Dakhla: Surf Lessons with Multilingual Instructor & Pickup

Summary

Surf the sahara coast in dakhla with friendly local guides

You’ll start your Dakhla surf lesson with a warm welcome from local instructors who speak your language—French, English or Arabic. Learn how to ride Atlantic waves on a real surfboard (wetsuit included), feel that first rush as you stand up—even if just for a second—and share laughs with your guide along this wild stretch of Moroccan coast.

What’s the experience like?

We’d just finished our mint tea when Youssef grinned and asked if I’d ever tried surfing before. I shook my head — honestly, I was more nervous than I let on. But he just laughed and handed me a wetsuit, saying something in French to the driver (I caught “débutante” and pretended not to blush). The drive from town to the beach was short but bumpy, windows down, salty air sneaking in. Somewhere between the sand dunes and the Atlantic breeze, it hit me how far from home I was.

The first thing you notice about Dakhla isn’t the waves — it’s this wild mix of desert heat and ocean chill. Our instructor switched easily between English and Arabic, showing us how to balance on the board right there on the sand. My feet kept slipping but he just smiled and said, “Again.” When we finally got into the water, it was colder than expected. The surfboard felt heavier than it looked — kind of awkward at first — but after a few tries, I managed to stand up for half a second (maybe less). Youssef cheered like I’d won something big. That moment still makes me grin.

I didn’t expect to laugh so much falling off a board. There were kids nearby shouting in Spanish — apparently some visitors from the Canary Islands — and even though I couldn’t understand everything, their excitement was contagious. The sun kept shifting behind thin clouds; sometimes bright enough that everything sparkled, sometimes muted like early evening even though it was only midday. We took breaks sitting on the sand while our guide shared stories about growing up here, surfing since he was ten. He made it look easy — which is probably why I kept trying until my arms felt like noodles.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Personalized surf lessons in Dakhla

• Meet experienced surf instructors
• Learn basic surfing techniques
• Practice riding the waves
• Hone surfing skills with guidance
• Enjoy gliding across the ocean

Top questions

Are Dakhla surf lessons suitable for beginners?

Yes, these surf lessons are designed for all levels—including complete beginners.

What languages do the instructors speak?

The instructors speak French, English, and Arabic.

Is transport to the beach included?

Yes, an air-conditioned vehicle is provided for transport.

Is equipment provided during the lesson?

Yes, both wetsuit and surfboard are included.

Can children join these surf lessons?

Infants can ride in a pram or stroller; children must sit on an adult’s lap in transport.

Are service animals allowed?

Yes, service animals are allowed during this activity.

Is this activity wheelchair accessible?

No, these surf lessons are not wheelchair accessible.

Are there any health restrictions?

This activity is not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle from Dakhla town to the beach, all necessary gear—a proper surfboard and wetsuit—and guidance throughout from an instructor who speaks French, English or Arabic so you always feel understood out there on the waves.