Meet the Locals: Morad - the surf instructor

Welcome to the first feature of our blog series 'Meet the locals'.

'Meet the locals' is a blog series dedicated to the locals of the Moroccan surf community. Once a month, we meet up with one of the friendly locals of Tamraght/Taghazout, ask them a few questions and introduce them to you!


First up, it's our favourite surf instructor, Morad! 

Meet Morad. Co-founder and head surf instructor at Azrac Surf Morocco. 

Originally from North Morocco and self-acclaimed surf addict, Morad grew up surfing the waves of Mehdia - a great selection of breaks with pumping swells all year round. His favourite food is Tagine and he speaks 4 languages - including German!

We asked Morad a few questions about his love for surfing and his home country of Morocco...

When did you first start surfing?
I first started bodyboarding when I was 12, then began stand up surfing 4 years later. I could never afford a surfboard at that age, so I would ask surfers I met on the beach if I could use their board. I always remember surfing a piece of wood that I found lying around on the beach - It was so much fun! My local beach was 4km from my house, so I would walk with my brothers and friends from the village in search of waves.

Morad back in his early surf days

What's your favourite surf spot?
I love surfing the local breaks of Taghazout/Tamraght - especially Killer point in winter - but my favourite spots are 'Sharatan' and 'Moon' which are breaks in my hometown of Mehdia. The swell gets really big there in the winter, and you can surf big waves with just a few other surfers out.

What made you decide to become a surf instructor?
I spent 9 years working as a lifeguard, so spent literally all my time at the beach - working my shift and then surfing as soon as I finished. Surfing is a big part of my life, and it's really cool to be able to surf as part of my job, and be able to share my passion with others.

Morad doing what he loves!

Who's your favourite surfer?
I'm a big fan of Rob Machado - I really like his style and love his surf films. He's a great role model and I think it's really cool that he helps people through surfing, and doesn't just think about the money like some surfers these days.

What's the biggest wave you've ever surfed?
Probably around 3.5m - It was a few years ago at a break near my home in Mehdia. I love surfing the winter swells back home, as there's so much power in the wave.

What's the best thing about surfing?
It's a great sport to watch and even better to take part in. Every surfer has their own unique style, so it's really individual. It's a great way to keep your body healthy and relieve stress - once you're in the water, you just forget everything and focus on the waves. Plus it's a great feeling to be part of an energy that you have no control over!

Morad at one with the elements

Why should surfers visit Morocco?
There are a great selection of spots for all levels - from beginner to advanced - and there's a great surf culture here with a local surf community that makes everyone feel welcome! Plus it's sunny all year round and we have amazing cuisine! The Moroccan culture is very warm and welcoming, and everyone should experience it!

Thinking of a surf trip to Morocco? Got a question for Morad?
Send us an e-mail at hello@azracsurf.com