Essaouira Beach Tagharte
A wide, breezy Atlantic beach known for world-class kitesurfing and windsurfing, with historic ramparts and fresh seafood.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
Essaouira Beach Tagharte
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A wide, breezy Atlantic beach known for world-class kitesurfing and windsurfing, with historic ramparts and fresh seafood.
"Essaouira Beach is a beautiful clean beach, gets windy but has lots of fun waves and activities."
Pack for the Wind
Essaouira is windy year-round! Bring layers, a windbreaker, and a scarf to stay comfortable. :wind_face:
Book Accommodation Early
Charming Riads in the Medina are affordable and comfy, around 600 MAD for a double room. Book ahead, especially in peak season. :housewithgarden:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kitesurfing & Windsurfing Haven
Essaouira Beach Tagharte
Experience the thrill of world-class wind and waves, perfect for all skill levels. Feel the Atlantic breeze!
Game of Thrones Castle Views
Skala de la Ville (nearby)
Capture iconic photos at the historic ramparts, a famous filming location. Seagulls add to the dramatic scenery.
Seaside Seafood Stalls
Near the beach
Savor fresh, local seafood cooked right before your eyes. A delicious and authentic culinary experience.
Camel & Horseback Rides
Along the beach
Enjoy a leisurely ride along the expansive sandy shores, taking in the coastal beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Wind
Timing is Key for Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack for the Wind
Essaouira is windy year-round! Bring layers, a windbreaker, and a scarf to stay comfortable. :wind_face:
Book Accommodation Early
Charming Riads in the Medina are affordable and comfy, around 600 MAD for a double room. Book ahead, especially in peak season. :housewithgarden:
Beginner Surf Spots
Essaouira Beach is perfect for beginner and intermediate surfers. Sidi Kaouki offers more powerful waves. :surfer:
Beware of Cat Overload!
Essaouira is known for its abundant cat population. If you're allergic, be prepared! :cat2:
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack for the Wind
Essaouira is windy year-round! Bring layers, a windbreaker, and a scarf to stay comfortable. :wind_face:
Book Accommodation Early
Charming Riads in the Medina are affordable and comfy, around 600 MAD for a double room. Book ahead, especially in peak season. :housewithgarden:
Beginner Surf Spots
Essaouira Beach is perfect for beginner and intermediate surfers. Sidi Kaouki offers more powerful waves. :surfer:
Beware of Cat Overload!
Essaouira is known for its abundant cat population. If you're allergic, be prepared! :cat2:
Explore the Medina
Wander through charming alleys, discover artisan shops, and soak in the bohemian vibes. :shopping_bags:
Beach Amenities
Be aware that some beach facilities like toilets may have charges. Showers might also have variable pricing. :moneywithwings:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Essaouira Beach Tagharte's stunning natural beauty, ideal conditions for wind sports, and relaxed atmosphere. The wide sandy shores, historic ramparts, and fresh seafood are frequently praised. However, the strong winds can be a drawback for some, and the beach can get very crowded during peak season.
"Very wide beach with great views of crashing sea waves along the rocky beach. There are also sandy stretches for beach goers to enjoy a pleasant picnic or stroll along the beach.
The castle is especially noted for the scene in Game of Thrones, so it is a popular tourist photo spot. Plenty of seagulls winging their way through the breezy wind. Locals and tourists can enjoy the seafood at stalls near the beach."
Avril Atkeg
"Windy & nice beach. Very very busy in Aug. You can get cheap beds and use them all day long just be aware there are some charges for toilets. The showers on the beach were great however it seems only certain tourists were being charged to use - one to be aware of. Waves big, lots of fun."
Millie H
"Gets windy but it’s a beautiful clean beach.
Lighted up at night too.
Many activities such as camel rides, horseback rides, surfing and more."
Hussain Almoamen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Essaouira Mogador Airport (ESU) is the closest airport, about a 2-hour drive from Madrid. From Marrakech, you can take a bus or taxi, which takes around 3 hours. Many travelers rent cars or use GPS for scenic road trips along the coast. +1
Yes, it's a popular route. Buses are frequent and affordable, or you can opt for a taxi for more flexibility. The drive offers beautiful scenery.
The Medina is best explored on foot. Taxis are available for longer distances. For beach activities, you can often walk or take a short taxi ride.
Essaouira Mogador Airport (ESU) receives flights, though direct international routes might be limited. It's a convenient option if available.
Yes, many tour operators offer day trips or multi-day excursions from Marrakech and other major Moroccan cities, providing convenient transport and guided experiences.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the beach itself is free to access. However, some amenities like sunbed rentals and toilets may incur charges.
Essaouira Beach is open 24/7. It's even lit up at night, offering a different ambiance.
The Medina is a public area and does not have an entrance fee. You can freely explore its streets and shops.
The Medina is filled with artisan shops selling local crafts, argan oil products, leather goods, and more. Haggling is common.
For popular activities like surf lessons or guided tours, booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.
🎫 🏄♀️ Onsite Experience
The beach is ideal for kitesurfing, windsurfing, and surfing. You can also enjoy camel rides, horseback rides, long walks, and simply relaxing.
Yes, Essaouira Beach is known for its gentle waves, making it perfect for beginner and intermediate surfers.
It's a breezy, vibrant beach with a relaxed atmosphere, especially outside of peak season. It's also known for its lively street music and dance events.
Yes, numerous surf and kitesurf schools along the beach offer equipment rentals and lessons for all levels.
Light clothing for warm days, but always pack a windbreaker or sweater as it gets windy. Swimwear is essential for water activities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The stalls near the beach offer incredibly fresh seafood cooked to order. You can also find excellent seafood restaurants in the Medina and along the promenade.
Besides fresh seafood, try tagines, couscous, and Moroccan pastries. Don't miss out on local argan oil products.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian tagines and couscous dishes. It's always a good idea to inform your server about dietary restrictions.
You can find affordable meals at the beach stalls and local eateries, typically ranging from 50-150 MAD. Mid-range restaurants might cost 150-300 MAD per person.
Yes, there are several cafes and restaurants along the promenade and within the Medina that offer stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
📸 📸 Photography
The Skala de la Ville ramparts offer dramatic views and are a Game of Thrones filming location. The beach itself, with its surfers and seagulls, is also very photogenic.
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful golden light. Midday can be harsh, but the strong winds and dramatic waves can create unique shots.
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. Be respectful when photographing people, and always ask for permission if focusing on individuals.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and ramparts. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife like seagulls. Protect your gear from sand and wind.
Drone regulations can be strict in Morocco. It's advisable to check current regulations and obtain necessary permits before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏄♂️ Adventure Seekers & Water Sports Enthusiasts
Beyond the water, explore the coastline on horseback or camel, or simply enjoy the thrill of the wind and sea. 📸 Photographers & Culture Enthusiasts
Don't forget the beach itself – the dynamic interplay of wind, waves, kites, and seagulls provides unique photographic moments, especially during sunrise and sunset. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Wind: Essaouira's Defining Feature
For those not participating in water sports, the wind creates a dynamic atmosphere. It whips through the seagulls, rustles the sails of kites, and adds a unique energy to the coastline. The sound of the wind and waves is a constant companion, contributing to Essaouira's distinct charm. It's this very wind that shapes the landscape and the lifestyle here, making it an unforgettable experience.
Water Sports Paradise: Surfing, Kitesurfing, and Windsurfing
For those seeking more adrenaline, kitesurfing and windsurfing are the main draws. The steady trade winds provide the perfect power for soaring through the air and gliding across the water. Numerous schools and rental shops line the beach, catering to all levels. Whether you're looking to take your first surf lesson, master a kite loop, or simply rent equipment, you'll find plenty of options. The vibrant scene of colorful kites and sails against the blue ocean is a spectacle in itself.
Beyond the Beach: Exploring Essaouira's Charm
Don't miss the Skala de la Ville, the impressive sea bastion with its cannons and panoramic views, famously featured in Game of Thrones. For a taste of local life, head to the fishing port, where colorful boats bob in the harbor and fishermen bring in their daily catch. The nearby seafood stalls offer an unparalleled opportunity to enjoy the freshest fish and shellfish.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit