Is Taghazout Safe? An Honest Guide for Travellers and Surfers

In short: yes, Taghazout is generally a safe and relaxed place for travellers, including solo travellers, women and families. The main risks are the everyday ones of any tourist area (petty theft, overcharging) and, above all, the ocean: respect the conditions and your level.

Taghazout has welcomed surfers from all over the world for decades, and the village lives from them. Like anywhere, a few simple habits make a trip smoother. This guide covers the questions people ask us most.

Everyday safety

• Belongings: do not leave phones, wallets or cameras alone on the beach while you surf. Leave valuables at your accommodation.
• At night: the village is lively and generally calm; use lit streets and go back in a group or by taxi if you are staying further away.
• Prices: agree the price before taxis, rides and services. Overcharging is more common than anything else.
• Offers on the street: politely decline anything you did not ask for. A firm “no, thank you” is enough.

Solo travellers and women

Many people travel to Taghazout alone, and surf camps make it easy to meet others from the first day. Women travelling alone generally feel comfortable in the village and the surf scene. Dressing respectfully away from the beach (shoulders and knees covered) avoids unwanted attention in the villages and towns, and swimwear is normal on the beach.

Families

Families come for the gentle beaches, the sunshine and the slow pace. The main care points are the sun, the sea (see below) and road traffic on the coast road, which has no pavement in places.

The ocean: the real safety topic

The biggest risks around Taghazout are in the water, not on land.

• Know your level: the famous points, such as Anchor Point, are for experienced surfers. Beginners belong on the sandy beach breaks, ideally with an instructor.
• Currents: they are strongest near the points, rocks and river mouths. If you are pulled out, paddle sideways along the beach, not against the current.
• Winter swells: from October to April the waves can be big. Check conditions or ask a local before going in.
• Rocks and urchins: wear booties at the rocky points.
• Lifeguards: most beaches have none outside summer.

Our surf lessons take place on beaches chosen each morning for the group’s level, with ISA certified instructors.

Health

• Drink bottled or filtered water.
• Use strong sunscreen and a hat: the sun is intense even in winter.
• Have travel insurance that covers surfing and medical costs.
• Pharmacies in the area can help with small problems; the hospitals and private clinics are in Agadir.

Money

Use cash machines inside banks or shops when possible, carry small notes in dirhams for taxis and cafés, and keep a card as a backup.

Frequently asked questions

Is Taghazout safe at night?

Generally yes. The village is small and lively; use the usual common sense, stay on lit streets and take a taxi for longer distances.

Is it safe to surf in Taghazout as a beginner?

Yes, on the right beach and with an instructor. Avoid the points until you can surf confidently.

Is Morocco safe to travel to?

Millions of tourists visit Morocco every year. Check your government’s travel advice before you go, as for any trip abroad.

Travelling alone? At a surf camp you surf, eat and go on trips with a group: see our packages or read our complete Taghazout guide.