Book hostels in Essaouira
Breezy Atlantic port, surfers, seafood, and the chillest hostels in Morocco.
Three hours west of Marrakech, Essaouira is where backpackers go to breathe. Constant Atlantic winds make it a kitesurf and windsurf capital, the walled medina is compact and relaxed, and the seafood grills on the harbour are legendary. It's the perfect counterweight to a few intense days in Marrakech.
Highlights
- Surf & kitesurf lessons
- Sunset on the Skala de la Ville ramparts
- Fresh seafood grills at the port
- Day trip to argan oil co-ops
- The Gnaoua music festival (June)
Best for
- Surfers and watersports fans
- Travellers needing a break from inland heat
- Couples after a romantic few days
- Seafood lovers
When to visit
Year-round, really. Summer (June–August) is cooler than inland Morocco — often 10°C cooler than Marrakech — but windy. Spring and autumn are calmest for non-surfers. Winter is mild with occasional rain.
Budget
Dorms €8–14. A grilled sardine plate at the port: €3–5. Half-day group surf lesson with board & wetsuit: €20–30. Camel or quad ride on the beach: €15–25.
Getting there
Essaouira-Mogador Airport (ESU) has seasonal flights from London, Paris, Brussels. From Marrakech: Supratours or CTM bus (3h). No train. From Agadir: 3h bus along the coast.
Safety
One of Morocco's safest and most relaxed cities. The medina is walkable day and night. Main hazard: the wind will steal your hat.
Where to stay — neighborhoods
Not all hostels are in the same part of town. Here’s how each area compares.
Medina (inside the ramparts)
Best for: Ocean smell, souks, walking everywhere
Whitewashed Portuguese-built old town. Most hostels, art galleries, and seafood spots are inside. Compact and breezy.
Port & Skala
Best for: Fresh grilled fish, ramparts photos
Working fishing port with grilled-fish stalls at lunch and cannons lining the Skala sea walls — peak sunset spot.
Sidi Kaouki / Moulay Bouzerktoun
Best for: Windsurfers, kitesurfers, surf schools
Wind-beaten beach villages 20–30 min from town. Hostels here cater to boardsports and long-stay surfers, with lower prices than the medina.
Tips from us
- Book surf lessons the evening before — mornings fill up in summer.
- Buy fresh fish at the port stalls and grill it on the spot — cheaper and fresher than restaurants.
- Argan co-op day-trips are cheesy but legit: buy directly from women's cooperatives.
- Bring a windbreaker even in July.
- Gnaoua Festival weekend (third week of June) is magical but book 2+ months ahead.