Strong winds, epic waves, and long sandy beaches along the Atlantic coast make Essaouira ideal for a surfing and kitesurfing holiday. Known as the windy city of Morocco, it is a paradise for water sports. A string of the most beautiful beaches offers a range of areas for every level of kitesurfers and surfers, including excellent kite schools for beginners.
What's more, Essaouira is drenched in history. From its historic 18th-century ramparts and blue & white houses to its vibrant old Medina (a short walk from the Medina can take you to Essaouira's main beach), people love exploring the town's rich culture when not on the waves. For a truly unforgettable holiday with friends or family, book one a luxury villa in Essaouira with Villanovo. Legend has it that Jimi Hendrix was so inspired by this coastal charmer that he wrote 'Castles Made of Sand' here. What incredible memories will you create?
The Portuguese chose Mogador, Essaouira's former name, for its strategic location on the Atlantic coast. Kitesurfers and surfers choose the port city for its vast stretches of sandy beaches that are exposed to the forceful "Alizé" coastal winds. The current isn't strong and there are few rocks, making Essaouira safe for all water sports. Plus, the Mogador Islands off the coast filters the swell for steady waves.
Thanks to a mild climate, especially during the winter months, and little rain, the weather in Essaouira is ideal for year-round watersports. Essaouira is easy to get to, especially via Europe, and the area is more affordable than other surf spots. You don't need a car because the main beach is close to town. Fill up on Essaouira's intriguing culture and traditional dishes at the town's many great restaurants, Whether you spend a few days, a week, or a weekend in Essaouira with family or friends, there's no shortage of things, and you will find everything you need for a fantastic getaway.
Essaouira Beach is the city's main beach, a wide expanse of sand and dunes that stretches for 6 kms. Often voted one of Morocco's most beautiful beaches, the smaller waves are ideal for beginner surfers. The southern-most end of this half moon bay is one of the best spots for kitesurfers. Consequently, this part of the bay is home to many kite schools. They also have a great restaurant on the beach for a post-ride meal.
Ocean Vagabond organises daily trips to Sidi Kaouki Beach. Located 22 kms south, this tiny beach in a small fishing village is appealing to people looking for a chill atmosphere and prime watersports. Summer is high season for kitesurfers when the wind can gust over 35 knots. The afternoon is the best time of day to kite-surf at Sidi Kaouki Beach when the wind picks up. Advanced surfers will prefer the morning to catch the biggest waves.
Whichever beach you choose, your Villanovo concierge can book lessons and equipment rentals so you can focus on the fun part: riding waves! To be closest to Essaouira Beach, be sure to book a riad in the Medina.
Thanks to the relatively mild weather and climate in Morocco, Essaouira is home to year-round kitesurfing or surfing, depending on your skill level. It rarely rains and the sun often shines so you can pair your water sports with beach time.
Essaouira earns its nickname as the "windy city" for the constant gusts that are created when the Sahara's sirocco meets the Atlantic's trade wins. The high season to kite-surf is April to October when there is consistent wind ranging from 15 - 25 knots. Experienced kitesurfers ride downwind from the city where the wind is more even.
The high season for surfing goes from December to late March. Advanced surfers will love the big waves this time of year. Water temperatures hover around 17°C while the air is 18-20°C with less wind than summer. The best season for beginner surfers is June - July when the waves are smaller. Warmer water temperatures of 20°C and air temperatures of 20-27°C means some people like to opt for a lightweight wetsuit.
If you're new to kitesurfing, Essaouira is the perfect place to learn. Several professional schools provide expert instructors, high-quality equipment, and tailored group lessons to help you master the basics in a safe and fun setting. One of our favourites, Explora Water Sports, is one of the most popular kite schools to learn how to kitesurf and surf.
Whether you're taking your first steps with a kite trainer or progressing to riding the waves, Essaouira’s relaxed atmosphere make it a top destination to start your kitesurfing journey.
Villanovo offers a wide choice of luxury villas and riads in Essaouira. Choose a riad in the medina, a villa by a golf course, or a villa on the outskirts of Essaouira.
Our attentive concierges take care of all the details so you can concentrate on your holiday. This personalised service adapts each trip to your needs: booking excursions, yoga classes, water sports, private chef, and more. Last but not least? Villanovo offers you a beautiful travel booklet for each stay in one of our villas. You'll find all our recommendations and great addresses for restaurants, shops and other experiences to discover in Essaouira.