19 BEST Things To Do In Essaouira, Morocco: The Ultimate Guide

Discover the best things to do in Essaouira, Morocco, with our ultimate guide!

Sitting on the edge of the Atlantic coast, just a three-hour drive west of Marrakech, Essaouira is one of those places where time seems to slow down. We spent just two nights here during our month-long trip through Morocco, though we’ve found ourselves longing to go back.

Whether you’re looking to unwind by the beach, stroll through the historic medina, or get your adventure fix with activities like surfing and camel riding, Essaouira offers the perfect balance of both relaxation and excitement. 

In this guide, we’ll share the best things to do in Essaouira, drawing from our own experience, to help you make the most of your visit. We’ll also give you tips on where to stay and what to expect when you arrive, so you can fully immerse yourself in the charm of this coastal gem.

Short on time? Here’s the top 5 things to do in Essaouira:

1. Relax on the beaches
2. Explore the medina
3. Visit the Skala de la Ville (and watch sunset from the ramparts)
4. Explore the port of Essaouira
5. Visit an Argan Cooperative

19 Best Things To Do In Essaouira

Lets jump right into all the best things to do in Essaouira, whether you’ve got a day or a month!

1. Explore The Medina

The medina of Essaouira is a truly unique place and unlike anywhere else we visited in Morocco. The walls are painted bright white and the doors are bright blue. This honestly just adds to the serene atmosphere.

The medina was built in the late 18th-Century and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is completely pedestrianised with no vehicles other than the odd moped. It’s also pretty small compared to cities such as Marrakech and Fes, meaning you’re not likely to get lost.

The other major difference is that you can actually stop and browse at the shops without being hassled and pushed to buy. The owners leave you to it until you ask for a price.

Plus, the price of goods tends to be a lot lower than in bigger cities (though you’re still expected to haggle).

We found this really refreshing after spending 4 days in Marrakech. 

Spend a few hours exploring, shopping for handmade souvenirs, and stopping for mint tea in the local cafés.

2. Visit The Skala De La Ville

The Skala de la Ville is a set of 18th-Century ramparts built to protect the city from the crashing Atlantic waves and potential attack from pirates. 

Stretching around the coastal edge of the city, the ramparts are an iconic part of the city and one of the best things to do in Essaouira.

Entrance to the ramparts is via Rue Skala, a narrow street filled with boutique shops. Head to the top of the street and through a stone arch, leading you up a short hill to the top of the ramparts. 

To the right, there is a small turret you can enter which offers incredible views over the sea and the north of the city. Be aware, if you’re visiting in the summer months, the wind channels through the windows and it can be incredibly strong!

If you walk to the left, you can walk along the walls of the ramparts, dotted with canons pointing out over the ocean. 

The Skala de la Ville was also used as a filming location for Game of Thrones, so you may recognise it already!

3. Explore The Beaches Around Essaouira

You can’t go to Essaouira without checking out it’s insane beaches. WIth a few different spots to choose from, this is undoubtedly one of the best things to do.

Plage D’Essaouira

The main beach in Essaouira is huge, with plenty of space to relax, read a book, or play with a ball. The beach is 2km long and is popular with both tourists and locals alike. It is located just outside of the medina, stretching to the south of the city.

There is a paved promenade stretching along the length of the beach, making it the perfect place for an evening walk, with the sun setting over the sea.

The sea here is pretty shallow, making it perfect for swimming in. Sunbeds are available to rent for 25 MAD per day at the end closest to the medina, though the strong Atlantic winds (particularly in the summer) may mean you don’t want to stop for too long.

You’ll often find locals playing a game of football on the sand, and they’re normally more than happy for you to join in.

Assafi Beach

To the north of the city, you’ll find Assafi Beach, a place more popular with locals than tourists. With huge sand dunes and rocky cliffs, Assafi Beach has more of a wild feel to it. This is one of the longest beaches in Morocco, stretching for miles.

The currents here are strong, and the winds even stronger in the summer months, so it’s not the best place to swim or sunbathe, but it’s a great spot for windsurfing.

4. Soak Up The Vibe At Moulay Hassan Square

One of our favourite things to do in Essaouira was to chill in Moulay Hassan Square with a mint tea, watching the street performers. 

Just outside of the medina, but set back a little from the beach, Moulay Hassan Square is a wide open space, lined with cafés and restaurants.

This square is often the centre of the action in Essouira, hosting markets, street performers, festivals, and musicians. Throughout the day, it has a chilled vibe that only gets more lively as the evening goes on.

Plus, the square is home to the best crepes we had in Morocco – 15 MAD for a fresh nutella crepe?! Yes please! It’s kind of famous in Essaouira, and there was always a queue, but the two young men running the place were amazing at keeping the line moving whilst still making you feel welcome.

5. Visit The Essaouira Citadel

The Essaouira Citadel, or Sqala du Port, is the castle-like entrance to the Port of Essaouira. With honey-coloured walls and blue fishing boats moored in front, this is one of the most iconic places in Essaouira.

It is also where the famous photo of Essaouira through a round window is taken.

When we visited, you were unable to actually enter the fort, but you are now able to do so for 50 MAD per person. We can imagine the views from the top are incredible.

Despite being one of the most famous places in Essaouira, the citadel always felt so peaceful, no matter what time of day we visited. We loved visiting at sunrise, where the golden glow of the sun reflected off the walls of the citadel, with the seagulls screeching above. It was like something out of a movie.

6. Explore The Port Of Essaouira

Heading through the gates of the citadel, you’ll reach the Port of Essaouira, famous for its iconic blue fishing boats. This working port is a photographers paradise and a particularly atmospheric part of Essaouira.

Wandering round the port, you’ll see the wooden boats coming and going, fishermen unloading their catch, people repairing nets, and others building boats. It’s a treat for all the senses, the seagulls crying out, the pungent smell of fish, the expanse of blue boats, and the hustle and bustle of a busy port.

To the right of the entrance gate is a large fish market where you can buy a huge variety of fresh seafood. 

To the left, you can walk along the seafront and will eventually end up at the main beach.

7. Sample Essaouira’s Fresh Seafood

As it is located right on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, it’s only natural that the seafood in Essaouira is going to be good.

Everything is freshly caught and prepared, so menus can often change depending on the catch of the day. We’ll fully admit, we’re not really seafood people, so cannot personally comment, but we saw plenty of people enjoying it.

For the freshest seafood, head to the port where you can choose your catch and they’ll cook it there and then for you.

8. Head On A Horse Ride Along The Beach

Riding a horse along the wide sweeping beach of Essaouira is truly a bucketlist activity. Head out on a sunset horseriding tour, where you’ll be treated to insane views as the sun sets over the sea.

This is a “pinch me” moment and has to be added to your Essaouira bucketlist.

The horses are well looked after and in good condition, and the guides are very experienced. Whether you’re a beginner or a keen rider, they’ll be able to cater to you. 

Riding hats are provided, but we would recommend wearing long trousers and closed-toe shoes for this experience.

9. Explore The Jewish Quarter

The Jewish Quarter in Essaouira is a fascinating, quiet corner of the city that is worth exploring. Unlike the bustling streets of the medina, this area feels peaceful and reflective, with its narrow alleys and small, tucked-away synagogues. 

The buildings, often painted in faded shades of blue, have a charming, worn-down quality that adds to the character of the place. While it’s not as well maintained as other parts of Essaouira, this only adds to its authenticity and charm. 

It’s the perfect spot to explore at your own pace, away from the more tourist-heavy areas, and really take in the unique atmosphere. We definitely recommend taking the time to visit – it’s a beautiful, quieter side of Essaouira that most people don’t see.

10. Explore The Dunes By Quad Bike

Taking a quad bike tour is one of the most fun things to do in Essouira. It’s such a good way to explore more of the dunes south of the city.

You’ll be assigned a quad bike and be taken by a guide down the beach, over dunes, and past Berber villages. You’ll barely see another soul during your tour, as it takes you to a part of the beach far from the city that most people never see.

Even if you’ve never been on a quad bike before, you should definitely give this tour a go. You’ll instantly feel the exhilarating buzz of adrenaline as you fly down the beach. It’s a memory you’ll never forget.

11. Visit An Argan Co-Operative

One of our favourite experiences in Morocco was our visit to a women’s argan co-operative. The land surrounding Essaouira is one of the only places in the world where argan trees grow.

This is why argan oil is often referred to as liquid gold (and is so expensive anywhere else in the world).

Visiting an argan co-operative will allow you to learn more about the process of making these precious products, and even have a go at grinding them yourself using a traditional stone pestle and mortar. 

You’ll also get the chance to sample the products, including a huge variety of cosmetic products. You will try edible argan oil, argan butter, and argan honey too. We both LOVED them.

If you do want to buy argan products whilst in Morocco, make sure to get them in Essaouira. We didn’t and regretted it. We struggled to find anywhere else in Morocco selling argan products.

12. Shop In The Souks

As with any city in Morocco, you can’t visit without going shopping in the souks. The souks of Essaouira are much more tame than those in Marrakech and Fes. 

They’re laid out in a grid pattern so you’re less likely to get lost. They’re also much smaller, and you can browse without being hassled to buy. We loved them.

There’s streets filled with carpets, shops with colourful painted plates hung outside, stalls with a whole array of aromatic spices. This is the place to find a souvenir for your trip.

13. Visit Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdellah Museum

In the heart of the medina, in a 200 year-old riad, you’ll find the Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdellah Museum. This museum is home to a collection of artifacts including jewellery, costumes, embroidery, old photographs of Essaouira, musical instruments, and weaponry.

The museum is relatively small and the information is only in French and Arabic, so unless you speak those languages, it may be worth prioritising other things on this list.

14. Go Rockpooling

Low tide in Essaouira brings with it small rockpools containing a variety of sea life, including crabs, small fish, and even occasionally octopus. This is such a great thing to do with children in Essouira (and is still fun as adults).

The best spots are just in front of the sea wall at Place Moulay Hassan and at Assafi Beach.

Take a bucket with you and see what you can find! Just remember to put back whatever you find at the end.

15. Visit The Bab El Marsa Gate

The Bab El Marsa gate is one of Essaouira’s most iconic landmarks, and it’s well worth a visit. Situated near the fishing port, this impressive archway stands as a reminder of the city’s historical fortifications and its importance as a maritime hub. 

While the gate itself may not be as grand as some of the other gates in Morocco, its simple beauty and strategic position offer a fantastic view of the bustling port and the waves crashing against the ramparts.

16. Take A Moroccan Cooking Class

Moroccan food is amazing and you can’t change my mind on that. The best way to enjoy it, and learn a new skill, is through a cooking class. Essaouira is a great place to do just that.

You’ll start the class by shopping for the fresh ingredients and spices in the medina, which is a wonderfully authentic experience. You’ll be guided round the medina and aided in the haggling process until you have all the ingredients you need.

You’ll then head back to cook your meal, being guided through every step of the process. Moroccan cooking is lengthy, but it’s so worth it.

And the best part is – you get to enjoy your meal at the end!

17. Learn To Surf Or Kitesurf

Being on the Atlantic Ocean, Essaouira is home to some incredible surf breaks. It’s a great place to surf, whether you’re a beginner just starting out, or a seasoned pro. 

There are several surf schools in Essaouira that will get you stood up and catching a wave by the end of your first lesson. Your guides will take you to the best spot for your ability and, after some basic theory and practice on sand, before taking you into the water. It’s such a fun experience.

Essaouira is also world renowned for it’s kitesurfing. The city is known for its strong Atlantic winds, particularly in July and August, making it the perfect place for windsurfing. 

The strongest winds are at the end furthest from the medina, but by booking onto a kitesurfing lesson, you’ll be transported to the best spot by your guides.

This is one of the best places in the world to learn how to kitesurf, so definitely don’t miss this opportunity!

18. Visit A Traditional Moroccan Hammam

Visiting a hammam is an experience you have to try when in Morocco. A hammam is a public bathhouse that is frequented by most Moroccans on a weekly basis to scrub off, get clean, and catch up on gossip. 

The hammam experience involves getting scrubbed, massaged, and steamed in a series of increasingly hot rooms. There are separate hammams for men and women.

There are two types: a private hammam and a public hammam. A private hammam is more expensive and will typically include greater privacy, while a public hammam will require you to let go of your inhibitions. 

You’ll be stripped down to your underwear and bathe with many other women (or men) in a similar state of attire. If you can get over that, you’ll be left feeling more clean and relaxed than you’ve ever felt before.

19. Enjoy A Magnificent Sunset

Sunsets in Essaouira are truly something special. Perched on the west coast of Morocco, the sun sets directly over the ocean, so you’re almost guaranteed a show every day (dependant on weather).

With seagulls flying into the orange hues of the sky and the call to prayer echoing around the city, watching the sunset in Essaouira is an experience not to be missed.

There are many different spots to watch sunset from and it all depends on what vibe you’re after. We loved watching it from the ramparts, but they did close almost as soon as the sun went down and you have to leave pretty quickly.

Best Sunset Spots In Essaouira

Where To Stay In Essaouira

Despite being a relatively small town, Essaouira is home to plenty of accommodation options to suit every budget.

We’d highly recommend staying in the medina. This will allow easy access to the beach and all the main attractions within Essaouira. Plus, the traditional riads are stunning. 

We’ve listed below our favourite riad for every budget in Essaouira.

Best Budget Option – Dar Halima – This is where we stayed and honestly it was STUNNING. The rooms were comfortable and the suite was truly ‘Insta-worthy’. The owners were incredibly sweet and the breakfast was incredible. 

Best Mid-Range Option – Riad Lyon-Mogador – This riad is located in the heart of the medina, with a rooftop terrace with amazing views over the sea. There are comfortable seating areas on the terrace, and the rooms are decorated in a traditional, yet modern, design.

Best Luxury Option – Casa.b Mogador – Located in the medina, just 400m from Essouira Beach, Casa.b Mogador is a stunning accommodation. It’s decorated in an aesthetic style, with comfort, space and tranquility being the top priority. 

FAQs

Still have a few questions about visiting Essaouira? We’ve answered the most common ones below.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Essaouira?

Essaouira has 300 days of sunshine a year and doesn’t suffer from the extreme temperatures of other Moroccan cities due to its coastal location. This makes it a great place to visit all year round.

However, Essaouira does suffer from extreme coastal winds, particularly in the months of July and August. Whilst this is great for windsurfing, it’s not so good for sightseeing.

To avoid the winds (as much as possible), consider visiting in September to October, when the temperature is still pleasant and the winds have died down slightly.

How Do I Get To Essaouira?

Essaouira is home to a small airport, with flights running from several European cities a few times a week.

Most tourists, however, will begin their journey in Marrakech, the closest main tourist hub.

To get to Essaouira from Marrakech, you can either arrange a private transfer, or take a public coach. The journey is around 3 hours.

How Long Should I Spend In Essaouira?

Essaouira is a beautiful little town with plenty to fill your time. It’s also the perfect place to base yourself for a while to unwind and live the slow life. In order to cover all the best things to do in Essaouira, we’d recommend spending 3 days in the city.

Wrap Up

Essaouira is one of the most beautiful and unique coastal towns in Morocco. It’s a perfect year-round destination with so much to do. Whether you want to learn to surf, explore the medina, or experience a hammam, there is something for everyone.

We hope you’ve enjoyed reading this list and we’ve given you some fun ideas for your trip to Essaouira. And when you’re done exploring Essaouira, check out some of the other incredible places to visit in Morocco.

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