The Best Beaches around Essaouira

From the town's wide bay to the wild spots further south, the coast around Essaouira has a beach for every mood: swimming, surfing, kiting or walking.

The Atlantic coast around Essaouira is one of the most beautiful in Morocco: long sandy beaches, dunes, fishing villages and an ocean that changes with the wind. Here are our favourite beaches, from north to south.

1. Essaouira beach

Just south of the medina, the wide bay is sheltered by the Mogador islands. It's the most convenient beach: you walk there, you learn to surf there, and in summer kitesurfers enjoy its steady wind. In the morning the sea is often calmer for swimming.

2. Diabat

About 5 km south, at the far end of Essaouira beach, Diabat is wilder: dunes, a small river, and the ruins of an old half-buried palace that local legend links to Jimi Hendrix's visit in the 1960s. Get there on foot along the beach, on horseback or by quad.

3. Sidi Kaouki

25 km south, Sidi Kaouki is the surfers' beach: huge, quiet, with its little white shrine on the headland. Ideal for walking, surfing bigger waves and spending a few calm days.

4. Moulay Bouzerktoun

About 25 km north, this small village is a well-known windsurf and kitesurf spot for experienced riders, thanks to strong wind and quality waves. Less suited to swimming, but spectacular to watch.

5. Imsouane (for a day)

Further towards Agadir, a little under 2 hours' drive, Imsouane is famous for its very long wave, perfect for longboarding. A day trip well worth it for surf lovers.

Tips for enjoying the beaches

• In summer the wind often picks up in the afternoon: go to the beach and swim in the morning.
• The water stays cool (about 17 to 21 °C depending on season): a wetsuit helps for surfing.
• Watch out for currents: ask locally and don't swim alone in big swell.
• To explore the coast at your own pace, a car is the easiest option.