Best Surf Spots in Africa and the Middle East Travel Vacation

Surfing in Africa & the Middle East

Africa and the Middle East have been traditionally overlooked by the surfing community, but that is changing! As surfers constantly seek out new challenges, as popular spots become overcrowded, and as the sport grows in popularity, the need for adventure and unconquered waves becomes paramount. With a diversity of water all around, from Africa’s Atlantic coast to the Red and Black Seas and the Persian Gulf of the Middle East, opportunity abounds for the surf community. These places are often known for engaging other types of watersports, too. Diving, parasailing, fishing, cruising, skiing, and kayaking are some favorites.

So go ahead and look below to explore the spots that are attracting attention, then visit us at Tripmasters to book your dream adventure!

Africa: Most visitors imagine courting ferocious beasts on an exciting jungle safari or riding a camel over sand ridges on a dreamy desert escape in Africa, but how many people think of flocking to the African coasts for a surf break?

As it turns out, the southwest-facing, meandering Moroccan coast means surfers can catch waves years round (though October to March is prime)! Visit the likes of Agadir and Essaouira (pictured Taghazout beach near Agadir) in the south and all the beaches in between!

But, do not neglect the islands off the coast of Africa or beautiful South Africa. The Canary Islands (sure they belong to Spain, but they are right there off the southern Moroccan coast!) and Sal Island get great surf due to their strategic locations. In South Africa, Plettenberg Bay offers warm water, moderate swells, beautiful views, and best of all it is relatively uncrowded!

The Middle East: The Middle East is known for a lot of things: History & culture, religious heritage, souqs & bazaars, cuisine, etc. But surfing? Absolutely! Don’t count it out.

With countries that border the Red Sea, the Black Sea, the Mediterranean Sea, the Persian Gulf, and other significant bodies of water, you may not be surprised to learn surfing is taking hold all over the region!

Go ahead and check out Istanbul, whose beaches on the Black Sea offer some great swells, or Antalya on the Mediterranean coast! In Egypt, the picturesque Hurghada (pictured) on the Red Sea has a lively surf community. For a controlled environment, give Aqua Park in Doha, Qatar a chance. It’s fun, especially for new surfers! Lastly, we recommend beautiful Herzliya, Israel, and the popular Jumeirah Beach in Dubai, UAE.