Swap snow for sunshine and spend the festive season by the ocean. Here’s what Christmas and New Year look like in Imsouane, from the winter surf and holiday meals to booking tips for the busiest weeks of the season.
Spending Christmas and New Year in a small surf village on the Moroccan coast is a very different experience from the usual city holidays: sunshine instead of snow, waves instead of crowded shops, and grilled fish by the bay instead of a heavy dinner indoors. Here is what to expect if you are planning the festive season in Imsouane.
Morocco is a Muslim country, and Christmas is not a public holiday. Shops, cafés and the fishing port open as usual on 25 December. That said, Imsouane is used to welcoming international travellers, and many guesthouses, surf houses and restaurants mark the occasion with a special dinner or a relaxed get-together. Don’t expect decorations everywhere. The appeal here is a calm, sunny Christmas by the ocean.
1 January is a public holiday in Morocco, and New Year’s Eve is the liveliest night of the season in the village. Expect gatherings in surf houses and restaurants, music, and plenty of travellers celebrating together. It stays friendly and small-scale. If you are looking for big clubs and fireworks, Agadir or Marrakech are better choices. Many visitors prefer Imsouane’s low-key celebration followed by a New Year’s Day surf.
Late December is typically mild and sunny during the day, around 18–22°C, with cool evenings. It is also the heart of the surf season, with regular powerful swells. The Bay offers long rides for longboarders and improvers, while Cathedral Point serves bigger waves to experienced surfers. Pack a 4/3 mm wetsuit; our wetsuit guide explains why.
The two weeks around Christmas and New Year are among the busiest of the winter. Rooms close to the bay, surf packages and airport transfers fill up quickly, often weeks in advance. Our advice:
Why not swap turkey for the catch of the day? Fresh fish grilled at the port, a slow-cooked tagine, couscous or a seafood platter make a memorable holiday dinner. Ask your accommodation if they are organising a special meal. Many do, and places fill quickly. Discover more dishes in what to eat in Imsouane.
Celebrations are welcome, but remember you are a guest in a traditional fishing village. Keep the party inside the venue, avoid loud music late at night in residential areas, and dress modestly in the village. Our guide to local customs and etiquette covers the basics.
If you want to end the year with waves, sunshine and good company rather than shopping and cold weather, Imsouane is the place. Browse our accommodations and surf packages and secure your festive dates before they’re gone.
Don’t hesitate to give us a call. Our friendly local team knows Imsouane inside out and is happy to help you plan your trip.
+212 613 373 911
hello@imsouaneguide.com
