Taghazout Travel Guide

I knew that, if I ever went back to Morocco, Taghazout would be on the itinerary.

I’d heard a lot about this charming fishing village from multiple people back home in Lagos, so it felt like the obvious choice when booking a surf trip in Morocco.

When I first arrived, however, I was surprised that so many people I know had been here.

Because it truly is a village.

Seeing just how tiny Taghazout is, I was worried a week would be too long.

But, as my week there went on, I realised how much more it has to it.

A lot like Lagos, actually, which is perhaps why so many people who travel to one also find themselves in the other at some point.

Why visit Taghazout

Admittedly, Taghazout isn’t the easiest place in Morocco to get to.

A tiny village with no airport of its own, the only way to get here is by taking a bus or taxi from the city of Agadir.

Or, if like me, you’re travelling from Marrakech to Taghazout, you’ll need to take a bus to Agadir and transfer.

Despite the logistical inconvenience of getting to Taghazout, it’s still a popular spot among those in the know, so don’t overlook it for this reason.

Here are some of the reasons why you may want to add Taghazout to your Morocco itinerary:

A balance between active days and chill nights

Taghazout is, first and foremost, a village built around the surf. That means it’s a great place to get active, especially in the water.

The village also has a strong yoga community, with classes and events all over, as well as a world-famous skate park.

And if sports aren’t really your thing, its long stretches of beaches and tranquil rooftops are the perfect way to unwind away from Morocco’s bigger cities.

A small village with a big personality

Don’t be fooled by Taghazout’s size. Its modest streets are home to more than first meets the eye.

It was only after nearly a week here that I began to notice just how much life is here.

Speaking to some of the locals is the best way to dig a little deeper, learn about the many projects going on here and get to see the real Taghazout.

It’s popular with both international tourists and Moroccans

Something that surprised me about Taghazout was just how many Moroccans travel here.

It’s a great spot to meet semi-local travellers from all over, learn more about the country as a whole and maybe even pick up some inspiration on where to travel next in Morocco!

📲 TRAVEL TIP: There’s no WiFi at many of the surf spots (and it’s not always easy to find along the Moroccan coast). If you want to stay connected – especially if you’re venturing off alone and may needs directions! – then it’s best to go prepared with an eSim like HolaFly. Use code ALAJODE to receive an exclusive reader discount.

Things to do in Taghazout

Worried Taghazout won’t have enough to keep you entertained?

No matter how active (or not!) you’re feeling, here are some of the best things to do in Taghazout:

1 – Sunset at the skatepark

Famous among skaters, Taghazout Skate Park is an experience for spectators too.

On a clear day, it has one of the best views over the village and the Atlantic coast that stretches far beyond.

It’s one of the best places to catch sunset, not only because of the epic viewpoint but because this is when the park really comes to life.

Expect a full crowd, lively music, some seriously impressive talent and hours that pass as you lose yourself in the atmosphere.

You’ll need to make a small climb to get there (just follow Google Maps!) but it’s well worth it. Don’t miss it!

2 – Surf!

As the main activity in town, surfing is a no-brainer.

Whether you’re a total beginner or more advanced, there are surf schools that can accommodate all levels, as well as plenty of places to rent quality gear.

Many of the surf camps and hostels can arrange lessons (if they’re not included already) or you can easily book a surf lesson online.

3 – Practice yoga

Taghazout’s buzzy yoga community offers classes at all times of day and in all styles.

Whether you’re an experienced yogi or a total newbie, there are plenty of classes to try.

It’s even possible to do aerial yoga on some of the village’s scenic rooftops.

4 – Have a beach day

Even if you’re not into surfing or watersports, a day at one of Taghazout’s beaches will still be a day well spent.

They’re also a hive of activity, with surf schools and families all mingling together.

5 – Try Moroccan food

Taghazout has plenty of places designed – and even owned by – foreigners, but still maintains its individual identity.

That means you can eat at a fully vegan cafe one day and enjoyed a home-cooked meal the next.

The food served every day at Adventure Keys was some of the best food I’ve had in all of Morocco.

6 – Explore the streets

Taghazout may be tiny, but its narrow alleys are still the kind you can get lost in.

And getting lost in one of the best ways to get your bearings while getting a feel for the village.

Every turns uncovers more street art, cute shops and cafes or friendly locals.

7 – Detox

Taghazout is a dry village, making it the perfect place to detox.

It’s possible to enjoy a beer at certain bars – at an elevated price – but why not take the opportunity to enjoy a break from the booze?

8 – Stroll along the beach walk

From the centre of Taghazout, it’s possible to walk all the way down the coast to the popular surf spot of Banana Beach (and beyond!).

It’s an easy hour-long stroll, mostly in a straight line, but best saved for a day when the UV rating isn’t too high because it’s exposed.

There are toilets, cafes and plenty of beach spots that make for great stops along the way.

9 – Take a day trip

Even though Taghazout has enough to offer for a week or more, there are plenty of places to explore nearby.

Some of the most unique day trips from Taghazout can be enjoyed in half a day or less and will show you a completely different side to this part of Morocco.

Nearby Paradise Valley is the perfect place to relax and enjoy some delicious tagine, or simply cool off in the natural springs.

While it’s technically possible to visit alone, you’ll want to book an organised tour here!

Alternatively, head to Agadir to get lost in the hustle and bustle of the el-Had souk.

This ginormous market is the perfect place to put your haggling skills to the test, stock up on amlou (a must try almond butter with argan oil!) or simply immerse yourself in the local city life.

Both offer a completely different experience to the small village of Taghazout.

Taghazout travel recommendations

One thing you’ll quickly realise about Taghazout is that there’s so much more to this cute coastal village than first meets the eye.

I only found myself adding more things to my Taghazout travel bucket list the longer I was there.

Here are the places I absolutely loved and recommend:

Where to stay in Taghazout

• For an all-in surf, work and stay package, choose Adventure Keys. Highlights include super-fast WiFi in the top-floor co-working space, delicious home-cooked meals, a busy social space and rooftop yoga on-site.
• For a high-end retreat, check in to Munga Guesthouse. This boutique hotel offers an intimate experience with premium surf coaching and design-led rooms.
• Prefer a private place? Staying in a riad is a must when visiting Morocco and the Surf Riad combines traditional Moroccan culture with surf town vibes.

Restaurants & cafes in Taghazout

• Take a pause at Surf Berbère, the perfect seaside spot for watching the waves and losing track of time. Try the pistachio milkshake if you’re feeling indulgent.
• Red Clay Cafe is a must-visit for vegan meals and healthy options including kombucha. It’s also the only place in town that I found serving specialty coffee!
• For delicious healthy meals that suit all diets, it’s hard to beat Teapot Cafe. Highlights include poke bowls, tacos and more. The smoothies are awesome, too.

Other Taghazout tips

• Shop for surf gear and souvenirs at Surf Maroc. The local brand has a large store full of quality surf gear and Moroccan brands in addition to rentals, lessons and a several guesthouses along the coast.
• Take a walk and spot the abundance of street art that lights up many of the village’s walls and building. As you may expect, many of the murals are surf-themed!
• If you’re working remotely in Morocco, there are plenty of co-working spaces in Taghazout. Most charge around 100 MAD (around $10) for a day pass, but provide free access with food.
• Make sure you travel to Taghazout with plenty of cash because almost all places in town are cash only. There is now an ATM, but there’s no guarantee it will have cash available, so it’s best to stock up before arriving – or, as many people do, during a day trip to Agadir or Marrakech.