Essaouira is a port city full of magic—history, culture, and that fresh coastal breeze. Perched right on the Atlantic coast of Morocco, it’s often called “the pearl of the Atlantic.” And for good reason! It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a place you must experience. Do you know where to stay in Essaouira yet?
Once you’re there, you’ll wander through the old walled city, with its crisp white walls, twisting streets, and bustling souks. Getting lost on purpose is the best way in the Medina—you’ll stumble upon local crafts, and unique products, and soak in the lively Moroccan vibe.
But that’s not all! Essaouira is also famous for its golden sandy beach and laid-back atmosphere. If you’re into water sports, this is the spot for you. Windsurfing, kitesurfing, and more are all waiting for you. Want to dive into the best experience? Explore the coolest neighborhoods to find the perfect place to stay in Essaouira!
Read also: Essential Things To Do In Essaouira And Around and Best Restaurants in Essaouira
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How to choose the right place to stay in Essaouira?
The length of your stay will guide your choices! If you’re only in Essaouira for a few days, it’s best to stay right in the heart of the Medina, or even in the Kasbah. This way, you’ll be close to all the action—exploring the souks, shops, and restaurants, and hitting up all the must-see spots.
For a longer visit, you can venture a bit further. Consider Essaouira Beach as a great option, or maybe even the Diabat or Ghazoua areas. You’ll find charming seaside resorts and peaceful, authentic villages that offer a taste of something more local.
But here’s the thing—book early! Whether you’re after a cozy riad, a hotel, or a guesthouse, Essaouira is a popular spot. If you wait too long, prices will skyrocket, and your options will be way more limited!
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Where to stay in Essaouira- My recommendations
If you don’t want to read the entire article, here is a quick overview of the best places to stay in Essaouira:
- Riad Dar Maya offers exceptional rooms for around €120 per night, including breakfast .
- By staying at Jack’s Apartments & Suites , you will enjoy pleasant and well-equipped accommodation with a view of the ocean, from €81 per night with breakfast .
- The Hotel Le Médina Essaouira Thalassa promises a high-end stay with comfortable and spacious rooms, access to the private beach, and various wellness services, from €89 .
The Medina
The old town of Essaouira, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the perfect spot for travelers craving an authentic experience. It’s packed with traditional riads, charming streets, bustling local markets, and that incredible historic vibe that makes every moment feel special.
The Medina is encircled by towering 18th-century ramparts, offering breathtaking views of the sea. Inside, you’ll find a maze of narrow alleys, lively squares, and those classic white-and-blue buildings that give Essaouira its picturesque charm.
At the heart of the Medina lies Place Moulay Hassan, a buzzing square where cafés, craft stalls, and an electric atmosphere come alive, especially during the Gnaoua and World Music Festival. The souks here are brimming with handmade crafts, jewelry, spices, and textiles—a real treasure trove for anyone looking to grab unique souvenirs.
For history buffs, there’s no shortage of landmarks: the old Portuguese Medina, the Sqala de la Ville, and the ramparts and port, which is still busy with its iconic blue fishing boats.
Beyond the history, the Medina is also home to cozy restaurants serving Moroccan dishes, elegant riads for your stay, and art galleries showcasing works from local designers. It’s a place where art, music, and history blend seamlessly, creating a one-of-a-kind experience.
And, of course, you’re just a stone’s throw from golden sandy beaches where you can relax or dive into some fun water sports!
The best hotels to stay in Medina
- Riad Dar Maya is a guest house with a rooftop terrace, hot tub, and library. The rooms are decorated in an elegant style! A Moroccan breakfast is served every morning on the roof terrace, on the patio, or in the dining room. Expect around €122 per night, with breakfast.
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT RIAD DAR MAYA BY CLICKING HERE
- Riad Chbanate is located along the city walls. This magnificent riad has a roof terrace overlooking the old medina of Essaouira. Its spacious rooms are tastefully decorated in Moroccan style, in which you will have breakfast. A night in this riad is available from €136 per night for two people.
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT RIAD CHBANATE BY CLICKING HERE
The Kasbah
The Kasbah is the quieter side of Essaouira’s Medina, perfect if you want a more peaceful vibe without missing out on the charm of the old city. With its panoramic sea views from the ancient city walls, it’s a hidden gem. Plus, you’re still close to all the action—shops, souks, and the lively heart of the old town—making it a fantastic base.
Right along the Atlantic Ocean, this part of the medina oozes character, blending history and charm. The streets are narrow and pebbled, with classic white and blue buildings that create a beautiful contrast with the ocean’s deep blue.
At the center of the Kasbah, you’ll find the Sqala de la Kasbah, a lookout point offering stunning views of the Essaouira port. It’s the perfect spot to watch the fishing boats return, loaded with fresh fish. Surrounding the area are cozy cafés and restaurants serving up local specialties like fish tagine and grilled sardines—you’ll be spoiled for choice!
For shopping, the Kasbah has a few craft shops offering handmade treasures like rugs, silver jewelry, and pottery. Don’t hesitate to haggle—it’s part of the fun, and you might just score a great deal!
The best hotels to stay in Kasbah Essaouira
- Riad Face a’ la Mer welcomes you 5 minutes from the port and a 10-minute walk from the beach. It has a rooftop terrace with panoramic sea views. The riad offers self-catering apartments with antique furniture and access to the fully equipped kitchen for €81 per night with breakfast .
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT RIAD FACE A LA MER BY CLICKING HERE
- Jack’s Apartments & Suites offers self-catering apartments and comfortable, well-equipped rooms. The beach is just a 7-minute walk away, you will stay near restaurants and public parking. For a night in this establishment, count on from €81 per night with breakfast.
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT JACK’S APARTMENTS & SUITES BY CLICKING HERE
Near Essaouira Beach
If you’re all about being by the sea, Essaouira Beach is the perfect choice! There are tons of hotels and accommodations with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, making it ideal for anyone into water sports or those who just want to kick back and relax in Morocco .
This beach is a magnet for visitors from around the globe. Stretching for several kilometers, it’s spacious enough for everyone—swimmers, surfers, and those who just want to chill. Plus, it’s right next to the historic Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, adding that extra touch of magic.
With fine, golden sand that seems to go on forever, and pleasant weather all year round, it’s a beach lover’s dream. While summer is the busiest, you can still enjoy it any time of the year. Want to relax? There are parasols and deckchairs for lounging in comfort.
And for surfers, the Atlantic Ocean offers some of the best conditions out there . Surfers from around the world come to ride the waves, and there are plenty of surf schools and board rentals available, whether you’re a pro or just starting!
If you stay near the beach, you’ll also catch the daily rhythm of local fishermen. Their colorful boats and nets paint a vivid picture of the region’s strong fishing culture. A stroll along the coast offers breathtaking views of the Medina’s ancient walls and historic towers—just the perfect way to end the day!
The best hotels near Essaouira Beach
- Riad Zahra is located near the beach, just a 15-minute walk from the medina, and has a garden with an outdoor swimming pool. Quietly in a residential area, the hotel ensures a peaceful and relaxed stay in a room decorated in traditional Moroccan style for around €71 per night with breakfast.
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT RIAD ZAHRA BY CLICKING HERE
- Hotel Le Médina Essaouira Thalassa offers spa facilities, 3 restaurants, 2 bars, and a large outdoor swimming pool. The air-conditioned rooms with balconies feature contemporary decor. The hotel’s restaurants serve Moroccan and international specialties. You can also benefit from services such as a hairdressing salon and a thalassotherapy institute. Accessible from €89 per night!
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT HOTEL LE MEDINA THALASSA BY CLICKING HERE
Diabat, an authentic Berber village
Diabat, just a 10-minute trip from the center, is a hidden gem known for its laid-back vibe. If you’re after a more affordable stay and want to escape the busier parts of Essaouira, this village is perfect. It’s ideal for those who want to dive deep into traditional Moroccan life and get a true taste of Berber culture.
Diabat offers calm and authenticity. The small local community here revolves around fishing and agriculture. As you wander through its narrow streets lined with traditional houses, you’ll feel the rustic charm and get a real sense of the region’s cultural richness. Strolling around, you’ll be surrounded by simple but beautiful local architecture that speaks to the village’s deep history.
And let’s not forget Diabat beach—a true hidden pearl with endless stretches of golden sand, perfect for peaceful walks or relaxing by the water. It’s also a haven for water sports enthusiasts, offering great conditions for surfing and kite surfing.
This village holds a special place in pop culture too. Jimi Hendrix famously visited Diabat in the 1960s, and it’s said that the watchtower and ruins of the palace of Dar Soltane inspired his song “Castles Made of Sand.” There’s even a café named after him in town as a tribute!
For those keen on learning more about this slice of history, a visit to the Diabat Museum is a must. It showcases exhibitions about the village’s past and its links to cultural icons. All in all, Diabat is a peaceful place to stay, though accommodations are more limited compared to Essaouira.
The best hotels to stay in Diabat
- Tigmi Anis is located near Essaouira Beach and Mogador Golf Course. The accommodation includes a terrace and offers a comfortable and pleasant setting. You will stay far from the hustle and bustle of the Medina while enjoying a lovely swimming pool! Count on €56 per night including breakfast.
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT TIGMI ANIS BY CLICKING HERE
- Sofitel Essaouira Mogador Golf & Spa is located within the Gary Player golf course, it has 2 swimming pools and a gym. This establishment offers elegant, well-equipped villas and suites! Guests can enjoy the two restaurants while being 900 meters from historical museums and beaches. For a superior double room, you should plan on around €100 per night with breakfast as an option for €20 more.
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT SOFITEL MOGADOR GOLF & SPA BY CLICKING HERE
Where to stay near Essaouira
If you’re looking to stay near Essaouira, the surrounding areas offer a blend of luxury, relaxation, and authentic charm. While Essaouira itself is a popular destination, nearby regions also provide top-tier options for those wanting a more exclusive experience.
Ghazoua Region
Just a few kilometers south of Essaouira, the Ghazoua region is perfect for travelers seeking peace and luxury. This area is known for its spacious rooms, lush gardens, and high-end wellness facilities. Whether you’re lounging by beautiful swimming pools, indulging in spa treatments, or staying at hotels with direct beach access, Ghazoua offers the ultimate tranquil retreat.
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Sidi Kaouki
Sidi Kaouki, a coastal village about 25 kilometers south of Essaouira, is another fantastic choice. It’s home to renowned establishments with elegant accommodations and stunning ocean views. The beach here is a surfer’s paradise, famous for its surfing conditions, but it’s also ideal for swimming and relaxing on the sand. If you’re after a quiet getaway with a touch of adventure, Sidi Kaouki Beach is a must-visit.
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Both Ghazoua and Sidi Kaouki are perfect spots for travelers looking to unwind while staying close to Essaouira’s authentic vibe.
Whether you choose the region of Ghazoua, Sidi Kaouki or a nearby seaside resort, the surroundings of Essaouira are also a refuge for travelers wishing to recharge their batteries in an enchanting setting. These out-of-town destinations will allow you to enjoy the authentic charm of the Essaouira region.
