At the crossroads of the Western Sahara and the Atlantic Ocean, Dakhla, nicknamed the " windy city "This is the perfect playground for board sports enthusiasts. Its steady winds, blowing almost all year round, and spots suited to all sailing styles attract athletes from the four corners of the globe. Whether it's speed on the calm waters of the lagoon or waveriding on the ocean waves, every session offers the opportunity to push one's limits.
The lagoon, an ideal arena for all levels
Stretching over 40 kilometers, the Dakhla lagoon is the perfect playground for water sports enthusiasts. Its shallow waters and optimal conditions enable surfers to kitesurf of windsurfing or wingfoil to work on their maneuvers with precision in an environment conducive to progress. The constant winds, blowing between 15 and 25 knots all year round, guarantee uninterrupted training sessions, ideal for perfecting your technique, whatever your level.
The city is also home to a number of specialized windsurfing schools and camps offering tailor-made training for novices and seasoned competitors alike. These centers, equipped with state-of-the-art equipment, are run by local and international coaches, often top-level riders or even champions, who offer their advice to help riders refine their speed or work on their tricks.
At the same time, Dakhla focuses on physical preparation and recovery, essential elements for athletes in their quest for performance. After a day's training, athletes can relax by staying in one of the many eco-responsible accommodations lining the lagoon. These moments encourage exchanges: we discuss sail settings, race strategies, or simply the best sessions of the day. In this way, the spirit of competition mingles with the camaraderie of water sports to create a cultural and sporting melting pot that makes Dakhla a veritable epicenter of surf spots.
Waves for committed riders
While the lagoon is perfect for working on your kite, windsurf or wingfoil technique, the waves on the ocean side are a different experience. The large bay of Foum Lbouir, just 5 km from the town, is home to Atlantic waves of a regularity and length that are the stuff of waveriding dreams.
Further south, at Lassarga, at the entrance to the Dakhla lagoon, another spot is well worth a visit, with particularly long waves rolling along the point that marks the tip of the peninsula. The spot faces east-west and benefits from constant north-northeast winds from March to October, an ideal period for freestyle on flat water.
Wave enthusiasts will prefer the winter season, from October to March, when the waves are of "world class" quality, rolling endlessly down the right-hand side. As for La Pointe d'Or on the Atlantic side of the lagoon, its topography offers waves accessible to all levels. These spots expose surfers to the hydrodynamic dynamics of the Atlantic, offering ideal conditions for engaging surfing.
An international sports scene
Dakhla has established itself as a true international crossroads for board sports enthusiasts. In 2024, the city hosted the 14th edition of the "Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan - Global Kitesports Associations (GKA)" Kitesurfing World Cup, as well as the 3rd edition of the "Global Wingsports Association (GWA)" Wingfoil World Cup, reinforcing its position as an essential destination for wind sports.
Since 2007, at the end of February, the Festival Mer et Désert has also featured board sports and music.
A preserved ecosystem
Dahkla's natural environment, with its golden dunes and turquoise lagoon, is a reminder of the importance of preserving this unique ecosystem. Local sustainable development initiatives, such as the use of solar panels in camps and the protection of bird nesting areas, help to reconcile sport and respect for nature. For riders, this commitment adds an extra dimension to their sessions. Sailing in such a setting is an opportunity, and everyone is invited to contribute to the preservation of this nautical paradise.
