Essaouira: Surf Lesson with Local Surfer & Pickup

Summary

Essaouira surf lesson for beginners with local surfer and easy beach waves

You’ll feel the Atlantic wind as you try surfing for the first time on Essaouira’s gentle waves with a local surfer guiding every wobbly attempt. Warm up on the sand, get free photos of your best moments (or wipeouts), then unwind over mint tea after your lesson. It’s more about laughing than looking cool.

What’s the experience like?

I’d never touched a surfboard before Essaouira, but something about the salty air and that wide, sandy stretch made me want to try. The guy who picked me up — Yassine — had this relaxed way of talking, like he’s been surfing since he could walk. We started right on the sand, boards lined up, wetsuits sticking a bit (I probably looked ridiculous getting into mine). He showed us how to pop up — I still can’t do it smoothly, but at least he laughed with me, not at me.

The waves here aren’t huge; they roll in gentle and steady, which is honestly perfect if you’re nervous about wiping out. I remember the water was cool but not shocking, and there was this mix of sunscreen and seaweed smell that just felt real. Yassine kept shouting encouragement from his board — “Paddle! Paddle!” — and when I finally caught a wave for half a second, he cheered louder than anyone. There were a few other locals around too, some kids running along the shore yelling in French and Arabic. It felt like everyone belonged there except maybe me… but then again, no one seemed to care.

Afterwards we rinsed off under these outdoor showers (the water was hot, thank god) and sat on plastic chairs with mint tea. Someone took pictures — apparently that’s included — so now I have proof of my awkward stance. My arms were tired but in a good way. If you’re thinking about trying a surf lesson in Essaouira, just go for it. Even if you fall off every time like I did, it’s worth it for that one moment when you stand up and see the city behind you all hazy in the sun.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Learn surfing at Essaouira beach

• Warm up with 10 minutes exercises
• Learn surfing principles on beach
• Practice take-off on surfboard
• Surf in water with instructor
• Catch and ride waves

Top questions

Is this surf lesson in Essaouira suitable for beginners?

Yes, the waves are small most of the time and lessons start with basics on land before heading into the water.

Are wetsuits and surfboards provided during the lesson?

Yes, all equipment including wetsuits is included in your booking.

Does this Essaouira surf lesson include hotel pickup?

Yes, free pickup is included for participants.

How long does the actual surf instruction last?

The warm-up is about 10 minutes; then you continue learning and practicing in the water until you can catch a wave.

Are photos included during the surfing experience?

Yes, free pictures are taken during your lesson so you can remember your experience.

Is there somewhere to shower after surfing?

Yes, hot showers are available after your session.

Is this activity safe for children or people with health issues?

The activity is suitable for all fitness levels but not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or cardiovascular issues.

What’s included

Your day includes free pickup from your location in Essaouira, all necessary surf equipment like wetsuits and boards, a short warm-up session on land before heading into the water with your local instructor guiding every step, free photos of your attempts (and triumphs), plus hot showers and coffee or tea to finish things off relaxed before heading back into town.