Essaouira: The Windy City by the Sea

Essaouira, formerly known as Mogador, is Morocco's most charming coastal town. With its blue and white medina, fresh seafood, consistent Atlantic winds, and laid-back atmosphere, it offers a refreshing contrast to the intensity of Marrakech (just 2.5 hours away).

Overview

This UNESCO World Heritage site was fortified by the Portuguese in the 16th century and later became a major trading port. Today, Essaouira attracts artists, surfers, and travelers seeking a relaxed coastal experience with Moroccan authenticity.

Top Attractions

Medina of Essaouira - Unlike other Moroccan medinas, Essaouira's is easy to navigate with a grid layout. White and blue buildings, art galleries, and artisan workshops line the streets.

Skala de la Ville - The 18th-century sea ramparts offer stunning ocean views and house brass canons that defended the port. Famous filming location for "Game of Thrones."

Essaouira Beach - Miles of sandy beach perfect for walking, camel rides, and water sports. Too windy for swimming but ideal for windsurfing and kitesurfing.

Port - One of Morocco's most colorful ports where blue fishing boats unload fresh catches daily. Watch seagulls dive for fish and see boat builders at work.

Moulay Hassan Square - The medina's central square, lined with cafes perfect for people-watching over mint tea.

Île de Mogador - Small island visible from the port, home to rare Eleanora's falcons. Boat trips available.

Jewish Quarter (Mellah) - Historic Jewish district with synagogues and distinct architecture reflecting Essaouira's multicultural past.

Art Galleries - Essaouira has a thriving arts scene. Visit galleries showcasing local painters, sculptors, and musicians.

Activities

Kitesurfing & Windsurfing - Essaouira is Morocco's premier spot for wind sports, with consistent trade winds and several schools.

Quad Biking - Explore beaches, dunes, and argan forests on guided quad tours.

Horseback Riding - Sunset beach rides are particularly magical.

Cooking Classes - Learn to make tagines and Moroccan pastries.

Argan Oil Cooperatives - Visit women's cooperatives producing this liquid gold.

Gnaoua Music - Experience this spiritual music tradition, especially during the annual Gnaoua Festival (June).

Food & Restaurants

Essaouira is seafood heaven:

Must-Try Dishes:

• Grilled fish at the port (choose your fish, pay by weight)
• Sardine tagine
• Seafood pastilla
• Fresh oysters from nearby farms

Recommended Restaurants:

• Ocean Vagabond - Rooftop with sea views
• Triskala Café - Excellent tagines and couscous
• La Table by Madada - Fine dining Moroccan fusion
• Umia - Best seafood in town
• Taros - Rooftop terrace with live music

Best Areas to Stay

• Inside Medina - Most atmospheric, can be noisy
• Beach Road - Quieter, ocean views, short walk to medina
• Diabat - Bohemian village south of town, very peaceful
• New Town - Budget options, local atmosphere

Prices & Budget

• Budget riads: $20-40/night
• Mid-range: $50-100/night
• Luxury: $120-300/night
• Meals: $4-15
• Kitesurfing lessons: $35/hour
• Fresh fish lunch at port: $8-12

Getting There

From Marrakech:

• Bus (CTM or Supratours): 3 hours, $7-10
• Shared taxi: 2.5 hours, $10-15
• Private transfer: 2.5 hours, $60-80
• Rental car: 2.5 hours via N8

From Casablanca:

• Bus: 6 hours
• Train to Marrakech + bus: 6-7 hours total

From Agadir:

• Bus: 3.5 hours

Getting Around

Essaouira is compact and walkable. The entire medina can be explored on foot in a day. For beaches and activities outside town, taxis are cheap ($5-10 for most trips).

Day Trips

Sidi Kaouki (30 min) - Surf village with stunning beach Diabat (10 min) - Ruins of Borj el Baroud, Jimi Hendrix connection Argan Cooperatives (20 min) - See traditional argan oil production Paradise Valley (2 hours) - Hidden oasis near Agadir

Mini Itinerary (2-3 Days)

Day 1:

• Morning: Medina exploration and ramparts
• Lunch: Fresh fish at the port
• Afternoon: Beach walk to Diabat
• Sunset: From Skala de la Ville
• Dinner: Rooftop restaurant

Day 2:

• Morning: Kitesurfing lesson or quad biking
• Lunch: Seafood tagine
• Afternoon: Art galleries and shopping
• Evening: Gnaoua music performance

Day 3 (Optional):

• Day trip to Sidi Kaouki or argan cooperatives
• Cooking class
• Hammam and massage

Best Time to Visit

Year-round destination:

• Spring (March-May): Warmest weather, less wind
• Summer (June-August): Busy season, perfect for water sports
• Fall (September-November): Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
• Winter (December-February): Mild but can be windy and rainy

Special Events:

• Gnaoua Festival (June): World music festival
• Essaouira Classical Music Festival (October)

What to Buy

• Argan oil products
• Thuya wood crafts (unique to Essaouira)
• Handwoven carpets
• Musical instruments
• Paintings by local artists
• Spices and saffron
• Leather goods

FAQs

Q: Can you swim in Essaouira? A: The water is cold and currents strong. Most people prefer water sports over swimming. Some brave souls do swim in summer.

Q: Is Essaouira worth visiting? A: Absolutely! It's perfect for a relaxed coastal break, especially if you're coming from Marrakech.

Q: How many days do I need? A: 2-3 days is ideal. It's a small town but the laid-back vibe makes you want to stay longer.

Q: Is it windy? A: Yes! Strong trade winds blow most afternoons, especially March-September. Mornings are calmer.

Q: Is it safe? A: Very safe. Essaouira has a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

Insider Tips

• Visit the port early morning to see the catch arrive
• Book accommodation well in advance for June (Gnaoua Festival)
• Bargain harder than in Marrakech - vendors expect it
• Try fresh-pressed orange juice at the port
• The best kitesurfing is from April-October
• Wear layers - mornings are pleasant, afternoons can be very windy
• Don't miss sunset from the ramparts
• Thursday market in nearby village of Tamanar is worth visiting