Exploring the Taghazout Fishing Village
lanning a trip to Morocco, I stumbled into this warning about Taghazout: "Bring cash, there are no cash machines in the village and Jimi Hendrix spent some time there." This warning sparked my curiosity about this small fishing and now surfing village just an hour from Agadir. When a location doesn't have one of the world's biggest commodities such as a simple cash machine, it naturally triggers a sense of curiosity that I could find unique spots, off the beaten track and authentic.
A month later, I packed up my photography equipment and headed to Taghazout (apart from my beloved drone — they're not allowed in Morocco).
What is authentic and unique about Taghazout? This photography series captures the vibrant community life in this coastal village, where local people, surfing enthusiasts, fishermen, and tourists coexist harmoniously. The small, hilly bay area features a bustling waterfront dotted with coffee shops and restaurants, all set against a backdrop of sandy beaches.
In a few days in Taghazout, I walked both sides of the extensive beach with its rugged rocks and cliffs, explored the mini maze in the village center, ate at local restaurants across the waterfront, ventured to the hidden Taghazout skatepark, site of several advertising campaigns. But one of the highlights is the rudimentary fish market, where locals bring the catch of the day straight to the stalls by the beach. There's a mix of market and cooking going on, and some of the best catch goes to the local restaurants, but for the right price, you can acquire a fresh lobster.
I ventured to the fish market in one morning. The locals' reactions varied—some welcomed me warmly, while others cursed at me even when I politely asked to take photos. But this is simply part of travel photography. The experience was worth it, especially when engaging with friendly locals and sharing fresh grilled sardines on the shores of Taghazout.
It's worth hiking with a camera alongside the beach towards Devil's Rock or to Anchor Point. On both ways, I encountered friendly locals asking to take their photos, fishermen proudly displaying their catch, and a mini sandstorm that transformed the area into a Mad Max setting, providing a unique opportunity for photography. Beachgoers, families, tourists, and surf enthusiasts were scattered all across the Taghazout bay.
Life in Taghazout coexists harmoniously between locals and tourists; it feels like Taghazout is still under the radar of mass tourism, which is great for preserving the authenticity of this unique village.
If you liked any of the photography in this story and would like to have photography print, please contact thomas@alternativespots.com
