Best Things to Do in Essaouira as a Solo Traveller
Heading to historic Mogador on an independent adventure? Discover 10 of the best things to do in Essaouira as a solo traveller.
If you’re exploring Morocco solo, Essaouira offers the perfect blend of calm, creativity and connection. This charming whitewashed town on Morocco’s Atlantic coast is far more relaxed than Marrakech or Fes.
With its ocean breezes and windswept beaches, Essaouira feels like a breath of fresh air after Morocco’s bustling inland cities. It’s a place where you can wander between art galleries, enjoy relaxed shopping and dine at globally-inspired cafes.
In this article, I’ll highlight 10 of the best things to do in Essaouira as a solo traveller, based on my own experience. It can be used as a guide to help plan your own itinerary in one of Morocco’s most beloved coastal cities.
For more travel planning inspiration, check out my suggested one-day Essaouira itinerary.
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1. Stroll the UNESCO-listed Essaouira medina
The Essaouira medina is smaller and easier to navigate than the medinas in Marrakech or Fes – it has fewer winding streets and more of a grid-like pattern. In short, it’s perfect for solo exploration.
Ringed by centuries-old walls, its lanes are filled with independent art galleries, artisan stalls and inviting restaurants serving everything from tagines and couscous to Western-style brunch fare.
Don’t miss in the Essaouira medina:
- Soak up the Atlantic views from Skala de la Kasbah, a historic sea bastion complete with massive cannons. It’s a particularly popular spot to watch the sunset.
- Hop between some of Essaouira’s incredible galleries showcasing both local and international artists.
- Browse the local souks and artisan workshops. Essaouira is a fantastic spot for purchasing argan oil products (argan grows nearby) and goods made from local thuya wood.
2. Learn to surf or kitesurf
Essaouira has been nicknamed the “Windy City” and for good reason. It’s one of the best places in Morocco for kitesurfing and windsurfing, whether you’re experienced or a complete beginner.
There are plenty of surf schools and shops in Essaouira where you can rent gear (if you know what you’re doing). For beginners, book in for a lesson with one of the local pros – they’ll have you flying across the water in no time!
Top surf schools in Essaouira:
- Explora Watersports: Offers kite, surf and windsurfing lessons, plus specialised clinics throughout the year.
- ION Club Essaouira: Provides kitesurfing, windsurfing and foil gear, plus SUP and kayak rentals.
- Bleukite: Specialises in kitesurfing lessons with local and international instructors.
Solo tip:
Group surf lessons are a great way to meet people – many travellers end up hanging out together for post-surf meals or sunset drinks.
3. Explore Essaouira’s art scene
Essaouira has long attracted artists and free spirits – Jimi Hendrix is said to have spent time here. The town’s galleries and workshops are filled with paintings, wood carvings and sculptures inspired by Moroccan and African themes, many created by local artists.
Art enthusiasts could spend days hopping between Essaouira’s galleries, many of which have works available for sale. You’ll find some of the city’s best in my detailed article here.
Recommended art galleries in Essaouira:
- Galerie la Kasbah: Occupying an 18th-century riad, this gallery showcases local and international artists.
- Caravane: Combining a cafe/restaurant with an art gallery, this venue regularly hosts live music nights.
- Centre d’Art Le Real Mogador: Beautifully restored, this former Italian consulate showcases local artists, including masters from the Outsider movement.
Solo tip:
Many of Essaouira’s artists work in hole-in-the-wall galleries and workshops that are easy to miss. While exploring the medina, keep an eye out for artworks being displayed outside doors and follow your curiosity.
4. Eat fresh seafood at the port
I know the smell of fish markets is not for everyone. But if you can handle it, I’d highly recommend heading to the Essaouira fishing port to watch the local fishermen bring in their daily catch.
A lively fish market pops up alongside the moored boats. Here, you’ll find everything from sardines to eels and octopus.
If you’re a fan of eating seafood, you can pick your fish from the stalls and have it grilled at one of the nearby barbecues for a few dirhams. Most provide bread and a Moroccan salad to accompany your meal.
Top tip:
The grilled sardines in Essaouira are amazing! If you’ve never had fresh sardines before (only tinned), this is the place to expand your horizons.
5. Participate in a cooking class
For foodies, Essaouira is a dream, with a diverse choice of globally-inspired cafes and trendy eateries clustered within its whitewashed medina. It’s a great place for finding Western-style fare if you need a break from Moroccan cuisine.
On the other hand, if you want to dive headfirst into the country’s culinary heritage, Essaouira is also a great place to do a cooking class.
For those seeking to immerse themselves in the culinary traditions and flavours of Morocco, there are a wealth of food tours and experiences on offer. I’ve highlighted some of the best below or you’ll find a more extensive choice here.
Best food experiences in Essaouira for solo travellers:
- Occupying a historic almond warehouse, L’Atelier Madaba runs one of the most professional cooking classes in Essaouira. I also love the cafe and concept store on-site.
- For more of a local experience, join Abdou for his How to be a real Moroccan chef experience. It includes a market tour where you’ll meet some of his favourite vendors.
- If you want to join a local family for a meal, consider this guided walk, which takes in an argan-dotted stretch of Essaouira’s countryside.
6. Visit the Jewish Quarter (Mellah)
Essaouira’s Mellah tells the story of centuries of coexistence between Jewish and Muslim communities in the city. It encompasses centuries-old synagogues, homes and narrow streets that showcase a vital part of the city’s identity.
The Mellah is a relaxed place to wander and there are lots of subtle reminders of its Jewish heritage.
If you want to learn more, I suggest visiting Bayt Dakira, which is one of the best museums in Essaouira. It’s dedicated to illuminating the city’s history of religious coexistence and the connections between Islam and Judaism.
7. Take a camel or horse ride on the beach
Stretching south from the medina is a long sweep of sand overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. As it’s facing west, it’s a great place to watch the sunset, together with the ramparts of Skala de la Kasbah.
Plage d’Essaouira is also a fantastic spot to go camel or horseback riding. Personally, I think sunset is one of the best times to go. Not only is the light a lot softer and better for photography, but you’ll get to watch the day’s last rays sink below the horizon.
Top tip:
Always agree on the price beforehand and ensure the animals are treated ethically – look for animals that look well-fed and healthy.
8. Experience Essaouira’s music scene
Essaouira is famous for Gnaoua music, a soulful blend of West African, Amazigh and Arabic rhythms.
It hosts the Gnaoua World Music Festival each year (usually in June) and it really is a fantastic experience, with live music performances igniting the streets. Some are paid, some are free, so there really is something for everyone.
Even outside the festival season, local musicians often jam in medina courtyards or cafes/restaurants – keep an eye out for posters highlighting local happenings. Alternatively, check on the events taking place at the Dar Souiri Cultural Center – it occasionally hosts live music shows.
9. Take a day trip
If you’re staying for a few days, Essaouira makes a great base for short trips and day excursions along the coastline.
Not only is it on the doorstep of some wonderful beaches and the laid-back surf village of Sidi Kaouki, but the inland countryside is sublime. Dotted with traditional villages and argan oil cooperatives, it offers a wonderful insight into rural life.
Below are some of my top picks for day trips from Essaouira for solo travellers. You’ll find more in my detailed article here.
Best day trips in Essaouira for solo travellers:
- Visit the traditional Amazigh village of Sidi Mbark for a taste of rural life or experience the Sunday Market in Had Draa.
- Enjoy a guided walk through an argan forest and visit a women’s cooperative to see how Morocco’s famous oil is made.
- Embark on a two-hour quad-bike ride through the forest and dunes surrounding Essaouira.
Solo tip:
Hiring a car may not be economical for solo travellers. But there are plenty of affordable organised tours from Essaouira that make getting around easy and safe.
10. Stay in a riad or boutique hostel
Essaouira has a fantastic range of accommodation for solo travellers – from social hostels to quiet riads and luxury stays. I’ve stayed in a variety of accommodations while travelling solo in Essaouira and have always felt welcome.
Below are some of my recommended hotels and riads in Essaouira for solo travellers. You’ll find more inspiration here.
Recommended stays in Essaouira for solo travellers:
- Luxury: Heure Bleue Palais
- Mid-range: Riad Lyon-Mogador
- Budget: The Chill Art Hostel
Top tip:
Essaouira also boasts some gorgeous villas in the countryside. If you’re self-driving and willing to splurge, you’ll find some amazing villa stays here.
Essaouira: Morocco’s Coastal Soul
In my experience, travelling solo in Essaouira is a breeze – it’s safe, easygoing and the city’s creative spirit fosters connection. Whether you spend your days exploring the art-filled alleys, dining at the eclectic cafes or learning to surf, there are plenty of ways to meet like-minded travellers while still maintaining your independence.
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About Me
I’m Malika, an Australian-born travel writer with an intense love for Morocco. I first travelled here solo in 2014 and after meeting (and marrying) a local, I made this North African gem my home. Since that time, I have explored the country extensively, travelling to all corners with my partner, friends and on my own.
Morocco is an incredible destination and one that I think everyone who has the “travel bug” should experience. The scenery is spectacular, the medinas are enchanting and the locals are among the friendliest (and funniest) people I’ve ever met.
It’s no secret, however, that there a lot of questions and concerns voiced online about solo travel to Morocco, particularly from female travellers. So I wanted to create this resource filled with honest and up-to-date information. It’s designed to help solo travellers explore the country safely and have an amazing time along the way.
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I’m Malika, an Australian-born travel writer with an intense love for Morocco. I first travelled here solo in 2014 and after meeting (and marrying) a local, I made this North African gem my home.
Over the last 10 years, I have explored the country extensively, travelling to all corners with my partner, friends and solo.
