Windsurfing courses in Essaouira – which club to choose?

Morocco, and in particular Essaouira and its surroundings, reveals many spots for surfing enthusiasts. It is difficult to get bored after surfing, kiting or windsurfing as the city, formerly called Mogador, a fortified city on the Atlantic coast, is a must visit due to its atypical fishing port and blue fishing boats. The medina – the old town and historical centre – which abounds in 18th century architecture, is also a great experience, with its souk and tasty traditional restaurants.

How to get to Essaouira

Essaouira is a treasure for water sports enthusiasts! The airport is only 30 minutes away from the city, and welcomes several airlines, some with direct flights, and from various European cities. Another option is to land in Marrakech or Agadir where the onward journey time is about 2h45 from either city. There are cheap shuttles between the airports and the centre of Essaouira, as well as taxis, but at a much higher price. It might be better to rent a car, which will allow you to discover other windsurfing spots and various places around Essaouira, such as Sidi Kaouki and Moulay.

The best time to windsurf in Essaouira

The wind blows all year round in Essaouira, which is why the ION CLUB centre remains open from January to December. Those who like strong winds should go there between May and August for the best chance to have winds of at least 30 knots in the afternoons. The mornings are less windy, which is a good time for beginner and intermediate windsurfing lessons. The wind blows side-shore on the starboard side all year round, less so in the winter season and with less regularity. However, the waves are more present than in the summer, which leaves the choice between windsurfing or surfing, both very popular in Essaouira and its surroundings.

The best windsurfing spots in Essaouira

Essaouira Bay is 5 km wide, and is the ideal spot for all types of windsurfing, from beginners to those who like to play and jump in the waves. The ION CLUB centre is located here, and has been for almost 30 years, for those wanting to rent windsurfing equipment or take lessons at any level. Windsurfing in Essaouira is part of the history of the city, but also of surfing holidays in general, as it is indeed one of the first windsurfing destinations which became known outside of Europe. 

For the wave and surf enthusiasts, Moulay is a must! A small village located 25 minutes drive from Essaouira where the wind statistics are incredible, and with a side-shore wind all year round. Sidi Kaouki is also a spot to try, with often stronger wind blowing side-onshore.