15 Best Things to Do in Essaouira (From the Medina to the Beach)
Thinking about a seaside escape that’s got all the chill vibes and a bit of magic? Let me introduce you to Essaouira—aka the breezy Moroccan town that totally stole my heart. This coastal beauty is the perfect combo of laid-back beach town and historic charm, without the chaos you might find in some of Morocco’s bigger cities.
Whether you’re into wandering through ancient medinas, eating your weight in grilled fish, or just zoning out with a mint tea while the wind messes up your hair, Essaouira’s got you. Let’s get into all the awesome stuff you need to do while you’re there.
Table of Contents
1. Get Lost (In the Best Way) in the Medina
First things first—go explore the Essaouira Medina. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but don’t let the fancy title scare you off. The vibe? Totally relaxed. The narrow alleyways are packed with colorful doors, local shops, and smells that’ll make you want to eat every five steps.
Bring your camera (or at least clear space on your phone), because every corner is photogenic. Blue doors, crumbling stone walls, textiles, spices, cats napping in sunbeams—you get the idea.
2. Souk Shopping, but Make It Chill
Unlike the super intense souks in other cities, Essaouira’s markets are low-key and friendly. You’ll find handmade silver jewelry, cozy scarves, wood carvings, and that famous argan oil you’ve been hearing about.
And yep—haggling is totally part of the fun! Flash that smile and get ready to bargain. Bonus points if there’s live Gnawa music floating through the air while you shop.
3. Climb the Ramparts at Skala de la Ville
Channel your inner pirate or princess at the Skala de la Ville and Skala du Port—massive stone walls with cannons still perched on top. From up there, the views of the crashing waves and seagulls doing their thing are chef’s kiss. Sunset from here? Unreal. Don’t miss it.
4. Try Kitesurfing (Or Just Watch and Pretend You Might)
Kitesurfing in Essaouira is a big deal. The wind here is so reliable, it’s like it has a schedule. Whether you’re a seasoned kitesurf pro or you’ve never even stood on a board, there are plenty of surf schools to get you started.
Or, if you’re more into being a beach potato (same), just chill and watch the pros do their thing—it’s basically ocean ballet.
5. Kick Back on Essaouira Beach
No pressure to be sporty though. The beach in Essaouira is wide, breezy, and perfect for doing nothing. And since there’s always a breeze, you won’t be melting in the sun. Win-win.
6. Peek into the Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdallah Museum
If you wanna learn more about the city’s roots (and cool off indoors for a bit), check out this charming little museum tucked inside an old riad. You’ll find ancient pottery, jewelry, traditional clothes, instruments—all the good cultural stuff. It’s small but full of stories.
7. Soak Up the Soul of Gnawa Music
Essaouira is famous for its Gnawa music, and you’ll hear it echoing through the streets like a heartbeat. It’s spiritual, hypnotic, and honestly kind of haunting in the best way. If you stumble across a live street performance or café session, stop and soak it in.
8. Wander Through Art Galleries
This town attracts creatives like seagulls to French fries. You’ll find quirky little galleries everywhere, with everything from bold modern paintings to intricate local crafts. .
9. Feast on Fresh-Grilled Seafood at the Port
Listen, if you like seafood, Essaouira’s port is basically your happy place. Pick your fish (like, literally point to it), and someone will grill it for you on the spot. Simple, fresh, delicious—and the vibe? Total no-frills perfection. Pull up a plastic chair and dig in.
10. Eat All the Tagine and Couscous You Can Handle
Essaouira’s got your classic Moroccan faves—lamb tagine, veggie couscous, seafood everything—but with a coastal twist. Hit up a rooftop restaurant in the medina, order the house special, and sip on some mint tea while you wait. You will not be disappointed.
11. Take a Cooking Class
Want to impress people back home with your mad Moroccan cooking skills? Sign up for a cooking class! You’ll shop for ingredients, learn to use all those spices, and cook your own tagine from scratch. Plus, you get to eat it after. A delicious win.
12. Visit an Argan Oil Cooperative
Yep, argan oil really does come from trees and not just cute bottles at Sephora. Take a quick trip outside the city to visit a women’s cooperative and see how it’s made the traditional way. .
13. Treat Yourself to a Hammam
Feeling dusty after a day of adventuring? Head to a local hammam (public bathhouse) for a good steam, scrub, and massage. It’s not your typical spa day—it’s better. You’ll leave feeling like a whole new human with baby-soft skin. Just trust me on this one.
14. Ride a Horse or Camel Along the Beach
For that main-character moment, go for a horse or camel ride on the beach. It’s equal parts relaxing and cinematic. Whether you’re trotting past the dunes or swaying gently on a camel, the views are unforgettable. Pro tip: golden hour is where it’s at.
15. Take a Day Trip to Diabat
Just a few minutes outside Essaouira is the tiny, artsy village of Diabat. Jimi Hendrix supposedly hung out here (maybe? . Check out the old ruins, snap a few pics, and enjoy a peaceful break from the medina buzz.
FAQ Time – Because You Know You Were Gonna Ask
When’s the best time to go?
Spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) are prime time—great weather and less wind. But honestly? Essaouira’s pretty awesome all year.
Is it safe for solo female travelers?
Just use common sense like you would anywhere, and you’ll feel right at home.
How long should I stay?
Give yourself 3–4 days to fully soak in the vibes, hit the beach, wander the medina, and maybe squeeze in a day trip or hammam.
Do people speak English?
A lot of folks in shops, restaurants, and hotels speak English (along with French and some Spanish). Still, tossing out a “Salam Alaikum” or “Shukran” is always appreciated!
Getting around?
The medina is car-free, which is amazing. Most of Essaouira is super walkable. For longer distances or if your feet give up, hop in a petit taxi—they’re cheap and easy to find.
