Essaouira in Morocco is one of the most atmospheric seaside cities you could visit. The salty Atlantic breezes wash over the harbour bringing a cool freshness to the warmth of the Moroccan sun.

Essaouira is the perfect seaside escape in Morocco.
It’s an old place with fortified walls surrounding the medina (city) which bustles with life in its narrow alleys. However the markets here run at a much more relaxed pace than nearby Marrakech.

The harbour is the best area to look around and feels timeless with men repairing nets as the fish is sold on the quay. There are so many different types of fish available with good fishing grounds nearby.


There is so much fish for sale, and you can either buy some for yourself to bring back to your hotel/hostel to cook, or head to one of the cafes. It’s also very cheap to eat there.

Morocco is famed for its tagine dishes and Essaouira is the perfect place to try a fish one. From small sardines being cooked over a fire by the pier, to lobster and large fish fillets in one of the restaurants.
Seriously if you like seafood and go to Morocco then you must pay a visit to this place!



The seaside tradition of heading out on small fishing boats is very much alive, but bigger boats are now used as well. You could watch for hours all the activity by the seaside. It’s a photographers dream taking photos as the sun sets there.



It’s not all about the fishing though, as men and boys jump into the sea too cool off from the heat. There is a huge beach as well which is good for kitesurfing or just relaxing away from the busy main areas.


The fish on sale by the pier is generally bought by locals and a few tourists, while the rest goes to the fish market to be boxed up and shipped to other destinations.

In the city itself you can get lost wandering the maze of alleys. It’s a very artistic city with paintings being sold everywhere. It has a sort of bohemian vibe to the place.
There are so many cheap and ripe fruits to try. The oranges and dates are the best, with olives also in abundance. A handful of olives will set you back only $0.20, while a batch of several juicy oranges around the same.


The evening light casts its glow on the outer walls.


So if you ever find yourself traveling to Morocco then make sure you have Essaouira on your list of places to visit. It’s one of the more relaxed cities with some of the best food.
I recommend using SafetyWing Travel Insurance for your trip, just in case, it’s best to be prepared.
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Very pretty. I’ve heard of Essaouira and a bit surprised that it doesn’t seem touristy at all. Or am I making the wrong assumption?
Those fish/eel looking things impressive.
Nice post,
Frank (bbqboy)
Hey Frank! Yes I loved Essaouira, I could stay longer just to eat the seafood. It is touristy but nowhere near as bad as Marrakech in the sense of the touts, but plenty of tourists do go there. And yes the eel is awesome 🙂
Essaouira is a true hidden gem in Morocco. My favorite time to visit July and September. Always enjoy the grilled seafood.
Essaouira is a true hidden gem in Morocco. My favorite time to visit July and September. Always enjoy the grilled seafood.
Any recommendations on good places to stay??
Yes Essaouira is one of my favourite places in Morocco. I would love some of that grilled seafood again myself! To be honest I can’t remember the name of the guesthouse I stayed in there…