31 Best Things to Do in Essaouira in 2025 + Secret Local Tips

Planning a very merry trip to Essaouira? If so then this epic local’s guide is for you. I have lived in the city for over a year and know about the best things to do in Essaouira.

Plus, my boyfriend is a local who grew up here. So, between the two of us, we can give you secret insider tips about what to do in Essaouira and the top attractions in Essaouira.

Full disclosure though, Essaouira is a quiet little beach town. Yes, this city receives many tourists, but there isn’t a ton to do here.

I know this list sounds long but, if I’m honest, many of these things won’t take you a lot of time. I love Essaouira but it’s not the most exciting city on the planet.

So, if you’re planning a trip, two days should be enough time to experience all the most iconic landmarks in Essaouira.

However, if you want to relax, sleep til 10:00 am, sit in coffee shops, and walk along the beach then you can spend more time in the city.

It’s just not the type of place where your schedule will be jam-packed with things to do from morning until night.

Plus, the medina is super small and you could easily explore the entire old town area in a few hours. It’s not a bad thing but just something to keep in mind when planning a trip to Essaouira.

Now that I’ve gotten that info out of the way, let’s check out all of the very best things to do in Essaouira right now.

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Top 10 Best Things to do in Essaouira

If you’re short on time and just want to enjoy the very best things to do in Essaouira then be sure to:

• Explore the Medina
• Visit the Old Scala
• Take in the Views from Scala Du Port
• Walk along the Main Beach
• Catch a Sunset on the Roof of the Hungry Nomad
• Do a Day Trip to Sidi Kaouki
• Visit a Local Hammam
• Grab Some Seafood at the Port
• Try Surfing
• Try Kite Surfing
• Go horseback riding in Essaouira

1. Explore the Medina

After arriving in Essaouira, the Medina always captivates me with its beauty. Characterized by vivid white and blue painted streets, the Medina is a fun and exciting place to take a stroll.

The vendors here are noticeably less aggressive than those in Marrakech, making for a much more pleasant shopping experience in Essaouira. It’s also very safe in Essaouira so you won’t have to worry much about pickpockets.

I also appreciate how small the Medina is. So, you definitely don’t need your GPS while walking around.

It’s just a beautiful balance between navigability and excitement. So, there will be plenty of shops and restaurants to keep you entertained for a day in Essaouira.

Plus, it’s a pedestrian-only zone. So, unlike in Marrakech, you really don’t have to worry about getting run over by a motorbike or by a stray cart pulled by a donkey.

Furthermore, the streets are laid out in a grid-like pattern, reducing the likelihood of getting lost. You’ll still get lost but can easily find your way back to a main gate.

However, what’s truly remarkable about the Medina is that its a designated UNESCO World Heritage site, tracing its origins back to the late 18th century.

It’s a place where you can wander around, explore the souks, sip on mint tea, and soak in the allure of this enchanting town.

If you want to relax, head to the rooftop at Mega Loft or Il Mare for stunning ocean views. Afterward, go shopping at the boutique inside l’Atelier-Café Boutique. It’s one of the best places to eat in Essaouira.

I always come here since they have strong Wifi, exquisite decor, exceptional coffee, and an excellent in-house boutique. You can also check out Mandala Society if you want the best vegetarian food in Essaouira.

2. Check Out a Nearby Vineyard

I know many people think you can’t drink in Morocco but that is not true. You can drink in Marrakech and Essaouira too.

There is even a cool vineyard that sits just 25 minutes outside the city. Established in 1994, Domaine du Val d’Argan. grows 13 different grapes from the Rhone Valley and now sits on 50 hectares of land.

So, check out one of the coolest things to do in Essaouira since visitors are welcome to enjoy a wine tasting or try a fun cooking class. You can even spend the night at their quaint bed and breakfast.

Yeah, it’s a wonderfully relaxing place to stay since they have amazing gardens as well as a pool on-site.

Tastings start at 200 Dirhams ($20.00), but call them ahead of time (+212 660-279024) so that they know you are coming. You can also sample everything from whites to reds to roses.

Tastings generally start at 11:00 am, 2:30 pm, and 3:00 pm and last for around a half an hour. You’ll also need to get yourself here since there is no shuttle available.

3. Visit the Old Scala

Referred to by locals as the Old Skala (use any other name and locals will have no idea what you’re talking about), no visit to this seaside oasis is complete without an idyllic stroll along these historic fortifications.

Erected in the 18th century to safeguard the medina and harbor against attack, these defensive walls serve as a timeless historic monument and an ideal spot for watching the sunset.

I love to come here, sit by the canons, and enjoy impressive views of the Atlantic Ocean. If you look closely, you might even spot a fishing boat or two.

To visit, head down Rue Skala, past shops brimming with handmade goods that line the way. I bought an awesome pink scarf here and think it makes for a great, high-quality souvenir from Essaouira.

Walk through an ancient archway and up the ramp to reach a viewing area with epic views of the coast. As you turn left you’ll also see 19 canons on display.

Fans of ‘Game of Thrones’ might even recognize this spot since it was used for the filming of Astapor in the series.

You’ll also love that admission to the Old Skala is free, although it’s only open daily from 9:00 am until sunset.

4. Explore the Scala de Port

I know there are two “scalas” in Essaouira but this one is by the port, not inside the Medina. You also have to pay 50 Dirham to visit ($5.00) but can definitely stop by on Friday if you want to check it out for free.

Stop by any time between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm to see this historical landmark in Essaouira. Be sure to climb the main tower and enjoy stunning views of the port, the walls of the Medina, a nearby island, and the ocean.

You’ll also love that it was famously featured in the “Game of Thrones” series and was built in the 18th Century under the reign of Sultan Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdallah.

It’s just an awesome fortress/Essaouira landmark that is distinguished by robust stone arches that were designed to protect the port.

5. Do a Day trip to Sidi Kaouki

I love love love Sidi Kaouki and visit every time I can. It’s this quiet little surf town that sits around 30 minutes south of Essaouira.

So, it’s a lot smaller and less crowded than Essaouira. Don’t get me wrong, you’ll still find plenty of tourists and hotels there. But, it’s just a bit more chill and a quick day trip from Essaouira.

I also think the waves are better here for surfing. So, if you are a more advanced surfer then skip Essaouira and come here instead.

But, if you’re a beginner then definitely learn how to surf on the smaller waves in Essaouira before you try it here. You can even rent gear here from a local surf shop.

In terms of what to do, the main activities are hanging by the beach, surfing, eating at a local restaurant, ATVing, camel riding, and horseback riding.

It’s a lot less crowded than Essaouira but don’t expect to have the beach to yourself on the weekend. Also, if you want to use a beach chair, with an umbrella, it will cost you 50 Dirhams ($5.00).

But, this place does have some epic waves and is home to some of the top surf camps in Essaouira.

When we visit, we usually take the number 2 bus. It leaves from the stop near Bab Doukkala and goes to Sidi Kaouki every 2 hours. It costs 7 Dirhams ($0.70) to get tickets on the bus and takes around an hour since you’ll stop at the airport first.

The downside is that the bus stops running pretty early, like maybe 7:00 pm or so. Therefore, plan to leave early if you want to take the bus back to Essaouira.

Alternatively, you could take a Grand Taxi. You can find them at the main bus station and it’s around 15 Dirham ($1.50) per person (90 Dirham for the whole taxi).

Just be sure you talk to them and arrange a time to go back after one of the best day trips from Essaouira since a lot of taxis don’t like going all the way out to Sidi Kaouki, especially at night.

Local Tip: This is also one of the best places to go camping in Essaouira. Campsites here are very quiet, affordable, and right near the beach.

6. Grab Some Crepes in Moulay Hassan Square

Overlooking the ocean, this main square connects the outer edges of the Medina with the port.

It’s a vibrant place where you can see artists performing music and locals walking around in cheap Mickey Mouse costumes to take pictures with kids. You might even find vendors selling a pair of sunglasses or two.

There’s even a cool little entrance to the beach that you can use to walk along the rocks and admire the towering walls of the Medina.

It’s a place that is always buzzing with activity and you cannot leave without stopping by Crepes Marrakech for a Nutella crepe.

Yeah, I know, the name was confusing to me too, but this guy easily serves the best crepes in the city and they are not to be missed. They typically cost between 20 Dirhams ($2.00) and 30 Dirhams ($3.00) each.

7. Visit a Cool Market in the Countryside

Sure, there’s a food market right in the middle of the Medina. But, sometimes it’s fun to get out of Essaouira and see what life is like in more rural areas around the city.

So, one of the unique things to do in Essaouira is to head to a quiet village where local vendors come to sell everything from fruit to vegetables to baskets, spices, cattle, kitchen items, etc.

Men also like to just hang out here with their pals and sip on meat tea while cooking meat over an open fire.

Generally, Had Draa Souk is the biggest market in the area and takes place every Sunday, as it has for hundreds of years. You can get nice kebabs and even snag a sweet goat, camel, or donkey if you like (lol).

Alternatively, you can always visit Had Draa market or Ida Ougourd market on Wednesdays. Just park your donkey (no there really is a donkey parking lot) and climb to the hillside where you can find a fruit market, a vegetable market, and animals being traded inside a walled-in square.

To visit you can take a Grand Taxi (I prefer this since it’s the same price as the bus) or the bus near Bab Doukkala. It’s 10 Dirhams ($1.00) to Had Draa and 7 Dirhams ($0.07) for Ida Ougourd (Wednesday, 7DH per person).

If you like the countryside you can also stay at one of the best hotels in Essaouira that is quietly tucked away in this area.

8. Grab a Burger at Fish Burger

Located right on Avenue de I’Istiqlal (the main street through Essaouira), this is a chill burger joint where you can sit outside and order a Sardine Burger, a Fish Burger (DUH), an Eggplant Burger, Fish and Chips, and a Fish Taco.

The menu isn’t big but all the seafood is super fresh and the burgers are delicious. If you want, you can even get a burger, side, and drink for only 70 or 80 Dirhams ($7.00 or $8.00).

Is this the most Moroccan meal ever? No. But, the food is excellent and well-priced for the Medina. The only problem is that when I come here I usually have to wait since it’s one of the more popular restaurants in Essaouira.

Seating is also limited and is pretty much just what you can find outside. However, I always stop by to get the eggplant burger. I get a side of potatas bravas to go with it and just enjoy since the food is always amazing.

I mean, the eggplant burger is nice and crispy and doen’t have an overpowering eggplant flavor, which I appreciate.

9. Hang Out with the Local Kitties

If you’ve been in Morocco for five minutes then you’ll quickly realize that there are about 10,000 stray cats in every city you visit.

Well, Essaouira is no exception and you can find them at the fish market, the old scala, and all over the Medina. So, take some time to say hi to the city’s feline friends and maybe even give them a bit of water/food.

Just be careful when petting/touching these animals since they are feral and can bite or scratch. You definitely don’t want to visit the hospital here since I have been and the one in Essaouira sucks.

Now, most of the cats in the streets are super nice. But, I have had cats crawl into my lap while I was eating outside and not want to leave.

They sit there, wait for food, and take a nap if they feel comfortable enough. The problem is that when you go to leave, they refuse to move.

I actually had to have some guy pick one up off my lap because the cat just dug into me and refused to get off. So, love on some kitties but proceed with caution.

10. Visit the Fish Market by the Port

The bustling port and harbor of Essaouira are where numerous fishermen dock their boats, unload their daily catch, and try to sell their fresh seafood to eager patrons.

Consequently, the area teems with cats on the prowl for scraps, seagulls soaring through the air, and vendors loudly selling their fish.

Here, you’re greeted with a vibrant display of seafood that includes sardines, pilchards, sole, crabs, lobsters, octopuses, flatfishes, skates, eels, and even sharks.

For an experience that’s both culturally rich and delicious, opt to have some freshly procured seafood cooked at a nearby open-air restaurant.

It’s the perfect place to go after a visit to the Skala de Port, as both attractions are conveniently located within the same area.

Local Tip: If you walk past the fish market and continue out along the walkway (going away from the Medina) you can get great views/photos of the beach.

You can even climb the ancient sea walls for stellar views of the ocean and a nearby island for nesting birds.

11. Grab a Coffee at The Sisterhood Coffee

Looking for a super Instagram-able place in the Medina? If so then mosey on over to The Sisterhood Coffee. They serve epic lattes in addition to killer homemade brownies at one of the best coffee shops in Essaouira.

They even have a cute little boutique on-site where you can shop for vintage clothes. Just grab a seat on one of their mismatched chairs and relax for a bit while you take in the awesome decor.

Honestly, the tile work is just lovely and this place has a cool, vintage vibe to it that just makes me want to stay here forever.

You can even stick around and see what’s going on at the cafe in the evening in Essaouira since they regularly host fun community events that take place after dark.

12. Visit the Jewish Quarter

One of the best things to do in Essaouira is head to the Jewish Quarter and learn a bit more about their heritage and religion.

Because contrary to popular belief, many cities in Morocco are filled with historic Jewish areas that are filled with many incredible things to do and do.

So, during your day trip from Marrakech to Essaouira, head to the Jewish Quarter, where you’ll see abandoned buildings and streets covered in dust.

Sure, this area may not be the cleanest. But, it offers an unfiltered glimpse into what local life is really like for some people.

Key sites include the Haim Pinto Synagogue and Bayt Dakira, which translates to “the House of Memory” in English.

This Jewish museum showcases a variety of artifacts and photographs depicting Jewish life in the area.

Admission is free, although most of the information is in French. So, a brief visit is fine during your trip to Essaouira.

Afterward, head towards the Jewish cemetery near Bab Doukkala. To find the cemetery, exit the Medina through Bab Doukkala and search for a wooden door near the “Petits Taxis” sign on your left.

The cemetery is open to visitors free of charge but is usually closed in the evenings and on Sundays.

13. Visit the Main Beach

You honestly cannot visit Essaouira without heading to the beach since this is what this city is known for. It’s a stunning, 2-kilometer stretch of sand that is located just south of the Medina.

It even has an amazing beachfront promenade where you can go for a walk before taking a dip in the beach’s shallow waters.

Just be prepared for chilly water since the intense breeze off the Atlantic Ocean doesn’t make the water feel any warmer.

But, this wind makes Essaouira the perfect place to try surfing and kite surfing. Visitors can also participate in or watch a local football match on the beach before catching an awesome sunset.

Otherwise, just relax on a rented sunbed for about 25 Dirhams ($2.50). However, prices do decrease as you move further away from the Medina.

Go towards the end of the beach in Essaouira and you’ll find an area filled with surfers and kite surfers, as well as locals offering camel rides, horseback rides, and ATV rides.

We generally like to walk along the beach and relax with a drink, and some tapas, at Ocean Vagabond and Beach & Friends. Yeah, these two places are home to some of the best nightlife in Essaouira.

You can then either walk back to the Medina or catch a taxi for 8 Dirhams ($0.80).

All in all, it’s a nice beach to visit, but it’s very crowded since it’s right in the center of town. There’s also some litter around since lots of people are always here.

14. Take a Horse and Carriage Ride to Safi Beach

A visit to Safi Beach is one of the best things to do in Essaouira for anyone who likes a quieter beach experience. It’s hidden away from the crowds of the Main Beach, but also doesn’t have any amenities.

So, be sure to pack what you need for the day since you won’t find much out there besides the sand and the sea.

To visit, consider hiring a horse-drawn carriage from Bab Doukkala, right by the Petit Taxi stand. You’ll pay just 50 Dirham ($5.00) for a brisk, 2 km return trip to the beach.

Your driver can either wait for you or come back later to pick you up. Either way, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the dunes, investigate rock pools, or take a dip in the ocean.

However, it’s important to note that you will be swimming at your own risk since there are no lifeguards here.

15. Try Horseback Riding

Enjoy a serene horseback ride across the peaceful southern shores of the city if you’re at a loss for what to do in Essaouira.

Experience is not required, and numerous local organizations are open to participants of all abilities.

Specifically, Diana Dromedaries stands out as a great choice for anyone interested in either camel or horseback riding.

The team is friendly and proficient, providing guidance to newcomers so that they can become comfortable with horseback riding.

Safety equipment, such as helmets, is also provided. Guests are just asked to wear long pants and closed-toe shoes for protection.

16. Try Quad Biking

For an unparalleled quad biking adventure along the south beaches of Essaouira, make your way to Diabat village and schedule a quad bike tour in Essaouira with Diana Quad.

Yours on offer vary from short one-hour excursions to comprehensive full-day adventures, with the two-hour option being the most popular.

Children under 8 years old can also ride for free and each group benefits from the guidance of a dedicated guide who offers help and directions.

Although sharing a quad can be cost-effective, I liked having my own bike and being able to drive myself through the sand.

I also loved that the training was pretty straightforward but be careful as you cruise past serene beaches and tranquil Berber villages.

Also, remember to pack enough snacks and water since you won’t be able to stop for refreshments during the tour.

17. Go Camel Riding

If you can’t make it to the Sahara then why not do a bit of camel riding in Essaouira? Just avoid the guys at the end of the beach offering camel rides and go with Diana Dromedaries.

I have used them and love this organization since they arrange amazing excursions that can last anywhere between 1 and 3 hours.

It’s an amazing way to explore the dunes of Essaouira and to enjoy the incredible natural beauty of this city. You can also try one of the best camel tours in Marrakech if you run out of time.

18. Enjoy Surfing or Kite Surfing

Not sure what to do in Essaouira? Then take advantage of the intense wind in the city and try kitesurfing in Essaouira or surfing.

July and August are really good times for this activity in Essaouira since this is when the winds are at their strongest.

Nonetheless, these thrilling water sports can be enjoyed at any time of year. Just know that the waves in Essaouira are relatively gentle. Therefore, it’s the perfect place for beginners or children to try their hand at surfing.

Otherwise, you can always do a bit of kite surfing. It’s hard but a lot of fun. To make the most of your experience, try booking a lesson at Moga Surf.

Renowned kite surfer and F-One competitor, Ismail Adarzane, regularly teaches beginners here how to kite surf like a pro.

But, if Moga Surf isn’t an option then other reputable schools like BleuKite, Explora, and Kitesurfmaroc are worth visiting.

19. Visit the Beach North of the Old Scala

Honestly, I think my favorite part about this beach is getting there. It’s not super easy since there is no well-defined path since you enter through a gap in the wall at Moulay Hassan Square.

But, I love walking among the rocky shores and gazing up at the Medina walls next to me. FYI, you can only use this route during low tide. It’s annoying but there is another way to get to the beach.

Alternatively, exit the Medina at Bab Doukkala and go past all the taxis. Walk for about half a kilometer until you hit the Total Energies gas station and turn left to access the beach.

It’s pretty empty and offers a nice escape from the crowds. However, the water currents are extremely dangerous and you should not swim here. So, I would only really go if you want to walk the beach.

I mean, walk far enough, and eventually, you’ll hit Safi Beach which is pretty cool. So, this is one of the more unusual things to do in Essaouira.

20. Catch a Beautiful Sunset

Because of Essaouira’s location on the western coast of Morocco, it is a great place to watch the sunset over the ocean.

Now, there are a ton of great places to sit and watch the sky light up with beautiful pink, orange, and yellow hues. You could easily sit on the wall along the Main Beach and just watch the sunset from there.

My partner and I used to grab some snacks, sit here, enjoy a little picnic, and watch the magic happen. However, the Old Scala is another amazing spot to watch the sunset. But, it gets PACKED.

Therefore, it’s not the best place to go if you don’t want to have to fight people for a place to sit. You should also get here early since spots fill up fast.

Another great place to watch the sunset is The Hungry Nomad. Yes, the stairs are steep and you will have to do a bit of climbing to get to the top, but the views are worth it.

It’s also a lesser-known rooftop so you can kind of just chill, order a drink/food, and enjoy panoramic views of the city.

Additionally, The Loft sits along the main street in the city and has a cool rooftop too. It has a very Moroccan vibe since you sit on the ground and chill on Moroccan pillows as you sip on alcoholic drinks in Essaouira.

We have been here multiple times and sometimes the service sucks. Like, my partner ordered a sweet pancake for dessert and they gave him potatoes with cheese.

When we tried to address the issue they told us that we were wrong and this is what we ordered. It eventually got resolved but the incident made me not want to go back.

The decor and vibe of the place are super cool though and hopefully you have. a better experience than we did.

21. Try a Cooking Class

Okay, so when I first arrived in the city I did an awesome Essaouira cooking class at L’Atelier. The facilities are great (very modern), the staff are lovely, and it’s a really fun way to learn how to cook tagine.

Plus, you can visit their on-site cafe and shop in the adjoining boutique afterward. Also, be sure to grab a coffee since this cafe is a great place to chill.

Now, the cooking class itself starts at 10:30 am and ends at 3:00 pm. It also costs 500 Dirhams ($50.00), so it’s a fun, but longish class.

But, it doesn’t feel like you’re cooking in a local’s home and like you’re fully immersed in Moroccan culture. For that type of experience try Latifa’s Class.

It feels like you’re going shopping at the local market with your Moroccan mom before heading back home to learn how to cook like a champ.

Personally, this type of class isn’t really for me since I can just go to my partner’s family’s house and eat/learn how to cook anything I like since she is an excellent cook.

Plus, I cook Moroccan food at home now (I now have my own tagine) so I don’t really need a cooking class anymore TBH.

But, if you want a more cultural, local experience then this is a great class for you.

22. Visit a Hammam

So, I visited the hammam in Marrakech and the hammam in Essaouira and I preferred the Moroccan hammam in Essaouira. Not only was the service just better, but it was a lot cheaper.

Now, in case you’re not in the know, a Hamman is a traditional, Moroccan public bath. People go there to sit in steam rooms of different temperatures, bathe using black soap, and scrub off all the dead skin on their body.

It’s a great way to relax and feel shiny and brand new since all the dirt is scrubbed off your body, along with a layer of dead skin.

Traditionally, hammams are separated by gender, and everyone baths together, nude. Public hammams are super cheap and authentic, but you’ll need to bring all your own stuff, get naked in front of other people, and no one speaks English.

However, you could always go with a private hammam. Yes, it’s more expensive and the experience is definitely not “authentic”.

But, I just like being pampered and not having to buy my own exfoliating glove and worrying about the language barrier.

Some of my fave hammams in Essaouira are Azur Spa, Spa Cocooning, and Riad Mumtaz Mahal (the decor here is also super lovely since it feels like a traditional Moroccan riad).

You can also get a traditional Berber massage and many of these places. Personally, I wasn’t into it since it wasn’t stong enough for me (I have a lot of knots in my back).

But, most of these private hammams are full-service spas where you can get facials, massages, and more.

23. Shop for Souvenirs

One of the fun things to do in Essaouira is to shop in the Medina. Not only is everything cheaper than in nearby Marrakech, but the quality is better and the vendors aren’t as aggressive.

Yeah, we have picked up cool things like a NIrvana black and yellow shirt. The cool thing is that it says, “Nirvani” instead of Nirvana since “Nirvani” means angry in Moroccan dialect.

I also got a cool pink scarf. TBH, it’s more like a small blanket than a scarf. But, the stitching/quality is amazing and I actually had someone in Fes try to buy it off me.

There is also a cool shop that sells tote bags with the Berber language on them that I love. However, just walk around and see what you can find since the shops sell everything from jewelry to clothes to hats to rugs to ceramics.

Also, don’t forget to haggle and see what kind of bargain you can strike. I like to start at 50% of the asking price and go from there. But, do what feels comfortable to you.

24. Sidi Mohammed ben Abdallah Museum

This place looks like a stunning blue and white riad with lovely stone columns and a lovely central courtyard. The stairway and ceiling are also marvelous too.

However, this is one of the more unique things to do in Essaouira that you can give a pass if you are only in the city for a short amount of time.

It’s not that visiting is bad, but it is a bit pricey at 70 Dirhams ($7.00) per person. Plus, all the signage is in French and Arabic.

So, you can’t really learn anything about this stunning home from the 1800s and the photos, utensils, instruments, and jewelry on display.

Therefore, stop by if you have extra time in the city but don’t freak out if you miss this attraction in Essaouira.

25. Visit Diabat

if you have time on your hands then make the 4-kilometer trip to this tiny village outside of Essaouira.

It’s a nice, hour’s walk from Essaouira and is a great place to visit since no one really goes here.

Here you will find Diabat, which was once visited by none other than Jimi Hendrix himself. He stopped by in 1969 since hippies loved this place.

Today, you can still find a Jimi Hendrix hotel and cafe, or try quad biking and horseback riding through the area.

You can also explore the ruins of Dar Sultan Palace. The remnants of this once grand building are hidden away in the sands.

Today, you can see stone archways and lovely mosaic tiles. Just be aware of the fact that you’re visiting the ruins of an abandoned building that sits in between the town and the beach. So, don’t think it’s the Colosseum, because it’s not.

26. Use a Day Pass to Visit a Local Pool

If you don’t want to swim in the frigid waters of the Atlantic Ocean then you can always hit up a local pool instead. Some great hotels outside the city offer day passes and are great places to go on a hot sunny day.

TBH, though, Essaouira usually doesn’t get that warm, not like Marrakech warm. But, the pools are heated so the weather doesn’t matter.

Anyway, first up we have Les Jardins de Villa Maroc. It’s a sleek, boutique resort that is about 10 kilometers from Essaouira. Yeah, it’s super chic and has been featured all over TikTok.

Their heated pool is open to visitors from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm and a day pass costs 320 Dirhams ($32.00). Yeah, it’s a bit expensive but they include a transfer to the hotel with your day pass and have a great buffet on-site.

Another hotel with a great day pass is the Hôtel Domaine de L’Arganeraie. It’s about a 20-minute drive from Essaouira and they also have a heated pool that you can use between 11:00 am and 6:30 pm.

Day passes start at 100 Dirhams each and it’s. great place to bring the family. You will need to book a transfer though which usually costs 100 Dirham ($10.)0 ) per vehicle.

Local Tip: Villa Beldi is another great place that offers a day pass too. The pool is a bit small but it’s heated and day passes cost just 150 Dirhams ($15.00) each.

27. Get a Berber Massage

If you’re looking for a unique way to relax in Essaouira then try getting a Berber Massage. They are a bit too soft for me but many people love them. Plus, you can easily sign up for one during your visit to a private hammam.

Bio Argana Spa and Azur Spa Essaouira both offer Berber massages, which are characterized by comforting strokes and gentle, rhythmic tapping with cupped hands.

However, one of the best hostels in Essaouira can always book a massage for you or you can get one on-site at some of the prettiest riads in Essaouira.

28. Attend a Gnawa Performance

If there is one thing that Essaouira is known for (besides seafood) it’s Gnawa music. In fact, this style of music is so important here that the city holds an amazing annual Gnawa Festival at the end of June.

If you’ve never heard Gnawa music it has a very unique sound that includes a lot of chanting as well as the use of traditional musical instruments like use of instruments like symbols, drums, and the gimbri (similar to a guitar).

Sadly, most people won’t be able to attend the festival. However, you absolutely can see a Gnawa performance while you’re here.

Generally, Salut Maroc holds dinner concerts every Friday through Sunday that feature a unique mix of Magrebi and Gnawa fusion music. So, stop by and see Amin Kamal and the Prophets perform live.

Just make a reservation since this place is MEGA popular. Another option is to attend a concert at the Dar Souiri Cultural Center.

I have attended a performance here and saw two different groups perform live Gnawa music for 200 Dirhams. Just be prepared for a LONG show since the performance started at 8:00 pm and didn’t end until 11:00 pm.

But, it was fun and I think it’s easily one of the coolest things to do in Essaouira.

If you want, you can also attend the Gnawa and World Music Festival from June 27th to June 29th of this year. FWIW, it is packed and you will ned to make hotel reservations at least 3 months in advance.

The city also feels super crowded since thousands of people descend upon the city to attend the festival. So, expect streets to he closed off and the Medina to be HEAVING with people.

Personally, the festival is a bit too crowded for me. But, the performances are great and are held right by the beach. It is also pretty easy to watch them for free if you don’t mind being far away from the stage.

29. Grab Breakfast at Al Jazira

Let’s be honest. Essaouira is pretty dang touristy…and so are the restaurants here. Therefore, it can be difficult for visitors to find authentic, local restaurants that serve good food at affordable prices.

Well, the exception to that rule is Al Jazira (or Snack Al Jazira on Google). This place is cash only, sits right on the beach, is always crowded because they serve an amazing traditional Moroccan breakfast.

Sure, the service can sometimes suck. But, the food is always awesome. I come here all the time with my Moroccan partner and we usually get a pot of mint tea, batbout with oil, and a cheese omelet.

Everything is good and you know it is local because they never give me silverware with my food. FYI, I have also heard good things about the harira and bissara.

Generally, between the two of us, we don’t pay more than 60 Dirhams for breakfast. I would also get here early since they atart running out of things by 11:00 am.

FYI, I tried to order msemen since it is on the menu, but it seems like they don’t serve it anymore. Womp, womp, womp.

30. Check Out Imsouane

One epic Essaouira day trip that people often overlook is a trip to the one and only, Imsouane. It is a lovely little surf town that is about an hour and a half away from Essaouira.

It’s a really epic place to visit if you just want to chill by the beach or are looking to do a bit of longboarding. It is also a great place to go if you are more of an advanced surfer and are searching for better waves.

Basically, go to Magic Bay if you are a beginner and The Cathedrals if you are a more advanced surfer.

There used to be a ton of charming (albeit illegal) beach huts by the ocean that have been recently demolished. However, this is still a cool place to go if you want to explore another cool Moroccan beach town and try camping by the beach.

To visit, you can use the Souk to Surf website to book a direct bus from Essaouira to Imsouane. They currently have two departures daily, one at 9:30 am (arrives at 11:20 am) and one at 2:40 pm (arrives at 4:20 pm).

Tickets cost 120 Dirhams each way and the bus back to Essaouira departs at 6:00 pm the same evening. So, you should have plenty of time to relax and chill.

Other cool things to do include admiring the views from atop the cliffs above Magic Bay, sandboarding at the Timlalin Dunes near Tamri, and eating at many French crepes as you since they are delicious and sold everywhere.

31. Take a Yoga Class

Because Essaouira has this hippie chic vibe about it, it should come as no surprise that there are a ton of yoga classes available n Essaouira.

Believe it or not, my friend actually does acro-yoga and loves getting people together for a beach session. However, there are tons of hotels that offer yoga classes too, like Les Terrasses d’Essaouira and Essaouira Lodge, among others.

If it were me, I would opt to do yoga on a local rooftop or at the beach. There is just something so calming about sitting on your yoga mat and going through the class as you listen to the waves crashing against the shore.

For a great class, try either Moga Yoga Studio or Shanti Yoga Studio. Both are awesome and you will leave feeling refreshed and like you are a part of the local yoga community.

FAQs

Is Essaouira Worth Visiting?

Essaouira is worth visting. I love living here because you have access to the beach. The Medina is also super navigable and the town is a lot more peaceful than Marrakech. It’s also really easy to get from Marrakech to Essaouira.

Essaouira is also really safe. So, you won’t need to worry too much about pickpockets or anyone hasseling you.

What is the Best Time to Visit Essaouira?

The best time to visit Essaouira is between September and October. The days are long/warm, the winds have subsided, and the crowds of summer are gone. You also won’t have to add heavy jackets to your Essaouira packing list.

How Much Time Do You Need in Essaouira?

Two days is enough time to see all of Essaouira’s major highlights without feeling rushed. It’s the perfect amount of time to sit and relax in this sleepy beach town. But, how much time you need in Essaouira can depend on you.

Why is Essaouira Famous?

Essaouira is famous for its beach and wind, which makes it a perfect spot for surfing and kite surfing. The Medina is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a fun place to explore.

Is Agadir or Essaouira Better?

I like Essaouira better than Agadir since it’s a quiet town where you can relax and enjoy the beach. However, if you like a big city with a lot to do and more modern amenities then Agadir is better for you.

Conclusion

That wraps up this guide to the best things to do in Essaouira. I hope you found this guide useful and are ready to enjoy all of the main attractions on Essaouira.

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