Imsouane Surf Guide: The Bay, the Cathedral and How to Get There
Imsouane's bay is home to one of the longest, gentlest waves in Morocco. Here is how to surf it, and when the Cathedral is the better choice.
Imsouane is a small fishing village about an hour to an hour and a half north of Taghazout. It has two very different waves: the long, slow right-hander in the bay that has made the village famous, and a more powerful peak known as the Cathedral. It makes a perfect surf day trip, or a few nights away from your base.
The Bay
The bay faces south, which shelters it from much of the wind and swell. When a northwest swell wraps around the headland, it produces a mellow right-hand wave that peels along the bay for a very long way. On good days you can ride for well over a minute.
- Level: beginners with some experience, improvers and longboarders.
- Best conditions: medium to large northwest swell, which is most common from autumn to spring.
- Board: longboards and mid-lengths are ideal. The wave is not steep.
- Watch out for: crowds, fishing boats at the harbour end, and a long walk back along the beach after each ride.
The Cathedral
On the other side of the headland, facing west, the Cathedral picks up more swell. It is named after the building on the cliff above. The waves are more powerful and come as peaks rather than one long line, suiting intermediate and advanced surfers. When the bay is too small, the Cathedral is often the better choice.
When to go
The bay needs a decent swell to wrap into it, so the best months are generally October to April. In summer it can be too small for days at a time. Check a forecast before you drive, or take a look at our live surf report for the swell trend. More on the seasons in our guide to the best time to surf in Morocco.
How to get there
- Surf day trip: the easiest way, with transport and a coach who knows when the bay is working.
- Car: head north on the coastal road past Tamri, then turn towards the coast at the Imsouane sign.
- Grand taxi: possible, but you may need to change in Tamri.
Food and staying overnight
Imsouane is known for fresh fish grilled near the harbour. The village has a handful of cafés and guesthouses, so staying one night is easy if you want to surf the evening and morning sessions.
Surf Imsouane with us
Our Coast Explorer Week includes a surf day in Imsouane, and you can add it to any stay through the VIP trip builder. For the waves closer to home, read our guide to the surf spots between Agadir and Taghazout.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the wave at Imsouane?
On a good day the right-hand wave in the bay can offer very long rides, among the longest in Morocco. It is especially popular with longboarders.
Is Imsouane good for beginners?
The bay is one of the most beginner-friendly point waves in Morocco on small to medium swells, because it is slow and forgiving. Beginners should still surf with a coach, as it can get crowded.
How far is Imsouane from Taghazout?
About an hour to an hour and a half by car, heading north along the coastal road.
Ready for waves?
Surf Tamraght with a small, friendly camp
Pick a ready-made week or build your own trip with surf, day trips and meals, and see the full price before you send anything.
