The sea is always present here.
You can’t miss it when you’re walking around or looking outwards; the Atlantic is always beckoning, always embracing.
And while it still has a huge impact on this lovely town – from fishing to surfing and everything in between -, it’s just part of the story of this stunning Moroccan town; because despite its size, there are heaps of amazing things to do in Essaouira!
Whether you’re shopping, eating, or exploring the natural world, there’s no end to the fun to be had around here – so let’s dive in!
1 – Have a proper desert adventure on a camel ride
Let’s kick things off by hitching a ride on a traditional mode of transportation… a living one!
The dromedary rides in Essaouira are a lovely, leisurely form of tourism; once you’ve hopped aboard your towering steed, you can just sit back and enjoy the views of dunes and beaches, little fishing villages and spectacular desert landscapes that have been traversed in this same way for centuries.
From towering mounds of sand to simple little shacks tucked into the middle of the scenery, you just can’t beat the view from camelback!
2 – Weave your way through the Medina of Essaouira
Before the 1700s, the settlement of Mogador was populated by various colonizers, who continued developing the area against threats from land and sea.
And while the ruling parties (and the name of the town itself) have shifted, the colonial-style buildings and fortified walls remain, a wonderful living relic of the city’s earliest trading roots.
Today, you’re less likely to be ducking cannonballs, and more likely to be hunting for sales amongst the endless columns of shops. But you can still see plenty of historic sites as well, from Portuguese churches to the old Jewish quarter.
And around nearly every corner, you’ll find some sort of stunning historic site, demonstrating how this area seamlessly linked trade and culture between continents; after all, it was once one of the biggest shipping hubs in the region, bringing even the distant reaches of the Sahara into contact with other nations.
With its old stone buildings and the mixture of European and North African elements, it’s little wonder that this area has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site – and you can soak up the stories with each step!
3 – Take a quad tour
All of those massive dunes and stretches of sand outside of town sure look impressive… and they’re even more fun when you can turn them into your personal playground!
Embark on some of the quad tours in Essaouira, and you’ll find yourself ricocheting up and down the hills, keeping an eye out for wildlife, and experiencing a different side of the desert that’s less pensive and more of an off-the-grid amusement park -with some truly breathtaking views, that is.
All you need is some brief instruction, and you’ll be joyfully bouncing through the sand in no time!
4 – Dive into the live performance scene at Dar Souiri
If you want to hear some music, see a show, or check out some fantastic works of art, you can’t miss this beautiful building!
It’s as vivacious and striking as when it was built in 1907, initially as more of a bureaucratic space within the medina area.
Over time, it shifted to a cultural venue, and it’s now one of the best in town, with audiences flocking to see shows, art exhibitions, film showings, and concerts. There’s even an on-site library if you want to study the unique history of this dynamic town.
Stop by and see what masterpieces are gracing the space!
5 – Get some sand between your toes at Plage d’Essaouira
Of course, this is something of a beach town at heart; and no trip would be complete without swinging by this beautiful spot!
While it may not be one of the most active things to do in Essaouira, this shoreline is certainly an iconic spot; it’s even been ranked among the best beaches in the world!
Along with dazzling beauty, it’s one of the classic hippie hangouts in the area and has maintained a mellow bohemian feel that will relax you instantly.
And while you can certainly spend your whole visit unwinding and enjoying the sight and sound of the waves, there are plenty of more active options as well; this is one of the best spots in town for kitesurfing and windsurfing (see #7 and #21 for more insights into these exciting activities).
6 – Go exploring on a bike tour
How about a nice long journey past some amazing views… with a little bit of sweat thrown in? It’s no secret that bike tours are a great way to see an area at length, offering a much wider range of sights than you could get on foot.
And it’s even better with an e-bike, which offers the opportunity to get some exercise without getting totally worn out!
Start with the mosques and beaches in the midst of town, then ride further and further out, following gorgeous trails to villages both old and new.
By the time you’ve circled back to town, you’ll feel much better acquainted with the area… and pretty invigorated from your ride!
7 – Enroll in kitesurf lessons
With just the right combination of wind and water, this is one of the best spots in the region for kitesurf lessons; and whether you’re a total novice or just looking to pick up some new skills, there’s a perfect class for you to try.
You can even book some private courses to get a more personal experience, as your top-notch instructors work with you to develop the perfect sporting plan.
Once you’ve learned all about the board, the kite, and some basic techniques, you can hit the water and try to catch some currents in the sea… and in the air!
And thanks to the steady breezes, you can almost always get out and keep practicing cool tricks!
8 – Get a bit of military history (real and televised) at Sqala du Port d’Essaouira
Another defensive structure turned scenic spot, this is one spot where you can really feel like you’re walking backward in time!
Like much of the town, this area was developed in the 1760s under the leadership of Sultan Sidi Mohammad ben Abdallah, as part of a larger project to revitalize and protect the thriving international port next door.
The towers and cannons show off the military might that once kept the city intact, and you can delve even further as you venture into Borj El Barmil, the main part of the fortress.
As you stroll along these walls and past several more cannons (courtesy of Portuguese colonizers), you might sense something familiar. That’s because these same walls were recently part of a very different set of battles – they served as a filming location for Game of Thrones!
And unsurprisingly, this is also a popular area for walking tours, with heaps of stories in every stone.
9 – Sample the majesty of the Sahara Desert
There’s nothing quite like a day trip… especially one that takes you to one of the planet’s most intriguing ecosystems!
Whatever you’ve heard about the Sahara Desert pales in comparison to the real thing; as one of the largest dry areas on Earth, it’s at once mysterious and inviting, stunning in the sort of abstract way that begs for deeper discovery.
Luckily, these tours focus on getting you right out into the heart of the land, throwing culture, nature, and a little bit of adrenaline into the mix.
Journey along the undulating Merzouga Dunes and through the Atlas Mountains, passing Berber villages and admiring the shifting colors and lights of the seemingly endless sands.
You can even make things more exciting with a camel ride (see #1) or a four-wheeling adventure (see #3).
And if you want to take in even more of the beauty, there are plenty of multi-day excursions as well!
10 – Pay a visit to Bab Doukkala
If you were visiting the town roughly 300 years ago, you might have had a hard time passing through this massive gate – after all, it was one of the city’s best bastions!
This was one of the main gates to the city back when it was still a fortified area, developed alongside the medina and designed as one of the primary routes through the city.
It also served as part of the main travel path to nearby towns, and while its role is less formal today, it’s certainly an active spot, still connecting different parts of the medina with ease.
Pass back and forth beneath this Cherifian charmer, still standing tall and proud… albeit with a little less regulation than before!
11 – Get acquainted with the masterpieces at various art galleries
Of course, it’s not all oceans and antique buildings here; the city has an arts scene that punches way above its weight class, and the local galleries are great places to dive in!
Gallery Kasbah is the place to go for a hearty dose of variety, with dozens of geniuses and creative movements showcased across eleven halls – everything from ornate furniture to abstract pieces.
And at Le Real Mogador – Centre d’art/ Résidence d’artistes, you can explore the personal collections of the town’s outsider artists, with surreal, brilliant works that challenge visitors to think a little deeper about the creative process.
You can also enjoy the wonders of Galerie d’art Damgaard, which is packed with canvases and sculptures by local creatives and celebrates the active work that has been going on in town for decades.
12 – Enjoy a leisurely bout of horse riding
Camels aren’t the only cool critters around here; and if you want to enjoy the endless beautiful beaches with a bit of flair, horse riding is the way to go!
Saddle up and follow your guide along the shore, with the waves lapping alongside, and endless vistas ahead of you.
You can also venture inland for a taste of the woods and deserts, enjoying this distinctive coastal landscape from every conceivable angle.
And of course, half the fun is getting paired up with a beautiful horse, which does the hard work while you relax and drink in the sights!
13 – Book some surf lessons to conquer the waves
And when you’re ready to get back into the ocean itself, why not grab a board and try one of the classic local sports?
Much like the active kitesurfing scene (see #7), the surf lessons in Essaouira are hugely popular, and with so many tasty waves, you’ll definitely want to give it a try!
Whether you’re on the busy beaches right near town or exploring some of the quieter shores, you’ll get ample opportunities to enjoy the scenery as you practice your stances, balancing technique, and posture.
Then comes the best part… heading out to the water to try the real deal!
And if you really fall in love with the sport (or already have some experience), you can also rent a board and head straight to the action, joining locals and travelers from all over the world for a taste of real exhilaration.
14 – Delve into the powerful legacy of Bayt Dakira
While Morocco’s Judaic community has dwindled over years of immigration, it’s certainly played a huge role in the country – this was once home to one of the largest Jewish populations in the world!
And even smaller towns like Essaouira have remnants of these communities, as sites like Bayt Dakira demonstrate.
As the city’s museum of Judaism, it celebrates religious and cultural heritage through the lens of memory and artifacts. There’s a particular focus on the good relationships between Muslims and Jews in Morocco, which have remained largely solid through centuries of turmoil in the region.
Explore a reconstructed synagogue, or gaze at copies of the Torah and the Qur’an side by side. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate the preservation of this unique part of the nation’s story!
15 – Pass by (and through) Bab El Marsa
This is another historic gateway with the depth of character that centuries provide – but this one’s a little more upbeat, and a lot more nautical!
Not only is it the most elaborately decorated of the structures, but it’s also one of the most important, leading directly to the main port.
Since 1770, the stone monolith has welcomed visitors and merchants to the harbor in spades, and in its proud facade, you can still see evidence of the power of past empires!
16 – Grab your aprons and get wrapped up in a cooking class
You don’t need to be a master chef to take a few cooking classes – just a willingness to learn and a love of good food!
The traditional meals around have a well-deserved reputation for deliciousness, and you’ll be able to learn firsthand just how all of the different ingredients of this fertile region come together to create mouthwatering dishes.
From rural Berber households to contemporary spins on classic meals, every option that you try will offer the perfect mixture of challenge and fun… and great meals, of course!
And if you really want to hone your technique, you can take an in-depth cooking workshop, where you’ll select each ingredient from local markets and carefully construct a multi-course extravaganza!
17 – Do a bit of hiking
Stretch your legs and get to know the land up close… it’s time for some hiking!
Like all of the other outdoor activities here, the trekking options seamlessly straddle different parts of the diverse land; mountains, deserts, and oceans all come together in varying combinations, offering the perfect motivation to keep moving those weary feet.
Pass through charming little villages (and maybe cross paths with a shepherd or two) as you wander along the coastal cliffs near Sidi Mbark.
No matter how athletic you feel, you can enjoy the excitement of a nice walk… with some serious enhancements!
18 – Visit Mosque Ben Youssef
As one of the city’s largest and most active religious institutions, you’ll be able to get a sense of how worship has evolved over the years – as well as how it has remained steady!
Built in 1773 as part of an ideological wave by the sultan, it remains both humble and impressive, its soaring minaret filled with three stunning copper bells.
Take a look at the mighty front door – painted in a traditional shade of brown -, and admire the size and scale of this building, still hosting active congregations!
19 – Stop by the Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdellah Museum for a cross-section of the past
Fitting the very definition of “small but mighty,” this little institution is filled to the brim with cool stuff…. and a story to match!
The exterior of the building is part of the town’s history itself; it once served as an elaborate home in the colonial era, and now, it’s pivoted to hosting the greatest treasures of the original residents.
And of course, the objects inside are even more intriguing!
Antique instruments, photos from the city’s early days, weaponry, and even some odds and ends from prehistoric civilizations line the halls, revitalizing the space with a vivid, intriguing portrait of the rich legacy of the area.
As you explore this epic timeline come to life, you’ll get to know the local people in a pretty intimate way, through the many objects they left behind!
20 – Engage with a different aspect of Jewish history at Chaim Pinto Synagogue
This is another fascinating relic of a bygone culture in town, and if you’re looking for things to do in Essaouira that will help you navigate the complex identities of the city, these hallowed halls are a great place to start!
When it was first built in the 1800s, the space served the still-active Jewish congregations in town; and while that community has moved on, it continues to operate for travelers, tour groups, and anyone seeking a bit of religion on their journey.
And anybody can step inside to admire the gorgeous designs and distinctive blue paint scheme and learn more about this unique chapter in the town’s history.
Enjoy a welcoming chat with the building’s current guardians, who can provide even more insight, from the life story of the renowned Rabbi Chaim Pinto (the synagogue’s founder) to the stylistic updates and busy social calendar.
21 – Cruise through the elements whilst windsurfing
Back to the water we go, to catch a bit of breeze and head out on a new adventure!
While it may look similar to kitesurfing, windsurfing has its own set of challenges and thrills; instead of using a big overhead apparatus to pull you, you’re relying entirely on a sail attached to your board, creating a totally different sort of athletic experience.
And much like its counterpart, this is the perfect place to learn the sport!
Just use the breezes to guide you, and know that you have the welcoming embrace of the water below to catch you if you fall.
But before you know it, you might be gliding across the surface of the sea, moving and turning in tune with the whims of the wind!
22 – Admire every face of L’Horloge d’Essaouira
You might hear this landmark before you see it – after all, the main feature is the soaring clock tower, which has been keeping time loud and clear since the early 1900s!
This monumental timepiece even has four different faces, so that it can be seen from all over town; and while it’s newer than much of the surrounding medina, it’s quickly become a legendary part of the neighborhood.
Looming above the town, it still calls out the time every half an hour, guiding the citizens through their days – and keeping you nice and punctual while you’re bouncing from one endeavor to the next!
23 – Find your next favorite treat on some food tours
Time for another bite… or several hundred!
The food tours in Essaouira are more than just a meal; they’re a chance to spend the day sitting and chatting with locals, learning about the love and care that goes into each meal.
You can amble from one little eatery to the next, trying all of the specialties the proprietors have to offer. Or sample bits and pieces of the lively street food scene, alongside some of the more classic dishes ranging from fresh fish to sweet desserts.
And if you’re visiting on a Sunday, you can get some really fresh produce, as you head out to the popular farmer’s market of nearby Had Draa.
This last venue is particularly interesting because it’s also a community experience; you can watch the locals haggling over different crafts and animals, or just sit around and discuss the news of the day.
24 – Get the full beach day experience at Plage Tagharte
Among all of the great sporting options, this is another beautiful beach that offers some good options for relaxing… and views to match!
Sure, you can surf (either in the traditional format or one of the popular wind-based options), but you can also saddle up a camel or horse for a scenic ride amongst the waves.
And if you keep going along the shore, you just might spot an old ruin or two, weathered by the elements and the passage of eras.
Of course, you can also just engage in some serious sunbathing… and it’s well worth it!
25 – Take in the transformed facade of Dar Sultan Palace
There are plenty of historic spots around town that are wonderfully preserved, but this isn’t one of them – however, that’s part of what makes it so interesting!
In the mid-1800s, the palace was a renowned hall of power, spectacularly beautiful, prominently positioned, and populated with nobles and royals that oversaw the realm.
You’ll still see traces of that elegance today, but it’s been reshaped by some prevalent local forces of a different kind; sand covers vast sections of the complex, filling the nooks and crannies of once-busy buildings.
It creates a sight that is somewhat bittersweet, but also deeply fascinating – a powerful reminder of how the fortunes of the town have ebbed and flowed over time.
26 – Give yourself the royal treatment at the best spas and hammams
Pamper yourself in true Moroccan style – with rejuvenating treatments, massages, and a hearty dose of steam!
The best spas and hammams in Essaouira all vary slightly in their motifs and offerings, but each of them guarantees a day of soothing moments and eased tensions.
Work out any soreness from all of the other activities with some of the oil-based massages at Les Massages Berberes, or enjoy pedicures, manicures, facials, and more at Diamant Blanc Spa.
Or treat yourself and your plus one to the wellness options at Spa Zen et Nature and Spa Cocooning, which both specialize in combos that will scrub, peel, and soak you to perfection.
And if you want to try the authentic experience, check out the traditional baths at Hammam Lalla Mira, or the locally-focused offerings at Azur Spa, which feature some of the finest ingredients and techniques from the region.
It’s a special kind of luxury… so let yourself try lots of different forms!
27 – Bop over to Sidi Kaouki
Just 25 kilometers (15.5 miles) south of town, the quiet surfer’s mecca of Sidi Kaouki offers an even more laid back version of coastal life… with a few fun touches of its own!
While there are plenty of traditional Moroccan elements to this lovely little burg – from its white buildings crusted in sea salt to its unique mix of aesthetics from across continents -, it’s also earned a reputation as more of a bohemian hangout, where artistic types from near and far can come to savor the sun.
And some of those visitors have been pretty famous; one of the town’s former visitors was none other than Jimi Hendrix!
This is the kind of day trip that really lets you get a feel for a place, in all its gentle rhythms and moods.
28 – See what goes into your favorite cosmetics (or recipes!) with an argan oil tour
You may not realize how often you’ve come across this export, but it’s certainly one of the region’s most popular!
The argan oil tours are among the most adventurous things to do in Essaouira, taking you into a lush, intriguing landscape that is truly unlike any other on Earth.
In fact, the argan trees only grow in this area, and the process of extracting the substance and preparing it for use in various formats is an utterly fascinating process in its own right.
Your adventure starts with a nice amble through the woods, where you can see the famous plants up close, and learn all about their distinctive biological functions and patterns.
Then it’s time to explore the oils themselves, which serve as a sort of wonder substance; once they’ve been extracted and refined from the trees, they can be found in everything from culinary recipes to beauty products!
It’s a cultural excursion and an ecological adventure, all rolled into one aromatic package.
29 – Take some time to linger in Moulay Hassan Square
This is the kind of public space that ignites interest far beyond its seemingly mellow appearance!
Perfectly situated between the medina and the harbor area, it’s not just a thriving commercial area (although it is home to plenty of restaurants and cafes); it’s also something of an artistic space, with mixed architecture and the occasional live music performance.
It’s also a wonderful place for some people-watching, with plenty of locals hanging around, catching up with family and friends, and enjoying another lovely day out on the town.
30 – Browse through the best catches at the fish market
After all of this time near the ocean, you’ll probably find yourself craving some good seafood… so why not go straight to the source?
Located near the old Jewish neighborhood, this bustling market is where local fishers bring their latest prizes – and better yet, they’re all for sale!
Walking through its aisles is a crash course in marine biology, with an endless array of Atlantic species laid out before you – anything from sardines and crabs to octopuses and eels!
The shopping and selection process is fun in its own right, of course, but you’ll also get the fun of seeing it prepared and grilled right in front of you… and then, better yet, you get to bite right into it!
31 – Sample the souks
And if you want to shop for more than fish, you’re in luck… the city has no shortage of souks!
These traditional markets are famed for their lively energy and seemingly endless offerings, a wonderful way to get into the rhythms of local life and find some prize purchases.
Souk Jdid is arguably the most famous; as the town’s central shopping area, it offers up a tantalizing range of jewels, spices, and seeds, along with other odds and ends.
But the Sunday Souk is also a popular option, especially if you like bargains!
Set up in the classic flea market format, it’s the perfect place to find something unique or exciting, without breaking the bank.
And shopaholics will be thrilled to note that there are different souks every single day of the week, so you’re never far from your next cool find!
32 – Get a taste of the town – literally! – at the best restaurants
Friendly service, great meals, awesome atmosphere… the best restaurants in Essaouira certainly earn their credentials!
Treat yourself to fancy spins on classic meals like tagine and lamb salad at Malaika Riad & Table D’Hotes, or sample the nuances of various vegan foods at Restaurant Le Corail Chez Latifa.
Enjoy an authentic dining experience – complete with traditional decor – at Cafe Restaurant Berbere, or settle into Safran Citron to try grilled octopus, lentil dishes, and all sorts of other flavorful options.
And if you like a bit of ambiance with your meal, pop into the tiny and beloved Restaurant Khmissa for even more authentic Moroccan food in a cozy, welcoming setting, with all of the energy of town right outside the door.
33 – Get into the party frame of mind at the best nightlife spots
Ready to swap the meals for drinks….and maybe a bit of dancing?
The city has a nightlife to rival its daytime offerings, with all of the charms of a smaller scene; and when you head to the best bars and clubs in Essaouira, you can really get into hedonist mode!
Drink in some more seaside views while you sip your cocktail at Beach and Friends, or sip some of the expertly brewed cocktails at Le Club before hitting the dance floor.
Enjoy the upbeat DJ sets and all-night revelry of Taros, or enjoy a mellower vibe at Ocean Vagabond, where you might just spot wandering camels whilst you sip your drink!
Enjoy the elegant feel of Sky Lounge at Hotel des Iles, or dive into the artsy elements of Salut Maroc!, brimming with color and creative beverages.
Your evening can be energetic or relaxing, or a bit of both… but with these spots running, it’s bound to be fun!
How to get to Essaouira?
Although the town isn’t huge, it does have its own airport; and if you’re flying, you can easily arrange some airport transfers to get you to town with ease.
Your professional service will pick you up right after your flight, and drop you wherever you need to go; and at the end of the trip, you can even do the whole thing in reverse!
It’s the perfect way to start or end the trip right and stress-free!
Where to stay in Essaouira?
If you like your hotel to be an experience in its own right, head to Atlas Essaouira & Spa, where a private beach, swimming pools, hot tub, and classic hammam setup will tempt you to extend your stay indefinitely.
And at Hotel Cote Ocean Mogador, you can hang around the garden, grab a bite to eat, then trot over to the nearby beaches for some splashy fun!
Hotel Des Iles blends stylish architecture with a welcoming atmosphere, from its massive dining areas to its sparkling pool, and is also a short stroll away from the old parts of town and the port.
And in La Perle de Mogador, you’ll find a lively atmosphere filled with billiard tables, lounge areas, and a bar where you can sip fine drinks to celebrate another day of adventuring.
If you’re really looking for a getaway in the classic sense, trek over to Essaouira Lodge; built in the style of a Berber village, its pools, hammam, and gorgeous garden allow you to lose yourself in a tranquil world apart from the main hustle and bustle… you can even book a massage here!
Visiting Essaouira on a budget?
Lace up your shoes and prepare your camera, because the free walking tours in Essaouira are spectacular… and affordable, of course!
Not only will you get to explore the various neighborhoods on foot and up close, but you’ll also get the perspective of your guide, who can show and tell you about the town they know and love, with all of its details and complications.
Bring cash for tips, and prepare to be amazed, as you encounter new delights with each step!
Where to go next?
Adventurous types will love venturing out on the various multi-day trips that launch from town, which take you even deeper into the rural side of the country.
You may ride horses, camels, or ATVs; you might spend your time shopping, surfing, or sitting outside of a tent and gazing at the endless stars; but one thing’s for sure…. you’ll be able to seize each and every day with gusto!
And of course, that’s not the only excitement you can stir up – there are so many other fun things to do in Morocco that you just might want to cancel your flight home!
If you want to see a slightly larger city with oodles of authentic charms, you’ll find lots of things to do in Marrakech, a dazzling land of red sandstone buildings, museums, palaces, and gorgeous craftwork.
And if you’d prefer to stick to the beachy side of life, you can sample the things to do in Agadir, packed with surfers and expats, but still retaining its traditional neighborhoods and a nice smattering of artsy offerings and kid-friendly activities.
For a little bit of both, you can check out things to do in Casablanca, another cosmopolitan hub that combines gorgeous views, scrumptious meals, and unique galleries into one irresistible blend.
And if you want to dive even deeper into an older (and slightly wilder) side of the country, you’ll love all of the things to do in Fez, known for its winding medieval streets, busy markets, and ancient background, with a healthy dose of culture for good measure.
Final thoughts
This is certainly the kind of town where you could spend a whole holiday relaxing; but with so many thrilling things to do in Essaouira, it’s better to get out there!
When you’re ready to embark on a trip that will leave you utterly in love with the landscapes (and seascapes), the artistic amenities, and the fascinating experiences around every corner, pack your bags and head on over!