Instant Expert - 10 Secrets Spots in Essaouira, Morocco
Tucked along Morocco’s Atlantic coast, Essaouira is a city of windswept beaches, whitewashed medinas, and a rich blend of Moroccan, Portuguese, and French influences. While many visitors take a day trip from Marrakech, Essaouira deserves more than a quick stop. To truly appreciate its charm, here are ten secrets you should know.
1. The Best Time to Visit the Ramparts
Essaouira’s 18th-century ramparts, the Skala de la Ville, offer stunning ocean views and dramatic crashing waves. While most tourists visit midday, the best time to go is early morning or sunset, when the golden light makes the stone glow and the crowds are minimal.
2. A Hidden Courtyard for the Best Seafood
Essaouira is known for its fresh seafood, but instead of eating at the busy fish stalls by the port, head to La Licorne or Chez Sam for a quieter, high-quality experience. Want something even more local? Buy your seafood fresh from the market and have it grilled at one of the small eateries nearby.
3. The Secret Behind Essaouira’s Blue Boats
The harbor’s iconic blue fishing boats aren’t just for aesthetics—they’re painted blue to keep seagulls from attacking the fish. This local trick has been passed down for generations and is part of the city's maritime heritage.
4. A Musician’s Paradise
Essaouira has a deep connection to Gnaoua music, a hypnotic blend of African, Berber, and Arabic sounds. While the annual Gnaoua Festival draws huge crowds in June, you can experience intimate performances year-round at hidden spots like Dar Souiri. In 2025, the date for the festival is June 26 to 28.
5. A Windsurfer’s Dream Spot
Essaouira’s strong winds make it a top destination for windsurfing and kitesurfing, but most people stick to the main beach. For a more secluded experience, head south to Sidi Kaouki, a quieter beach with ideal conditions and fewer crowds.
6. The Lighthouse That Tourists Miss
Just outside the city, Capsim Lighthouse offers a breathtaking coastal walk with rugged cliffs and panoramic ocean views. It’s a hidden gem perfect for a peaceful escape from the bustling medina.
7. A Secret Rooftop Café for the Best Views
Many visitors stop at the main square’s busy cafés, but for an unforgettable view, find your way to Taros or Salut Maroc, where you can sip mint tea or enjoy a cocktail while watching the sunset over the Atlantic.
8. Get Outta Town!
Discover the largest oasis in the region, north of Essaouira, in the Chiadma and Doukkala villages. Take a bucolic ride on an e-bike with Lou’s Rides. You’ll pass through fields and orchards, along irrigation canals, in the shade of date palms and olive trees. After a 3-course lunch in a place of supernatural beauty, you will see the famous Bizmoune cave before trying your hand at thousand-year-old basket-making.
9. Argan Oil Straight from the Source
Essaouira is in the heart of Morocco’s argan-producing region, but many tourist shops sell diluted versions. To get the real deal, visit a women’s argan oil cooperative just outside the city, where you can see how it’s made and buy directly from the producers.
10. The Hidden Art Scene
Essaouira has long been a haven for artists, and tucked within its medina are small, independent galleries showcasing local painters and sculptors. Look for Galerie la Kasbah or Le Real Mogador to discover unique pieces that reflect Essaouira’s colorful spirit.
Final Thoughts
Essaouira is more than just a pretty coastal town, it’s a place where history, music, and art come alive in unexpected ways. Whether you’re exploring the ramparts at sunrise, listening to Gnaoua rhythms, or discovering a hidden café, these secrets will help you experience the real Essaouira.
