The One List You Need Before Flying to Essaouira

Morocco surf trips are a different kind of travel — more active than a beach holiday, more comfortable than a camping trip, and more culturally rich than a standard resort stay. Getting your packing right means more time in the water and less time worrying about what you forgot. This list comes from years of welcoming surf guests to Essaouira and Sidi Kaouki.

Documents and Money

  • Passport. Morocco requires a valid passport with at least 6 months remaining. EU, UK and US citizens don't need a visa for stays under 90 days.
  • Travel insurance. Check that your policy covers surfing (classified as a water sport). Most standard policies do — confirm before you go.
  • Cash in Moroccan Dirhams (MAD). Many smaller restaurants, markets and services are cash-only. ATMs are available in Essaouira medina. Bring Euros or Pounds to exchange on arrival.
  • Emergency contacts saved offline. Your accommodation, our WhatsApp (+212643806655), and local emergency services (190 police, 150 ambulance).

Surf Gear — What to Bring, What to Skip

If you're booking lessons or a surf trip in Essaouira with us, all equipment is included — board, wetsuit, leash. You don't need to bring any surf gear at all. This is the most common misunderstanding: guests haul surfboard bags across three airports when everything they need is already on the beach.

If you have your own board and want to use it, bring it. A shortboard in a travel bag is manageable. A longboard is a logistical hassle — use ours.

  • Reef-safe sunscreen. SPF 50+. Apply before the lesson, not during. Morocco's Atlantic sun is intense year-round.
  • Rashguard or swim shirt. Reduces wetsuit rash on longer sessions. Lightweight and easy to pack.
  • Waterproof bag or dry bag. For your phone and keys on the beach. Phones and salt water don't mix.

Clothing for the Trip

Pack for two environments: the medina (conservative, cultural) and the beach (relaxed, international).

  • Lightweight long sleeves. A thin linen shirt covers sun protection and cultural respect in the medina.
  • Comfortable quick-dry trousers or shorts. Beach casual is the standard.
  • A light jacket or hoodie. Essaouira evenings can be cool even in summer thanks to the Atlantic breeze. Bring one layer you don't mind getting salty.
  • Flip flops and trainers. Flip flops for the beach, trainers for the medina cobblestones.

Health and Wellbeing

  • Basic first aid and Imodium. Traveller's stomach is rare in Morocco but worth being prepared for.
  • Antihistamine cream. For jellyfish encounters, minor stings and insect bites.
  • Any prescription medication. Morocco has pharmacies everywhere but don't rely on finding specific brands.
  • Rehydration sachets. You sweat far more than you expect during surf sessions.

Electronics

  • Universal travel adapter. Morocco uses Type C and E plugs (same as mainland Europe).
  • Waterproof phone case or GoPro. Capturing your first waves is something you'll want to do.
  • Power bank. Essential for beach days away from charging points.

What to Leave Behind

Essaouira's medina shops sell most toiletries, basics and beach supplies at reasonable prices. Don't overpack shampoo and body wash — buy locally and save space for what matters.

Book Your Essaouira Surf Experience

Once your bag is packed, book the surf before you fly. Our surf day trips from €50 are the perfect introduction — lesson, Moroccan beach lunch and free afternoon surf, everything included. WhatsApp us with your travel dates and we'll set it all up.