Dakhla, Morocco

About Dakhla

Dakhla sits on a spit of desert in Western Sahara, with the Atlantic on one side and a forty-five kilometre lagoon on the other. There is nothing else here — no town to speak of near the water, no distraction, and around 340 kiteable days a year.

The strongest wind runs April to September at up to 35 knots; December and January are lighter but still rideable. Mornings are gentle and the wind fills in around two in the afternoon, arriving side-shore from the north-east.

The lagoon is the attraction. Flat water for freestyle, especially at low tide, and a dedicated Speed Spot that goes butter-flat at the lowest tides. For waves, Oum El Bouir is a right-hand point break that peels and barrels on winter swells, and belongs to advanced riders. Up to seven camps line the lagoon, from rustic tents to comfortable bungalows, most running all-inclusive packages — which is how nearly everyone stays, since there is little alternative.

Days run 22 to 29°C but nights drop sharply, so warm clothes matter more than people expect. A shorty or 3/2 covers the water.

When to go

Best months: April, May, June, July, August, September.

Kite areas

1 distinct riding area documented within this destination.

• Dakhla Lagoon

  Best months: April, May, June, July, August, September.

Curated places to stay

• La Tour d’Eole

  For the non-kiting partner, healthy dining, treatments and the rare stillness of desert meeting lagoon create a compelling retreat.