Essaouira
Morocco's breezy Atlantic gem - a relaxed, fortified port town of whitewashed and blue houses, sea ramparts and a busy fishing harbour, a UNESCO medina of art and wind.
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Illustrative image - a scene in the spirit of the place, not a photograph of it. Real photos are below.
UNESCO World Heritage
Essaouira is Morocco's most relaxed and charming coastal town, a fortified Atlantic port whose UNESCO medina of whitewashed, blue-shuttered houses is ringed by sea ramparts and cannon. Its busy fishing harbour lands the daily catch, gulls wheel over the walls, and a laid-back, artistic and windswept air, beloved of surfers, kitesurfers and musicians, makes it a breezy contrast to the intense inland cities.
What you actually see
- The sea ramparts - the fortified walls and cannon over the Atlantic.
- The medina - the whitewashed, blue-shuttered lanes and art galleries.
- The fishing harbour - the busy port and its daily catch.
- The windswept beach - the long beach for surfing and kitesurfing.
When to go
Spring to autumn for the warmest weather, though the Atlantic wind blows year-round, cooling the town and drawing surfers. It makes an easy and popular escape from the heat of Marrakech.
Honest expectations
The famous wind that makes it great for kitesurfing can make the beach chilly and blustery for sunbathing, so it is more a town-and-harbour destination than a classic beach resort. It is popular and can be busy in season, though far more laid-back than Marrakech or Fes.
Nearby
Marrakech is about three hours inland; the argan-oil country and coast spread around.
What to pack for Essaouira
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
