The Working Port

This is not a tourist attraction. It's a working port where men unload sardines, sharks, and whatever else the Atlantic provides. The fish auction happens in the morning; the port-side grills serve the catch by noon. The blue boats are called trawlers, but many still use traditional methods. You can buy directly from the boats if you know what you're looking at. The port-side restaurants will cook whatever you bring them — pick your fish, pay by weight, wait at a plastic table for the grill. The seagulls are aggressive and numerous. The smells are honest. The experience is as close to old Essaouira as the town still offers. The tourist medina is just through the gate; here, the sea is the boss. Best time: 8-11am (fish auction and morning catch) Allow: 1-2 hours (including lunch) Combine with: Skala du Port and ramparts