The Surf Window

Saly

Thiès, Senegal

Beach breakBeginner

Senegal's most popular beach resort has a long stretch of gentle beach break that has helped launch West Africa's growing surf tourism industry, beginner-friendly, warm, and lined with surf schools.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalW (270°)
WindowSSW–NNW (210°–330°)

Wind

Any wind direction

Tide

Mid tide

LowMidHigh

Season

November–March

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Both

Bottom

Sand

Shape

Slow, rolling, very forgiving

Length

40–80m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Beginner
  • •Why: Gentle, slow waves over a sandy bottom, great for first-timers with multiple surf schools in the resort zone

Hazards

  • •Boat traffic near the beach
  • •Crowded resort beaches in high season
  • •Rips near the groynes

Local Tips

  • •The northern end of the beach beyond the resort hotels has fewer people and similar waves
  • •Several reputable surf schools operate from the main beach, good instruction available

Location

Map showing the location of Saly in Thiès, Senegal

14.4597, -17.0103