Taghazout is a sleepy fishing village on Morocco’s southwest coast that’s known for its surf beaches and laid-back vibe. You’ll find idyllic blue and white buildings lining narrow lanes, camels strolling the sands, and locals selling their wares in the winding walkways. Wake up to yoga overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and sleep to the sound of the waves lapping the shore. This North African hideaway is a favourite with backpackers looking for both adventure and relaxation.

Taghazout hostels are a surfer's paradise. Nearly all have surfboards and wetsuits to rent, qualified instructors or wave tours that’ll take you to the best breaks on the coast. You can stay in a Taghazout hostel in a renovated riad (a traditional courtyard house) with Moroccan tiles, an eco-friendly surf camp with yoga and capoeira classes, or a place that starts the day with a big breakfast of the region's traditional Berber cuisine.

In the village’s tangle of alleyways, you’ll find small restaurants selling tasty tagine and plenty of cafés where you can grab a refreshing smoothie. Panoramas Beach is just five minutes' walk from Taghazout's main street, and it's a safe place for beginners to learn how to surf. Newbies can also head to the gentle waves at Crocs and Banana Point, while the pros will prefer the famous surf breaks of Anchor, Dracula’s or Killer Point, all of which are a short drive away from the village centre.

For high-octane fun away from the waves, head to Taghazout’s skatepark with its whitewashed bowl and panoramic views, or book a sandboarding tour to the dunes at Timlalin. Paradise Valley is a gem in the Atlas Mountains, a 30-minute drive away. A short hike leads you to natural clear pools surrounded by palm trees where you can swim and jump off the surrounding cliffs. Nightlife is relaxed in Taghazout, with barbecues, music and sunset drinks on the roofs of beachside hostels.

Taghazout's nearest airport is Agadir Al-Massira, 48km south. You can take a bus or grand taxi to Agadir’s Place Salam bus terminal, then the local bus will get you to Taghazout in about 30 minutes. From Marrakech, CTM and Supratours buses leave the city every hour. You can easily walk around Tagazhout itself, but for day trips, travellers tend to charter a taxi and share the cost. There are no ATMs in the village so take cash with you.