Spot guide
Surfing Panoramas: everything you need to know
The wave at Panoramas, Taghazout
Panoramas sits at the southern end of Taghazout, where the sandy beach meets a low rocky point. The result is two waves in one spot: a beach break with shifting sandbanks, and a small point section that peels along the rocks when the swell lines up. Together they give a good range of options within a short paddle of each other.
On small days the beach break is gentle, with soft white water on the inside and friendly shoulders further out. As the swell grows, the point section becomes more defined and the outside waves get steeper and faster, which is when Panoramas turns into an improver and intermediate spot. On big days the sets can close out across the bay and the currents strengthen, and it is best left to experienced surfers.
Best conditions for surfing Panoramas
| Factor | Best conditions |
|---|---|
| Swell direction | WSW to NNW |
| Wave size | Works from about 0.5 m, ideal 0.8 to 1.8 m, too big above about 2.5 m |
| Period | No minimum; works on short and long period swell |
| Wind | Light wind or offshore from the ENE |
| Tide | Best around mid tide |
| Best season | All year: gentle summer waves; more swell from October to April |
Panoramas faces west-south-west and takes swell from WSW round to NNW. It has no real shelter from the north wind, so it is at its best on calm mornings or with a light ENE offshore. Tide matters more here than on the open beaches: around mid tide the banks and the point section work best, while at the extremes the waves can either fat up or become more abrupt over the shallow parts. Our forecast above already takes the tide into account in its rating.
Who should surf Panoramas?
Beginners can surf Panoramas on small and medium days, staying on the inside in the white water and keeping clear of the rocks. It is one of the few places in Taghazout itself where that is safe, which makes it handy if you are staying in the village. On bigger days, go to a softer beach such as Devil’s Rock instead.
Improvers and intermediates get the most out of it. The outside peaks and the point section are a good place to practise taking off on green waves, angling and your first turns, without the pressure of the reef breaks further north.
Advanced surfers tend to head to the points when there is swell, but Panoramas is a fun option on smaller days or when the line-ups at the famous spots are packed.
Hazards and local tips
- Stay away from the rocks at the point if you are still learning. Surf the sandy part of the beach and ask your coach where the channel is.
- Currents can run along the beach and out near the point, especially on bigger swells. Watch for a few minutes before you paddle out and note where others come in.
- The point section has a clear take-off zone. Wait your turn and do not paddle around people to steal priority; see our surf etiquette guide.
- Surf schools use the inside in winter, so it can get busy. Keep your board under control and leave space around lessons.
- Booties are not essential on the sand, but they can help if you walk out near the rocks.
How to get to Panoramas from Tamraght
Panoramas is about 12 minutes by car from our riad in Tamraght. Head north on the coast road past Devil’s Rock, and the spot sits right where Taghazout begins. From Agadir you simply keep going north through Tamraght until you reach the village. Afterwards it is a short walk into Taghazout for a coffee overlooking the bay. If the waves are too small or too big, Hash Point is just up the coast in front of the village.
When to go to Panoramas
Panoramas works all year. In summer the waves are generally smaller and softer, the water warms up to around 20 to 22°C from July to November and a 3/2 wetsuit is fine. From October to April the swell is bigger and more consistent: great for improvers on the right days, but check the size before you bring a beginner, and wear a 4/3 in the cooler months.
Aim for the morning, before the north wind starts blowing, and try to time your session around mid tide. A calm morning with mid tide and waist- to head-high waves is Panoramas at its best.
Surfing Panoramas with Surf Chill Vibe
Our coaches bring guests to Panoramas when it is the best spot for their level that day, often for improvers who want a step up from the Tamraght beaches. Transport and lessons are part of our surf packages, and you can add a private lesson or a surf photo and video session from our build-your-trip options. For an overview of the whole coast, read our guide to the surf spots between Agadir and Taghazout.
Coach's tip: Nice for a session and a coffee in Taghazout afterwards.
