BEST Things to Do in Essaouira moroccco

16 BEST Things to Do in Essaouira: The Ultimate Travel Guide

Nestled along Morocco‘s Atlantic coast, Essaouira is a charming coastal town that offers the perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Known for its fortified medina, stunning beaches, and relaxed atmosphere, Essaouira provides a refreshing contrast to the hustle and bustle of other Moroccan destinations. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll take you through the 16 best things to do in Essaouira based on my month-long stay in the heart of the medina, sharing both popular attractions and hidden gems that will help you discover the true essence of this magical coastal town.

Introduction to Essaouira

Essaouira (pronounced es-sah-wee-rah) is a beachy town with a distinctly chilled vibe, located approximately three hours west of Marrakech. What makes this coastal gem truly special is its walled medina perched right on the beach, complemented by a bustling fishing port and historic ramparts. Unlike the overwhelming maze of Marrakech’s souks, Essaouira’s medina is small, cozy, and remarkably easy to navigate, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking a more relaxed Moroccan experience.

After spending a month living within the medina walls, I quickly felt at home among the friendly locals and the town’s unique energy. Essaouira’s manageable size and welcoming atmosphere make it perfect for both first-time visitors to Morocco and seasoned travelers looking to escape the tourist crowds.

Essaouira at a Glance

• Population: Approximately 80,000 residents
• Location: Situated on Morocco’s Atlantic coast around a small medina, 3 hours from Marrakech
• Notable Features: Fishing port, popular kitesurfing beach, historic medina on the Atlantic Sea
• Languages: French and Arabic are the primary languages; English is increasingly spoken, and translation is generally easy to find
• Currency: MAD (Moroccan Dirham) with ATMs readily available throughout town, including Barid Bank ATMs at Poste Maroc locations
• Weather: Temperatures remain relatively consistent year-round; July and August tend to be windier, while November to February experience more rainfall
• Best Time to Visit: March to October offers the most pleasant weather, though July and August see increased domestic tourism
• Safety: Generally very safe for tourists with normal precautions

16 BEST Things to Do in Essaouira, Morocco

1. Walk the Ramparts

Essaouira’s ancient city walls, known as the ramparts, separate the medina from the crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean. Built by European engineers in the 18th century, these historic fortifications offer breathtaking panoramic views of the beach, ocean, and distant horizons. To access the ramparts, simply head to Rue Skala, walk away from the fishing port, and keep left.

The ramparts are particularly magical during the morning hours when the light is soft and the crowds are thin, or in the evening as the sun begins to set, casting a golden glow across the ancient stonework. Children especially love exploring these walls, climbing on the old Portuguese cannons that still line the fortifications and peering through the embrasures that once defended the city.

The ramparts not only provide spectacular photo opportunities but also offer a glimpse into Essaouira’s strategic importance throughout history. As you walk along these historic walls, you’ll understand why Orson Welles chose this location to film scenes for his adaptation of “Othello” in the 1950s.

2. Visit the Fishing Port & Eat Sardines

Essaouira’s vibrant fishing port is the beating heart of the local economy and provides a fascinating window into daily Moroccan life. Early mornings are the best time to visit when fishermen return with their overnight catches and begin unloading their colorful blue boats. The harbor comes alive with activity as locals set up market stalls and begin the day’s commerce.

While there are concerns about unsustainable trawler fishing methods in some areas, Essaouira’s sardine catch primarily comes from smaller boats using traditional nets. These sardines are not only sustainable but also incredibly fresh and delicious. For an authentic experience, purchase sardines directly from the fish market and take them to one of the nearby BBQ stations, where they’ll be expertly grilled and served with fresh salad and bread.

The port area is also home to boat builders who continue to practice their craft using traditional methods passed down through generations. The sight of these skilled artisans at work provides a unique insight into maritime traditions that have shaped Essaouira’s identity for centuries.

3. Walk the Northern Beach at Low Tide

One of Essaouira’s hidden treasures is the expansive northern beach walk, best experienced during low tide. To embark on this adventure, head to the end of town just before Aswak Supermarket and turn left toward the beach. The timing is crucial—check the tide times and plan your walk as the tide begins to recede.

As you stroll along the shoreline, you’ll discover fascinating rock pools where locals sometimes fish for octopuses or wash their horses. The path takes you past the historic Jewish cemetery with its weathered headstones visible through the wall, offering a poignant reminder of Essaouira’s diverse cultural heritage.

This walk provides unique external views of the medina walls that can’t be appreciated from within the city. For the ambitious, the full walk to the fishing port walls takes approximately two hours, though families with children might prefer a shorter version by taking a petit taxi to Aswak Supermarket and walking back toward town.

The northern beach walk showcases Essaouira’s natural beauty away from the more frequented tourist spots, revealing tidal pools teeming with marine life, dramatic cliff formations, and panoramic coastal vistas that epitomize Morocco’s wild Atlantic coast.

4. Take a Traditional Hammam

No visit to Morocco is complete without experiencing a traditional hammam, and Essaouira offers some of the most authentic options. This intense scrubbing ritual provides not only a deep cleanse but also a genuine glimpse into daily Moroccan life and cultural traditions.

For a truly local experience, seek out one of the women’s hammams hidden within the medina. Despite initial nervousness about the communal nature of traditional hammams, many visitors find the experience surprisingly welcoming. You can choose between a self-scrub option (bring your own supplies) or opt for a full treatment where an attendant handles the washing and scrubbing.

Finding a traditional hammam can be tricky as they’re often unmarked and frequented primarily by locals. Ask your accommodation for recommendations or check local maps for guidance. For those feeling hesitant, rest assured that it’s perfectly acceptable to keep your underwear on throughout the experience.

The hammam ritual typically involves moving between rooms of varying temperatures, with the hot steam room opening your pores before the vigorous scrubbing commences. The result is incredibly soft skin and a sense of relaxation that’s difficult to achieve any other way.

5. Take Surfing or Kite Surfing Lessons

Essaouira’s consistent winds and excellent beach conditions have made it a mecca for kitesurfing enthusiasts from around the world. The bay’s protected waters and reliable breeze create ideal conditions for beginners, while more experienced kitesurfers can challenge themselves in the stronger winds that tend to pick up in the afternoons.

Numerous schools along the beach offer lessons for all skill levels, with equipment rental available for those who already know the basics. For those interested in traditional surfing, while Essaouira offers decent waves, more serious surfers might want to venture further south to spots like Tagazhout or Tamraght, where the surf conditions are world-renowned.

Many local instructors are flexible with lesson times and group sizes, making it easy to arrange sessions that fit your schedule. Children’s lessons are particularly well-handled, with patient instructors who understand how to make the experience fun and safe for young learners.

Whether you’re catching your first wave or perfecting your kitesurfing technique, the beach’s expansive shoreline provides plenty of space for everyone, and the breathtaking backdrop of the medina walls adds a uniquely Moroccan dimension to your watersport experience.

6. Explore the Cosy Essaouira Medina

The heart of Essaouira is undoubtedly its UNESCO-listed medina, a labyrinth of narrow alleyways, hidden courtyards, and vibrant souks. Unlike some Moroccan medinas that can feel overwhelming or intimidating, Essaouira’s walled city center exudes a warm, welcoming atmosphere that invites exploration.

The best way to experience the medina is simply to wander without a specific destination in mind, allowing yourself to discover its treasures organically. There are no threatening areas within the walls, making it safe to explore even the smallest alleyways, which often lead to charming courtyards or artisan workshops.

Essaouira has long been known for its skilled craftspeople, particularly in silver jewelry. Two standout shops worth visiting are Centre de la Bijouterie Artisanale Maalem Ali and Semlali Jewellery, both offering beautiful handcrafted pieces that reflect local traditions. For those interested in textiles, Hanan Tissage near the Fish Market showcases stunning handwoven blankets and throws (open daily except Friday).

As you meander through the medina, you’ll encounter a delightful mix of traditional Moroccan architecture with distinct European influences—a visual testament to Essaouira’s multicultural history. Blue doors and window frames contrast beautifully with whitewashed walls, creating a photographer’s paradise at every turn.

7. Day Trip to Sidi Kaouki

Just 25 minutes south of Essaouira lies the tranquil beach town of Sidi Kaouki, offering a perfect day trip for those seeking an even more laid-back coastal experience. With fewer tourists and a more expansive beach, Sidi Kaouki provides a refreshing contrast to Essaouira’s sometimes busy shoreline.

The heart of this small settlement is the old shrine house that gives the town its name, often rented by Moroccan tourists. The main area features a cluster of restaurants and surf shops near the northern parking area, but the real draw is the seemingly endless beach that stretches in both directions.

Low tide reveals fascinating rock pools teeming with marine life, perfect for exploration with children. The beach is also popular for camel and horse riding, with several local guides offering excursions along the shoreline. For the more adventurous, ATV trips through the surrounding dunes provide an exhilarating way to experience the coastal landscape.

Getting to Sidi Kaouki is straightforward—either take a grand taxi from Bab Doukalah (around 100 dirhams) or catch the Lima Bus number 2 from the same location (8 dirhams each way, 45-minute journey). The last bus back to Essaouira typically leaves in the late afternoon, so check the timetable before planning your day.

8. Visit Ida Ougourd Market

For an authentic glimpse into rural Moroccan life, plan a Wednesday visit to the Ida Ougourd Market, located about 45 minutes from Essaouira by bus. This weekly gathering brings together local farmers, artisans, and traders from surrounding villages, creating a vibrant marketplace that has remained largely unchanged for generations.

Arriving in the morning offers the best experience, allowing you to enjoy a traditional local breakfast among the market’s early bustle. One of the market’s unique features is the opportunity to purchase fresh produce and have it cooked into a delicious tagine at one of the small kitchens operating within the market complex.

Beyond food, vendors sell everything from handcrafted tools and housewares to clothing and traditional medicines. The market provides a fascinating contrast to the more tourist-oriented souks of Essaouira, with authentic interactions and the chance to witness regional trading practices firsthand.

To reach Ida Ougourd, take Lima Bus number one from Bab Doukkala. As this is a very traditional rural area, modest dress is recommended out of respect for local customs.

9. Visit the Museums

Essaouira houses several museums that offer valuable insights into the town’s rich and diverse history. The Sidi Mohammed ben Abdallah Museum, named after the sultan who rebuilt the city in the 18th century, showcases artifacts spanning various periods of Essaouira’s past. Spread across two floors, the museum features traditional costumes, weapons, musical instruments, and historical documents. The Gnaoua music room is particularly interesting, highlighting the cultural significance of this musical tradition that originated among the descendants of enslaved West Africans.

The Bayt Dakira Museum (Jewish Museum) provides a moving account of Essaouira’s significant Jewish heritage. Housed in a beautifully restored former synagogue, this free museum documents the centuries-long history of Jewish-Muslim coexistence in the city, which once boasted a Jewish population comprising nearly 40% of its inhabitants. The thoughtfully curated exhibits include historic photographs, religious artifacts, and personal stories that bring this important chapter of Essaouira’s history to life.

Both museums offer a deeper understanding of the multicultural influences that have shaped Essaouira into the unique destination it is today, making them worthwhile stops for those interested in looking beyond the surface beauty of the city.

10. Walk to Jimi Hendrix Sandcastle – Dar Sultan Palace

At the far southern end of Essaouira’s beach, past the river mouth, lie the ruins of Dar Sultan Palace, sometimes romantically referred to as the “Jimi Hendrix Sandcastle” due to local legends connecting the musician to this site. While historical evidence doesn’t support claims that Hendrix was inspired by these ruins, they nonetheless offer a fascinating destination for a beach walk.

The crumbling palace sits atop the dunes, creating a hauntingly beautiful silhouette against the sky. The walk from Essaouira takes about an hour each way, with the river crossing requiring some planning—at high tide, you might need to wade through knee-deep water or take a longer route around.

For a more varied experience, combine this walk with a visit to the nearby village of Diabat, or arrange a horse ride along the beach that includes a stop at the ruins. The area provides excellent photo opportunities, particularly in the golden light of late afternoon when the weathered stones glow warmly against the sand and sea.

11. Visit the Sunday Market

Every Sunday, the area outside Bab Doukkala on Avenue Moulay Hicham transforms into a vibrant local market that offers a fascinating window into everyday Moroccan life. Unlike the more tourist-oriented souks within the medina, this weekly market caters primarily to locals, creating an authentic shopping experience.

Vendors spread their wares across the closed street, selling an eclectic mix of second-hand items, spices, fresh produce, clothing, and household goods. The market buzzes with activity as residents haggle over prices, catch up with neighbors, and stock up for the week ahead.

For visitors, the Sunday market provides excellent people-watching opportunities and the chance to purchase genuinely local products at fair prices. Even if you’re not shopping, wandering through the colorful stalls and observing the community interactions offers valuable cultural insights that tourist attractions cannot provide.

12. Watch the Sunset from a Rooftop Bar

Essaouira’s position on the Atlantic coast provides spectacular sunset views, best enjoyed from one of the town’s rooftop bars. As the day winds down, locals and tourists alike gather at elevated venues to watch the sun sink into the ocean, painting the sky in brilliant hues of orange, pink, and purple.

Taros is perhaps the most famous rooftop establishment, often bustling with patrons enjoying sunset cocktails. The venue features live music nightly from 8 pm, creating a festive atmosphere that welcomes all ages. While primarily known as a bar, Taros also offers a menu of light meals and snacks, making it possible to enjoy dinner with your sunset view.

For those seeking a quieter experience, several riads and smaller cafés within the medina also offer rooftop access with panoramic views. These less-crowded alternatives provide a more contemplative setting to watch day turn to night over the ancient city walls and endless ocean beyond.

13. Take a Horse Ride on the Beach

Galloping along Essaouira’s expansive beach on horseback is an unforgettable experience that combines the thrill of riding with breathtaking coastal scenery. Several operators offer guided horse rides, but quality and animal welfare standards can vary significantly. For a professional service with well-cared-for horses, Yassine Cavalier comes highly recommended by both tourists and long-term residents.

Rides typically begin at the southern end of the beach and follow the shoreline, sometimes venturing into the dunes or woodland areas depending on the package chosen. Options range from one-hour introductory rides suitable for beginners to half-day excursions for more experienced riders.

Early morning or late afternoon rides are particularly magical, when the light is soft and the beach is less crowded. For photography enthusiasts, few images capture the essence of Essaouira better than horses silhouetted against the setting sun, with the historic medina walls rising in the background.

14. Take a Cooking Lesson

Moroccan cuisine is renowned worldwide for its complex flavors and unique combinations of spices, and what better way to bring a taste of Essaouira home than by learning to cook authentic local dishes? Several cooking workshops in town offer hands-on experiences that begin with a guided tour of the local markets to purchase fresh ingredients.

These culinary adventures typically focus on traditional dishes like tagine (slow-cooked stews named after the conical earthenware pots they’re prepared in) or couscous (steamed semolina typically served with vegetables and meat). Instructors explain the cultural significance of various ingredients and techniques while guiding participants through the preparation process.

Beyond the practical cooking skills, these workshops provide valuable insights into Moroccan food culture and hospitality traditions. The experience culminates in enjoying the meal you’ve prepared, often on a rooftop terrace with views of the medina or ocean—the perfect setting to savor your culinary creation.

15. Eat M’semen and Harira

For an authentic taste of Moroccan street food, don’t miss the opportunity to try m’semen and harira in Essaouira. M’semen is a delicious multi-layered flatbread fried in oil and sold from small stalls along Avenue de l’Istiqlal. These square pastries are typically filled with honey and butter for a sweet option, or onions and spices for a savory treat. Watching the vendors skillfully stretch and fold the dough by hand is almost as enjoyable as eating the finished product.

Harira, meanwhile, is a traditional Moroccan soup made with chickpeas, beans, small pasta, tomato, and aromatic spices. During Ramadan, it’s traditionally eaten to break the fast, but it’s available year-round in Essaouira’s small restaurants and food stalls. Thick and nourishing, a bowl of harira with fresh bread makes for a satisfying and economical meal, typically costing between 20-30 dirhams.

These simple yet flavorful dishes represent the everyday cuisine of Morocco far better than the more tourist-oriented restaurant offerings, providing a genuine taste of local culinary traditions.

16. ATV Quad Bike Tour

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, ATV quad bike tours offer an exciting way to explore Essaouira’s surrounding landscapes. These guided excursions typically depart from Diabat, south of Essaouira, and follow routes along the beach and through nearby dunes and forests.

The tours allow you to access remote beaches and dramatic coastal areas that would be difficult to reach on foot, with experienced guides ensuring safety while sharing knowledge about the local environment. Different tour lengths are available, from quick one-hour rides to half-day adventures that include stops at points of interest.

While certainly not the quietest way to experience Essaouira’s natural beauty, quad biking provides a thrilling contrast to the generally laid-back pace of the town. For families with older children or groups of friends, it can be a highlight activity that creates lasting memories of your Moroccan coastal adventure.

Conclusion

Essaouira offers a perfect blend of cultural experiences, outdoor activities, and relaxed beach time. Whether you’re wandering through the atmospheric medina, learning to surf on the windswept beach, or savoring freshly caught sardines at the port, this coastal gem delivers authentic Moroccan experiences in a manageable, friendly setting.

Rather than trying to check off all sixteen activities, select a few that align with your interests and travel style, allowing yourself time to absorb the unique rhythm of this enchanting city. The true magic of Essaouira often emerges in unplanned moments—a conversation with a local shopkeeper, the discovery of a hidden courtyard, or simply watching the fishing boats return as the sun rises over the Atlantic.

For accommodation, consider staying in one of Essaouira’s traditional riads within the medina walls, which offer an immersive experience and often feature rooftop terraces with stunning views. Ryad Watier comes particularly recommended for its authentic atmosphere and exceptional hospitality.

Whether Essaouira is a stop on a broader Moroccan itinerary or your primary destination, its distinctive charm and relaxed vibe make it a place many travelers find themselves returning to year after year. As you explore the winding streets, breathe in the salty air, and watch the waves crash against ancient walls, you’ll understand why this coastal town has captured the hearts of visitors for generations.

Have you experienced Essaouira? Which activities would you add to this list? Share your thoughts and questions in the comments below, and let this guide help you discover the many treasures of Morocco’s windy city by the sea.