Is November a good month to surf Morocco?
Yes, and it is often overlooked. November falls inside the September to April window, when north-west Atlantic swell reaches Morocco’s coast most consistently. It also comes just before December to February, the biggest and busiest stretch of the season.
That gives you regular swell, water that still holds some summer warmth, and line-ups that are usually quieter than in midwinter. Around Imsouane, on the Atlantic coast between Agadir and Essaouira, the area gets around 340 days of sun a year, so most November days are bright.
How does the swell change week by week?
No two Novembers are the same, so read what follows as a general pattern rather than a forecast. Morocco’s swell comes from storms far out in the North Atlantic. As the northern hemisphere heads into winter, those storms tend to get stronger and more frequent, so the swell generally builds through the month.
| Period | Typical swell | What it means in the water | Best suited to |
|---|---|---|---|
| Week 1 (1-7 Nov) | Often small to medium, sometimes with flat-ish gaps between swells | Long, friendly rides at Magic Bay | Beginners and improvers |
| Week 2 (8-14 Nov) | Swells usually arriving more regularly | More consistent sessions across a range of sizes | All levels |
| Week 3 (15-21 Nov) | Larger pulses become more likely | Cathedral Point can start to come alive on bigger days | Intermediates and up at Cathedral, everyone at Magic Bay on moderate days |
| Week 4 (22-30 Nov) | Closer to early-winter conditions, with bigger swells possible | Occasional powerful days alongside smaller, cleaner ones | Experienced surfers on big days; beginners with a coach choosing the session |
This range of sizes is one of November’s strengths. Over a single week there is often something for every level, and a mixed group can usually all surf.
What is the wind like in November?
The daily pattern holds year-round: mornings are usually the cleanest, and onshore wind tends to build after midday. Plan your main session early. Afternoons suit rest, a second session on bumpier, smaller waves, or time out of the water.
Autumn weather systems can sometimes break that pattern for a day or two, bringing stronger wind or rain. Check the forecast daily rather than relying on a single look before you travel.
How warm is the water, and which wetsuit do I need?
In November the water around Imsouane usually sits at about 19-20C, between the summer and winter ranges. It cools slowly, so late November tends to be a little colder than early November.
| Time of year | Typical water temperature | Recommended wetsuit |
|---|---|---|
| May to August | About 20-23C | 3/2 |
| November | Usually about 19-20C | 3/2, or a 4/3 if you feel the cold |
| December to February | About 17-20C | 3/2 for most; 4/3 for long sessions or cold-sensitive surfers |
On land, days are generally mild, but early mornings and evenings feel cooler. Pack a warm layer for dawn sessions and for sitting outside after sunset.
Where can you surf around Imsouane in November?
Magic Bay is the main wave: a right-hand point break of roughly 800 metres that peels over sand for much of its length. It stays forgiving across a wide range of swell sizes, which makes it reliable throughout the month for beginners and experienced surfers alike.
Cathedral Point, on the exposed side of the headland, takes more swell and breaks with more power over rock. It suits experienced surfers, and it tends to become more relevant as November’s swells grow.
There are more than fifteen surf spots between Imsouane and Agadir, including Anchor Point at Taghazout, a well-known right-hand point that generally needs a solid swell to work properly. As the month goes on, those bigger-swell spots are more likely to switch on.
Why is November underrated?
- The season has already started. You get the consistent swell of September to April without waiting for midwinter.
- It is usually less crowded. December to February draws the most surfers, so November line-ups are generally more relaxed.
- The water is still comfortable. At around 19-20C, a 3/2 is enough for most people.
- Every level has options. Smaller days suit learners at Magic Bay, and bigger pulses give experienced surfers Cathedral Point and the spots further down the coast.
How do you get to Imsouane?
The nearest airport is Agadir Al Massira (AGA), about 2 hours south by road. Essaouira is about 90 minutes to the north, and Marrakech is around 3.5 to 4 hours away. Imsouane itself is a working fishing village, and the harbour, where the boats land, sits right beside the bay.
Planning your November trip
If you are new to surfing, our surf lessons run in small groups at Magic Bay. For a full week on the coast, see our surf weeks. If you are travelling light, we have boards and 3/2 or 4/3 wetsuits for rent. For afternoons when the wind comes up, have a look at our activities.