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Weather Essaouira : When to leave? (Alizés, Surfing, Temperature)

Léna Fischer
Léna Fischer· Guide Locale, Surf & Kitesurf
· Mis à jour le February 24, 2026

Complete expert guide on : Weather Essaouira : When to leave ? (Alizés, Surf, Temperature). Essential information, reviews, rates 2026 and live booking from Essaouira-Mogador Airport.

Léna Fischer

Léna Fischer

Guide Locale, Surf & Kitesurf

Résidente d'Essaouira depuis 2010, instructrice de kitesurf certifiée et guide culturelle.

Weather Essaouira: When to leave? (Alizés, Surf, Temperature)
Why the Essaouira weather is unique in Morocco Essaouira has a temperate ocean climate that radically distinguishes it from other Moroccan destinations. The city is constantly swept away by the alized, the regular Atlantic winds that sculpt the coastline and provide exceptional conditions for gliding sports. Unlike Marrakech where temperatures regularly exceed 40°C in summer, Essaouira remains cool and pleasant thanks to the sea breeze. Summer peaks fluctuate between 22°C and 26°C, while in winter mercury rarely falls below 12°C. This constant sweetness makes Essaouira a year-round practical destination, provided you choose the right period depending on your activities.

Precipitation is concentrated between November and March, with an annual average of only 300 mm. The rest of the year, the sky is mostly clear, although the wind can raise some sand by the beach. For travellers arriving at the Essaouira-Mogador Airport (ESU), weather is a key factor in organizing their stay: surfing, cultural visits, or simple strolling, each season has its advantages.

Temperatures month by month: comparison table

These are the monthly averages reported in Essaouira over the last ten years. This data will help you plan your trip according to your thermal preferences.

Rain Day
Month Temperature min (°C) Max temperature (°C) Water temperature (°C)
January1218167
February1319166
Mars1420175
April1521184
Mai1723192
June1925211
July2026220
August2026230
September1925221
October1723203
November1521185
December1319177

To remember: the warmest months are July and August, but never reach the heat wave. The nights stay cool, always plan a light jacket even in summer.

Trade winds: wind, surf and slide conditions Essaouira is called the "strong" "wind city" for a good reason. The trade winds blow almost permanently from April to November, with an average intensity of 20 to 35 km/h, and possible peaks at 50 km/h. This wind is a blessing for surfers and kite surfers, but may surprise unwarned swimmers.

Best surf season The ideal time for surfing in Essaouira ranges from April to November. Waves are regular and well formed, especially on nearby spots such as the Essaouira Beach (ideal for beginners) and Sidi Kaouki about 25 km south, known for intermediate surfers. For the most experienced, Mulay Bouzerktoun (45 km) offers more powerful waves. The spot at Imsouane, about 100 km from Essaouira, is known worldwide for its long right wave, but requires a car transfer.

Equipment rental is easy: many surf shops in the city and in Sidi Kaouki offer boards and combinations in a range from 100 to 300 MAD per day. To book your equipment or a local guide, consult the Partners Directory at esaouira-airport.com — our certified providers guarantee you quality equipment and advice tailored to your level.

Kitesurf and windsurf

The constant trade winds make Essaouira a world-class kitesurf spot. The bay offers a flat body of water ideal for beginners, while the offshore areas allow experienced riders to have fun. The kitesurf season runs from April to October, with a peak of wind in June and July.

When to leave according to your activities: practical guide

Each season in Essaouira is unique. Here is a summary to help you choose your travel period.

    Spring (March to May): mild temperatures (15-23°C), moderate wind, wildflowers in the countryside. Ideal for hiking, cultural tours and beginner surfing. Fewer tourists than in summer.
  • Summer (June to August): pleasant heat (20-26°C), strong wind, warm sea (22-23°C). Perfect for surfing, kitesurfing and boat trips. Moderate crowd, consider booking your accommodation in advance via our directory.
  • Automne (September to November): temperatures still mild (17-25°C), wind gradually weakening, water still good (20°C in September). Excellent time for surfing and medina walks without crowds.
  • Winter (December to February): fresh (12-19°C), possible rain, less wind. Ideal to discover Essaouira without tourists, enjoy riads with fireplace, and taste seafood. Surfing remains possible with an integral combination.
Whatever the season, the soleil is generous: Essaouira has an average of 300 days of sunshine per year. Even in winter, thinning is common.

Tips for arrival at the airport and your stay

As you descend from your plane to the Essaouira Mogador Airport (ESU), you will immediately feel the sea breeze. Here are some practical recommendations for preparing your stay.

    Even in summer, wear a windproof jacket or sweatshirt. Evenings can be cool, especially near the beach. In winter, a light coat and umbrella are useful.
  • Solar protection: the wind gives a false sense of freshness, but the sun is strong. Solar cream index 50, hat and sunglasses are essential all year round.
  • Airport transfer: the journey to the hard downtown 20 to 30 minutes. Taxis are available at the exit of the terminal for about 150 MAD (indicative rate, confirm with driver before departure). For more comfort, book a private transfer via our website partners — you will be welcomed at the airport with a sign in your name.
  • Outdoor activities: if you come for surfing or kitesurfing, focus on April-November. For cultural visits (medina, harbour, souk), spring and fall are the best.
  • Accommodation: downtown riads are often windy but charming. For more calm, choose accommodation in the coastal area south of the city. Check the partner cards on essouira-airport.com to find the ideal option according to your budget.
FAQ: Weather and climate in Essaouira
What is the best time to visit Essaouira? The best time depends on your activities. For surf and kitesurf, prefer April to November. For cultural visits and detente, spring (March-May) and fall (September-October) provide ideal temperatures and less wind. The summer is pleasant but more frequented, the winter is calm and cool.

Does he still wind in Essaouira? Yes, trade winds blow most of the year, especially between April and November. The wind is generally moderate to strong (20-35 km/h). In winter, it is less present, with periods of calm. It is this wind that makes the climate so pleasant and attracts surfers from around the world.

Can we swim in Essaouira? Yes, swimming is possible, but the water temperature is cool: 16-18°C in winter, 21-23°C in summer. The beach of Essaouira is monitored in summer, but beware of currents and wind. The beaches of Sidi Kaouki and Mulay Bouzerktoun are more sheltered for swimming.

What is the water temperature for surfing? The water is fresh to temperate depending on the season. In winter (December-February), it oscillates between 16 and 17°C: an integral combination of 4/3 mm is recommended. In summer (June-September), it reaches 21-23°C: a short combination or a lycra is sufficient. The combination rental is available from our surf partners.

What clothes are taken away for a stay in Essaouira?

Plan light clothing for the day (t-shirts, shorts, dresses) and warm clothes for the evening (pulls, jackets, windbreakers). Even in summer, the nights can be cool because of the wind. In winter, a waterproof coat and closed shoes are recommended. Don't forget the sunscreen, sunglasses and hat.

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