The Surf Window

Virage

Dakar, Senegal

Beach breakIntermediate

A local-favourite beach break on Dakar's western shore, Virage delivers punchy, shapely peaks on Atlantic swells and is one of the most accessible spots for Dakar's rapidly growing surf community.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

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

Wind

NE

Offshore

Tide

Mid tide

LowMidHigh

Season

November–March

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Both

Bottom

Sand

Shape

Punchy, fast peaks, small face but steep take-offs

Length

40–70m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Intermediate
  • •Why: The peaks are punchy and fast, good for experienced surfers but not forgiving for beginners

Hazards

  • •Strong rips between sandbars
  • •Busy road and urban setting
  • •Water quality issues near the city

Local Tips

  • •One of the easiest Dakar spots to get to by taxi from the city centre
  • •Dawn patrol avoids the onshore winds that typically build through the morning

Location

Map showing the location of Virage in Dakar, Senegal

14.7544, -17.4939