Dakar Ouakam
Ouakam is the flagship wave of Senegal's growing surf scene—a quality right-hand reef break on the volcanic Cap-Vert peninsula just outside the capital Dakar. When North Atlantic winter swells sweep down the African coast, this reef comes alive with long, workable walls and occasional barrel sections. N'Gor Right, accessible by pirogue (traditional fishing boat), offers additional world-class options nearby. Senegal represents surf exploration at its most genuine, with a welcoming local community and the sense of discovering something special. This is West African surfing's emerging frontier.
Dakar Ouakam surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- NW (310°)
- Direction range
- 280° - 340°
- Size range
- 0.8m - 3m
- Ideal size
- 1.8m - 2.5m
- Height multiplier
- 0.92×
- Ideal period
- 14s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- E (90°)
- Offshore range
- 50° - 130°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid to high
- Optimal range
- 0.5m - 1.8m
Water temp
22°C
Wetsuit
Springsuit / 2mm
Difficulty
6/10
Crowd level
4/10
Access: Just outside Dakar city. N'Gor Island nearby for more waves.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Dakar Ouakam?
The Dakar Ouakam profile favors mid to high tide, ideally between 0.5m and 1.8m on the local tide chart. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session.
What wind direction is offshore at Dakar Ouakam?
The Dakar Ouakam profile uses wind from E (90°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 50° to 130°. Wind speed matters too: light winds outside that range can still produce surfable conditions, while strong offshore winds can make takeoffs difficult.
What swell size and direction work best at Dakar Ouakam?
The Dakar Ouakam scoring profile favors swell from NW (280° to 340°), a swell-height range of 0.8m to 3m, and a reference period of 14s. These are model inputs, not guaranteed breaking-wave heights or a promise that the surf will suit every ability.
When is the best time of year to surf Dakar Ouakam?
The main season at Dakar Ouakam is Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr. North Atlantic winter swells. October-April.
How do I get to Dakar Ouakam?
The spot profile lists DSS as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 25 minutes. Just outside Dakar city. N'Gor Island nearby for more waves.
What kind of wave is Dakar Ouakam?
Dakar Ouakam is a reef break, a right-hander. Difficulty is rated 6/10.
Best Season
Peak: Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr
North Atlantic winter swells. October-April.
Getting There
Nearby Spots
Vivier Right
➡️ Fast hollow right • Partner to Vivier Left • Tide-dependent
Vivier Left
⬅️ Quality left walls • Higher tide option • Dakar staple
Secret Spot (Almadies)
🤫 Not-so-secret • Below US Embassy • Consistent A-frame
Club Med
🏨 Heavy hollow rights • Old resort landmark • Respect the locals
N'Gor Right
🌍 West Africa's best • Warm & uncrowded • North Atlantic swells
Yoff Beach
🏖️ Beginner-friendly • Multiple peaks • Easy access
Plan a trip around Dakar Ouakam
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