Overview
After a sold-out first edition in 2025, we return to Morocco’s vibrant coastline in the best possible company: Morocco’s national surf champion, Maryam El Gardoum, and the epic GRLSWIRL crew to bring their unique skate program into the mix! Surfing with Maryam isn’t just a lesson, it’s insider access. Her ocean wisdom, local roots, and contagious passion set the tone for the entire week. Off the sand and onto concrete, the GRLSWIRL crew will use surf skate as a powerful tool to deepen your surf skills. You’ll explore how carving a bowl mirrors carving a wave, how balance builds trust, and how small wins on four wheels translate into freedom in the ocean. We’ll be tucked away in Tamraght, just north of renowned Taghazout along Morocco’s Atlantic coast. This serene village offers a more authentic and less crowded alternative, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking both adventure and relaxation. A place where surf shops and cozy cafés hum softly, providing a perfect blend of local culture and surf lifestyle. You'll be waking up to world-class waves, including some of the most legendary longest point breaks in Africa. Whether you’re just getting started or refining your skills, this retreat is especially designed with beginners in mind, offering a supportive and empowering environment in the water. And for a deeper dive into Moroccan culture, Giulia will guide us through colorful souks, local culinary delights, and hidden gems that go beyond the tourist path. Expect a week full of waves, movement, sisterhood, and spice. All under the warm Moroccan sun.
Highlights
Top-notch skate coaching
Learn through the GRLSWIRL Method: a step-by-step approach created by Lucy to take you from absolute beginner to confident rider. It starts from zero, with a supportive structure that makes every step feel easy and empowering. And when you’re ready to advance, the rest of the team brings incredible sessions to help you refine your style and flow.
Ocean-view skate parks
The skate scene is something you feel before you even drop in. As the sun begins to set, the parks come alive. Locals, travelers, beginners, pros… everyone flowing together in ocean-view bowls that feel almost cinematic. The energy is contagious, the talent inspiring, and the vibe effortlessly welcoming. It’s more than skating, it’s a cultural exchange where connections form naturally, creating friendships that go beyond borders, backgrounds, and beliefs.
SURF COACHING WITH A LOCAL LEGEND
A true local legend and 6-time Moroccan Surf Champion, Maryam knows this coast like the back of her hand and shares her wisdom with care, joy, and presence. Her coaching style is both rigorous and nurturing, focusing on building confidence and resilience in all women. Maryam’s deep knowledge of local surf spots makes her an invaluable guide for surfers of all levels. Whether you’re popping up for the first time or chasing your longest ride yet, you’ll feel supported, challenged, and cheered on every step of the way.
Morocco's Soulful Swells
Imagine waking up to the sound of the ocean, sipping coffee under the Moroccan sun, and stepping into waves that welcome every level of surfer. From long, playful point breaks perfect for building confidence to faster, more powerful sections that invite you to push your limits, Morocco’s coastline offers something for everyone. Here, the surf flows steady and soulful, giving you the space to grow, reconnect, and celebrate every ride, whether it’s your first wave or your hundredth. This is more than a surf trip. It’s an experience to deepen your connection to the ocean, to yourself, and to the incredible women around you.
Maryam, a Cultural Trailblazer
Outside the lineup, Maryam brings so much heart to everything she does. She’s deeply connected to her Amazigh roots, fluent in four languages, and always ready to offer a window into the rich beauty of Moroccan culture, from its stories to its food to the way it moves through daily life. Joining a retreat led by Maryam is more than just a surf trip; it’s an immersive journey into the heart of Moroccan culture, guided by a woman who embodies strength, grace, and the spirit of the ocean.
YOUR HOSTESSES
Maryam El Gardoum
Born and raised in Tamraght, Morocco, Maryam is a 5x national surf champion, surf coach, and founder of Dihya Surf School — a space empowering the next generation of surfers, especially women. Her approach goes beyond just riding waves; it’s about building confidence, community, and deep self-trust. A true pioneer in the Moroccan surf scene, Maryam has carved out space for women in the lineup where there once was none. She first stood on a board at just 11 years old, in a time and place where girls rarely chased the swell — and she’s been breaking boundaries ever since. Known for her fierce heart, soulful presence, and deep knowledge of her home coast, Maryam brings care, courage, and joy to everything she does in and out of the water.
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GIULIA VALLOTTO
Born in Italy and raised in the fast-paced world of fashion and design, Giulia eventually followed the pull of the ocean and swapped the concrete jungle for the real jungle life. As one of AWA’s co-founders, she brings warmth, vision, and a whole lot of heart to everything she does. With a gift for gathering women in meaningful ways, she’s all about creating spaces where laughter, depth, and wild adventure naturally unfold. Equal parts grounded and playful, she’ll remind you what it feels like to come home to yourself, and have a damn good time while doing it. She’s here to hold space, stir your soul, and remind you that life gets a little more magical when you let it.
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Kelsey Harkin
Co-founder of GRLSWIRL, has been owning the title of worlds okays skater since early 2000’s. She switched it up from the boardwalk of Venice, California and she now lives in Ericeira, Portugal — creating and carrying the GRLSWIRL spirit throughout Europe. A mama of a 3 year old, lover of van life and chronic entrepreneur. She is most happy when it’s sunny, her feet are sandy and there’s good burritos near by (preferably in hand).
Naomi
Naomi is an Okinawan-American surfer, artist, and GRLSWIRL team rider who thrives at the intersection of movement, creativity, and culture. Deeply inspired by nature and community, she uses skateboarding and surfing as tools to empower others, push boundaries, and build meaningful connections. Whether she’s carving a wave, skating barefoot, or drawing, Naomi brings a spirit of curiosity and joy to everything she does.
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Camilla
After picking up surfskating randomly in 2022 and experiencing its transformative power first-hand, Camilla co-founded the Swirl Copenhagen chapter in 2024 and is one of the chapter leaders. She thrives on bringing folks together, playfully teaching skating and creating community across various backgrounds. Camilla is also our Swirl satellite in Morocco, spending large parts of the year in the coastal town of Imsouane, where she hosts pop-up group skates and shares the joy of skating with locals.
WHAT TO EXPECT
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A TYPICAL DAY ON RETREAT
• SUNRISE SMOOTHIES & MINT TEA
Wake gently with fresh orange juice, Moroccan mint tea, and light bites on the rooftop while the morning slowly unfolds over the bay.
• MORNING SURF SESSION
Head down to the ocean with your surf coaches, who will choose the best spot and timing based on conditions and your level. Whether you’re catching your first green wave or refining your style, the Moroccan coastline offers long, beautiful rides.
• BRUNCH, MOROCCAN STYLE
After surf, gather for a nourishing brunch of fresh fruits, msemen crêpes, amlou (almond, argan & honey spread), eggs, and local flavors to refuel body and soul.
• MIDDAY SLOW TIME
Afternoons are spacious. Rest by the sea, enjoy a hammam scrub, wander the village, journal in the shade, or simply let the rhythm of the coast slow you down.
• SLOW FLOW / WORKSHOP
Later in the day we gather for embodied practices, from gentle yin-inspired movement to intention-setting circles.
• ADVENTURE & EXPLORATION
Some days invite a little adventure: visiting local markets, exploring the coastline, sand dunes, or hidden cafés overlooking the surf.
• SUNSET SKATE SESSIONS
As the light softens, we'll head to the local skate parks and roads for golden-hour skate lessons adapted to all levels.
• COMMUNITY DINNER
Evenings bring everyone together around the table to share a delicious Moroccan dinner, good conversations, and stories from the day.
• EVENING WIND DOWN
Close the night slowly, with tea, a sound bath, meditation, or simply stargazing before retreating to rest.
What's included
What's Included
6-night accommodation steps away from some of Africa’s best surf spots.
5 surf skate lessons adapted to your level, led by GRLSWIRL riders
4 individualized surf lessons tailored to your level, led by Maryam El Gordon and her local team of instructors.
Superb in-water and in-house theoretical coaching.
Two video analysis sessions and epic footage to take home.
Daily nutritious breakfast, lunch, and dinner crafted by our in-house chef, a beautiful blend of her artistic cuisine and rich Moroccan flavors.
Daily delicious snacks, coffee and drinks to keep you fueled between surf sessions.
Surf and yoga equipment available all week.
Cultural adventures like sand dune surfing, traditional market visits, and mountain or coastal excursions.
Transportation to all activities.
Concierge services to curate your own special experience.
Cleaning services so that you can stay spoiled.
AWA and GRLSWIRL swag bag of goodies.
A life changing week of nature, connection and the most magical culture!
What's Not Included
International and domestic airfare.
Transportation to/from the Lodge.
Medical Insurance.
Photo Package.
Alcoholic beverages.
WAVE CHASER Surfhouse
Two sisters. One childhood home. Now becoming Tamraght’s most soulful surf house.
Meet your local co-hosts, Meryam and Fatima.
At 14, Meryam picked up an old board and taught herself to surf. No coach, no roadmap, just pure devotion to the sea. Fatima brings the warmth and the stories, the kind of hospitality that feels effortless and deeply personal, making everyone feel instantly at home.
Together, they’re transforming the house they grew up in into Wave Chaser Surfhouse. A refined yet welcoming space designed for long, candlelit dinners, serene bedrooms, rooftop sunsets, private nooks, coworking corners, and Moroccan textures that hold the magic of Tamraght in every detail.
Trust us, this isn’t just accommodation. It’s heritage with a glow-up. A true local gem filled with story, roots, and elevated Moroccan hospitality.
THE VENUE
Our home: Blue Mind
Perched in the upper village of Tamraght, our beautiful home boasts breathtaking coastal and village views, stretching from km 11 all the way to Taghazout.
You'll find a sun-soaked rooftop, a cozy yoga studio on the first floor, and a dining and lounge area on the ground floor, perfect for unwinding or gathering with your new favorite crew of seasters.
Tamraght, surfers' best-kept secret
Just minutes from Taghazout, Tamraght is Morocco’s best-kept secret. A peaceful surf and yoga haven with a soulful vibe. Less crowded and more traditional.
This laid-back village offers easy access to world-class waves like Devil’s Rock and Banana Point, plus stunning views, sunshine year-round, and a warm local community. The area is also home to numerous cozy cafés and surf shops, providing a perfect blend of local culture and surf lifestyle.
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TESTIMONIALS
Contact us
FAQs
How to get to the accommodation?
By Air:
The closest airport to Tamraght is Agadir Al Massira Airport (AGA), which is about 45 minutes by car from the village.
Direct flights to Agadir are available from major cities in Europe as well as domestic routes within Morocco.
You can book a private transfer from Agadir Al Massira Airport to our retreat, or grab a taxi to our villa, Wave Chaser Surfhouse. We’re happy to assist you with coordinating transportation.
By Road:
If you're already in Morocco, Tamraght is easily accessible by road:
From Agadir: About 20–30 minutes north by car or taxi along the coastal road (N1).
From Taghazout: Just a 5–10 minute drive south, or a lovely walk or short taxi ride.
From Marrakech: Around 3.5–4 hours by car or bus (CTM and Supratours are good options). You can also take a bus to Agadir and then a taxi to Tamraght.
Is it safe to travel to Morocco?
Yes, especially the area around Agadir and along the coast is very touristic and developed. Nevertheless you should always be aware about some basic travel rules: Don‘ carry valuables and high amounts of cash with you. Our accommodation provides a safe at the reception where you can lock your passports, credit cards etc. if you like.
How much surfing/skateboarding experience should i have before i go?
None at all! This retreat is designed for women of every level, from total beginners to more advanced riders. Our experienced coaches personalize each lesson so you’ll grow at your own pace, feel supported, and have the best time no matter where you’re starting from.
Do I need to bring my own surfboard?
No need! We provide all the necessary surf equipment, including boards, leashes and wax. However, if you have your own gear and feel more comfortable using it, you're welcome to bring it along*.
Do I need to bring my own skateboard?
We highly encourage you to bring your own skateboard for the retreat, even if you’re a complete beginner. learning on your board from day one helps you build confidence, muscle memory, and familiarity that you can keep practicing with once you’re back home.
We also recommend bringing your own helmet and pads to make sure you have the perfect fit and the right protection throughout the trip.
And if you’re thinking of upgrading your gear before coming, you can use the code AWA30 for 30% off all GRLSWIRL equipment.
WHAT ARE THE SURF SPOTS WE WILL VISIT?
Agadir is surrounded by some of Morocco's best surf spots, including Taghazout, Anchor Point, Imsouane, and Devil’s Rock. These spots offer a variety of waves for beginners to advanced surfers.
What should I bring to the retreat?
You’ll want to pack comfortable surfwear, sunscreen, a hat, a light jacket for cooler evenings, and any personal items you may need. We’ll provide surfboards, wetsuits, and yoga mats. If you have a favorite board or wetsuit, feel free to bring it!
How many times a day are skate sessions?
We offer one coached surf-skate session per day, usually around 2–2.5 hours. You’ll also have access to all the skate equipment for free skating anytime you’d like throughout the week.
What is the typical age range of guests?
Our retreat welcomes women of all ages, starting from 18 and up. To give you an idea, about 80% of our guests are between 25 and 55 years old. We love witnessing the diversity and unique perspectives and experience that each guests brings to the group. We have created an inclusive environment that ensures that everyone feels valued and empowered, regardless of age.
Im traveling solo. Will i feel out of place?
Not at all! The majority of our guests come solo, and our retreats are carefully curated as supportive and inclusive experiences for everyone. You'll have plenty of opportunities to connect with other like-minded women and most likely build friendships and bonds that will last a lifetime.
At what time is check-in and check-out?
Check-in is at 2PM.
Check-out is at 12PM.
What is the local currency and where should i exchange money?
Currency: The local currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD).
ATMs: Widely available in Agadir, especially near banks, shopping centers, and tourist areas. ATMs generally offer competitive exchange rates. Be cautious of Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC); always choose to be charged in Moroccan Dirhams to avoid unfavorable exchange rates .
Recommended ATMs: Al Barid Bank (Poste Maroc) ATMs are noted for offering good rates and low fees.
Currency Exchange: Avoid exchanging money at airports or hotels due to higher fees and less favorable rates. Instead, use local exchange bureaus or ATMs in Agadir for better rates .
Credit & Debit Cards: Accepted in most establishments, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller shops, markets, or rural areas.
Tipping: Tipping is customary in Morocco. Small denominations of Dirhams are appreciated for services like housekeeping, guides, and drivers.
Are there any additional costs during the retreat?
The retreat package includes accommodation, meals, surf lessons, yoga, and most activities. Additional costs may include excursions, personal spa treatments, or extra services such as private surf coaching or surf photography.
What are the entry requirements for Morocco?
Passport: Travelers must present a valid passport to enter Morocco. It is advisable to check that the border police stamp your passport correctly on arrival.
Visa: For tourist stays of less than 90 days, nationals do not need a visa. For stays longer than this, a visa is required.
Exemption for many countries (EU, UK, Canada, USA, etc.).
What about vaccinations?
No vaccinations are required to enter Morocco, except for yellow fever if you’re arriving from a country where the disease is present (mainly in sub-Saharan Africa and parts of Latin America).
What’s the weather like during the retreat?
Agadir’s weather is mild, with temperatures between 18°C and 25°C (64°F to 77°F). Water temperatures range from 18°C to 21°C (64°F to 70°F), so a 3/2mm wetsuit is recommended. We also provide wetsuits, but feel free to bring your own if you prefer.
Im nervous, should i do this?
We promise you’ll have an epic time. "It’s truly amazing and hard to put into words", our guests say...If you are feeling the call, just do it, let go of any expectations and let us host you during the time of your life!
