Essaouira city

The Windy City of Africa — Where Art, Ocean, and History Collide

Essaouira (pronounced ess-ah-weer-ah) is a laid-back coastal gem on Morocco’s Atlantic coast, known for its sea breeze, soulful energy, and bohemian vibe. If you're looking for a destination that blends history, music, surf, and seafood, this is the place.

✨ Why Visit Essaouira?

🏰 UNESCO Heritage Medina

The Essaouira Medina is a maze of whitewashed houses, blue shutters, and narrow alleyways surrounded by 18th-century ramparts. It’s UNESCO-listed for a reason — you’ll feel like you've stepped into a postcard.

🌊 Kite & Windsurfing Paradise

Thanks to constant trade winds, Essaouira is known as “The Windy City of Africa.” It’s a global hot spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing — with gear rentals and schools available for all skill levels.

🎨 Bohemian Arts Scene

From colorful art galleries to street musicians playing Gnaoua rhythms, Essaouira has long been a magnet for creatives. Even Jimi Hendrix and Bob Marley once strolled these shores.

🐟 Fresh Seafood by the Port

Buy your seafood fresh from fishermen at the harbor and have it grilled at one of the tiny BBQ spots. Sardines, lobster, calamari — you name it.

🎷 Gnaoua World Music Festival

Every summer, Essaouira hosts the Gnaoua World Music Festival, bringing together musicians from around the globe in a celebration of African heritage, trance, and jazz fusion.

📍 Must-Visit Spots in Essaouira

Skala de la Ville – The city's famous ramparts with ocean views and bronze cannons.
Essaouira Beach – A long, breezy beach perfect for kitesurfing or a camel ride.
Port of Essaouira – Colorful fishing boats, seagulls, and some of the freshest seafood.
Jewish Quarter (Mellah) – A peaceful district with synagogues and historical homes.
Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdallah Museum – Local history, art, and cultural exhibits.

🍴 What to Eat

Grilled sardines or lobster at the port
Tajine with seafood and lemon
Pastilla (Moroccan pie) with fish or chicken
Mint tea with ocean views

🧳 Good to Know

Best time to visit: April–October (cooler than inland cities year-round)
Getting there: ~2.5 hours from Marrakesh by car or bus (Supratours & CTM run daily)
Currency: Moroccan Dirham (MAD)
Vibe: Relaxed, artsy, friendly

💡 Insider Tip:

Stay in a riad inside the medina to soak up the local charm. At sunset, walk along the ramparts, then head to a rooftop café for panoramic views and live Gnaoua music. Magical.