the 9-to-5 nomad's guide to solo travel
WHERE TO STAY
top neighborhoods for solo travelers & first-time visitors
SEARCH TOP HOTELS & HOSTELS FOR SOLO TRAVELERS
MEDINA (OLD TOWN)
The historic Medina is the heart of Essaouira, surrounded by fortified walls and facing the Atlantic Ocean. Its beautiful narrow winding streets, traditional riads, and bustling souks (markets), allows you to be in the midst of the town's cultural and historical attractions
PLAGE D'ESSAOURIA (BEACHFRONT)
The beachfront area is perfect if you want to wake up to the sound of the waves and have easy access to the sandy shores. This area is a bit more tranquil compared to the Medina, making it a good choice for those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere.
WHERE TO PLAY
Top Nightlife Hotspots, Beach Clubs & Bars
Main Nightlife District: Medina
TAROS (LE CLUB & TERASSES)
Location: Medina
About: THE place to be, watch sunset. live music.
salut maroc rooftop
Location: Medina
About: Beach bar
OCEAN VAGABOND
Location: Plage d' Essaouria (beachfront)
About: Trendy evening and daytime restaurant and lounge
BEACH AND FRIENDS
Location: Plage d' Essaouria (beachfront)
About: Beach bar
The roof top
Location: Beachfront
About: Restaurant, Bar & Live Music
what to do
top attractions, day trips & adventures
surf lessons
Essaouira is known as a great destination for surfing, attracting surfers from around the world. The town's location along the Atlantic coast provides consistent waves suitable for surfers of various skill levels. Moulay Bouzerktoun is knwon as a windsurfing and kitesurfing hotspot, a great day trip destination for adventure enthusiasts.
argan forest
It's particularly famous for being the only place on Earth where Argan trees grow naturally. This is also where you see the famous sight of goats climbing the argan trees. These acrobatic goats are drawn to the argan tree's fruit, and their climbing behavior actually benefits the trees in seed dispersal.
day trip to taghazout
Taghazout is a laid-back coastal town known for its surf scene. It attracts surfers from all over the world with its consistent waves and beautiful beaches. Even if you're not a surfer, there are plenty of cafes, restaurants, and shops in town, and the beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and walking.
Skala de la Ville
The castle wall around Essaouira is called the "Skala de la Ville." It is a historic seafront fortification that surrounds the medina (old town) of Essaouira in Morocco. The Skala de la Ville offers panoramic views of the city, harbor, and the Atlantic Ocean, making it a popular spot for tourists to explore and take in the scenery.
off the beaten path
hidden gems beyond the popular tourist attractions
wine tasting
Val d' argan
Escape the hustle and bustle of and head to Val d'Argan, a lush valley known for its argan trees. These trees produce argan oil, a prized Moroccan product used in cosmetics and cooking. They are also known for being one of the first and only wineries in Morocco growing grapes from the Rhône Valley in France. Their combination of French grape varietals and Moroccan flair creates a one-of-a-kind experience
day trip diabat
Diabat is known for its beautiful beaches and its relaxed atmosphere. It gained fame in the 1960's when legendary musician Jimmy Hendrix stayed there. It still has a small but lively music and art scene, influenced in part by Hendrix's visit. You can find local musicians playing traditional Moroccan music as well as contemporary styles
Thuya Wood
Carvers Quarter
Essaouira is well-known for its Thuya wood, a fragrant and versatile wood used for creating intricate carvings. Head to the Thuya Wood Carvers Quarter near the main gate of the Medina. Here, you'll find generations-old family workshops where skilled artisans handcraft beautiful Thuya wood jewelry boxes, chess sets, and decorative items.
camping in
agafay desert
The desert offers some of the most incredible stargazing opportunities in the world.One of the highlights of staying in a desert camp is witnessing the breathtaking sunset and sunrise over the desert landscape. Camping with a Berber guide can offer a unique cultural experience. You can learn about their way of life, their traditions, and their relationship with the desert.