Taghazout and Tamraght are about as relaxed as Morocco gets. People here have lived alongside surfers from all over the world for decades, and nobody is going to lecture you. But these are still Moroccan villages, where families live, where most people are Muslim, and where a few small habits make a big difference to how you're received.
What to wear
On the beach and in the water, wear what you'd wear on any beach. Once you walk up into the village, cover up a bit: a T-shirt over the bikini, shorts or a skirt that reach your knees rather than tiny ones, and no walking through the lanes or into a shop in just your wetsuit peeled to the waist. It isn't a rule anyone will enforce. It's just respectful, and people notice.
Alcohol
- Most places don't serve it, and that's completely normal here.
- In Taghazout, a few licensed places serve beer and wine, including World of Waves and the bar at Dfrost Almugar. The resort hotels in Taghazout Bay all have bars.
- Tamraght is dry. No bars, no alcohol in restaurants.
- There's no shop selling alcohol in either village. The nearest is a big supermarket in Agadir, like Carrefour.
- Don't drink in the street or on the beach. It's illegal, and it's the fastest way to upset people.
Photos
Ask before you photograph people, especially women and older people. A smile and a gesture at your camera is enough. Some will say yes, some will say no, and some fishermen and stallholders may ask for a few dirhams. Don't take it personally either way.
Greetings and small manners
- "Salam alaikum" (peace be upon you) goes a long way. The answer is "wa alaikum salam". "Shukran" is thank you.
- Use your right hand to eat, to pass things and to shake hands.
- Take a moment to say hello before asking for anything, in a shop or a taxi. Getting straight to business feels rude.
- Most mosques in Morocco can't be entered by non-Muslims. Enjoy them from outside.
- On Friday around midday, many men head to the mosque for prayers. Some shops close for an hour or so.
Money
- Tipping: a few dirhams in a café, and around 10 per cent in a restaurant if you're happy. Round up for taxis. Surf instructors and guides appreciate a tip at the end of a good week.
- Bargaining: normal and good-humoured for crafts, rugs and souvenirs. Food and café prices are usually fixed. Never start haggling over something you don't intend to buy.
- More in our money guide.
On the beach
Beaches often have signs about the rules: no camping, no loud music, no litter. Take your rubbish with you. And in the water, surf etiquette is its own thing. See surf etiquette here.
Ramadan
If you visit during Ramadan, the whole rhythm changes. Most people fast from dawn to sunset. Visitors aren't expected to, but don't eat, drink or smoke in the street during the day. We've written a full guide to Ramadan here.