Map
Banana Beach
Today's Surf Conditions at Banana Beach
Spot Conditions Map
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Today's Surf & Wind Forecast (Hourly)
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Spot Overview & Description
Banana Beach sits tucked between the typically dry mouth of the Tamrhakht river and a protective headland that shields it from the worst of the north wind. The vibe here is relaxed and welcoming, making it a favorite for families and first-timers. With multiple surf schools now operating out of the village, the lineup can get lively—but it’s a friendly, low-pressure environment where catching that first wave feels like a community event. The surf is gentle and forgiving, tailor-made for beginners. It works best on a northwest swell, but southwest and due north pulses can also deliver rideable waves. The bottom is pure sand, peeling both left and right over a mellow beach break. Even when the swell drops to a modest 1 foot (0.3 meters), there’s still enough energy for a soft, waist-high ride. The magic window is mid to high tide with a northeast breeze grooming the surface—clean, playful, and never intimidating. Because it’s so beginner-friendly, Banana Beach has become a hub for surf schools. Expect to share the water with plenty of other learners, so you’ll never feel out of place. The beach sees steady traffic throughout the day, so bring patience and a smile—you’re here to learn, and the ocean is happy to oblige.
Best Surf Season & Climatology
Best Surf Season (October - March)
The North Atlantic roars to life during these six months, with powerful extratropical lows marching across the mid-latitudes and firing long-period swell toward the Moroccan coast. Average wave heights hover between 1.8m and 2.2m, and periods consistently climb above 11.6s, often reaching 13s+, meaning solid, pulsing energy. The offshore wind from the east and northeast quadrants (NNE through E) blows a healthy 51-62% of the time, providing frequent windows of glassy, groomed conditions. However, the predominant swell arrives from the NW and NNW, which is not the ideal spread for this WSW-facing beach; these wraparound waves can still deliver punchy barrels and walled-up sections, especially when the wind aligns. This is the prime window for experienced surfers looking for size and power.
Fair Surf Season (April & September)
These transitional months offer a mixed bag. April sees the last gasp of winter swell – average height 2.0m and period 10.9s – but the winter wind patterns are weakening, and the ideal offshore wind drops to just 39%. The swell direction remains locked in the NW/NNW quadrant, meaning imperfect angles. In September, the sea begins to stir again as the Azores High relaxes; swell heights nudge up to 1.5m with periods rebounding to 10.1s, and offshore wind blows 46% of the time. The surf is more consistent than summer but still lacks the consistency and power of the peak season. Dedicated surfers can find fun, rippable waves with a bit of patience.
Low Surf Season (May - August)
Summer settles in with the Azores High firmly parked over the North Atlantic, squashing storm activity. Swell heights drop to 1.5-1.6m, periods shrink into the 7-9s range, and the energy becomes weakening and short-interval. The dominant wind direction tilts toward the NW and NNW – onshore for Banana Beach –, although the ideal offshore breeze still occurs 35-48% of the time. Most days are small and choppy, best suited for longboards or grovelers. July and August see a slight uptick in offshore wind frequency (47-48%) but the swell remains marginal. This is the low season for a reason: leave the big boards at home and plan a trip north to find better options.
Detailed Surf Information for Banana Beach
Detailed Surf Forecast
Access our detailed 8-day swell and wind forecast charts for Banana Beach with tidal graphs, period ranges, and daily forecast text summaries.
Swell & Wind Statistics
Explore historical swell consistency, wave heights, and offshore wind windows month-by-month, compiled from over 40 years of data.
Historical Surf Report
Browse the historical database archives to view past wave reports and understand spot climatology during specific years and months.
