Things to do in Essaouira: A Summer Guide to Morocco’s Coastal Gem

Looking for a summer destination that blends laid-back beach life, rich cultural heritage, and an artistic soul? Essaouira, Morocco’s breezy Atlantic treasure, delivers all that and more. Once a hub for traders, artists, and rock legends, today it welcomes travellers with a unique mix of authenticity and cool. From its UNESCO-listed medina to windsurfing along wide sandy beaches, you’ll find plenty of inspiring things to do in Essaouira.

Step back in time in the UNESCO-listed medina

Essaouira’s old town is a charming maze of whitewashed houses, bright blue shutters, and imposing stone ramparts overlooking the Atlantic. Compact and peaceful, the medina invites you to wander without a plan, discovering timeless corners and lively local life at every turn. It’s one of the essential things to do in Essaouira, especially for travellers who love history and culture.

Wander the fortified Skala de la Ville

This 18th-century sea bastion once defended Essaouira against pirates and rival fleets, its row of cannons still standing guard over the ocean. From the stone walls, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the Atlantic, the bustling fishing port, and the long stretch of beach curving into the distance. The cries of seagulls mix with the sound of crashing waves, creating a uniquely atmospheric backdrop. It’s a must-visit spot for both history lovers and photographers chasing dramatic coastal panoramas.

Get lost in the medina’s alleys and souks

The medina is a labyrinth of narrow lanes where every turn brings a new surprise: a colourful doorway, a spice-filled shop, or a hidden café. Traditional markets like Souk Jdid burst with life as vendors call out their wares, from handwoven rugs and aromatic spices to baskets and leather goods. The slower pace compared to Morocco’s larger cities makes exploring here a delight rather than a rush. Taking the time to wander is the best way to feel the pulse of everyday Essaouira.

Admire the historic city gates like Bab Marrakech or Bab Doukkala

Landmarks like Bab Marrakech or Bab Doukkala are more than just entrances; they’re symbols of Essaouira’s layered history. Their thick stone arches blend Portuguese defensive design with Moroccan artistry, standing as silent witnesses to centuries of trade and travel. Passing through them feels like stepping into another era, with the medina’s stories unfolding on the other side. These gates also provide some of the most photogenic views of the city’s iconic blue-and-white palette.

Embrace the Atlantic: Wind, waves & beaches

Essaouira is known as the “Wind City of Africa,” and its strong coastal breezes have long drawn windsurfers and beach lovers alike. But beyond the adrenaline, its Atlantic shores offer space to slow down, breathe deep, and simply enjoy the elements. Whether you’re chasing waves or strolling barefoot in the sand, Essaouira’s coast has something for everyone.

Try kitesurfing or windsurfing

The consistent trade winds make Essaouira one of the best water sports destinations in Morocco. Shallow waters and long sandy stretches are ideal for both beginners and seasoned pros. Local surf schools like Ion Club and Explora Watersports offer professional lessons and rental equipment, ensuring you’re in safe hands. After a session on the waves, there’s nothing like relaxing on the beach to watch the sails dance against the horizon.

Ride horses or camels along the shore

Exploring Essaouira’s coastline on horseback or camelback is a magical way to experience its wild beauty. Guided rides take you across golden dunes, along the tide line, and even into the eucalyptus groves nearby. At sunset, the changing colours of the sky turn the entire beach into a golden stage for unforgettable memories. Whether it’s a short ride or a longer trek, the experience is pure coastal Morocco.

Unwind at Essaouira Beach

Stretching for miles, Essaouira Beach is the perfect place to pause between sightseeing and adventure. Its wide sands are ideal for long walks, beach football with locals, or simply lying back with the sound of the waves. Thanks to the constant breeze, the beach rarely feels overcrowded, even at the height of summer. Pair the relaxed atmosphere with a glass of mint tea at a seaside café, and you’ll see why so many travellers fall in love with this shore.

Discover Essaouira’s creative soul

Essaouira has long drawn creatives, musicians, and free spirits from around the world. Its windswept charm and multicultural roots have shaped a city that doesn’t just preserve tradition, it reinterprets it. Exploring its art, music, and craftsmanship is one of the most rewarding things to do in Essaouira for travellers seeking inspiration.

Browse the galleries on Rue Chbanat

This picturesque street is lined with galleries that showcase the city’s artistic side. Inside, you’ll find everything from contemporary paintings and sculptures to intricate marquetry carved from fragrant thuya wood. Many studios are run by local artists happy to share their stories and techniques. It’s an inspiring way to connect with Essaouira’s living creative community.

Shop local at the artisan cooperatives

Scattered across the medina are cooperatives that keep traditional Moroccan craftsmanship alive. From vibrant Berber rugs to delicate silver jewellery, these workshops highlight skills passed down through generations. Many are women-led initiatives that support local families while preserving cultural heritage. Every purchase here is not just a souvenir, but a contribution to Essaouira’s artisanal legacy.

Learn about Gnawa Music

Essaouira is a cultural centre for Gnawa music, a soulful blend of sub-Saharan rhythms, chants, and the distinctive sound of the guembri lute. Live performances can be found year-round in cultural centres like Dar Souiri, where the music’s spiritual roots shine through. For an unforgettable experience, time your visit for the Gnawa World Music Festival, when musicians from around the globe join the celebrations. The city transforms into an open-air stage of rhythm and energy.

Dive into Essaouira’s flavours

Essaouira’s culinary scene is a feast for all senses — fresh Atlantic seafood meets the warmth of Moroccan spices, while the laid-back setting adds a special flavour of its own. Sampling these dishes is, without doubt, among the tastiest things to do in Essaouira. Whether you’re dining in a bustling port-side stall or savouring tagine on a breezy rooftop, every meal tells a story rooted in local tradition.

Dine at the fish market near the port

Start your culinary adventure where the day begins for local fishermen. After the morning catch arrives, you can select your seafood and have it grilled to perfection at one of the nearby stalls. The atmosphere is lively, smoky, and filled with the scent of the ocean. It’s an experience that connects you directly to Essaouira’s fishing traditions.

Order a classic seafood Tajine

The seafood tajine is Essaouira’s signature dish, rich with prawns, white fish, calamari, and vegetables. Slow-cooked in a clay pot, the flavours meld into a dish that is both hearty and deeply aromatic. Each bite captures the essence of the Atlantic blended with Moroccan culinary artistry. It’s a must-try for anyone who wants to taste the city’s coastal character in a single dish.

Taste local sweets with mint tea

For dessert, Essaouira delights with traditional pastries like chebakia, sesame-coated treats drenched in honey. Pair them with freshly brewed mint tea, served in the typical Moroccan fashion with a flourish of poured foam. This simple combination makes for a perfect afternoon ritual. Sweet, refreshing, and social, it reflects the essence of Moroccan hospitality.

Take a day trip beyond the city

While Essaouira itself offers plenty, venturing just outside its walls opens up a world of raw nature, time-honoured traditions, and peaceful coastal hideaways. These easy excursions invite you to slow down and experience Morocco at a different rhythm.

Visit a local Argan oil cooperative

The argan tree is unique to Morocco, and its oil is prized worldwide for both culinary and cosmetic use. In the cooperatives near Essaouira, often run by women, you can see how the oil is extracted through traditional hand-cracking and grinding. The process is slow but fascinating, linking you to centuries of tradition. Bringing home a bottle means carrying a piece of Morocco’s natural heritage.

Explore the dunes and forest of Cap Sim

South of Essaouira lies Cap Sim, a stretch of dunes, sea cliffs, and eucalyptus groves. It’s a place of raw beauty, perfect for hiking through sandy hills or riding a quad bike across the shifting landscape. The dramatic views of the Atlantic crashing against the cliffs are unforgettable. This is Essaouira’s wild side, untouched and invigorating.

Discover the village of Sidi Kaouki

Just 30 minutes from the city, Sidi Kaouki feels worlds away. Its wide, quiet beach is beloved by surfers, nature lovers, and those seeking peace. Here, the pace slows, with time marked by the rhythm of waves and the occasional call of seabirds. A tea on a beachfront terrace is the perfect way to let the hours slip by.

From its breezy beaches and historic medina to its soulful music and unforgettable cuisine, Essaouira has everything you need for a summer escape full of discovery and relaxation. Whether you spend your days riding the waves, exploring artisan workshops, or wandering timeless streets, this coastal gem leaves a lasting impression. Start planning your trip today, and discover the many unforgettable things to do in Essaouira that make it Morocco’s ultimate coastal gem.