Sun protection while surfing? Sounds basic, but if you’ve ever come out of the water with a lobster-red face and fried shoulders, you know: without the right UV protection, your surf trip can quickly turn into a painful experience.
Especially in sun-soaked surf destinations like Morocco, proper sun care is essential – not just for comfort, but for your health. Here are our top tips to help you enjoy the Moroccan sun without regrets!
1) Sunscreen: Chemical or Mineral?
There are two types of sunscreen:
- Mineral (physical) sunscreen (e.g. with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) sits on the skin and reflects UV rays. It works immediately, lasts longer, and is often reef- and skin-friendly.
- Chemical sunscreen absorbs UV rays and transforms them into heat. For full effectiveness, apply it at least 30 minutes before surfing.
Our tip for Morocco: Use a reef-safe, water-resistant sunscreen with SPF 50+ to protect both yourself and the ocean.
2) The Right SPF for Morocco
SPF (sun protection factor) tells you how long you can stay in the sun without burning. Morocco’s sun is intense – so the rule is: the higher the SPF, the better.
- Fair skin: SPF 50+ is a must!
- Medium skin: SPF 30 to 50 is recommended.
- Darker skin: SPF 30 is usually enough, but UV protection is still essential.
Make sure your sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection (UVA & UVB). UVB causes sunburn; UVA penetrates deeper, leading to faster skin aging.
3) Zinc Paste for Sensitive Areas
Your face, nose, lips, and ears are especially sensitive to the sun. A thick layer of zinc paste gives the best protection – and it stays put, even after hours in the water. Bonus: it comes in fun colors to make your surf sessions even more stylish!
4) Lycra & Boardshorts for Extra Coverage
Besides sunscreen, the right surfwear helps, too:
- Lycra tops with SPF 50+ are ideal for long sessions.
- Boardshorts or neoprene shorts protect your legs from burning.
- In Moroccan temperatures, it’s smart to pack a long wetsuit – perfect for sun protection and chilly morning sessions.
- A surf cap or hat with neck protection is great for extra sun defense.
⚠️ Important: Clothing alone isn’t enough – always apply sunscreen on any uncovered skin. And during surf breaks on the beach, seek shade to give your skin a chance to recover.
Conclusion: Sun Protection While Surfing in Morocco – Not a Luxury, But a Must!
Morocco has world-class surf, but the sun can be intense. With high-quality sunscreen, zinc paste, and the right surfwear, you can stay protected and fully enjoy your sessions.
So: sunscreen on, wetsuit zipped, and into the waves you go!
Want to know more about surfing in Morocco? Check out our other blog posts or come visit us at our surf camp!
