12 Best Things to Do in Essaouira with Kids

If you’re traveling to Essaouira with the kiddos in tow then you’ll LOVE this list of the all-time best things to do in Essaouira with kids.

See, I live in Essaouira and my partner was born and raised there. So, we know about some of the BEST things to do there. And while we may not have kids of our own, we do have to babysit his nieces and nephews quite a bit.

So, we are always on the hunt for cool and exciting kid-friendly activities in Essaouira. The good news is that there are a ton of fun things for kids to do in Essaouira.

The bad news is that…just kidding. There is no bad news.

In fact, Essaouira is the perfect place to take your kids in Morocco since it’s safe, it’s much less crowded (and overwhelming) than Marrakech and it is much cooler than a lot of other cities.

Yup, we have the wind to thank for that. But, it’s a good thing since your kids will be comfortable walking around the city in the afternoon. They won’t melt and you won’t have to worry about heat stroke.

Additionally, Essaouira is very stroller friendly, is super accessible from Europe, has diapers aplenty (and anything else you may need), is home to wonderfully friendly people, and is just a great place to go if you want to chill at the beach.

But, now that we have established just how awesome Essaouira really is for kids, let’s check out all of the best things for children to do in Essaouira.

This way you won’t have to deal with kids moaning about how bored they are during your trip to Essaouira.

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Best Things to do in Essaouira with Kids

1. Attend a Gnawa Concert

If you’re not sure what Gnawa is, it is a type of music that is indigenous to Essaouira and the surrounding area.

It was brought to Morocco by slaves in the 15th and 16th centuries and is a series of religious songs and rhythms that combine poetry with traditional music and dancing.

It’s hard to describe Gnawa since you have to see it to understand it and feel just how beautiful it is. But, what I can say is that it is very soulful.

It also includes a lot of dancing, chanting, and the playing of instruments like drums, symbols, and the gimbri (kind of like a guitar).

Now, there are a lot of places you can go to attend a Gnawa concert. I know Salut Maroc has a show from Friday through Sunday. It is done by Amin Kamal and the Prophets, who present a unique fusion of Gnawa and Magrebi music.

It is a lot of fun and easily one of the best things to do in Essaouira in the evening.

However, you can also head to Dar Souiri. The last time I was here I paid 120 Dirhams ($12.00) for a three HOUR concert. It was awesome and definitely offered great value for your money.

Plus, there were a ton of kids there loving the music and dancing along.

Alternatively, you could stop by the space and see if they are hosting a FREE Gnawa dance workshop. You do have to register but it is a great place for kids to learn about traditional Moroccan dance.

I would just stop by and ask about it if you’re interested. I know it was held on Sundays from 11:00 am to 1:15 pm throughout the summer but I am not sure if that was temporary.

If they are not holding the workshop, just take your kids to the art gallery in the back of the building. Have a look around and enjoy the gorg architecture of this amazing space.

Local Tip: Be sure to figure out how to exchange money in Morocco before you visit since some places can’t accept money.

2. Enjoy Main Beach

So, the reason why MOST people come to Essaouira is the beach. There are a few beaches in Essaouira but the Main Beach is really good for little kids and makes this one of the prettiest beach towns in Morocco.

The waves aren’t too intense, you don’t have to worry about currents, and there is plenty of sand to stretch out on.

If you don’t want to sit in the sun all day in Essaouira then you can even rent a beach chair for 25 Dirhams ($2.50) and just enjoy a day at the beach.

Be forewarned, the water is cold and Essaouira is super windy. So, if you visit in the summer, when the wind is at its strongest, you may have a hard time chilling at the beach with all the sand blowing around.

Now, let’s say the kids get bored and don’t feel like swimming, then you can always walk (or scooter/bike ride/rollerblade) along the 2-kilometer-long promenade that takes you to the southern edge of the beach (near Beach and Friends).

Along the way, you’ll see a cute little playground that younger kids can use (for a small fee). Or, just walk all the way to the end of the beach and have your kids do a quick camel ride or horseback ride.

It won’t be fancy since you basically just sit on the horse/camel while the guy pulls you along. But, it is good for younger kids who just want to enjoy a quick camel ride or horseback ride on the sand.

Local Tip: Another great place to bring younger kids in Essaouira is the Carrefour parking lot. Okay, I know that sounds weird, but hear me out.

Once the evening starts to roll around, the right side of the parking lot fills up with fun rides and bumper cars that are designed for younger kids. They can hang out and enjoy the rides before heading next door to Afriquia gas station.

Again, this sounds weird. However, they have a MASSIVE playground that kids will love.

It’s honestly one of the best playgrounds in the city and is a great place to hang out since you can chill in the cafe with a coffee while you watch your kids play.

3. Walk Around the Medina

What I LOVE about the Medina in Essaouira is that is MUCH quieter than the one in Marrakech.

So, you don’t have to worry about your kids getting lost in the hordes of people, making it much easier/safer to let them walk around a bit on their own.

The Medina in Essaouira is also interesting but NOT overwhelming. So, you can walk through the souks, see amazing Moroccan carpets, watch craftsmen do woodworking, shop in the spice shop, and grab an ice cream without your kids (or you) going into sensory overload.

Plus, it’s just insanely beautiful. And that makes sense since the Medina is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates all the way back to the 18th century.

So, grab your kids and explore all that this epic blue and white medina has to offer. For an extra bit of fun, make a little scavenger hunt and give your kids things to find while you go shopping in Essaouira.

It’s a nice place to do it because you won’t have to worry about getting lost. Unlike the one in Marrakech, the Medina in Essaouira is laid out like a grid and is easy to walk around.

Plus, no motorized vehicles are permitted in the Medina. So, you won’t have to stress about anyone getting run over by a rogue scooter.

4. Grab Some Pastries at Pumpkin

I’ve said it once and I’ll say it again. Pumpkin is easily one of my favorite cafes in Essaouira. Sure, the sitting area is a bit squished and the coffee is good but not EPIC.

However, the real draw of coming here is that they have AMAZING pastries. Honestly, I’ve gone to A LOT of bakeries in Essaoiora and they probably serve the best pastries in the city.

Plus, you know they’re super fresh since you can go upstairs (to use the toilet) and see them making things from scratch.

Now, it is not a stretch to say that me and my partner have tried just about everything and it is ALL good.

But, personal faves include the carrot cake, the banana bread, the lemon cake, the tiramisu, the quiche, the Biscoff cheesecake, and the energy balls.

We did not like the croissants but I think that is the only thing that was kind of MEH. So, feel free to order whatever treats your kids want. I pinkie promise they will like it and thank you for bringing them.

Just be sure to get here early since they do tend to run out of things as the day goes on. They also have decent coffee and non-dairy milk available for any vegans in Essaouira.

Local Tip: Looking for a more local bakery where you can try some Moroccan-style pastries? Then head to Driss Patisserie.

The decor is fun and funky and they serve great pastries. Again, get here before mid-day since they will start to run out of things. Mandala Society is also a great vegetarian-friendly restaurant in Essaouira and is right across the street.

5. Go on a Day Trip to Les Jardin Villa Maroc

Why go on an Essaouira day trip to Les Jardin Villa Maroc? Well, I am so glad you asked. First of all, the property is BEAUTIFUL.

No really. Walk past those crazy domed houses that you see all over Tiktok and I dare you to not spend the night.

Secondly, this property is located about 25 minutes outside of Essaouira. So, you can to enjoy the peace of the countryside and much warmer temperatures.

That makes this a great place to go swimming since the weather is great and they have a large, heated (28°C or 82°F) outdoor pool. The last time we went we met the group at Villa Maroc in Essaouira’s Medina at 11:00 am.

We then boarded a shuttle bus to the property so that we could swim, relax on cabana beds, order drinks, and enjoy a complimentary lunch buffet.

Real talk? The food was actually good and I could not stop eating the potatoes. Our group was also small and consisted of six people total. So, we all had PLENTY of room to swim without being on top of one another.

We then paid 320 Dirhams ($32.00) per person for a day pass and enjoyed a complimentary ride back to the Medina at 4:30 pm.

Overall, it’s a great place to swim and NOT freeze to death. There is also a small shallow end that is perfect for younger kids.

I also love that they have changing rooms and think that the price is super reasonable for transportation, pool use, and a buffet lunch.

6. Visit the Old Skala

Located inside the Medina, the Old Skala is a great place to take the kids. They’ll marvel at amazing views of the ocean, say “hi” to local cats, and climb all over the nineteen different canons that are on display.

That’s because the Old Skala is basically an old military fortification that was constructed in the 18th century to protect the harbor from attack. Today, it’s an awesome place to come and watch the sunset.

Just remember that the Old Skala is ONLY open daily from 9:00 am until sunset. So, local officials will kick you out right after sunset.

But, that’s okay because this is one of the best free things to do in Essaouira. Older kids will also love that the Old Skala was a filming location for Game of Thrones.

7. Go Surfing

As you’ve probably already heard, surfing is easily one of the best things to do in Essaouira. Generally, if you go any time between December and March, you’ll probably enjoy the best waves.

This is mainly because the wind dies down and that allows the waves to pick up.

Just know that the waves here are not INSANE. They are good for beginners and for younger kids to learn on, but they are not suited for expert surfers looking for Point Break style waves.

For those types of waves you’ll need to head to places like Sidi Kaouki, Imsouane, and Taghazout. These towns are all great places to go surfing and are all less than three hours away from Essaouira.

Now, if you and your kids still want to go surfing in Essaouira then sign up for a lesson with local schools like Moga Surf, Surf Essaouira, Olasurf Essaouira Kite & Surf School, Essaouira Surfing, and Essaouira Watersports.

They are all great surf schools where the instructors are friendly, they speak English, have well-maintained equipment (make your kids wear the wetsuit, it’s cold), and take you to amazing spots that are perfect for learning.

So, get out on the water and enjoy one of the most kid-friendly activities in Essaouira.

8. Try Quad Biking

If you’re looking to enjoy a bit of motorized fun then rent a quad bike or sign up for one of the best quad bike tours in Essaouira.

After all, quad biking is a great way to explore the area since Essaouira is surrounded by a gorgeous array of sand dunes and beaches.

Typically, most quad bike tours will take you to Diabat (past the ruins of an old sultan’s palace) or to Cap Sim. Personally, I would opt for Cap Sim since it is a bit quieter and isn’t AS overrun with tourists.

We went to Cap Sim during one ride and no one was there. It was awesome riding along these natural sand dunes without anyone around.

Before you book any tours, please double-check the age requirements that the company has in place.

They can vary but there is usually an age limit in place with regards to who can drive a quad bike and who can sit on a quad bike as a passenger.

But overall, kids LOVE sitting on quad bikes and feeling the wind whip through their hair. They also LOVE driving them, especially if they aren’t able to drive at home.

Local Tip: If you’re looking for a company that offers a good tour they try Diana Quads. Not only are the guides great, but they take you right to the dunes.

You can also book a full-day tour, an hour-long tour, and anything in between. So, lots of options to choose from. I also like that kids under 8 are free.

9. Go Horseback Riding

Horseback Riding is another one of the best things to do in Essaouira with kids. Now, if you have smaller kids then you can Always do a quick ride at the end of Main Beach.

It’s basically like a glorified pony ride and the guy will just walk them around on the horse.

However, if you have an older kid who wants to do a SERIOUS trail ride then you can try doing a tour through Diabat. It is a great way to explore natural forests, beaches, and deserts from the top of a beautiful creature.

Who knows, you might even see some cute donkeys, goats, and camels along the way.

Personally, I find the trails through Diabat a bit too congested. So, if ride horses in Essaouira then I like to do it from Sidi Kaouki.

Moroccan Horseback Adventures operates there and offers amazing tours through incredible, super-secluded beaches.

Added bonus? The instructors are lovely and the lunch is absolutely delicious. So, if your kids love horses then definitely contact them today

10. Ride a Camel

Since Morocco is synonymous with the desert, you and your kids will want to ride camels at some point. And Essaouira is a great place to do it.

You absolutely can hop on a camel at the north end of Main Beach. However, I prefer booking an official camel tour with Diana Dromedaries.

I have used them many times and they offer a wide array of tours that last anywhere between one and three hours.

I LOVE riding camels and think that it is an amazing way to explore Essaouira with kids. Just tell your kids to lean back when they need to get off the camel.

The animals like to put their front legs down first. So, if you are leaning forward then it is very easy to fall off. Been there, done that and you do not want to experience that for yourself.

If you run out of time in Essaouira, you can also try a camel ride in Marrakech.

11. Take a Day Trip to Sidi Kaouki

Want to get away from Essaouira for a hot minute? Then try taking your kids to Sidi Kaouki. I like to visit every chance I get since this charming little surf town is just a 30-minute drive from Essaouira.

I also love that this town is a lot smaller and much less crowded than Essaouira. That being said, this place is no secret and you should expect to see other tourists here.

That’s mainly because it is a great place to relax on the beach (it’s 50 Dirhams if you want to rent a chair) and try surfing.

The waves tend to be a bit stronger than the ones in Essaouira. So, that makes this a perfect place for more advanced surfers.

However, the beach is not as good for swimming, especially if you have younger kids since the waves can be a bit intense.

Other fun things to do include grabbing a meal at Essaouira Surf Station, going ATVing, doing some camel riding, and going horseback riding.

To visit, hop on the number 2 bus at Bab Doukkala. It departs for Sidi Kaouki (the last stop) every couple of hours and tickets cost just 7 Dirhams (that’s $0.70!).

It will take about an hour to get there via bus since you’ll make several stops along the way. I would just try to head to Sidi Kaouki early in the day since buses tend to stop running after 7:00 pm.

Alternatively, head to the Grand Taxi station and take a grand taxi there for 15 Dirhams ($1.50) per person, or 90 Dirhams for the entire cab. It’s a much faster way to get to this amazing beach town.

12. Go Kite Surfing

Essaouira is known for wind, wind, and more wind, making it an amazing place to try kite surfing. Full disclosure? Kite surfing in Essaouira is hard!

You and your kids will not learn how to kite surf in a single day. So, book a couple of lessons if you really want to learn.

However, once you do learn, it is amazing to glide through the waves and feel like you are flying across the water.

Now, this sport does require you to be at least a little physically fit. So, I would suggest it for older kids who can learn how to control the kite without exerting a ton of energy.

It also helps that you get a harness for your waist that transfers the power of the kite throughout your body.

So, if you’re ready to book a kitesurfing lesson then try schools like Moga Surf, Explora, BleuKite, and Kitesurfmaroc. They all have great instructors and give you top-notch equipment to use.

Just try and book your lesson during the summer (July and August) since this is the best time to go kite surfing. The winds are super strong and that makes kite surfing a whole lot of fun.

Conclusion

Overall, Essaouira is a great town for kids. Not only will you find lots of cool things to do with kids in Essaouira, but there is plenty of amazing street food available too.

So, if you don’t want to make your kids sit down and wait an hour for a meal, you can just grab msemen, harcha, falafel, crepes, french fries, seafood, and shwarma to go.

Otherwise, feel free to visit one of the many kid-friendly restaurants in the city. Just be sure to have a deck of Uno cards handy so that you can keep them entertained while you’re waiting for your food.

Additionally, Essaouira is VERY stroller-friendly. So, pack your fave stroller and enjoy having somewhere to put the little ones when they get tired.

Just don’t feel like you need to pack ALL the things since necessities like diapers, formula, milk, etc. are all readily available both inside and outside the Medina (Carrefour is HUGE and has everything you could want).

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