Essaouira Beach
Hours
Always open
Entry
Free
Duration
120 minutes
Location
South of medina
The wind that makes sunbathing uncomfortable makes it perfect for kites. The beach stretches south for miles.
01
Hendrix Never Played Here
The legend says Jimi Hendrix visited Essaouira in 1969 and the wind inspired 'Castles Made of Sand.' The timeline does not work — the song was recorded in 1967. He did visit Morocco, briefly. The beach does not need the myth. It stretches south from the port for kilometres, wide, flat, wind-blasted. Windsurfers and kitesurfers own the southern end. The northern end, closer to town, is where Essaouiris walk and play football.
02
The Wind
The alizée trade wind blows almost constantly. Essaouira is one of the windiest cities on the African Atlantic coast. The beach is the wind's playground — sand moves visibly, the surf is permanent, the air smells of salt and seaweed. Camel rides operate on the hard-packed sand near the town wall.
03
Visiting
Walk out through Bab Sbaa or along the port. The beach starts immediately south of the town. No fee. The wind is the defining feature — it can be fierce enough to sting exposed skin with sand. Mornings are calmer. The southern stretch toward Sidi Kaouki is wilder and less populated.
Best Time to Visit
Morning for calmer wind. Sunset for the light. The southern stretch is best for solitude.
Getting There
Walk through Bab Sbaa or along the port wall. The beach starts at the edge of town.
Local Tip
Wind picks up afternoon. Kite surfers own the southern stretch.
Common Questions
He visited Morocco briefly in 1969. The song most associated with Essaouira — Castles Made of Sand — was recorded in 1967, before his visit. The legend persists regardless.
The current and wind make swimming rough. Wading is fine. The beach is better for walking, riding, and watching than swimming.
Walking Distance
Nearby
The beach stretches south for kilometres. We recommend walking until the town disappears behind you — that's when Essaouira starts making sense.
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Sources: UNESCO Medina of Essaouira nomination file (2001);;Essaouira municipal authority