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Visiting Essaouira in August: Weather + Festivals + Things to Do

Updated: Aug 4


Is August a good time to visit Essaouira? In all honesty, August isn’t the best time to visit Essaouira, largely due to the crowds. While the weather is quintessentially summery along Morocco’s coastline (and much more bearable than inland at Fes and Marrakech), everyone has the same idea of spending their summer vacation at the beach. 


Not only is there an influx of European visitors to Essaouira in August but Moroccan school holidays are in full swing. Many domestic tourists flock to the city to enjoy its laidback atmosphere and some sun, sand and surf on Plage d’Essaouira. The city’s notoriously strong winds are also at their peak during August, creating ideal conditions for kitesurfers and windsurfers. 


If you don’t mind the crowds and/or August is your only opportunity for a Moroccan holiday, then Essaouira is a good choice. Yes, it’s busy but it also has all of the ingredients for an unforgettable seaside escape. There’s a long sweep of golden sand, fantastic seafood restaurants and amazing artisan souks where you can get your post-beach retail fix. 


In this article, discover everything you need to know about visiting Essaouira in August, from the weather to crowds and special events. I’ll also share with you some of the best things to do in Essaouira in August to help you plan a seasonally suitable itinerary. 


Planning a longer Moroccan escape? Discover everything you need to know about travelling to Morocco in August here.


For more information about visiting Morocco's "Windy City", check out my Ultimate Travel Guide to Essaouira.


Whitewashed buildings in Essaouira, Morocco

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Essaouira weather in August


While many parts of Morocco are subjected to sweltering heat in August (temperatures often soar above 40°C (104°F) in Marrakech and Fes), Essaouira enjoys deliciously perfect summer weather thanks to its coastal location. The city is graced with refreshing ocean breezes that keep daytime temperatures around 26°C (79°F) and nighttime lows at 19°C (66°F).


Essaouira in August is characterised by bright, sunny days and minimal rainfall, though the winds can be quite strong. Some days are calm while others can turn the beach into a sandstorm, drawing in kitesurfers and windsurfers eager to take advantage of the blustery conditions. Occasionally, a thick sea mist rolls in, enveloping the beach during the morning, although this usually clears as the sun rises throughout the day. 


Visiting Essaouira in August

Spices for sale in blue sacks in the Essaouira medina
Spices for sale in blue sacks in the Essaouira medina

Is August a busy time in Essaouira?


Yes!!! August is one of the busiest months of the year in Essaouira, with an influx of both domestic and international visitors during the Moroccan and European school holiday periods. Moroccan families head to Essaouira to escape the intense heat of the inland cities and enjoy the refreshing Atlantic waters - apartments book out early!


At the same time, the city attracts many European visitors who come to relax in their summer homes or explore the unique mix of North African and European cultures. All of this adds up to crowds, crowds and more crowds!


As accommodation in Essaouira is so highly sought after in August, you can expect significantly inflated prices. Many hotels and riads also require a minimum stay of three nights - take note if you were planning a shorter stay.


If you’re visiting Essaouira in August, it’s a good idea to book your accommodation well in advance, especially for longer visits of a week or more. One way to avoid the crowds is to consider staying in the countryside around Essaouira and making day trips into the city - there are some gorgeous villas to choose from!


One of my top recommendations is to book an Essaouira hotel with a swimming pool so you have somewhere to refresh (other than the beach) if the winds pick up in the afternoon. Dining in Essaouira can also become quite hectic in August and I suggest making reservations in advance, especially on weekends. Since Moroccans typically dine later in the evening, you might find it easier to secure a table if you eat early.


Best things to do in Essaouira in August

A picturesque street in the Essaouira medina
A picturesque street in the Essaouira medina

What’s on in Essaouira in August


To be honest, August is a relatively quiet month when it comes to events in Essaouira. But that’s probably a good thing, with so many tourists already visiting the city. Throw in a festival and the city would be bursting at the seams! August is a month for lazy days at the beach and mellow sightseeing in the medina, as well as long lunches at one of Essaouira’s many seafood restaurants. 


Planning a summer coastal escape to Morocco? Here are 7 of the best beachfront hotels in Essaouira.


Is August a good time to visit Essaouira?

A building rises above the Essaouira ramparts in Morocco
A building rises above the Essaouira ramparts in Morocco

Best things to do in Essaouira in August


Essaouira is centred around a whitewashed medina that is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and exploring its narrow streets is an experience you won't want to miss. The area is brimming with artisan shops, art galleries and beautifully preserved buildings, along with inviting cafes where you can relax and watch life unfold.


Additionally, there are several fascinating museums that explore both cultural heritage and contemporary art - these are good places to escape to during the midday summer heat.


For seafood lovers, a trip to the port for lunch is essential; you can select your fish and have it grilled at one of the nearby barbecue stalls, which also serve up tasty Moroccan salads and bread. Alternatively, you'll find lots of amazing restaurants in the medina itself - I love Khmissa if I'm craving a tagine and Mandala Society if I'm in need of an espresso and Western-style cafe fare.


In the late afternoon, make your way to the Skala de la Kasbah, an 18th-century coastal fortress with ancient brass cannons and panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. This is the spot to watch the sunset in Essaouira - it attracts large crowds of both locals and tourists eager to capture the moment!


If you only have one day to explore Essaouira, check out my suggested itinerary here.


In August, the winds can pick up considerably, kicking up sand and making lounging on the beach less than enjoyable. The mornings tend to be calmer, making this a great time to swim. Early mornings are also quieter on the beach, with more visitors arriving as the day progresses. By mid-afternoon, especially on weekends, the beach can get really crowded, but it’s a wonderful way to immerse yourself in Moroccan beach culture.


The windy conditions are what make Essaouira such a renowned kitesurfing and windsurfing destination and there are plenty of shops where you can rent equipment or sign up for lessons if you're new to the sport. If you want to avoid the wind but still swim, I’d recommend booking an Essaouira hotel with a swimming pool.


If the crowds in the medina get too much, there are plenty of day trips and tours you can take from Essaouira, including market visits and village walks. It's important to remember that temperatures can soar considerably as you venture inland, so keep that in mind when planning August activities.


On particularly warm days, it might be best to stick near the coast. A sunset camel ride or horseback adventure is a fantastic way to wrap up your day in Essaouira!



Is August a good time to visit Essaouira?


While August may seem like the perfect time for a beach getaway in Essaouira, it's not ideal if you want to experience the city’s usually laidback atmosphere. During August, Essaouira is packed with tourists and vacationers - there's really no avoiding it! The narrow streets of the medina become crowded with visitors while the sandy beaches are packed with sun-seekers and families enjoying their summer holidays.


That being said, if August is the only time you can travel to Morocco, Essaouira is one of the better places to be during the month. Plus, there are still ways to escape the crowds and find some rest and relaxation along the coast.


Venturing beyond Plage d’Essaouira to one of the quieter beaches either north or south is a good tactic. Generally speaking, the further you go, the thinner the crowds. Similarly, staying at one of the stunning villas in the picturesque countryside surrounding Essaouira is a great way to escape the crowds and it’s easy to day trip into the city whenever you desire. 



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