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.
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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
- 2.3m
- 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?
Dakar Ouakam works best on a mid to high tide, ideally between 0.5m and 1.8m on the local tide chart. The tide chart above shows today’s strike window.
What wind direction is offshore at Dakar Ouakam?
Offshore wind at Dakar Ouakam blows from the E (90°). Anything in the 50° to 130° range grooms the faces; outside it, expect chop or bumpy conditions.
What swell size and direction work best at Dakar Ouakam?
Dakar Ouakam wants NW swell (280° to 340°) between 0.8m and 3m, with a period of 14s or more for quality waves.
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?
Fly into DSS, then allow about 25 minutes by road. 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