Taghazout is a charming village on Morocco’s Atlantic coast. Once a sleepy fishing village, Taghazout has now grown into a hip surf destination. The perfect waves attract surfers from all over the world, as this place is known as one of Africa’s best surf spots. But Taghazout isn’t just loved by surfers – even if you prefer to stay on dry land, there’s plenty to do. You can take lots of fun excursions, like to Paradise Valley. This is an oasis between rocks, palm trees, and natural pools. You’ll read all about it in this article with tips for Taghazout!
What’s the best time to visit Taghazout?
You can visit Taghazout pretty much year-round, but it’s good to know that the atmosphere can vary greatly by season. The high season falls in the winter months, from November through March. During these months, many surfers flock to Taghazout for the best waves and pleasant temperatures. Even if you don’t surf, winter is a good period thanks to the cozy atmosphere that hangs in the air. In the other months, it’s quieter in Taghazout, but it remains a pleasant place to visit. In the summer months, domestic tourism increases and there are especially many local vacationers.
What to do in Taghazout?
In and around Taghazout, there are several fun things to do. Here are 8 tips!
(Learn to) Surf in Taghazout
Taghazout is THE surf spot of Morocco, and that’s not without reason. It attracts surfers from all over the world who are looking for perfect waves and a laid-back atmosphere. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned surfer, Taghazout has waves for every level.
The three best surf spots in Taghazout? First, Anchor Point. This is the most popular spot due to the long waves that are ideal for advanced surfers. It can get crowded in the water here, but the perfect waves make it more than worth it. For those just starting to surf or who prefer something quieter, Panorama Beach is recommended. The waves here are a bit milder and it’s a nice place to calmly improve your skills. Hash Point is also a good surf spot, located directly in the center of Taghazout.
Tip: Want to meet other surfers? Then it’s fun to stay at GOLVEN Surf. This is a social hostel that’s all about surfing. Every morning a van leaves for the beach to go surfing. There’s also a cozy rooftop where you can play games while enjoying the view.
Find the fun at the skate park during sunset
The colorful skate park is the place to be in Taghazout. Dozens, if not hundreds of travelers and locals come to the skate park every day around sunset to watch the skaters’ skills while enjoying hard rock music and a cup of Moroccan mint tea. The skate park is located a bit higher up the mountain, just outside Taghazout’s center, so from here you enjoy a cool view over the ocean and the setting sun.
Tip: Getting hungry? At the skate park you can score a delicious sandwich at Bread Pitt. For new jeans or a shirt, you can go to Mr. Vintage.
Horseback riding on the beach in Taghazout
Looking for a unique activity? Then horseback riding on the beaches of southern Morocco is definitely something for you. In the morning you’ll be picked up from your accommodation and go to the stable to get acquainted with the horses. What follows is a beautiful ride along the picturesque coastline. It doesn’t matter if you have no experience with horseback riding. The horses are well-trained, well-cared for, and the ride is accompanied by experienced riders. For those who want and dare, you can gallop on the beach. This is THE ultimate feeling of freedom!
Watch fishermen and surfers at Devils Rock
Devil’s Rock is located a few kilometers south of Taghazout, and this is where many fishermen, surfers, and locals come. From the rock, especially during sunset, you have a beautiful view over the bay and fishermen bringing in their catch. On the beach you’ll also find several local restaurants where you can eat fresh fish and traditional Moroccan dishes with a view of the ocean.
Enjoy one of Taghazout’s many rooftops
Taghazout is built against a small hill, so from the many rooftop terraces you have an amazing view! Most of the accommodations and some restaurants in Taghazout have a rooftop, some even with a swimming pool; like Kitchen Club Restaurant & Bar. Munga Guesthouse has what we consider the most beautiful rooftop in Taghazout (see the photos below). Just note: you can only use this when you stay here. This is definitely recommended because apart from the rooftop, the rooms are beautifully decorated and the breakfast buffet is fantastic.
Visit Paradise Valley from Taghazout
About an hour’s drive from Taghazout lies Paradise Valley, an oasis with rocks, palm trees, and natural pools. From the parking lot, you walk about 15 minutes into the valley. You’ll come across a few small restaurants where you can eat with a beautiful view. There are also restaurants where you can sit with your feet in the water while little fish nibble at your feet. Once you arrive in the valley, you can hike, swim in the water, or cliff jump. Don’t forget to wear good shoes, bring your swimwear, and bring enough water. The hiking trails are well marked in the Maps.me app.
Don’t have a rental car but still want to visit Paradise Valley? Then book the Paradise Valley tour where you’ll go out with a fun guide. There’s plenty of time to swim, hike, and as a bonus, you’ll also visit a botanical garden.
Best time to visit Paradise Valley: The beauty of Paradise Valley varies greatly by season. During dry periods, the valley is largely dried up and the remaining water turns brown. The best time to visit Paradise Valley is therefore in early spring or late fall. In winter there’s also plenty of water, but it’s a bit colder.
Walk from Tamraght to Taghazout or vice versa
The village of Tamraght is located right next to Taghazout, and via a walking route along the coast, you can walk from one village to the other. The route is about 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) long and takes you over the beach or a path along the cliffs, depending on the tide. At low tide, the route over the beach is easiest. Along the way, you’ll enjoy beautiful views of the ocean, see surfers in action, and pass small beach bars where you can get something to drink.
Tip: Wear comfortable shoes, avoid the hottest hours of the day, and bring enough water and sunscreen.
Take a trip to Agadir
From Taghazout, it’s fun to visit Agadir for a day. In about 30 minutes of driving, you’ll be in the middle of the city and can explore the famous Souk El Had. This is a gigantic, walled bazaar with more than 3,000 stalls. Here you’ll find everything you can imagine. Think Moroccan spices, colorful carpets, leather bags, and fresh vegetables. It’s busy and lively, but certainly not as chaotic as the souks in Marrakech.
In Agadir, it’s also fun to explore Medina Polizzi. This is a recently built medina – the old medina of Agadir was destroyed by an earthquake. The new medina is beautiful and still very quiet, so you can explore the small streets, squares, and shops at your leisure.
Sandboarding over Timlalin Dunes
Timlalin Dunes is located north of Taghazout and this is the perfect place for anyone who likes some action. These dunes border the sea, making the view beautiful, especially during sunset. With the Timlalin Dunes tour, you’ll explore the dunes and a canyon with a small group and an enthusiastic guide. With a board, you’ll zoom down the dunes. Scary? Don’t worry, you can choose whether you want to sandboard from a big or small dune. During the tour, you’ll also visit a small but beautiful canyon where you can walk between steep rock walls.
Tips for good restaurants in Taghazout
- Windy Bay Restaurant – This is one of Taghazout’s most popular restaurants. From the terrace, you have a nice view over the entire bay of Taghazout. The menu isn’t very extensive, but there’s something for everyone. Reservations are recommended for dinner.
- The Wedge – This is a cozy place to have a drink during sunset. The terrace is covered with blankets and cushions so you can relax completely. Besides delicious cocktails, they also serve wonderful food.
- Red Clay – Red Clay’s completely vegan menu certainly won’t disappoint you. Order a delicious avocado toast, shakshuka with tofu, scones with jam, or fluffy pancakes.
- Teapot Cafe – One door down you’ll find another recommendation, namely Teapot Cafe. You can choose from healthy dishes like poke bowls, smoothie bowls, and tacos.
- Sozi Cookies – At this tiny shop, you can buy the most delicious freshly baked cookies! The owner is super sweet and loves to chat.
- Let’s Be Healing Food – This restaurant isn’t in Taghazout but in Tamraght, the village nearby. The name gives it away – here you can go for healthy dishes, full of vitamins and flavor.
- Dfrost Almugar – Kitchen Club Restaurant & Bar – This restaurant is located higher up and has a cool view over the sea. There’s a large terrace with lots of seating and a swimming pool. The menu is extensive with both Moroccan and Western dishes. Lots of vegetarian options.
Our favorite addresses in Taghazout
Right in the middle of Taghazout lies Taghazout Ocean View. For a friendly price, you can count on a wonderful stay here. It’s located a bit higher up the mountain than most accommodations, so from the rooftop terrace you have a wide view over the village and the sea. The staff is incredibly friendly and hospitable, and they serve an extensive breakfast that’s slightly different every day. Coming to Taghazout to surf and want to meet other travelers? Then GOLVEN Surf is perfect! This is a social hostel that’s all about surfing. Every morning a van leaves for the beach to go surfing. There’s a cozy rooftop where you can play games while enjoying the setting sun. Finally, we want to recommend Teddy Pirate for those with a more generous budget. This accommodation has a fantastic location, as it’s located right at the end of Taghazout’s bay. You have an amazing view of the beach and sea, where you can see surfers in action. The interior is also to die for – every corner is perfectly styled. For enthusiasts, this accommodation is also a surf & yoga camp, but even if you’re not interested in that, it’s great to stay here.
 Taghazout Ocean View |
 GOLVEN Surf |
 Teddy Pirate |
