Sidi Ifni
- Wave, Shortboard
- Best for
- Intermediate
- Skill Level
- Mixed
- Spot Type
- 15–25 kts
- Wind Range
This spot information is AI-assisted and has not been human verified. It may be incomplete, outdated, or incorrect. Verify safety, access, local rules, and current conditions with official or local sources before riding.
About
Sidi Ifni is a rugged Atlantic town spot with a sandy beach launch and wave riding conditions that suit intermediate users. For surfing, the shoreline includes beach breaks with additional reef-influenced options in the broader area, but very large winter swells can shut down many beaches. The water is typically cool (about 16–19°C year-round), and conditions near shore can be cloudy or only fair depending on the day and swell energy. For kitesurfing, the spot is described as wave-oriented with small to medium waves and a medium-sized launch and landing area. Reported wave quality varies along the beach: waves are generally reported to be better to the north of the harbor mole, while the south side is often smaller. Launching in front of cliffs and managing gustiness/turbulence from coastal structures is a key consideration. Wind is associated with a North-to-NNE trade-wind pattern, typically around 15–25 knots in the best months (April through September). Afternoon thermal reinforcement can add on to the wind in summer, but cliffs and the harbor wall may create wind shadows and more turbulent airflow close to shore, especially when returning to the beach. Safety is centered on the harbor mole and rocks at the ends of the beach. Strong currents, shore break, and turbulence near the harbor wall are also highlighted. Overall, the spot is best treated as an intermediate-friendly destination with extra caution during larger swell events and when operating close to the mole.
- Better wave options reported north of the harbor mole (kitesurfing and surf).
- Typical wind in the 15–25 knot range during spring/summer trade-wind months.
- Cool Atlantic water: ~16–19°C year-round; full wetsuit needed.
- Small to medium wave setup suitable for intermediate riders.
- Sandy launch with a medium-sized launch/landing area.
- Summer trade winds support reliable wind sessions in a defined seasonal window.
- Local amenities and multiple water-sports schools available in town.
- Big swells can close out many beaches, especially for beginners.
- Harbor mole and rocks are the main hazards, with dangerous turbulence if you get too close.
- Wind/airflow can be turbulent near cliffs and harbor structures (wind shadows).
- Water can be cloudy or fair near shore.
Wind, water and seasons
Wind
- Direction
- N, NNE, NW
- Wind Range
- 15–25 kts
- Wind Type
- Trade — Trade-wind regime; wind is mostly described as North / NNE-related.
- Reliability
- Moderate
- Gust Factor
- Moderate gusts
- Best Months
- April, May, June, July, August, September
- Recommended Kite Sizes
- 7–12 m²
Water & beach
- Water Type
- Mixed
- Beach
- Sand
- Beach Size
- Medium
- Waves
- Medium
- Launch
- Medium — Medium-sized sandy launch and landing area on a beach with cliffs behind it; space can be limited at high tide.
- Launch Difficulty
- Moderate — Launch is described as moderate difficulty; cliffs and shore break can make launch/entry tricky.
Through the year
Generally quiet, though more popular with domestic tourists in July and August.
November to February can see occasional rain and heavy Atlantic storms.
By sport
What to expect for each.
A wave-oriented kitesurfing area with a sandy beach launch and small-to-medium waves. Better wave organization is reported to the north of the harbor mole; smaller waves to the south. Launching near cliffs requires experience handling Atlantic swell.
- Kite Sizes
- 7–12 m²
Suitable for wave windsurfing when the swell is manageable; launch can be tricky due to shore break.
- Sail Sizes
- 4.5–5.5 m²
Possible but challenging due to shore break and wave energy; deep water is reached quickly. Foil friendliness is limited.
- Foil Friendly
- Limited
- Min Depth
- 2 meters
- Wing Sizes
- 4–6 m²
A town-and-beach shoreline with beach breaks and some reef-influenced sections nearby. The area can handle various swell sizes, but very large winter swells may close out many beaches.
- Wave Direction
- Both
- Optimal Swell
- NW, W
- Swell Height
- 1–2.5 m
- Optimal Tide
- Low, Mid — Tide preference is given as low by one source and mid by another; both indicate it works best around the main mid-range tidal conditions.
- Shelter
- Exposed — The coastline is described as exposed overall; cliffs and coastline shape influence local conditions.
- Wind Effect
- Wind can make the surf less clean; NE/E wind directions can affect grooming differently. Bigger swells can close out many beaches.
- Bigger Swell
- Can close out during very large winter swells; big swells can shut down many beaches, especially for beginners.
- Wave Quality
- Good
- Wave Power
- Moderate
- Wave Shape
- Mixed — Sources describe mixed/varied shapes; one description also notes a peeling character.
- Peel Speed
- Medium
- Ride Length
- Long
- Typical Ride Length
- 200–250 m
- Ride Length Details
- In the wider Sidi Ifni area, some rights can run for over 200 meters on smaller swells; ride length can be longer on cleaner NW swells with lighter offshore winds.
Check the forecast before you go
See wind, waves, weather and session windows for Sidi Ifni in the full forecast view.
Sidi Ifni wind and wave forecast summary
- Wind
- 1–7 ktsGusts 14 kts
- Direction
- NNW348°
- Strongest day
- Tue, Oct 277 kts
- Windy days
- 0/712 kts or more
- Waves
- 1.2–2.1 m11s period
- Temperature
- 19–29 °C
Over the next 7 days, Sidi Ifni is forecast for daytime winds of 1–7 kts, peaking around 7 kts on Tuesday, October 27 with gusts to 14 kts. The prevailing direction is NNW. Waves run 1.2–2.1 m with a period of about 11s. Based on the Wavind model, in the spot’s local time.
Other spots in the area
What to know before you launch
Safety, access, restrictions, rescue, and local rules can change. Treat these details as informational and confirm them locally before launching.
Hazards
- Harbor mole (concrete wall)
- Rocks
- Hidden rocks at the ends of the beach
- Strong currents
- Shore break
- Turbulence close to the harbor wall/mole
Rescue & support
- Lifeguard
- Seasonal
- Rescue & Self-Rescue
- Limited — Rescue services are described as limited; support is often informal via local surf schools and authorities in emergencies.
- Emergency Info
- Local clinics are available in Sidi Ifni; major hospitals are located in Agadir. National emergency numbers: 15 (medical emergencies) and 19 (police).
- Localism / Vibe
- Mild
Rules of the spot
Standard international navigation rules; respect local surfers in the lineup.
- Waves are reported to be better to the north of the harbor mole and smaller to the south.
- Be careful returning to the beach due to wind shadow/turbulence created by the cliffs.
- Avoid getting too close to the harbor mole; it can create dangerous turbulence.
- Big swells can close out many beaches, especially for beginners.
Getting there & access
- Nearest City
- Sidi Ifni
- Nearest Town
- Sidi Ifni
- Nearest Airport
- Agadir–Al Massira Airport (AGA)
- Parking
- Parking is available along the promenade and near the beach entrance.
- Public Transport
- Accessible via CTM and Supratours bus networks and shared 'Grand Taxis'; road travel is the main link.
- Access
- From Agadir south on P30 to Tiznit; then continue toward Gourizim/Mirleft and onward to Sidi Ifni.
- Cost Level
- Budget
- Local Language
- Arabic, Amazigh, French, Spanish
What's on the beach
- Accommodation
- Nearby town — Several surf hostels, hotels, and guesthouses are located within walking distance of the beach; other lodging options are also available around the coast.
- Food & Drink
- Numerous cafes and restaurants along the seafront offering Moroccan and seafood dishes.
- Equipment Rental:
- Equipment rental is available at local surf shops in the town center.
- Gear Storage
- Several surf camps and guest houses offer dedicated storage facilities for guests' equipment.
- Gear Repair
- Basic surfboard repairs available at local shops.
No schools or services are listed for this spot yet.
Off the water
A relaxed, low-density coastal town with dramatic cliffs and an Art Deco/Spanish colonial heritage, with seaside promenades and nearby coastal scenery.
Coastal frontage used for walking, surfing, and seaside sightseeing.
Famed for massive natural red sandstone arches carved by the ocean.
1930s Spanish colonial architecture including the old consulate and church.
A central civic area associated with the town's colonial-era layout.
Tandem paragliding and courses over the coastal cliffs and beaches.
The surrounding Atlantic coast is known for surf conditions, especially in the winter season.
The broader coastline is used by riders; conditions can be better suited to experienced riders in many sections.
Common regional excursions offered from coastal stay operators.
Local market stalls offering fresh daily catches prepared to order.
Listed among local nightlife options.
A paved walkway along the cliffs offering sunset views and local cafes.
Low-key coastal and town-centered activities suitable for mixed-age travel.
From riders who've been here
Latest reported conditions
Spot questions
Frequently asked questions
When is the best season at Sidi Ifni?
The best overall months at Sidi Ifni are May, June, July, August, September. The best wind months are April, May, June, July, August, September.
Which wind directions work at Sidi Ifni?
Sidi Ifni works with N, NNE, NW winds.
What equipment sizes are recommended at Sidi Ifni?
Recommended equipment sizes at Sidi Ifni: Kitesurfing: 7–12 m² · Windsurfing: 4.5–5.5 m² · Wingfoiling: 4–6 m². The typical wind range is 15–25 kts.
What skill level is Sidi Ifni suitable for?
Sidi Ifni suits these riding levels: Kitesurfing: Intermediate · Windsurfing: Advanced · Wingfoiling: Advanced · Surfing: Intermediate.