Spot guide
Surfing Killer Point: everything you need to know
The wave at Killer Point
Killer Point, often just called Killers, is one of the best-known big-wave spots on the Taghazout coast. It is a long right-hand point breaking over a rocky bottom a little north of Taghazout village, facing west-south-west into open ocean. The name is usually said to come from the orcas, or killer whales, that were once seen offshore, though the waves themselves have done plenty to earn the reputation.
Unlike the shorter points around Taghazout, Killer Point needs real size to wake up. It begins to break at around 1.2 m, but the proper Killers experience comes between roughly 1.6 and 3.8 m, when long walls stand up at the outside peak and run down the point. It keeps its shape on days when most of the coast is closing out, and only becomes too big to be sensible at around 5.5 m. Because the take-off zone sits well out from the shore, sets can look deceptively small from land.
Best conditions for surfing Killer Point
| Factor | Best for Killer Point |
|---|---|
| Swell direction | W to NNW |
| Wave size | Works from 1.2 m, best 1.6 to 3.8 m, too big above 5.5 m |
| Period | 11 seconds or more |
| Wind | Light, or offshore from the ENE |
| Tide | Works on all tides |
| Best season | October to April |
Killer Point wants long-period groundswell: 11 seconds is the minimum, and the longer the period, the better it lines up. Short wind swell simply does not have the energy to make the wave work. It is exposed to the north wind, so the best sessions usually come early, with a light ENE offshore. One advantage over its neighbours is that it works on all tides, which gives you more flexibility when a swell arrives.
Who should surf Killer Point?
Honestly: advanced surfers only. This is a wave where fitness, experience in powerful surf and good judgement matter more than style.
- Beginners and improvers: please do not paddle out here, even on a smaller day. The long paddle, the rocks and the currents make it a genuinely risky place to learn. There are far better waves for progressing, from the beach at Tamraght to the gentle right at Banana Point.
- Intermediate surfers: if you are comfortable at Anchor Point on a solid day and have experience with heavier waves, a mid-size day at Killers with someone who knows it can be the next step. On big days, watch first.
- Advanced surfers: this is the spot to look for when a large winter swell hits and everywhere else is maxing out. Bring a board with some extra length and volume to help with the paddle and the drop.
Hazards and local tips
- Never surf alone. It is the most important rule here. Go with at least one other experienced surfer and keep an eye on each other.
- The paddle out is long. Make sure your fitness is up to it, and plan your route out through the channel rather than straight through the impact zone.
- Strong currents run along the point on bigger days. Keep checking your position against landmarks and do not let yourself drift into the rocks.
- Entry and exit are over rock. Watch from the shore before you go and pick your moment between sets. Booties help and protect you from urchins.
- Sets can surprise you. Spend time watching before paddling out; a wide set can catch people sitting too far inside.
- Respect the line-up. The regulars know this wave very well. Wait your turn, do not drop in and read our surf etiquette guide if you are unsure of the rules.
How to get to Killer Point
Killer Point is about 22 minutes by car from our riad in Tamraght. Head north on the coast road through Taghazout, past Anchor Point; the point lies a short way beyond the village. The last part of the approach is along a dirt track, so drive slowly and carefully, particularly after rain. From Agadir, allow a little longer on the same coast road. For a map of how Killers fits with the rest of the coastline, see our surf spots guide.
When to go
Killer Point is a winter spot. The window is October to April, and really it comes to life on the bigger days within that season, when a strong North Atlantic swell with a long period lines up the point. In summer it is often too small to break properly. Water in winter is around 17 to 18°C, so a 4/3 wetsuit is standard, and you will be glad of it on a long session. Aim for the morning before the north wind builds; tide is less critical here, so the wind and swell should drive your timing.
Surfing Killer Point with Surf Chill Vibe
We only take experienced surfers to Killer Point, and only on days when it suits them. Our local guides know the approach, the channel and how the wave behaves at different sizes, and they will be honest if a day is beyond your level. Advanced guests usually join us on a guided session, which can be added from our build-your-trip options. If you would like to plan a trip around the winter swells, get in touch and we will tell you what to expect.
Coach's tip: Only on the bigger winter days, and never alone.
