Essaouira Travel Guide | Morocco's Windy City & Coastal Gem

Welcome to Essaouira

Nestled on Morocco's Atlantic coast, Essaouira is a charming fortified city known for its blue-shuttered white houses, vibrant fishing port, and UNESCO-listed medina. With its constant ocean breeze, it's a paradise for windsurfers and kitesurfers.

Originally known as Mogador, the city has a rich history as a trading post and was home to significant Jewish, Berber, and European communities. Today, it maintains its authentic charm while offering modern comforts, making it a favorite destination for artists, musicians, and travelers seeking a more relaxed Moroccan experience.

Beautiful Atlantic Beaches

Vibrant Fishing Port

Famous Gnaoua Music Festival

Windy City of Morocco

Top Attractions in Essaouira

Discover the must-see sights and experiences in Morocco's coastal gem.

The Medina

A UNESCO World Heritage site with narrow streets, blue-shuttered white houses, artisan workshops, and bustling souks selling thuya wood crafts and argan oil products.

Free to Explore UNESCO Site

Skala de la Ville

The historic sea fortress with impressive ramparts and cannons overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Offers panoramic views of the medina, port, and islands.

10 MAD Entry Historic Fortress

Fishing Port

A bustling harbor where colorful fishing boats bring in the daily catch. Watch fishermen at work and enjoy incredibly fresh seafood at the port-side grills.

Free Entry Fresh Seafood

Essaouira Beach

A vast sandy beach perfect for walking, horseback riding, camel rides, and water sports. The constant wind makes it ideal for windsurfing and kitesurfing.

Free Access Water Sports Hub

The Mellah

The historic Jewish quarter with its distinctive architecture and the Slat Lkahal Synagogue, reflecting Essaouira's multicultural past as a trading hub.

Free to Explore Historic Quarter

Thuya Wood Workshops

Visit artisan workshops where craftsmen create beautiful objects from thuya wood, a rare and fragrant wood native to the region.

Free Viewing Local Craft

Unique Essaouira Experiences

Go beyond the typical tourist path with these authentic Essaouira experiences.

Windsurfing & Kitesurfing

Take advantage of Essaouira's constant winds with a windsurfing or kitesurfing lesson. The bay offers ideal conditions for beginners and experts alike.

2-3 Hours All Levels Equipment Included

From 400 MAD/person

Coastal Cooking Class

Learn to prepare traditional Moroccan seafood dishes in a local home. Visit the fish market for the freshest catch before mastering recipes like fish tagine and seafood pastilla.

4 Hours Market Visit Included Seafood Focus

From 350 MAD/person

Beach Horseback Riding

Experience the thrill of riding horses along Essaouira's vast beach, with the Atlantic waves crashing beside you. Sunset rides offer particularly magical views.

1-2 Hours All Experience Levels Sunset Option

From 250 MAD/person

Argan Oil Cooperative Visit

Visit a women's argan oil cooperative to learn about the traditional production process, from nut cracking to oil extraction, and sample various argan products.

2 Hours Women's Cooperative Product Tasting

From 150 MAD/person

Practical Information

Everything you need to know for your visit to Essaouira.

Getting There

2.5 hours from Marrakech by bus
3 hours from Casablanca by car
Essaouira-Mogador Airport (15 min)
No ferry service available

Best Time to Visit

Spring (Mar-May): Pleasant weather
Summer (Jun-Aug): Windy, good for sports
June: Gnaoua World Music Festival
Autumn (Sep-Nov): Mild temperatures

Accommodation

Riads: Traditional in medina
Beach hotels: Ocean views
Guesthouses: Authentic experience
Luxury: Converted mansions

Local Customs

Dress modestly in the medina
Ask before photographing people
Bargain respectfully in souks
Enjoy fresh seafood at the port

Essaouira