Mohamed AchhibatNational Kitesurf Champion · IKO Instructor"Can my child try?" It's the question we're asked most often, usually from the beach, while the child in question eyes the boards. The answer depends on the sport — and it's simpler than most parents expect.
What's the minimum age?
The two sports have different thresholds, for good reasons.
| Activity | Minimum age | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Surfing | 5 years | Foam board, shallow water, instructor in the water |
| Kitesurfing | 12 years | IKO minimum — you need the size and judgement to fly a kite |
| Sandboarding | Any age, with a parent | No water, no wind, you ride at your own pace |
Surfing from age 5 works because Essaouira bay is a sandy-bottom beach break: the whitewater is consistent, the water stays shallow a long way out, and the instructor is in the water next to the child, not standing on the beach.
Kitesurfing from age 12 is the limit set by the IKO, the body that certifies our instructors. It isn't arbitrary: a kite generates real pull, and a rider needs both the body weight and the ability to react quickly. Below 12, we always steer families towards surfing.
What a kids lesson looks like
The format matches the adult one, just shorter and more playful. A kids surf lesson runs 1h30: briefing on the sand, stance, pop-up practice on dry land, then the water. Children often stand up in the first session — which is what makes surfing so rewarding at that age.
For kids kitesurfing, we always start with flying the kite on land, without a board, until the movement is automatic. Only then does the water come into it.
Safety, in practice
- Small groups, with an instructor dedicated to the children.
- Wetsuit, vest and a size-appropriate board provided.
- IKO-certified instructors, trained in first aid.
- The spot is chosen on the morning itself based on conditions — if they don't suit children, we move or postpone.
- Parents can stay on the beach a few metres away, or take their own lesson at the same time.
Family pricing
| Option | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Kids surf, group | 1h30 | €30 |
| Kids surf, private | 1h30 | €40 |
| Kids kitesurf, private | 2h | €100 |
| Kids kitesurf, 3-session pack | 3 × 2h | €280 |
| Adult surf, group | 2h | €25 |
Equipment is included in every case. Kids lessons can be booked at the same time as an adult lesson — the most requested format in July and August.
The activity that works for the whole family
If you're travelling with children of very different ages, sandboarding in the Ouassane dunes is the best answer: no water, no wind required, and younger kids ride down with a parent. It's €25 per person, from 2 participants, morning or sunset.
It's also the right call on days when the sea is too rough for the youngest.
What parents say
"Our four children did an intro session with Mohamed and Ali — they loved it! It was a fun, playful morning with lots of great teaching. I recommend it if you come to Essaouira." — Angélique H., 5★ Google review (translated from French)
It's the feedback that comes back most often: the children have fun first, and learn without noticing. The school is rated 5.0 on Google from 73 reviews.
Organising your session
Tell us the children's ages and how many days you're staying, and we'll build the programme around the forecast. The easiest way is WhatsApp on +212 762-466351 — we answer in English, French and Arabic.