Ouakam is located just south of Les Mamelles lighthouse in Senegal. Known for its unique wave setup, it has a distinct fishing village vibe and sits across from the country’s largest mosque. The spot is a popular choice for surfers looking for something special in the area, although it’s definitely one for the experts. With its uneven reef and tight take-off zone, it demands a solid skill set and good judgment.

The surf here offers both left and right waves, with the right off the defined peak typically being longer and more ruler-edged. The left tends to be fast, crisp, and steep, providing several barrel opportunities. The wave really shines with a south-west swell direction, and it can handle swell sizes around 3 ft (about 0.9 m), but you’ll want to wait for a good long period NW swell to wrap in behind the cliff headland. Any tide works, but low to mid conditions generally offer the best rides. When the conditions align and the wind is coming from the north-east, you can expect a good session.

Although the wave doesn’t break very often—only about 20-30 times a year—when it does, the small lineup can feel crowded due to the tight take-off zone. Being in such a picturesque spot also adds to the experience, but keep in mind, this one’s primarily for expert surfers looking for a challenge.