Things to do
in Essaouira.
Essaouira is a relaxed seaside town with a UNESCO-listed medina. The best things to do are walking the medina and the Skala ramparts, watching the blue boats at the fishing port, a long walk on the beach, a surf or kitesurf lesson in the bay, a quad, horse or camel ride in the dunes, and a day at Sidi Kaouki beach.
In detail
What to
know.
The medina and the ramparts
Walk the lanes of the UNESCO-listed medina, the Mellah and the Skala de la Ville ramparts with their old cannons facing the ocean.
The fishing port
Blue boats, seagulls and the morning fish market; grilled fish stalls by the port at lunchtime.
Surf and kitesurf
The bay is one of Morocco’s windiest spots: perfect for kitesurf and for surf lessons for beginners.
Quad, buggy, horse and camel rides
Ride through the Diabat dunes and along the beach, ideally at sunset.
Sidi Kaouki and Diabat
Wild beaches south of town, easy to reach by car or with a driver.
Argan cooperatives
Women’s cooperatives on the roads around Essaouira show how argan oil is made.
Local tips
Good to
know.
Book activities on WhatsApp
We confirm the time, the meeting point and the price.
Bring a windbreaker
The wind is part of the experience, even in summer.
Add a pickup
We drive you to the activity and back to your riad.
Questions
Your questions, answered.
What are the best things to do in Essaouira?
The best things to do in Essaouira are on the ocean and in the dunes: surf and kitesurf lessons in the bay, quad and buggy rides through the Diabat dunes, and horse or camel rides along the beach at sunset.
How many days do you need in Essaouira?
Two to three days to enjoy the medina, the beach and one or two activities; longer if you surf or want day trips.
Is Essaouira a good day trip from Marrakech?
Yes, but it is about 2 h 30 to 3 hours each way; one night or more is much more relaxing.
How do I book an activity?
Message us on WhatsApp with the activity, the date and the number of people. We confirm the time, the meeting point and the price.
Do you pick us up at our riad?
Yes. A return transfer from your riad or hotel to the activity can be added on request.
More guides
Keep
reading.
Day trips from Essaouira
Day trips from Essaouira: Sidi Kaouki, Imsouane, Taghazout, the argan countryside, Safi and Marrakech. Times, tips and a driver for the day.
Read the guide →Best time to visit Essaouira
When to visit Essaouira: mild weather all year, windy summers perfect for kitesurf, calmer autumns, and festivals like Gnaoua in June and MOGA in October.
Read the guide →Where to stay in Essaouira
Where to stay in Essaouira: riads in the medina, sea-view apartments by the beach, or villas with a pool in Ghazoua and Diabat. Pros and cons.
Read the guide