Safi (Ras Lafaa)
One of the most powerful, barrelling rights in the world, north of Safi harbour.
Safi has a right point over rock that, with a big north-west swell, becomes one of the longest and heaviest barrels in the world. It only works a few days a year and then draws elite surfers.
It's not a wave for beginners or intermediates: the power of the water and the rock bottom are unforgiving. The nearby industrial area affects water quality.
Spot facts
| Wave type | Point break |
|---|---|
| Direction | Right |
| Level | Expert |
| Best swell | NW, W |
| Best wind (offshore) | NE, E, N |
| Tide | Mid |
| Size | 1.5–4 m |
| Best season | Winter, with a big north-west swell |
| Crowd | Medium |
| Localism | High |
Surf forecast
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Hour-by-hour forecast for 14 days, with stars for your board and level, and the whole site without ads.
Model forecast for open water a few kilometres offshore: it can't see sandbanks or the shelter of headlands and jetties. The rating (0–5) is worked out from this spot's ideal swell and wind. Use it as a guide and check the sea before paddling out. Data: Open-Meteo (DWD, ECMWF; CC BY 4.0)
Which board to bring
A performance shortboard or step-up; a gun on the biggest days. How many litres? Work out your volume with the volume calculator.
What to bring to surf Safi (Ras Lafaa)
The water is around 16 °C in winter and 20 °C in late summer. This is what we'd bring for this spot's water, level and boards.
The autumn-to-spring suit for water at 12–16 °C.
View on AmazonWarm feet in winter and protection on rocks.
View on AmazonA shortboard leash won't hold in waves of several metres.
View on AmazonThe three-fin set for a shortboard.
View on AmazonRock or urchins on the bottom: protect your feet going in and out.
View on AmazonWarm-water wax won't grip in this water.
View on AmazonAmazon affiliate links: if you buy through them, Shapers Europe earns a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Localism and vibe
The locals are very skilled and have priority. Watch carefully before paddling out and don't drop in.
Surfing style
Long, heavy barrels.
Hazards
Rock bottom, wave power, currents and water quality.
Map
Other spots nearby
Safi
A spectacular beach below the cliffs north of Safi, with powerful waves.
Oualidia
A calm lagoon famous for its oysters, with soft waves at its mouth: perfect for learning.
Essaouira
The bay of the «wind city»: soft waves for learning and a kite paradise.
Essaouira
A little-known, high-quality reef right south of Essaouira.
All spots in Northern and Central Morocco →
Indicative information gathered from surf guides and surfers' experience. Conditions change with the sandbanks: check the forecast and ask at the beach.