Essaouira - surf spot statistics

Essaouira offers consistent surf conditions year-round, with the best months for wave quality and favorable winds being from October through March. During this period, ground swell dominates (73–93%), providing powerful, clean waves with mean swell sizes ranging from 1.7m to 2.1m. October and November strike a good balance between swell size and wind conditions, with 39% of days having offshore or light winds. The winter months (December–February) bring the largest swells (2.1m) but have more inconsistent winds, with good wind days dropping to 37–43%. March still offers solid ground swell (83%) but sees increasing onshore winds (70% unfavorable). From April to September, conditions deteriorate as wind swell takes over, peaking in July (90% wind swell), and swell size drops to 1.5–1.7m. Wind conditions are poorest in summer (June–August), with only 17–22% of days having favorable winds. Late September can be a transition month with improving ground swell (48%) but still challenging winds. For the most reliable surf, aim for October–November when swell energy, size, and wind conditions align best, though winter months deliver bigger waves for those willing to endure less predictable winds.

July in Essaouira offers surfable conditions with an average swell height of 1.6m and a decent period of 8.1s, suggesting consistent, workable waves. The swell is predominantly from the NNW direction, contributing the majority of waves in the 1-2.5m range, with larger sets (1.5-2.5m) making up over half of the swell distribution—ideal for intermediate to advanced surfers. However, wind conditions are less favorable, with only 18% of days providing ideal offshore or light cross-shore winds. The dominant northerly and north-northeasterly winds often blow in the 20-40kph range, creating choppy or bumpy conditions. While the swell is reliable, wind quality is hit-or-miss, so early mornings or occasional clean days will offer the best sessions. Overall, it’s a month with solid wave potential but requires patience for the right wind windows.