Perched on the Atlantic coast of Morocco, in the heart of the Sous Valley, Agadir has become a favorite spot for those who love relaxation, golf, and golden sands. Though much of the city was rebuilt after a devastating earthquake in the 1960s, leaving only a few historical landmarks, it still serves as the perfect gateway to the Moroccan South. Many pass through Agadir on their way to the pristine beaches and rugged Atlantic coastline or venture inland to explore sand dunes, oases, and palm groves. But Agadir itself deserves a day to be fully enjoyed, with its laid-back vibe and more authentic, hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
Here are the best things to do in Agadir:
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1. Explore the best of Moroccan craftsmanship
- A must-visit for any bargain hunter, the souk is a dazzling labyrinth where you should let yourself be guided by the vibrant stalls and winding alleys. It’s a sensory overload of smells and colors, where getting lost is part of the adventure to uncover hidden treasures and, of course, sharpen your negotiation skills. Prices aren’t fixed, and haggling is woven into the local culture.
- Despite its name, which means “Sunday market,” Souk El Had is a bustling daily hub for locals and tourists alike—except on Mondays when it closes.
- It’s the largest souk in Morocco, sprawling with over 6,000 stalls selling everything imaginable—from spices, poultry, and fish to leather goods, carpets, jewelry, lamps, oils, soaps, clothing, and even high-tech gadgets.
- While the souk, like the city, is somewhat touristy, its lively atmosphere makes it an unmissable stop in Agadir.
Click for Souk El Had location
2. Tame the waves
- What immediately grabs your attention upon arriving in Agadir is its vast crescent-shaped beach, with golden sands kissed by waves stretching in every direction. It’s no wonder Agadir has become a hotspot for water sports enthusiasts!
- In the heart of the city, the bay offers sheltered waters with gentle swells, and even in winter, water temperatures rarely dip below 15°C. These are perfect conditions for learning and enjoying a relaxed surfing experience.
- Several centers provide introductory lessons right on the main beach.
- For more seasoned surfers, a short 30-minute trip north to Taghazout reveals top surf spots like Banana Point, Anchor Point, and the famous duo of beaches, K11 and K12, where the waves can get impressively powerful during stormy weather.
Click for Agadir Beach location
3. Fresh fish on the go
- After peeling off your wetsuit and stowing away your board, it’s time to explore Agadir Fishing Port, one of Morocco’s busiest, situated at the northern tip of the Corniche.
- A lively spot among locals, the port comes to life when the fishing boats return, offering a unique glimpse into the daily hustle.
- Take a stroll along the docks, watch the activity around the shipyard, and stop by the small nearby souk to buy fresh fish and shellfish.
- Just outside the port entrance, a cluster of stalls and small restaurants awaits, serving up plates of seafood, freshly grilled fish, and sardines straight from the sea.
Click for Agadir Fishing Port location
4. Siesta in a memorable garden
- The municipal Olhao Garden, also called the Garden of Portugal, is one of Agadir’s most charming green spaces. This peaceful oasis of greenery was established to celebrate the twinning of Agadir with the Portuguese town of Olhão.
- Loved by locals seeking a break from the heat and tourists wandering through the city, the park is a tribute to the historic ties between the two countries.
- Visitors can enjoy a serene stroll along leafy pathways, crossing suspended bridges, admiring water features, and exploring buildings influenced by Amazigh and Moorish architecture.
- Just southwest of the garden, you’ll find the Memory Agadir Museum, a small museum that chronicles the history of Agadir, particularly the devastating 1960 earthquake. The museum also showcases captivating photos of Agadir from the 1920s to the 1960s.
Click for Olhao Garden location
5. Immerse yourself in the Amazigh heritage
- Opened in 2000, the Agadir Amazigh Heritage Museum is a celebration of Amazigh heritage and the rich Berber traditions of the Souss-Massa-Drâa region.
- Born from a collaboration between the city of Agadir and passionate French geographers, the museum boasts nearly 1,000 historical artifacts, including pottery, carpets, traditional costumes, manuscripts, and an impressive private collection of Berber jewelry.
- The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions, thematic conferences, and children’s workshops, with a mission to promote Amazigh culture and engage younger generations.
Click for Agadir Amazigh Heritage Museum location
6. Climb to see some traces of history
- A few kilometers from the city center, perched on a hill, the Kasbah is one of the few historical landmarks still standing in Agadir.
- Originally built in 1541 during the reign of King Mohammed Ech-Cheikh and later restored in the late 18th century, the fortress once housed around 300 inhabitants. It was strategically designed to fend off enemies—specifically the Portuguese at that time.
- Though the 1960 earthquake heavily damaged it, leaving only the enclosing walls and faint traces of former dwellings, the site remains a must-visit for its breathtaking panoramic views of the port, the city, and the sweeping bay of Agadir.
- The entrance gate features an inscription in both Dutch and Arabic, symbolizing the early trade relations with the Netherlands.
Our tip: Since the climb to the Kasbah can be exhausting, we suggest taking a taxi up and enjoying a leisurely walk down on foot.
7. Stroll on the Marina and along the Corniche
- After taking in the view from above, you can make your way down to the bay of Agadir—on foot, if you’re feeling adventurous—starting with a lovely stroll around the Marina.
- Nestled between the commercial port and the beach, the marina is home to a collection of boats, including sleek yachts and floating palaces.
- As the sun begins to set and the air cools, it’s the ideal moment to explore the Corniche, a long promenade that stretches for several kilometers along Agadir’s beautiful crescent-shaped beach.
- On one side, golden sands beckon, while on the other, a mix of shops, hotels, cafes, and restaurants line the path.
- Find a cozy spot at one of the cafes, sip a refreshing drink, and take in the relaxed atmosphere as the sun dips below the horizon.
8. Visit Intimate Riad for a gourmet dinner
- While Agadir may not boast a vast array of fine dining options, there is one hidden gem that whispers among those in the know.
- Nestled in a quiet residential neighborhood at the southern end of the Corniche, Riad Villa Blanche offers a serene and luxurious experience for both accommodation and dining. Set around a lush courtyard, this intimate spot is a delight for the senses.
- The kitchen is led by an Alsatian chef alongside two talented Moroccan female chefs, who create a harmonious blend of French and Moroccan culinary traditions, showcasing local and seasonal ingredients.
- The menu gives special attention to fish and seafood, served as fillets, carpaccio, or tartare, while meat lovers can indulge in tajines, parmentiers, or the Rossini burger. Organic vegetables shine in salads and flavorful side dishes.
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