Sidi Kaouki
Morocco · Marrakech-Safi
Sidi Kaouki, south of Essaouira, is a large beach spot appreciated for its simple setting and calm atmosphere. The area stretches over a long strip of sand, with space to rig and launch without stepping on each other.
The spot mainly attracts riders who enjoy kiting in a wilder environment than Essaouira, with waves when the swell comes in and often well-established wind. It is also a spot where one can often kite peacefully, away from the crowds of more urban spots.
At Sidi Kaouki, the wind most often comes from the east to northeast in the bay, which generally gives a side-shore to side-on behavior depending on the exact angle and tide. The water changes a lot with the swell: you can have a relatively clean sea at certain times, then real waves on the sandbanks when the ocean fills up.
Launching is done directly from the large sandy beach. Generally, you need to move a bit away from the wind shadow created by the reliefs or nearby constructions, then launch further down the beach to have cleaner air. The spot offers space to set up equipment, but you must remain attentive to bathers, surfers, and schools depending on the season.
Kiting is more comfortable when the swell remains moderate and the wind is steady. When the sea builds up, the spot takes on a true wave character, with waves forming over several sections of the beach. At low tide, some sandbanks can make the water more technical and irregular, while at high tide the navigable area often becomes clearer, with more water underfoot.
Local sources also describe a spot with plenty of space and lighter traffic than Essaouira, making it a good option for those who want to kite in a more laid-back setting, but with real surf-kite potential.
