hotel offers a few different locations right on the beach. You can stay and be pampered or choose the combination package for surfing and yoga.
Dfrost Almugar – Seaside Boutique Hotel: Located right on the beach, this hotel has an infinity pool, artistic decor and a relaxed vibe. You can choose a luxury stay or add on yoga and or surfing lessons as well as other personalized services.
Riad Dar Sarah: This traditional Moroccan guesthouse is located on a hill which overlooks Plage Taghazout offering comfortable rooms, a nice pool, great home cooked meals and more of an authentic local vibe.
Budget-Friendly Stays
Chiwash Place Taghazout: is considered the best non party hostel near Plage Taghazout. As we mentioned above, Chiwash Place offers comprehensive surf and yoga packages as well. There are dorms or private bedrooms which have a chill atmosphere. The food is divine and is included in most of the packages. You can rent surf boards here, do yoga or just relax and meet new friends.
Azul Hostel Taghazout: As we mentioned earlier, Azul Guesthouse is located 200 meters from the beach about 10 min drive from Plage Taghazout and is known for it’s welcoming vibe and community spirit. It offers breakfasts for everyone and family style dinners for a small fee. Backpackers and surfers have been coming here for years.
Roof House Hostel Taghazout: This hostel offers economical accommodations in a dorm setting or a private room with easy access to the beach and surf spots. .Roof top yoga sessions are offered daily.
Best Restaurants in Taghazout
Every guesthouse, hotel, hostel and riad that we have recommended serves great food. Therefore you don’t have to spend your day running around trying to find a place to eat.
However, if you want to venture out and get something different, below are some recommendations.
And if you are looking for a good coffee with some muffins stop in at Cafe Yallah.
Lunch & Dinner Restaurants
Staying at some of the higher end hotels offers typical western dishes at western prices. So we would get out and try some of the local fare. However, keep in mind that there aren’t a lot of options to choose from as most of the hotels and guesthouses cook great home cooked meals.
Craving pizza and having some leftover vegan cheese from our Marrakesh grocery trip, I asked the local pizzeria to use it on a vegetarian pizza. It actually turned out surprisingly well! Unfortunately, their standard non-vegan pizza was quite disappointing, so we won’t be recommending that pizzeria!
Here are some Plage Taghazout places that we can fully recommend:
Red Clay Cafe Taghazout: If you are looking for a pure vegan restaurant with some tasty food for breakfast or lunch, then this cafe has oatmilk for your latte and burritos that are fully plant based and flavorful.
Sunset Restaurant: it is a good place for a simple lunch or dinner while watching the sun dip below the horizon from their patio (although the restaurant is not on the water). The menu features burgers, wraps and paninis and has some vegan options as well.
Restaurant Taghazout Chez Titrite: A good option for omnivores and vegans alike. The pollo cubano, chicken skewers and vegan vegetables are all quite good options for either lunch or dinner.
Other Activities in Taghazout
Beyond surfing, Plage Taghazout has a variety of activities including yoga retreats, horseback riding on the beach, playing a full round of golf, hiking above Plage Taghazout or just getting pampered at one of the local hammams or spas.
Yoga Retreats
Many of our favorite surf camps, including Azul Guesthouse and Chiwash Place offer daily yoga sessions to complement your surf practice. This hamlet is truly a wellness center!
Horseback Riding on the Beach
Experience the magic of riding along the coastline during sunset. Your guesthouse or hotel can arrange a guided horseback tour that provides a unique perspective of Plage Taghazout. Otherwise there are people right on the beach offering the experience with horses or camels.
Hiking near Plage Taghazout
You can do a great 10 km (6.2 mile) hike with Tayyu Hiking. It is called the Nomad’s trail which takes you through Argan forests, Berber villages, cliffs, caves, oceanic views and geological sites.
Golf Overlooking Plage Taghazout
Adjacent to the Hyatt Place is an 18 hole golf course which overlooks Plage Taghazout. While staying at the Hyatt we would sneak onto the golf course at night to go for a walk overlooking the ocean.
Unfortunately, the security guards didn’t like that very much and turned the water sprinklers on us! Rob and I ran off the course back to the hotel jumping through the water and giggling.
Spas and Hammams
All the luxury hotels offer spa experiences which are good but exactly what you would expect anywhere else in the world. So if you want something different, ask your guesthouse for a massage recommendation.
In addition, just above Plage Taghazout is the Beautiful Massage Taghazout spa – a female owned Hammam and Spa located slightly above the town in the hills of Aïte Bihi.
The facility is a large traditional tiled hammam with multiple massage/treatment rooms. So it is a combination of the traditional Moroccan hammam with the luxuries of the west. Currently an hour massage is about 350 MAD or €35/hour.
I can’t say it was the best massage I have ever had, but as a night camp to surfing in Taghazout, it was good enough!
ATV Riding and Visiting Caves
About an hour drive from Plage Taghazout is an area called Timlaline. Local operators will take you here for camel riding, sand surfing, ATV riding and visiting some local caves. Just ask your guesthouse or hostel to arrange this trip.
Travel Tips for Plage Taghazout
Cash is King: While some establishments accept cards, it’s advisable to carry cash for smaller shops and markets especially around Plage Taghazout. There are ATMs around the town as well as money exchange places.
Respect Local Customs: Although Plage Taghazout is a surf town and they see their fair share of skin it is advisable to dress modestly when not on the beach.
Stay Hydrated: The Moroccan sun can be intense; always carry water and wear sunscreen. Keep in mind that finding reef safe and or specific sunscreen that you may want may be difficult to find in Morocco. So bring your favorite along with you.
Learn Basic French or Arabic Phrases: While many locals speak English, knowing a few phrases can show respect and really enhance the interaction. We had downloaded the English to Arabic Google translation on our phones prior to arrival into Morocco. It sure did come in handy.
The funniest time was when we were trying to communicate with the handyman of our AirBnB in Marrakesh. The fridge was broken and explaining all the nuances was like playing charades until we remembered the app!
Wrap Up – Surfing in Taghazout
Surfing in Taghazout is more than just waves; it’s an immersive wellness experience blending surfing, yoga, and overall health. From catching your first wave at Plage Taghazout to unwinding at Amouage Taghazout after a day of surf and yoga, this coastal gem creates great memories.
We came to Plage Taghazout to check out the beaches and see what the only Hyatt Place resort is all about. The experience was a good one and we got a chance to check out some wonderful surf camps Taghazout to boot. The 2 that truly stood out are the Chiwash Place Taghazout and the Azul Guesthouse both offering surf and yoga packages in a holistic setting.
In addition to surfing in Taghazout there are many other activities that are available including yoga, golfing, hiking, horse back riding and the like. It is a super chill place that can be very inexpensive.
However, if you want to get pampered and stay in a resort, Plage Taghazout has a bunch to choose from as well. While staying in a resort here, the experience feels more like a posh area of Cabo San Lucas than Northern Africa. So that side of Plage Taghazout can be a bit more sterile.
Have you been to this part of Morocco? Was your experience in Northern Africa similar to ours? Are you hoping to go surfing in Taghazout? We would love to hear from you in the comments.
