Mystic Orient

"Here it is, the paradise that was once my home: sea and mountains. Some of this remains with one throughout life, even before science, civilisation and consciousness. And perhaps I will return there to die in peace." Driss Chraibi, one of the best-known writers of northern Africa wrote this sentence when speaking of his native country, Morocco...

Essaouira is a coastal city with beaches as far as the eye can see and counts among the "model destinations" for windsurfers, kitesurfers and surfers worldwide. The architecture of the old town is strongly influenced by Portuguese military and French and Berber culture. The impressive appearance of the city wall gives the city a mystic sublimity, whereas the center of Essaouira is blooming with light and magic: narrow alleys, white chalked houses, blue doors, peaceful squares, cosy cafés, stalls and workshops out of which the characteristic smell of Thuja wood escapes. The lively harbour, directly southeast of the Medina, is also full of impressions: the fishing nets are spread on the pier, the boats unload their catches, craftsmen build traditional wooden boats and roast seafood on grills. In Essaouira the atmosphere is truly unique and easygoing.

The spot in Essaouira
Essaouira is Morocco's windiest coastal town! The long sandy beach, stretching for about 3 miles, with sideshore winds from the right, offers ideal practising conditions for beginner to professional kitesurfers. In the summer months, the thermals created by the huge difference in land and sea temperatures accelerates the north-easterly trade wind, which blows uncreasingly. The strong, sometimes gusty winds create demanding conditions at this kitesurfing spot.

The curved shape of the bay also makes it a very safe kite-surfing spot. If you are nevertheless carried out too far, a rescue boat will be there immediately to assist you. There are no separate kitesurfing and windsurfing areas, as there is plenty of room on the water.

Advanced kitesurfers (from level 3 upwards) and wave enthusiasts can ride at kite-spots further to the south such as Mouly Bouzarktoune and Sidi Kaoki. Our staff organises weekly and on-demand trips to these spots.

Depending on the tide, it is about 100 - 150 m from our center to the water. The sandy bottom ensures con-venient and easy access and creates a shallow area near the shore.

Wind and waves
What is special about Essaouira is the fact that this kitesurfing spot offers both flat water and waves. In the summer months, you can count on finding flat conditions with a slight wind chop.
By midday, the wind has built up considerably and may reach a Force of 7 in the course of the afternoon. Further downwind there are small swell waves, ideal for riding down and jumping.

In the winter months, the waves are higher and the winds weaker! Kitesurfing beginners' lessons are held in summer from 9:00 to 13:00.

Although water temperatures may not be comparable with those of the Caribbean (17-20°C), you will find plenty of space, very reliable winds (80%) and superb kitesurfing conditions.

The center
Our center is centrally located in the middle of the Bay of Essaouira. You can set up and launch your kite practically in front of the center.

The "Ocean Vagabond" restaurant, offering excellent snacks and drinks and a very relaxed atmosphere is right next to the center. You can enjoy the view over the entire beach from one of the tables or your deckchair.