Whether you’re visiting Imsouane in winter, summer, or somewhere in between, packing the right layers and surf essentials will make your week much more comfortable.

Here’s what you need — and what you can leave at home.

1. Wetsuit: choose your thickness by season

The Atlantic water around Imsouane stays relatively cool throughout the year, so a wetsuit is useful even during the warmer months.

As a general guide:

These are general guidelines rather than strict rules. Water temperature, wind and your own sensitivity to cold can make a difference.

Wetsuit tips

• Not sure what to bring? A slightly warmer wetsuit is usually better than being cold during a session.

• Morning sessions can feel colder, while the wind can make you chilly after surfing, even on sunny days.

• If you’re a beginner, remember that you’ll spend plenty of time in the water — staying warm makes a big difference.

• You don’t need to buy a wetsuit just for your trip. It’s included at your surf camp!

2. Sun protection: don’t underestimate the Moroccan sun

The Atlantic breeze can make the sun feel less intense than it actually is. You’ll spend several hours outdoors, often on or near the water, so good sun protection is essential.

Pack:

• SPF 50+ sunscreen for your face and body

• A zinc-based sunscreen or sun stick for your nose, cheeks and ears

• Sunglasses

• A cap or hat for between surf sessions

• Aloe vera or after-sun lotion

Reapply sunscreen regularly, especially after surfing or swimming.

3. What to wear in Imsouane: beach vs. village

Imsouane is a relaxed surf town, and you’ll see plenty of surfwear around the beach and surf camps. At the same time, Morocco is a predominantly Muslim country, and Imsouane is still a traditional local community.

You can be comfortable and respectful with very little effort. You don’t need to dress formally, but it’s a good idea to cover up when you’re walking through the village.

At the beach and surf camp

Swimwear, boardshorts, bikinis and normal surf clothing are absolutely fine around the beach and at your surf camp.

Walking around the village

Keep a pair of shorts, a T-shirt, a light shirt or a sarong/pareo in your beach bag. It’s easy to throw something on when you’re leaving the beach or heading into town.

For women, you do not need to wear a headscarf. A light cover-up, loose shirt or dress is generally enough when walking around the village.

Visiting other places

If you’re taking a day trip to Essaouira, Agadir or Taghazout, the same general rule applies: comfortable, casual clothing is perfect, but it’s better to avoid walking around town in swimwear.

A light scarf can also be useful for sun, wind and dust.

4. Bring layers for evenings and windy days

One of the biggest packing mistakes for a Moroccan surf trip is assuming that it will be warm all day and all night.

Even in summer, the temperature can drop in the evening, especially when the wind picks up.

Bring:

• A warm hoodie or fleece

• Long trousers or leggings

• Warm socks

• A light jacket or windbreaker if you feel the cold easily

Layers are much more useful than bringing one heavy winter coat.

5. Surf extras worth bringing

You don’t need to bring a huge amount of surf equipment, but a few small things can make your trip easier:

• Flip-flops for the beach and around camp

• A quick-dry towel or changing poncho

• Surf wax, if you have a preferred type

• Booties if your feet get cold easily

• A reusable water bottle

• A waterproof or separate bag for wet gear on your journey home

Forgot something? Don’t worry. You can buy many basic surf and beach essentials locally.

6. Travel and everyday essentials

A few practical items are easy to forget:

• Power adapter: Morocco generally uses European-style Type C and Type E plugs.

• Cash in Moroccan dirhams: smaller shops, cafés and local businesses may not accept cards.

• Toiletries and personal medication

• A small day bag for walks, day trips and exploring the area

• A refillable water bottle for staying hydrated throughout the day

What you don’t need to bring

Packing light is easy when you’re staying at a surf camp.

You probably don’t need:

• Your own surfboard — unless you really love your board. We understand! Most surf camps and surf shops have boards suitable for different levels.

• A thick winter coat — layers are much more practical.

• Lots of formal clothes — the atmosphere in Imsouane is relaxed and casual.

Quick packing checklist for Imsouane

Before leaving for your surf camp, make sure you have:

• ☐ Wetsuit — or check if your camp provides one

• ☐ Swimwear

• ☐ SPF 50+ sunscreen

• ☐ Zinc sunscreen or sun stick

• ☐ Sunglasses

• ☐ Hat or cap

• ☐ Hoodie or fleece

• ☐ Long trousers or leggings

• ☐ T-shirts and shorts

• ☐ Flip-flops

• ☐ Quick-dry towel or changing poncho

• ☐ Reusable water bottle

• ☐ Power adapter

• ☐ Some Moroccan dirhams

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to bring my own wetsuit to a surf camp in Morocco?

Not necessarily. Many surf camps provide or rent wetsuits, so check what’s included in your booking before you travel.

What wetsuit do I need for surfing in Imsouane?

A 3/2 mm wetsuit is a useful general option for much of the year, while a 4/3 mm can be more comfortable during the colder winter months. Conditions vary, so check with your surf camp before your trip.

Is Morocco cold for surfing?

The Atlantic water around Imsouane is cool throughout the year, but the air can be pleasantly warm and sunny. The combination of cool water and Atlantic wind is why a wetsuit and warm layers are useful, even during summer.

Do women need to cover up in Morocco?

There is no requirement for women to wear a headscarf as a tourist. Swimwear is perfectly normal at the beach, but when walking through Imsouane or visiting other towns, it’s more respectful and comfortable to wear normal clothes rather than swimwear.

Do I need to bring a surfboard to Imsouane?

No. If you’re staying at a surf camp, boards are usually available for lessons and free surf. If you have a specific board you love, of course, bring it — we won’t judge!

Ready to surf in Imsouane?

Now that you know what to pack, all that’s left is to get in the water.

Tell us your travel dates and your surf level, and we’ll help you prepare for your surf camp in Imsouane.

Message us or check availability