Agadir: winter sun, a long beach and surfing in Taghazout

Agadir: a city built for the sun

The promenade in Agadir sweeps in a long curve around the bay, and in the morning there are only joggers, fishermen and a few camels on the beach. Behind you is a modern city of low, white buildings. The old town disappeared in an earthquake in 1960, and Agadir was rebuilt from scratch.

That makes Agadir different from Marrakech and Fes. You come here for the beach, the sun and the food, not for ancient medinas. The city has over 300 days of sunshine a year, and the winters are mild. For the rest of the country, see our Morocco travel guide.

Things to do in Agadir

• The beach and promenade: ten kilometres of sand, cafés and restaurants, with room even in high season.

• Souk El Had: a large walled market with spices, olives, fruit and crafts. Easier to navigate than the souks of Marrakech. Closed on Mondays.

• The Agadir Oufella kasbah: the ruins of the old fortress on the hill north of town, with views over the whole bay. A cable car runs from the foot of the hill.

• The fishing port: eat grilled sardines and fish at the simple stalls by the harbour.

• Souss-Massa National Park: estuaries and coastal landscapes south of the city, known for birdlife.

Taghazout: the surf town

About 20 kilometres north is Taghazout, a fishing village that has become one of the best-known surf spots in Africa. The waves are best from October to March. You will find surf schools for beginners, yoga retreats and cafés overlooking the breaks. Taghazout Bay also has new hotels and a golf course.

Day trips from Agadir

• The Atlas Mountains: the valleys inland from Agadir have palms, rock pools and Berber villages, half an hour to an hour's drive away.

• Essaouira: the port town with its white medina is about three hours north. Read our guide to Essaouira.

• Marrakech: around three hours by car over the mountains. Read more about Marrakech.

• Taroudant: a smaller medina inside red-brown walls, just over an hour east.

Where to stay

• Along the beach in Agadir: most of the hotels, close to the promenade.

• Taghazout and Taghazout Bay: for surfing, yoga and a quieter holiday.

• Founty and Sonaba: south of the centre, with newer hotels and a calm beach.

When to go to Agadir

Agadir has sunshine all year. From November to March it is around 20 to 22°C during the day, with cool evenings, and the sea is around 17 to 18°C. This is the Atlantic, so it never gets as warm as the Mediterranean. In summer it stays around 25 to 28°C on the coast, with morning fog on some days. See also winter sun in Europe.

Frequently asked questions about Agadir

Is Agadir warm in winter?

Yes, it is around 20 to 22°C during the day from December to February, with plenty of sunshine. Evenings are cool, and the sea is around 17°C.

Is Agadir worth visiting?

Yes, if you want beach, sunshine and a relaxed holiday with Moroccan food and culture. For historic medinas, head to Marrakech, Fes or Essaouira instead.

Where is the best surfing near Agadir?

Taghazout, about 20 kilometres north, is the best-known spot. There are surf schools for beginners, and the waves are best from October to March.

Can you swim in the sea in Agadir?

Yes, but it is the Atlantic, with waves and currents. Swim where there are lifeguards, and expect cooler water than the Mediterranean.