Hotels in Essaouira: where to stay & best riads
Compare every hotel and riad in Essaouira across all booking sites — from medina riads to beachfront resorts.
Where to stay in Essaouira
Essaouira splits between the walled medina — packed with characterful riads — the long Atlantic beach south of the ramparts, and the quiet dunes north of town. It’s Morocco’s windsurf and kitesurf capital, so the breeze is constant; below we compare the best-rated stays for every budget.
Best areas to stay
Compare areasEach part of Essaouira has its own vibe — pick the base that matches your trip.
The Medina
Inside the ramparts — riads, souks, galleries, walkable.
The Beach
Boulevard Mohammed V, resorts, surf schools, sea view.
Quartier des Dunes
North of town, quiet 4–5★ resorts with pools.
Diabat
South across the dunes — surf village, laid-back guesthouses.
Hotels by budget
Under $50 / night
- Riad Mimouna$48
- Ocean Vagabond$42
- Dar Loulema$45
$50–150 / night
- Villa Maroc$110
- Madada Mogador$100
- Le Médina (MGallery)$160
$150+ / night
- L’Heure Bleue Palais$280
- Villa de l’Ô$220
- Heure Bleue suites$340
Things to do in Essaouira
All experiencesTop-rated tours & activities, bookable in seconds.
Essaouira hotels — FAQ
Is it better to stay in the medina or on the beach in Essaouira?
The medina is the most atmospheric base — riads, restaurants and souks within walking distance. The beach (Boulevard Mohammed V) suits surfers and travellers who want a pool and sea view; it’s a 10–15 minute walk to the ramparts.
Is Essaouira always windy?
Yes — Essaouira is known as the “Windy City of Africa”, which makes it a world-class kitesurf and windsurf spot. If you prefer calmer beach days, the dunes resorts north of town are more sheltered.
How many days do you need in Essaouira?
Two to three nights is enough to explore the medina, the port and the beach. Add a night or two if you plan to surf, take day trips, or simply slow down.