Looking for the perfect place to stay in Essaouira? This coastal Moroccan gem offers an amazing mix of Atlantic breezes, medieval charm, and artistic soul that wins over every visitor.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the four best neighborhoods to stay in Essaouira, complete with insider tips on pricing and what makes each area special. Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly riads in the historic Medina, luxury beachfront spots, or authentic local experiences, you’ll find exactly where to book your stay.
Quick Guide to the Best Hotels in Essaouira 🔥
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Heure Bleue Palais
- ✨ 5-Star: Le Médina Essaouira Thalassa Sea & Spa
- 🏨 4-Star: Atlas Essaouira Spa
- 🛏 3-Star: Mimouna
- 💸 Cheap: Chez Fouzia
- 🏢 Apartment: Jack's Apartments & Suites
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Family Appart Essaouira
- 🏩 For Couples: Villa Quieta
Best Districts of Essaouira 📃
- 👀 For the First Time: Old Medina
- 🌅 Best Beaches: Essaouira Beachfront
- 🏄🏻For Watersports: Quartier des Dunes
- 🔮 For Local Vibe: Lotissement Erraunak & Borj
1. Old Medina – Where to Stay in Essaouira Morocco for Culture and Shopping
French-designed streets. I always tell people to try the Medina first if they’re new to Essaouira. The UNESCO-protected old town has this unique European-style grid layout that makes getting around way easier than other Moroccan medinas. You won’t get lost here like you would in Marrakech or Fes.
Everything’s close by. Everything sits within 500 meters of each other. The famous Skala fortress looks out over crashing Atlantic waves, while traditional souks sell thuya wood carvings and spices just steps from your riad door. I’ve watched local craftsmen work for hours making beautiful jewelry boxes right in the narrow alleys.
Easy money exchange. The Medina has several currency exchanges with good rates around 10.40 MAD per Euro. Local bread stalls sell fresh bagels for just 1 MAD, while traditional tagine dishes run from 70-185 MAD depending on the restaurant. Coffee averages 20 MAD in local cafes.
| Accommodation Type | Price Range (MAD) | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Budget hostels | 150-300 | $15-30 |
| Traditional riads | 400-800 | $40-80 |
| Boutique guesthouses | 600-1200 | $60-120 |
Shopping made easy. The Souk Jdid intersection splits into different markets where haggling feels way more relaxed than other Moroccan cities. I found prices more fair here, with vendors who won’t follow you around like in other places. The Ben Youssef mosque stands out with its minaret, while old consular houses are scattered throughout the area.
Where to Stay in Old Medina
Expensive hotels
- Suite Azur – This luxurious hotel offers elegant suites with modern amenities in the Essaouira Medina district.
- Mama Lova Essaouira – A stylish boutique hotel featuring contemporary design in this favorite Moroccan city.
- Heure Bleue Palais – This palace hotel combines traditional Moroccan architecture with luxury amenities for travelers planning their trip to Morocco.
Medium price range
- Jack's Apartments & Suites – These well-appointed apartments provide comfortable stay in Essaouira’s historic center.
- Villa Garance – A charming villa offering cozy rooms for those wondering where to stay in authentic surroundings.
- Mimouna – This traditional riad features authentic decor for visitors looking to stay in the city of Essaouira.
Low price range
- Emeraude Essaouira – A budget-friendly Essaouira hotel offering clean rooms with essential amenities.
- Riad Le Grand Large – This traditional riad provides authentic hospitality among the best hostels in Essaouira for budget travelers.
- Riad Rhamna – A charming budget riad featuring traditional architecture in this Moroccan city.
2. Essaouira Beachfront – Where to Stay for Luxury Stays and Family Activities
Six-kilometer coastline. The beachfront area runs along beautiful Atlantic shores with most properties offering direct beach access without crossing busy streets. This makes area perfect for families since kids can play safely while parents chill on ocean-view terraces.
Wind protection. The seafront hotels are built smart to protect guests from Essaouira’s famous trade winds. Morning temps stay around 18-22°C, which is perfect for eating outside. Beach umbrellas and windbreaks come with most coastal properties.
Fresh fish daily. Fresh catches come in each morning as local fishermen sell straight to beachside restaurants. Grilled sardines cost 45 MAD per portion, while fresh sea bream averages 120 MAD. Waterfront cafes serve mint tea for 12 MAD with amazing ocean views.
| Accommodation Type | Price Range (MAD) | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Beach apartments | 350-650 | $35-65 |
| Seafront hotels | 800-1500 | $80-150 |
| Luxury beach resorts | 1200-2500 | $120-250 |
Water sports heaven. Professional instructors and gear rental properties work year-round right from the beach. Total beginners can get the hang of surfing within days thanks to steady Atlantic waves and great teaching. Experienced surfers love the challenging conditions during windy season.
Where to Stay in Essaouira Beachfront
Expensive hotels
- Le Médina Essaouira Thalassa Sea & Spa – This luxury beachfront resort features world-class Essaouira thalassa spa treatments with direct beach access.
- Atlas Essaouira Spa – An upscale beachfront property offering elegant rooms among the top hotels in Essaouira.
- Biona Beautiful Apartment Seaview – These luxury apartments feature panoramic sea views, perfect for guests who prefer to stay beachfront in Essaouira.
Medium price range
- Cote Ocean Mogador – A comfortable Essaouira beach hotel offering well-appointed rooms with ocean views.
- Résidence Louzani – This aparthotel provides spacious accommodations situated in Essaouira’s prime beachfront location.
- Hôtel Océan Vagabond – A modern property featuring comfortable rooms for those who want to stay near the beach.
Low price range
- Family Appart Essaouira – Budget-friendly family apartments with basic amenities, ideal for visitors exploring things to do in Essaouira.
- Résidence La Galiote – An affordable aparthotel offering simple lodging within walking distance from Essaouira port.
- La Perle Mogadorienne – A charming budget guesthouse providing traditional hospitality.
3. Quartier des Dunes – Where to Stay for Watersports and Budget Accommodations
World-class kitesurfing spot. This residential area sits 2 kilometers south where steady afternoon winds create amazing kitesurfing conditions. I’ve seen pro competitions here because of those reliable 25-35 knot winds that show up right at 2 PM every day. Top kite schools provide gear storage and direct beach access.
Pro gear rental. Specialized windsurf and kiteboard properties offer competition-level equipment at good prices. Complete windsurfing setups cost 180 MAD per day, while kitesurfing gear averages 250 MAD. Advanced equipment includes GPS tracking and safety gear.
Real local food. Family-run restaurants serve traditional Moroccan dishes at local prices. I ate at properties where fish tagine costs 85 MAD and chicken pastilla averages 65 MAD. These spots offer authentic recipes passed down through families without tourist markup.
| Accommodation Type | Price Range (MAD) | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Surf hostels | 200-400 | $20-40 |
| Apartment rentals | 450-750 | $45-75 |
| Surf camps | 600-1000 | $60-100 |
Modern setup. Wide paved streets and newer buildings make moving equipment around much easier than the narrow Medina alleys. Local supermarkets have international brands plus Moroccan products, while ATMs take major cards with decent exchange rates.
Where to Stay in Quartier des Dunes
Expensive hotels
- Prestigia Mogador Essaouira – This luxury resort complex features spacious apartments as an ideal place to stay for extended visits.
- SURF PALACE BEACHFRONT APARTMENT Essaouira – These upscale apartments offer luxury furnishings among favorite hotels for discerning travelers.
- Villa Quieta – An elegant villa offering tranquil accommodations for luxury experience.
Medium price range
- Essaouira I – A comfortable property providing well-appointed rooms.
- Appartement Haut Standing Essaouira – These upscale apartments feature contemporary design for those planning their stay this weekend.
- Riad Zahra – A traditional riad offering authentic architecture where Essaouira is known for its cultural heritage.
Low price range
- Appartement Les Bienvenus – Budget-friendly apartments perfect for travelers booking a hotel in Essaouira on a budget.
- Salty – A casual budget accommodation offering simple rooms in the list of the best value options.
- Porte de Mer Apartement – Affordable apartments with basic furnishings, one of many reasons to visit Essaouira for budget travelers.
4. Lotissement Erraunak & Borj – Where to Stay for Authentic Morocco Experience
Real neighborhood feel. These connected areas show you authentic Moroccan daily life away from tourist crowds. I’ve encountered amazing hospitality from local families who run small guesthouses, creating personal connections with travelers who want the real cultural experience.
Great value. Accommodation costs drop by 40-60% compared to central areas while still being comfortable and safe. Traditional guesthouses start at 250 MAD per night, while private apartments range 400-600 MAD. Neighborhood bakeries sell fresh bread for 1.5 MAD, and corner cafes serve café au lait for 8 MAD.
Authentic culture. Morning calls to prayer from old mosques create this spiritual atmosphere throughout these neighborhoods. I’ve seen local families shopping at traditional grocery stores and kids playing football on quiet streets. This area shows you Morocco’s real social life beyond the tourist attractions.
| Accommodation Type | Price Range (MAD) | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Local guesthouses | 250-450 | $25-45 |
| Private apartments | 400-600 | $40-60 |
| Family homestays | 300-500 | $30-50 |
Easy transport. Grand taxis and city buses run regular service to main attractions for 8-12 MAD per person. The areas have well-kept paved roads great for rental cars, plus tons of free parking. A nice 15-20 minute walk through lit streets gets you to the historic center.
Where to Stay in Lotissement Erraunak & Borj
Expensive hotels
- Terrasse de Mogador – This upscale property features elegant rooms for authentic experiences.
- Beautiful Apartment with Private Terrace – A luxury apartment offering spacious accommodations where Essaouira is also appreciated for residential charm.
- Prestigious apartment – These newly renovated apartments feature contemporary design in the north of Essaouira district.
Medium price range
- Les Vents des Iles – A comfortable guesthouse offering cozy rooms where you can plan your stay in authentic surroundings.
- Riad Salmiya – This traditional riad provides authentic architecture showcasing Essaouira’s historical architectural styles.
- Borj Mogador – A well-located property offering comfortable stay with easy access for Morocco arrivals.
Low price range
- Chez Fouzia – A budget-friendly guesthouse where you can find a room in Essaouira with authentic family hospitality.
- Apartment with 2 bedrooms – Affordable self-catering apartments located just kilometers from Essaouira’s main attractions.
- WELKAM Home & Coworking – A simple family-run accommodation offering budget-friendly rooms in the city’s residential hotel area.
FAQ About Staying in Essaouira
What accommodations in Essaouira offer spa services?
Many luxury hotels in Essaouira have full-service spas with traditional hammam treatments and massage therapies. I’ve found that beachfront properties and 5-star properties usually have the best wellness facilities.
Which riads in Essaouira are best located?
The Old Medina has the most authentic Essaouira riads, many just a 2-minute walk from Essaouira beach and the historic port. These traditional properties offer rooftop terraces and courtyard gardens within walking distance of major sights.
Are budget hotels in Essaouira worth considering?
Budget hotels give you great value if you want to explore Essaouira without spending too much on accommodation. Most offer clean rooms, helpful staff, and good locations in the center of Essaouira.
Are 4-star hotels in Essaouira offer good value?
These properties offer excellent middle-ground accommodation with comfortable rooms, swimming pool access, and professional service. Most 4-star options are in Essaouira’s best areas near major attractions.
Which hostel in Essaouira offers best facilities?
Essaouira Youth Hostel gives you budget-friendly accommodation with shared facilities and social areas for meeting other travelers. The location in central Essaouira makes it a great place to stay for backpackers.
What’s the best time to visit Essaouira Morocco?
Spring and fall offer perfect weather for your trip to Essaouira with nice temperatures and smaller crowds. These seasons give you ideal conditions for both beach activities and exploring the town of Essaouira.
Which luxury hotel offers Essaouira Mogador Golf access?
Several high-end properties near Essaouira provide golf packages and transportation to nearby courses for guests. I’ve found that 5-star hotel options usually offer the best golf deals and equipment rental services.
Where can I stay near Essaouira port?
I’d suggest booking a place to stay in Essaouira within a 5-minute walk from Essaouira beach for the best convenience. This puts you close to the port of Essaouira while keeping restaurants and shops nearby.
How should I choose the perfect place to stay?
Think about what matters most to you when deciding where to stay – whether you prefer Medina charm, beachfront access, or modern amenities. The best place to stay depends on your budget, travel style, and what you want to do during your visit to Essaouira.
