Updated October 2025
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Experience the magic of Imsouane, a surfing paradise on the Moroccan coast. Immerse yourself in Amazigh culture, local traditions and the village’s rich fishing heritage.
This guide covers everything you need before your trip, including how to get to Imsouane, the best time to visit, the best surf spots, and activities beyond surfing.
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The magnetic, laid-back vibe of Imsouane may make you never want to leave. This small, picturesque, fishing village in the northern Sous-Massa region of Morocco has been a world-class surfing spot since the 1960s, drawing surfers from everywhere.
Boasting Africa’s longest wave, Imsouane is a calm coastal oasis where warm weather and endless rolling waves create a dreamy escape. Majestic sandstone cliffs glow a fiery orange at sunset, as surfers and fishermen make their final catch of the day, connected by the ocean’s timeless magic.
We first heard of Imsouane when visiting Taghazout in 2023 and promised ourselves we’d stay in this legendary village on our next visit. Apprehensive after reading news of the January 2024 demolitions, we discovered that the spirit of Imsouane is still very much alive.
Despite ongoing construction, the village remains a place where time seems to stand still, a surfer’s paradise that celebrates the slower pace of life by the ocean.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to get to Imsouane, the best surf spots and surf camps, where to eat and stay, and what else to do beyond the waves. Whether you’re here for surfing, sunsets, or local culture, this guide will help you make the most of your visit.
READ NEXT | Best Places To Stay In Imsouane, Morocco
From the news and clips on social media, you would have thought Imsouane was completely destroyed. A week before arriving in Morocco, we watched emotive videos showing homes and businesses in ruin. After speaking with the team at The O Surf Club, we decided to make the journey to see it for ourselves and to determine whether the magic of Imsouane was still alive.
We can’t give a direct comparison to what Imsouane was like before, as we only saw it after the demolitions. However, through many conversations and looking at photos from the past, it is clear that some of the village's oldest and most iconic areas, including Tasblast, were lost.
Many of the demolished buildings were built illegally on the coast, within Morocco's "maritime zone," without official government permits. We were deeply saddened to see homes and businesses uprooted within an instant and were given just 24 hours to evacuate. Similar events have happened in Tifnit, and we’ve also seen similar events in Bingin Beach in Bali.
Despite this, Imsouane is gradually rebuilding, with hotels, surf camps, and restaurants remaining open, while efforts are being made to preserve the village’s authentic charm and surfing heritage. When we visited in February 2024, rubble was still being cleared, but people continued their daily routines, keeping the soul of Imsouane alive.
Don’t let the news deter you. Visiting now offers a chance to experience the village’s resilience, its famous waves and welcoming community.
Imsouane is a small village in the northwestern region of the Sous-Massa region of Morocco, near the Marrakesh-Safi border. Located on the edge of the Atlantic coast between Essaouira and Taghazout, it’s a peaceful setting, giving the sense of being on the edge of the world in a remote fishing village.
The drive from Agadir takes around 2 hours and 1.5 hours from Taghazout, following the road along the coast.
The closest airport is Essaouira Mogador Airport, about 1.5 hours from Imsouane. Agadir Al-Massira International Airport is larger, with more flight options, and around 2 hour drive.
We flew from London Gatwick to Agadir International Airport, a flight of just over three hours. There are plenty of budget-friendly options from the UK to Morocco, with new direct routes to Agadir being added regularly.
From Taghazout, Tamraght, or Agadir, you can reach Imsouane by:
Souk To Surf minibus | the easiest way to get to Imsouane, €12 one-way per person from Taghazout, book online.
Taxi | Expect to pay around 400–600 dirhams for a private ride, or cheaper shared (grand) taxis from Agadir, around 100 dirhams one way.
Rental car | Offers flexibility to explore the coast; Moroccan roads are generally manageable, but watch for local driving styles.
The N1 coastal road offers scenic stops, including Aghroud, Boilers Cafe, Tamri Beach, and Timalin Dunes, before you reach Imsouane.
Once in the village, the harbour, main streets and surf spots are all within walking distance.
READ MORE | Our Complete guide to Taghazout
We drove from Taghazout to Imsouane along the N1 coastal road, and it quickly became one of our favourite drives in Morocco. The journey takes about an hour, but with so many beautiful spots along the way, it’s worth taking your time.
Our first stop was the colourful village of Aghroud, a chilled-out place with a stunning beach near Desert Point, perfect for watching surfers tackle the waves. A little further along, we discovered Boilers Cafe, tucked behind rocks and almost hidden from the road. The owners were incredibly friendly, and puppies wandered around the café, making it a wonderfully relaxed stop. Sitting on the seafront, sipping coffee and watching surfers at Boilers Point was a perfect pause.
The drive continues past Tamri National Park, a scenic stretch where we even spotted a few wild camels. We stopped at Tamri Beach to stretch our legs and take in the views from the roadside viewpoint. Nearby, the Timalin Dunes, or Le Petit Desert, tempted us with sandboarding and a short walk among its dramatic dunes.
Just before reaching Imsouane, we couldn’t resist stopping at the cliff-top viewpoint. From there, we caught our first glimpse of Magic Bay, framed by Argan trees and with surfers riding perfect peeler waves below.
We loved driving from Taghazout to Imsouane, stopping at colourful villages, hidden cafés, and cliff-top viewpoints along the way.
Roads along the coast are scenic and relaxed, but taxis can be fast.
Always drive on the right and watch out for motorbikes weaving between cars.
Carry your driving licence, passport, and rental paperwork.
Expect occasional police checks around towns like Agadir and Taghazout.
Download offline maps (Google Maps or Maps.me) – signal can be patchy.
Renting a car gives freedom to explore hidden beaches, viewpoints, and surf spots at your own pace.
READ MORE | Our Guide to Driving in Morocco
Imsouane is a charming fishing village with a long history of surf culture. The harbour, built with Japanese support in 1998, still brings in fresh fish daily, which you can enjoy right on the harbour over a barbecue.
In the 1970s, adventurous surfers discovered Imsouane, drawn to its long, peeling waves and laid-back lifestyle. Since then, Imsouane has grown into one of Morocco’s most beloved surf destinations.
Today, Imsouane is famous for Magic Bay, home to one of the longest right-hand point breaks in Africa, perfect for beginners and longboarders. Cathedral Point offers a more challenging reef break for experienced surfers.
Beyond the waves, the village is celebrated for its laid-back vibe, stunning sandstone cliffs, and friendly community, making it a perfect escape from busier surfing hubs such as Tahgazout.
Imsouane enjoys warm, pleasant weather throughout the year, making it one of the best winter sun destinations from the UK. Average daytime temperatures sit around 22-26°C, even in winter, with very little rainfall.
For surfing in Imsouane, the best time to visit is from October to April, when Atlantic swells are most consistent. November to March marks the peak surf season, bringing long, clean waves to Magic Bay and larger, more powerful sets to Cathedral Point.
When we visited in January and February, Imsouane was the perfect escape from the cold back home to warm sunshine, crisp waves, and laid-back beach days, making it feel like a world away from winter.
We hope that as Imsouane rebuilds, these plans will preserve the village’s authenticity and rich history. The area is gradually evolving to accommodate growing tourism, and key projects have been published online outlining the future of Imsouane.
New accommodations | Hotels, hostels, and campsites are planned to welcome more visitors.
Cathedral Beach boardwalk | A new promenade is set for the former Tasblast area.
Surf and tourism facilities | Investments are planned in surf access points, restaurants, cultural spaces, and local shops.
Sustainable development | Efforts focus on protecting the coastline, surrounding wetlands, and the village’s heritage.
World Cup 2030 | Infrastructure upgrades in the region are part of Morocco’s wider plans for preparing to co-host the FIFA World Cup.
Yes, absolutely. Even amid ongoing development, Imsouane offers a friendly, laid-back vibe, stunning coastal scenery, and some of Africa’s longest, most consistent waves.
Add in beautiful beaches, fresh seafood, and a welcoming local community, and it’s a destination well worth experiencing.
Languages | Arabic is Morocco’s main language. In Sous-Massa, many locals speak Shilha (Tashelhit), the Amazigh language. French and English are also common. A few basic phrases go a long way.
Internet | WiFi can be unreliable in Imsouane. For better connectivity, buy a SIM card in Taghazout or Agadir, or use an eSIM.
Navigation | Most of the village is walkable. If driving, download offline maps on Google Maps or Maps.me.
Money | There’s an ATM located at the village entrance, next to Tasra Bakery, but it may not always be operational, and charges apply. Bring cash just in case. The nearest alternative ATM is in Tamri at Banque Populaire, about 20 minutes away.
Essentials & Shops | Imsouane has a pharmacy, bakery, convenience shops, and surf shops for most necessities. Some hotels accept credit cards; best to check in advance.
Beach & Towel | Hotels provide bathroom towels, but they’re often not for beach use. Bring a lightweight microfiber towel or scarf for swimming, surfing, or sunbathing.
While many visitors come for the world-class waves, Imsouane offers much more than just surf. Enjoy fresh fish straight from catch to table, soak in epic sunsets, scenic yoga sessions, and explore a traditional Moroccan fishing village.
Most people come to Imsouane for the surf. This surf paradise offers a relaxed vibe compared to Taghazout, especially as its much harder to reach. Imsouane is home to the longest wave in Africa, a regular right-hand wave that just keeps giving. You can either join a surf camp, which are usually a week long or rent a board.
There are two main surf spots;
The Bay - Ideal for longboarders and beginners
Also known as Magic Bay
Long tubing waves over 800 metres long
Perfect for beginners and Longboarders
It can get crowded, especially at the back near the harbour, walk along the beach or harbour to access back break
Watch for fishing boats
Cathedral Point, Imsouane Beach - Best for experienced surfers
Reef break best at low or high tide
Suitable for short boards and body boarders with more experience
Option to surf beach break for beginners and intermediates when conditions allow
Check the surf forecast for Imsouane on Magicseaweed or Windguru for the current wave and wind conditions.
The village of Imsouane is full of charm and local character. Wander through the streets to discover surf shops and surfboard repair workshops, or make your way to the harbour, where fresh fish arrives daily at the market. You can even buy your catch and have it cooked right there, straight from sea to table.
Take time to simply watch the activity in the harbour with surfers gliding across waves, fishermen at work and cheeky seagulls trying their luck for a bite.
One afternoon, as we wandered past the blue boats, a group of playful puppies followed us down the pier, as we chatted to residents about Imsouane and what the future might bring. It’s a relaxed, mesmerising place where time seems to slow down, offering you a glimpse into everyday life in a Moroccan fishing village.
Similar to the surf spots, there are two main stretches of sand in Imsouane:
The Bay (Magic Bay)
Located on the eastern side of Imsouane, The Bay is a sheltered and picturesque beach, perfect for a relaxing day by the ocean.
Access the beach easily via steps from the village, but be mindful of tide times, as much of the sand can disappear at high tide.
The sandstone cliffs surrounding the beach create a dramatic and photogenic backdrop, ideal for strolling or taking in the scenery.
Beach vendors casually walk along the sand, offering fresh fruit, tea, doughnuts, and handmade craftsm friendly and laid-back, with no pressure to buy.
The Bay is a great spot for sunbathing, photography, picnics, or simply soaking up the peaceful atmosphere of Imsouane.
Imsouane Beach (Cathedral Point)
Imsouane Beach, also known as Cathedral Point, is the main beach along the village bay, offering a more tranquil and scenic experience compared to The Bay.
The beach stretches along the bay, with a wide sandy area ideal for walking, relaxing, or enjoying the sunset.
Access is straightforward via steps from the village, though reaching the far end near Cathedral Point involves a slightly longer stroll, rewarding you with quieter spots and stunning coastal views.
The area is more natural and rugged, with minimal facilities, so bring water, snacks to fully enjoy the surroundings.
The cliffs framing the beach and the open bay make it a perfect location for photography, watching the waves, or simply soaking in the coastal atmosphere.
Where there’s surf, there’s usually yoga, the perfect way to unwind after a day of surfing and exploring Imsouane. Join a yoga class in the village for a holistic practice that helps quiet your mind and relax your body.
At The O Experience, you can take morning or afternoon yoga classes on their beautiful rooftop terrace, with rugged sandstone cliffs as a backdrop and surfers gliding across The Bay. The setting provides an unparalleled sense of calm and connection to nature.
Many surf camps in Imsouane, including Olo Surf & Nature, Aman, and Clapo, also include yoga sessions as part of their programs.
The sunsets from Imsouane Beach are spectacular. In the evenings, vans and cars line the road adjacent to the beach, while local skaters often enjoy a casual cruise along the road. The golden light reflects off the bay and cliffs, creating a truly magical atmosphere.
Rubble is still being cleared from the Tasblast area, so be careful when accessing the beach.
For a slightly more elevated viewpoint, walk past Ocean Point campsite along the northern cliffs of Cathedral Point. From here, you can watch the last surfers of the day glide across the waves against the backdrop of a glowing sunset.
This spot is perfect for photography, a peaceful stroll, or simply soaking in the beauty of Imsouane.
Where are the Best Places to eat in Imsouane?
Currently, in Imsouane there are limited options for restaurants and cafés compared to before the demolition. There are still a few to choose from and we’ve put together our favourites that we would recommend.
One thing to bear in mind, as there are fewer food places in Imsouane the stray animals are much more hungry. The locals do try and feed as many of them as they can, however, this can be difficult, and expensive and what we found was that they love the taste of chicken tagine and will use distraction techniques to get a portion!
Les 3S Restaurant
This restaurant is located close to the roundabout and there are two other restaurants along this stretch. As you walk in you’ll notice the tables have cat scratch posts as table legs (similar to what we have in our campervan). They serve burgers, barbeque, fresh fish, kefta, tagine, and shrimp and the cats will keep you company.
Chez Karim
The restaurant is on the corner on your way to the harbour, you won’t miss it. Whilst the decor may be more basic, don’t let it put you off. The staff are very friendly, food is very affordable and tasty. When we arrived we were told it was a couscous night and given very generous portions, a great place to come after a day of surf. We’d recommend the tagine and BBQ grilled chicken.
Chez Jolo
This is the place to go if you’re looking for fresh seafood and great ocean views. We visited during the day and enjoyed grilled tuna and Moroccan tea with a lovely view of the harbour. The restaurant is right next to the water tower with umbrellas offering shade from the sun. Take a seat at Chez Jolo, and enjoy the laidback atmosphere, friendly staff and great food at very affordable prices.
The O Experience
Serving some of the best smoothie bowls in the area, we’d highly recommend getting a mango tango smoothie bowl. They serve breakfast, lunch and dinner options harnessing the concept of slow food, using natural, organic and healthy ingredients that are sourced locally.
The menu will change depending on the availability of ingredients and serves fresh juices, smoothie bowls, smoothies, traditional Moroccan meals, quesadillas and salads. The dinner menu offers both meat and vegetarian/vegan options and is dependent on the day of the week what is available.
TARSA Boulangerie
A friendly bakery close to the main road which leads in and out of Imsouane, there are delicious cakes, pastries and freshly baked bread to treat yourself after a surf.
SurfSide Sushi
This sushi restaurant is just around the corner from the Boulangerie, fresh sushi at an affordable price what more could you want?!
Where to stay in Imsouane?
This easy-to-use map below will help you find your dream stay in Agadir. Simply select your dates in the search bar below, and it will compare the best prices over the main booking sites to show you the best deals.
The O Experience
The O Experience is a wonderful Boutique Hotel located right next to Magic Bay, making it very convenient to get out for a morning surf! When you step into the O, the space has been immaculately designed and furnished.
Every corner of the hotel is beautiful, with potted plants, cosy seating areas and a calm space that will make you feel at ease. It’s the ultimate surf house, with an enviable quiver, delicious fresh food and breathtaking views directly from the property. Book your stay at this incredible surf hotel in Imsouane for an unforgettable trip.
Read our Morocco guides
A Travel Guide to Taghazout | Charming Seaside Surf Village in Morocco
The Best Places To Stay In Imsouane
Best places to stay in Taghazout
Munga Guesthouse | A luxury boutique hotel in Taghazout
World of Waves | Boutique Hotel and Surf School in Taghazout
The O Experience | Surf Boutique Hotel in Imsouane
Amouage Surf Maroc Hotel | Surf and Yoga Retreat in Taghazout
Luxury Riad and Spa in Marrakesh | Demeures d'Orient
The Ultimate Guide to the Best Things to Do in Agadir, Morocco
