Surfing in Aourir, Morocco: The Banana Point Surf Experience

Introduction to Surfing in Aourir, Morocco

Aourir, known to surfers everywhere as Banana Village, sits on Morocco’s coast, twenty minutes north of Agadir and in the direct path of consistent Atlantic swell. Small and entirely at ease with itself, it has quietly become one of Africa’s most celebrated surf destinations, built almost entirely on the reputation of one wave: Banana Point.

A bumpy ride by one of the guests at Eco Bay Morocco.

The combination of world-class surf, year-round sunshine and an authentically Moroccan atmosphere makes it a place that gets under your skin, and once you have surfed Banana Point, and scored a good session, it is a very difficult coast to leave.

A surfer gladly taking a nice turn at Banana Point. Photo provided by Eco Bay Morocco.

Seasons to Surf

• Winter Season — November to March: Advanced only. Aourir’s most consistent and powerful season. North Atlantic groundswells push down the Moroccan coast with real size and regularity, and Banana Point responds with its best performances of the year.
• Summer Season — June to August: Beginner recommendation. Smaller surf and reliably warm conditions make summer the most accessible season for beginners and improvers. The Atlantic rarely goes flat here and the warm water, golden light and easy pace of life along the coast make it a deeply enjoyable time to be in the water.
• Shoulder Seasons — March to May / September to November: The sweet spot for most surfers. Autumn brings building swell from September alongside uncrowded lineups and comfortable temperatures. Spring offers a similarly appealing balance of decent surf and a coastline that feels genuinely unhurried.

A group of beginners heading out for a lesson with Eco Bay Morocco.

Recommended Surf Spots

Banana Point

Banana Point is a right-hand point break that peels along a rocky shelf just north of the village, producing long, walling rides that can run for well over a hundred metres on a good swell. It works across a wide range of swell sizes and ability levels, which is a large part of why it draws surfers back to Aourir again and again.

Banana Point doing what it does best with long, walling rights on the Moroccan Atlantic coast.

Surf Camp and Accommodation

Eco Bay Morocco

Eco Bay Morocco is a surf hostel and camp in Auorir, within easy reach of Banana Point. Built around an eco-friendly ethos, it offers everything from shared dorms to private en suite rooms, with a generous locally sourced breakfast included across all packages. Surf packages are avaliable to intertwine surfing and accommodation.

Surf lessons, coaching, and yoga sessions are all available on site. Rooftop chill-out space and warm, family atmosphere, and good vibes make it a natural fit for solo travellers and groups alike searching for relaxation and sessions.

A group of beginners from Eco Bay Morocco getting a morning warmup before they head into the water for a lesson.

Other Things to Do in the Area

• Souk Wednesday, Aourir: The weekly market that gives the village its nickname is one of the most authentic and lively souks in the region with fresh produce, spices, textiles and the full sensory experience of rural Morocco.
• Paradise Valley: A stunning natural gorge and palm oasis about 30 kilometres inland from Agadir, with natural rock pools and dramatic scenery that makes for an excellent day off the board.
• Immouzer Waterfalls: A scenic drive into the Anti-Atlas mountains brings you to one of southern Morocco’s most beautiful natural spots and best visited in spring when the waterfalls are running at full flow.

Just your typical camel on the beach with surfers in the background. Photo provided by Eco Bay Morocco.

Conclusion on Surfing in Aourir

Aourir, Morocco, and its coinciding local break of Banana Point are the kind of surf destination that rewrites your expectations of what a surf trip can be.

The wave is world-class, the setting is extraordinary and the warmth of the welcome from Eco Bay Morocco, from the village, from Morocco itself gives the whole experience a depth that purely wave-focused destinations rarely deliver. Come for Banana Point. Travel for sessions. Come back for everything else.

A beautiful view from the rooftop view of Eco Bay Morocco.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the water temperatures like in Aourir?

Water temperatures range from around 17°C in winter to 22°C in summer, kept cool year-round by the Canary Current running down the Atlantic coast.

What wetsuit thickness do I need?

A 3/2mm fullsuit is ideal for most of the year. In the height of summer a 2mm shorty can be enough, but a 3/2 is the safest all-round choice.

When is the least busy time to surf Banana Point?

Spring, particularly April and May, tends to offer the best combination of decent swell and thinner crowds before the summer visitors arrive.

How do I get to Aourir?

Fly into Agadir Al Massira Airport, which is served by numerous European carriers. Aourir is roughly 20 kilometres north and a 15 to 20 minute taxi ride from the airport.

Is Aourir suitable for beginner surfers?

Yes. While Banana Point itself suits intermediates and above, there are beginner-friendly beach breaks nearby and Eco Bay Morocco offers structured lessons for all levels.

Do I need to speak French or Arabic to get around?

English is widely spoken in the surf community around Aourir and Taghazout. A few words of French or Darija go a long way with locals and are always warmly appreciated.

Other Surf Locations in Morocco?

Check out our Surfing in Morocco Surf Travel Guide, which has a handful of locations with surf camps and lessons to practice and improve your surfing.