SHHHHH Safi - Morocco’s Ultimate Wave

 

The secret is out, sort of. Morocco has one of the best right breaking waves on the planet, but its not for everyone. Its a heavy wave that pushes the limits of everyone that braves the surf there. It's amazing the wave was kept a secret for decades. Would you surf there now that the world knows about Safi?

The secret story of Morocco’s ultimate wave | Le Jardin

Now Now Media

If you found the most perfect wave in the world, would you be able to keep it a secret? This is the story of Safi, a mythical wave on Morocco’s Atlantic Coast that was discovered by a small group of friends in the early 1980s. They swore each other to secrecy and surfed the wave alone for decades. But a secret this good is hard to keep. Alternately called Le Jardin (The Garden) or Ras Lafaa (The Head of the Snake), Safi is known today as one of the best surf spots in the world and has become famous for delivering endless barrels and bone-crushing wipeouts. But as the crowds grow and tensions rise, the wave’s future hangs in the balance. Join us as we turn back the clock and trace the roots of this incredible surf discovery, while reliving some of the best waves and biggest barrels ever documented below Safi’s towering cliffs. Along the way we explore the origins of Morocco’s unique surf culture and discover why Safi is one of the most challenging point breaks on the planet – and what it takes to ride it. Featuring: Ramzi Boukhiam, Matt Bromley, Eli Beukes, Ross Clarke-Jones, Laurent Mirramon, Mehdi Serghini, Henri Elgrichi and others. A film by Now Now Media presented by Monster Energy In Association with Oxbow, Jack Black’s, Surfer Magazine and The Safi Surf Invitational Produced by Alan van Gysen and Amine Nader Executive Producers Ryan Franklin and Kazmira Krawchuk Written and Directed by Will Bendix

"32 Miles" Is A Documentary Worth Watching

 

I just rediscovered prone paddling on June 7th (2025), when a friend talked me into signing up for R10 Race hosted by the South Bay Boardriders Club (SBBC). The race has two courses and 8 mile course for the more experienced paddlers and a 2 mile course for newbies like me. I finished first in division in the 2 Mile R10 race and was immediately hooked.  I signed up for the next race the South Bay Paddle and again hosted the SBBC. There was a 15 mile course and another 2 mile course. I did the 2 mile course and again placed first in my division. I got a relay team and did the Rock to Rock, then the Velzy-Stevens 2 mile, then the 2 mile Catalina Cup.

I swept the season and got first in every 2 mile race in my division (12' stock adult male). Over the season I became friends with so many prone paddlers. I took lessons with Kurt and DJ at Oceans Prone. I try to learn something from every paddler I met, even new paddlers had insights that I found incredibly useful. Right after the Catalina Cup race I stayed on the beach at the Manhattan Beach pier and watch amazing athletes finish the Catalina Classic, their 32 miles. I kept running into friends and telling them they are my hero for finishing those 32 miles. 

A few weeks later I got a call from Tom Horton, the president of the SBBC and was invited to go watch a film about Paddling the Catalina Classic.  The film 32 Miles was showing at the Mann's Chinese Theater in Hollywood as part of the Silicon Film Festival. We all met up in El Segundo and took a party bus to downtown. It was awesome! The conversations, the vibes, the whole trip there was so comfortable and fun that I almost wished the drive was longer. 

Watching the film on the big screen was a sight worth seeing. I really felt like I was there in the water on this 32 mile journey with my friends. The story unfolded and it was a wild ride. Everything from the ocean conditions, the pain and joy. I'll admit that on more than one occasion my eyes teared up. I have a deep respect for the men and women that have slayed the 32 miles from Catalina to Manhattan pier. The film 32 Miles really showcases what prone paddling is about, its deep history and its beautiful future. 

So here you go, check out the film here and get inspired to get in the ocean and experience what it's like to prone paddle.

32 Miles

Black Line Logo

"32 Miles" is a documentary that intertwines two compelling narrative arcs, showcasing the resilience and determination of athletes and organizers alike. In one narrative, viewers are thrust into the heart of the action as athletes gear up and tackle the legendary Catalina Classic Paddleboard Race. Spanning 32 miles from Catalina Island to the iconic Manhattan Beach Pier, this grueling race is the ultimate test of endurance for paddlers from across the globe. Through breathtaking cinematography and intimate interviews, audiences witness the physical and mental challenges these courageous competitors face as they battle fierce ocean currents and unimaginable fatigue to reach the finish line. Simultaneously, the film delves into the behind-the-scenes effort of the South Bay Boardrider's Club and the City of Manhattan Beach to honor the rich history and legacy of the Catalina Classic. With meticulous attention to detail, the organizers navigate bureaucratic hurdles and logistical obstacles to erect a monumental bronze statue at the base of the Manhattan Beach pier. As they confront numerous setbacks, their unwavering commitment to preserving the spirit of the race and celebrating its participants shines through. As both storylines converge, "32 Miles" captures the essence of perseverance in the face of adversity. Whether battling the unforgiving waters or bureaucratic red tape, the protagonists of this documentary demonstrate the power of passion, teamwork, and sheer determination to overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges. Ultimately, the film serves as a tribute to the indomitable human spirit and the enduring legacy of the Catalina Classic Paddleboard Race.