As the jewel of Morocco's Atlantic coast, the weather and climate in Essaouira is pleasant all year round. Rainfall is low, making it ideal for exploring the city in every season.
Whether you are a fan of water sports, golf, culture or simply looking to relax, each season has its own surprises. Festivals and artisanal discoveries make this city a must-see destination every month of the year. Discover the best time to stay in an exceptional riad or villa in Essaouira and make the most of its attractions, from the medina and fishing port to Morocco's Atlantic coast.
Spring is one of the best seasons to discover Essaouira. Average temperatures are mild, perfect for enjoying the town and its beaches under the sun. Essaouira is one of the best places to go on holiday in March for sun since you will not suffer from the heat of summer temperatures. It is a good idea for visitors to bring a light jacket since light rain can occur, especially in March and April, but this is fairly rare and does not hinder outdoor activities.
This is the best time of year for water sports enthusiasts to visit Essaouira, with perfect wind conditions for surfing, kitesurfing and windsurfing. Many visitors come to learn these disciplines or perfect their technique thanks to courses offered by centres such as Océan Vagabond.
On the cultural front, spring is marked by the famous Gnaoua World Music Festival, a not-to-be-missed event that brings together artists from all over the world to celebrate traditional Moroccan music. With its open-air concerts and musical encounters, this is a popular time to immerse yourself in the vibrant, festive atmosphere of Essaouira.
Our clients recommend these villas for Spring Holidays in Essaouira, Morocco: Dar Ondina, Dar Sophia, Villa Camel
In summer, from June to August, the city receives little rainfall. The days are filled with many hours of sun, so its a great time for enjoying its beaches. The water is warmer and the air is pleasant, making it the best time to swim in Essaouira.
Summer in Essaouira is unique. Unlike other Moroccan cities where the weather can be stifling, Essaouira benefits from an ocean breeze that eases summer swelter between June and August.
These are the best months in Morocco for experienced surfers and kitesurfers, who take advantage of the favourable weather and constant winds to ride the waves. The windy coastline becomes a veritable playground for sports enthusiasts and thrill-seekers.
Summer evenings in June, July and August are punctuated by a variety of musical events and open-air festivals. The Festival des Alizés celebrates musical diversity in a laidback atmosphere.
Recommended villas for your Summer holiday in Essaouira: Fort de Mogador, Villa Mamouna, Villa Granvia
Autumn is a charming season in Essaouira. September and October temperatures remain pleasant, allowing you to enjoy the city in a more peaceful atmosphere with fewer tourists for several months. Around October, Essaouira experiences little rainfall and plenty of sun, perfect for days spent outdoors.
This period is also ideal for travellers seeking authenticity, with the chance to witness the olive and argan harvests, two of the region's emblematic products. Visits to local cooperatives are a great way to learn more about these prized crops, taste the high-quality oils, and buy souvenirs in their shops.
Apart from the harvest, autumn is an ideal time to explore Essaouira's historic heritage. The medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is revealed in a new light, with its lively alleyways and craftsmen at work. The stand-alone months of September, October and November are also synonymous with lower prices, so that people can enjoy a more affordable stay while discovering the city from a more intimate angle.
Our selection of exceptional autumn villas in Essaouira: Villa Inoun, Dar Maha, Kasbah Mamouna
Far from the hustle and bustle of summer, winter in Essaouira has fewer tourists, making this a wonderful time for rest and contemplation. Temperatures remain mild compared to other parts of Morocco, making it an ideal destination for a winter getaway in December, January and February. This is the perfect time to stay in a villa with a heated swimming pool and take advantage of the typical hammams and spas, offering moments of absolute well-being during the day.
Culture lovers will love the long walks along the ramparts and bustling fishing port, where the history of the town is revealed through its architecture and crafts. A visit to the Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdallah Museum is an excellent way to learn more about local history and traditions. Strolling through the heart of the medina, discovering art galleries and craft shops, sipping traditional mint tea, and soaking up Essaouira's peaceful atmosphere in winter are all experiences to be savoured for total cultural immersion.
Our recommendations for your winter stay in Essaouira: Dar El Salam, Riad Dharma, Lucia Mogador
Villanovo offers a beautiful choice of riads and villas in Essaouira with house staff, a private swimming pool, that are a few steps from the beach, on a golf course and so much more. Let yourself be seduced by our exceptional villas and riads in the medina, outside Essaouira or at Golf Mogador for an unforgettable family holiday. Add a jaunt to Marrakech to see a more cosmopolitan side of Morocco.
Our attentive concierges take care of all the details so you can take time to enjoy your Moroccan holiday. This personalised service tailors each stay to your needs: booking excursions like quad biking and horseback riding, yoga classes, an afternoon of water sports, a private chef, and much more. Finally, Villanovo offers you a beautiful travel diary with every stay in one of our villas. In it you will find all our recommendations for restaurants, shops, beaches, the best things to do, and other experiences to discover in Essaouira.